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VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 273
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EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com VICE PRESIDENT : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794
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BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com EMERALD COAST/DESTIN/PENSACOLA : Scott Risher • (850) 428-0996 • srisher@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Scott Deal • (561) 945-6999 • scott@coastalanglermagazine.com Monica Isaza-Deal • (561) 945-8899 • monica@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com
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Cover Image Credits: (Clockwise from top left) Sailfish: Alphonse Fishing Co., Wesley Rapson; Bumphead Parrotfish: Alphonse Fishing Co., Andre Henn; Salmon: Scott Norton; Trout: Big Cedar Lodge; Bass: Nick Carter; Roosterfish: Francisco Mejias © 2017. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers.
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FLY FISHING By Nick Carter
F
ly fishing for bonefish and permit might have originated on the flats of the Bahamas and the Florida Keys, but these islands hardly hold a monopoly on the style of fishing. In the Indian Ocean, about 1,000 miles off the east coast of Africa, there is an archipelago that claims the highest density of bonefish in the world on one of its outer island groups. The Alphonse Group is three small islets on the southwestern end of the Seychelles, a nation of 115 islands in gorgeous tropical waters northeast of Madagascar. Within the Alphonse Group, Alphonse Atoll and St. Francois Atoll offer more 10,000 acres of hard, white-sand bonefish flats as well as a lagoon with channels, finger flats and coral heads where fly fishers sight fish in clear water to more than 60 species of fish. There are characters familiar to Atlantic flats—bonefish and permit—and there are also species exotic to North American fly rodders, like milkfish, colorful triggerfish and seven species of trevally. Instead of tarpon, the Seychelles offer up the giant trevally, which can weigh in excess of 120 pounds. And with a 10-minute boat ride out of Alphonse Island, anglers can access reef species and big pelagics like sailfish, wahoo, dorado, dogtooth and yellowfin tuna. Either trolling or teasing them up and casting flies to them, these offshore species offer a delightful break from the flats as well as a dinnertime treat on the island. “The Seychelles has become known as the best giant trevally fishery in the world and has become the benchmark for anglers searching for an outstanding saltwater flats fishing experience,” said Keith RoseInnes, managing director of Alphonse Fishing Company. “The sheer numbers and variety of fish species has amazed the fly fishing world, with anglers from across the globe queuing up to sample this ultimate fishing playground.” St. Francois is most well known for its bonefish, with ridiculous
numbers of 4to 6-pound fish and the occasional 8-pounder in the mix. “On falling tides, it is often the case that huge shoals of bonefish can be targeted when leaving the flats in what has been described as a continuous river of bonefish,” said Rose-Innes. “You hunt them on foot and not from a skiff, as the sand flats are hard and white.” It’s also as close to a sure thing as it gets for anglers seeking the Holy Grail of saltwater fly fishing. Good numbers of Indo-Pacific permit populate the flats, and Rose-Innes said his guides have near-perfected the art of catching them. Along with natural environs conducive to awesome fishing, a strong conservation ethic ensures an incredible angling experience. Alphonse Fishing Company tightly controls the amount and type of fishing pressure its waters see, and the fisheries are completely closed a minimum of three months per year. That’s the fishing side of the conservation effort. Alphonse also protects the unique flora and fauna of the islands, which makes for a sensational overall vacation experience, with comfortable lodging among beautiful tropical forests and beaches. For more information, see www.alphonsefishingco.com.
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Craig Sutton with a Costa Rica yellowfin.
“M
ost people my age buy a house in Costa Rica to retire,” said Craig Sutton, of Nosara Paradise Rentals and FishingNosara. “When I bought my first house in Costa Rica, my life was just starting to get interesting.” Craig first discovered Nosara, Costa Rica on a surfing trip in the late 1990s and immediately fell in love with the people, the culture and the year-round excellent surfing. He purchased a small house near Guiones Beach, bought out his neighbors’ land, and spent the next 15 years building a nature preserve campus of 14 houses plus a pool, common areas and maintenance facilities. One thing was missing from this surfer’s paradise: good fishing. As a native Floridian, Craig’s passion for fishing runs deep. He has been a regular on the kingfish tournament scene for years, with his boat Fishtastic posting top-5 finishes in the several tournaments.
“The problem with fishing in Costa Rica is that fish are so big and so harsh that they will destroy your tackle, plus the costs for fuel is astronomical at $7 a gallon and rising,” said Sutton. “Captains trying to make ends meet would have to choose between new lines, new tackle and a full tank of gas, or putting food on the family table.” After years of struggling to find a captain in Costa Rica who was willing and able to fish aggressively, Sutton realized his only option was to build his own boats and crew them with hand-picked locals. “These guys had the drive and the talent to be great fishermen, they just lacked the tools and the logistical support,” said Sutton. “The team-centered approach allows FishingNosara captains to pursue the fish as aggressively as a professional tournament boat without being distracted by losing lures or running up the gas bill.” FishingNosara launched their first boat, The Wanderer, in 2009 and have added a boat every year since. The results have been astounding. In the 2017 season, the five-boat FishingNosara team ran over 730 trips with over 80 marlin releases and 800 sailfish releases. More importantly, the team inflicted zero billfish fatalities. “Reviving and releasing billfish is a sacred priority to us as conservationists, plus it makes good business sense,” said Sutton. “We have created a market of charter fishermen, which means billfish are worth more money alive and swimming than they are on a scale at the meat market.” As for retirement for Sutton, don’t bet on it anytime soon. Last April he scored a billfish grand slam (blue marlin, striped marlin and sailfish) to win the Ship of Fools Billfish Tournament in Costa Rica. Sutton is looking to up-the-ante again in 2018. Back in the States, a new version of the Fishtastic came online this year. It’s an exact copy of the 32’ Eduardono Harvester currently in Nosara, and Sutton is already amped up for a new challenge. “My goal with the new boat is to snag a tournament winning king mackeral in July then go catch marlin in August… seems like a good way to bring two worlds together.”
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By CAM Staff
M
urrells Inlet, S.C. has always been a fishing town. Long before Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand began drawing tourists to experience the beaches, shopping, golf and nightlife that have made it famous, Murrells Inlet was a fishing village. And it’s no wonder. The inlet itself is an inshore angler’s dream. It’s an enclosed system, one of very few inlets on the east coast free from the influence of the Intracoastal Waterway or coastal rivers.
There’s no dirty water flowing in from upstream, and this system of marshes and backwaters is a completely saltwater environment, with no freshwater pumping in to reduce salinity. The result is excellent fishing and exploration of backwater creeks for speckled trout, redfish and the doormat flounder that Murrells Inlet has gained a reputation for. Another thing the area has a well-earned reputation for is huge red drum, which hang out around the jetties to provide anglers with the bulldog runs only a big bull red can provide. It’s some of the best red fishing on the east coast, with fish in the 20- to 40-pound range arriving in numbers in both spring and fall. For those who don’t mind a short boat ride to fill the cooler,
there are numerous nearshore reefs that can be easily accessed with a half-day trip and a run of less than 5 miles. Mackerel, sharks, black sea bass, reds, flounder, bluefish, spadefish and more make for an exciting outing even for the family, and you’ll come back with a cooler full of delicious fish. Out to 15 or 30 miles, there is also excellent trolling for king and Spanish mackerel, cobia and amberjack, as well as bottom fishing for snappers, groupers and sea bass. But those who want to get serious should look into a full-day trip to the Gulf Stream. From 55 to 70 miles offshore, opportunities for tuna, dolphin, wahoo, marlin and sailfish abound. Trolling the Gulf Stream for big-game species off the lower end of the Grand Strand is tough to beat anywhere. So… it’s easy to see why Murrells Inlet has always been a fishing village, and perhaps the best way to experience it is from a base camp at the Inlet Sports Lodge. Located at the heart of Murrells Inlet, the Inlet Sports Lodge is a comfortable and classy boutique hotel that caters to anglers and golfers with the finest amenities in the area. It’s minutes away from three marinas, works closely with the area’s best charter captains and can accommodate boats up to 25 feet. There’s a fish cleaning room for prep, as well as gas and charcoal grills available in the courtyard to cook your catch. Or, for those who’d rather let someone else do the cooking, the COSTA Coastal Kitchen and Bar on-site offers up fine, fresh Italian and seafood fare. There are also several other restaurants nearby that prepare the kind of delicious right-out-of-the-water dishes that have made Murrells Inlet the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” And don’t forget the golf. If days on the water paired with days on the links sounds like the perfect way to relax, the Inlet Sports Lodge has you covered. With golf packages booking a wide variety of the Grand Strand’s famous courses, there’s more golf than you can swing a stick at, including two award-winning courses with the same ownership as the Inlet Sports Lodge. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and True Blue Plantation are two of the finest courses in the area as well as the nation. For more information on fishing, golfing and the Inlet Sports Lodge at Murrells Inlet, S.C., go to www.inletsportslodge.com/ or call 877-585-9360.
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over rolling hills until we at last reached the bottom. Before the stream met the loch, I assembled my trusty 5-weight, tied on a Prince Nymph and cast. To my delight, a wild brown trout eagerly nailed the fly as I crawled it back to me. Relaying this story gave me a bit of credibility back at the Trout Anglers Club. I received an invitation to join them on their last outing of the year to Loch Leven, home to Lochleven Castle, where Mary Queen of Scots was held prisoner. I went out with club members and fished from a “clinker” – an old wooden rowboat that had been fitted with an outboard. Once a world-renowned brown trout fishery, the loch has fallen victim to farm runoff. Although a majestic place to practice casting, we caught no fish that day. Hungry for more, I recruited my friend Joe Bell from the club, whom I fished with on Loch Leven, to go on a salmon expedition on the River Earn one Saturday. Although not the most expensive river to fish in the area, we were taken good care of by the ghillie Sandy MacIntosh, a short man with rosy cheeks who dressed in green overalls. He treated us to coffee with whiskey in the lodge before walking us along the river, showing us the best spots from which to cast. Even though none of the four people Sandy hosted that day landed a fish, getting A Scottish grayling, prized for brilliant, shimmering dorsal fins—from the River Tweed. the full experience of fishing a Scottish river is something I will never forget. ther the castle nor any museum, but the EdMy greatest achievement fishing in Scotland inburgh Trout Anglers Club, the meeting grounds of a group of likeminded individuals came on an individual trip. Early one morning, bound by a common love of fish and drink. I I boarded a train to the town of Galashiels, in was welcomed by Alex Bell, the president, and the Borders area near England. I hopped off the introduced myself to the members who were train, took a bus for a bit, then hitchhiked the rest intrigued to meet an eager young American of the way to the famed River Tweed—one of the angler. Over a few pints and games of snook- premier salmon rivers in Scotland. Salmon seaer, I listened to fish stories and soaked in the son was over, though, and I was there for graywisdom of how and where to fish in Scotland. ling—a less targeted species and subsequently far All inland water of the United Kingdom is cheaper to get a permit for. I searched the waprivately owned, which means fishing requires ter by Czech nymphing, which is high-sticking written permission—usually at a fee—from heavy flies along the very bottom. With less than the landowner. This cultivates an exclusive an hour of daylight left, I finally felt a tug and spirit for the sport; the best runs are often ex- set the hook in a mouth of a beautiful grayling. pensive to fish for the day. At the same time, There is nothing like the feeling of success on a An arsenal of rods primed and ready for salmon competition for business encourages land- self-guided fishing trip. fishing on the River Earn. Those are the highlights of my time fly fishowners to take good care of their fisheries. Many times a full-time “ghillie” is hired to take ing Scotland, where the sport itself emerged. I made many friends, some with legs and some care of the water. uring the fall of 2016, I had the immense My first catch in Scotland came the next with fins, and saw some of the most beautiful privilege of living in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Apart from whiskey, kilts weekend on a hike on Mt. Roshven, which over- rivers and country in the world. If you ever have and bagpipes, Scottish culture also lays claim to looks Lochailort, a sea loch on the northwest the chance to visit the northernmost nation of the origins of fly fishing. Although historians dis- coast of Scotland. After a four-hour adventure the United Kingdom, leap at the opportunity. agree about where and when fly fishing began, to the summit, my two friends and I found our The people, the land, and the fish there are unlike there is strong evidence to suggest that Scotland way down the mountain by following a trickle anywhere else, and you’ll be sad to leave them. gave birth to the sport centuries ago. Fly fishing of water until it grew is heavily rooted in Scottish history, and the wa- into a stream. It led us For more Fly Fishing in Scotland, go to down the side of the ters of Scotland still teem with beautiful fish. My first stop exploring Edinburgh was nei- mount into a valley,
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By Chris Beardsley
W
hen I first started fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, I researched the necessary tackle and what I might catch and tried to memorize the different species. But really, I just hoped to catch anything big. I knew I would be fishing exclusively from the beach and had my sights set on a bull red or nice gator trout, and if a shark happened along so much the better. With unrealistically high expectations and hopes to match, when I felt the first strike I knew it had to be something good. To my surprise, my surf rod didn’t strain under the massive weight. The drag refused to peel. Images of Spencer Tracy in “The Old Man and the Sea” did not flash before my eyes, as whatever hit my bait most assuredly had gotten off. The only sign that a
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fish was still on was the slightest wiggle, an almost imperceptible headshake. The fish I hauled in was pale and reminded me of the redhorse suckers we used to spear just before trapping season in Wisconsin. It was not glamorous in any way and certainly not magazine cover worthy. Worse, I didn’t even know what it was! After all the time spent looking at pictures of cobia, speckled seatrout and big redfish, I had no idea what this fish was. Checking my cheat sheet, it looked like a whiting, or more accurately Gulf kingfish, but I wasn’t sure. An older gentleman fishing a short walk down the beach confirmed my suspicions and added that they’re pretty good to eat. Soon, every tick of the rod tip resulted in yet another whiting. I downsized my gear to a budget 7-foot Okuma combo spooled with 15-lb. Berkley Big Game and a flouro leader. A Carolina rig with a 1-oz. barrel sinker and 1/0 circle hook topped off with bits of shrimp turned me into a whiting catching machine. Shrimp and clams, or similarly scented Fishbites, are excellent baits for these coastal croakers. Whiting are relatively small, opportunistic bottom feeders, and using light tackle helps detect the slightest bite. In the spring, whiting migrate north along the Florida Gulf Coast only to make the return trip migrating south in the fall. The fall fishing can be fast and furious as large schools migrate south. Casting into the first trough, usually within 30 yards (or less) from shore, makes this a great fish for kids to target too. Of course the whiting, in all its plainness, is one of the best eating fish in the Gulf. To add credence to my humble opinion, a past fish fry ended with my daughter asking for more chicken! To this day we often refer to whiting as the chicken of the sea… Sorry Charlie! After 17 years of surf fishing, I have a lot of equipment and have caught a fair number of whiting. Occasionally, when the wind is right and the stars align, I get to return the favor as the older gentleman down the beach – and if it’s a whiting, I let them know that they’re pretty good to eat too!
10/18/17 1:59 PM
Michigan Hard Water
WEST MICHIGAN REPORTS & EVENTS
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hing c t a c s ' o h W fish?
Massive 30pound plus king salmon caught by Mitch while out with Capt. Jeff Bacon on the Muskegon River. all smiles Adam and his Dad are ver king Ri with a nice Manistee ll with salmon caught this fa . Sport Fish Michigan
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John With a nice Trave lake trout. Caught whilerse Bay with Sport Fish Michig jigging an.
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Capt. Sean Mcdonald's client shows off a beautiful steelhead cau ght on the Pere Marquette.
Send your Fish Tale photos to: westmichigan@theanglermagazine.com Don't forget to include your name and the details of your catch.
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Veterans Battle Burt Lake Walleye BY: J E F F N E DW I C K Recovering from the emotional and physical wounds of combat can be a long and difficult journey for veterans. There’s reason for optimism however. Multiple studies have found that group outdoor recreation activities can have a significant, positive impact on veterans suffering from serious health concerns, and fortunately many organizations dedicate their time and resources to providing injured veterans with opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. South Lyon, Michigan – based Operation Injured Soldiers (OIS) is one such organization. OIS provides recreation opportunities for wounded military veterans and on September 14th – 16th they hosted a fishing trip on northern Michigan’s Burt Lake. Twenty-five veterans were treated to three days of walleye fishing with some of the best walleye anglers in the state, including Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame angler Mark Martin. Even Mother Nature chipped in by providing beautiful late-summer weather. Martin makes time between his popular fishing schools to host several OIS fishing events on Burt Lake, including an ice-fishing trip in the winter. These events are quite popular with injured veterans and they don’t always get in the first time they apply. Priority is given to those who haven’t previously had an opportunity to fish so everyone who meets the qualifications - participants must be 30% disabled or have seen combat - is eventually accommodated. Veterans fortunate enough to get in were encouraged to be active participants in the fishing. When they weren’t busy fighting walleye they helped set lines, change lures and pull lines when it was time to move to another spot. To maximize opportunities to interact with other veterans and different guides, they were paired with a different veteran and pro each day.
Too much of a good thing was the main story on the first two days of fishing. The weather proved to be too nice, at least for w a l l e y e f i s h i n g . No wind, cloudless skies and afternoon temperatures that soared into the mideighties made for a tough bite. Fortunately, a slight breeze and patchy clouds kicked in on the third day and the walleye turned from finicky to ferocious. Jim Lindsay and Bob Freeman served in the Vietnam War between 1967 – 1969. They’re both avid anglers and outdoorsmen; Lindsay owns his own boat and walleye fishes regularly on Saginaw Bay and Freeman fishes with his two sons a couple of times each week. When the opportunity to fish with a walleye pro and the possibility they’d draw Martin himself became available, they applied. “I’m hoping to pick up some tips I can use on Saginaw Bay”, said Lindsay. Their wishes were granted when they were paired with Martin on the last day of the event. Martin located a large school of walleye suspended over 40 feet of water in a small portion of the Burt Lake basin. Trolling shad raps behind planer boards at a steady 2.0 miles per hour generated many strikes and kept Lindsay and Freeman busy fighting fish the entire day. It was a similar story all around. Most boats had better success on day three - including some teams who landed mixed bags of perch, walleye and brown trout – when trolling crankbaits in the upper half of the water column. To make the event even more enjoyable for the veterans, OIS hosted them at their Brave Hearts Estate, an outdoor retreat for injured veterans located on 238 acres near Pellston, Michigan. The property - donated by former veteran Bob Considine in 2015 - offers excellent lodging, food, transportation and other amenities for injured veterans. The estate is managed by full-time caretakers Mike and Paula Brown. The Browns are both veterans themselves and have three children currently serving in the Army, Navy and Marines. Each day on the water concluded with a spectacular dinner of freshly caught walleye at the Brave Hearts Estate and provided the opportunity for veterans to interact.
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Rivers & Streams
Rivers & Streams
Upper Pere Marquette
REPORTS & FORECASTS
REPORTS & FORECASTS
A Pere Marquette
Rogue River
lthough I no longer live on a farm, I still read the Farmers’ Almanac and put faith in their forecasts. This year they seem to be dead on, as they predicted our winter to be a real one with colder temperatures and snow that seems to be B Y : G L E N R . B L A C K W O O D staying for a while. These conditions have caused the Rogue River to produce both shelf and anchor The Great Lakes Fly Fishing B Y : Company J E F F HiceUand B BinAsome R Dsections completely freeze shut. River anglers have a couple of choices, the obviOutfitters North Guide Service (616) 866-6060 ous, go ice fishing, (you will never land a fish staywww.troutmoor.net (231) 898-6246 ing home) or make the best of a tough scenario. I www.outfittersnorth.com choose to make the best of what Mother Nature has created. To make the best of these tough conditions oneovember must lookbrings to maximize time on the water and fish in a productive fashion. We can do steelhead into the river; these bright chrome fish this by preparing equipment. are one our of the best gamefish to chase with fly rod and reel. From The acrobatic constant issueleaps that we face is cold air and water temperatures. How we deal with this there limiting determine out of factor the will water to our success. Looking at equipment first, most tackle designers never dream that someone their screaming runs is going to be using their rods and reels in sub 30 degree air temperatures. common up or downAthe river, issue anglers experience is reels and lines freezing, along with ice buildup in guides. So how you can't match thedo we deal with this issue? To prevent freezing issues with reels, before fight of winter a fresh run both your reel frame and spool completely. Remove any excess oil or your next trip, clean fall greasesteelhead. from both, asThese well as any dirt. A little lubrication goes a long way with modern reels and fish enter the river any additional lubricant will begin to solidify, causing a binding effect between your spool and towards the end ofDirt and sand will trap moisture also causing premature freezing of frame, leading to freezing. October, November, your reel. Upon finishing your angling day, bring your reels inside, remove the spool from the and December fillto completely dry and warm. reel frame and allowtoboth their bellies up with Another issue this time of the year is ice buildup in guides. There is no good way to stop the left-over salmon this, but there are ways to negate it happening rapidly. Try placing fly floatant, cooking spray, or egg's that float in the Vaselinecurrents. on your guides to negate rapid ice buildup. Will these stop it completely? No, but they rivers These will keep youcan in the steelhead be game eagerlonger. Happiest of Holidays!
N
to eat, especially in the early month of November or late October when water temps are warm still. They will take egg imitations, along with Nymph and big Streamers swung in front of them or even stripped off the banks. That's what makes them such a sought-after gamefish for a fly angler. Here on the Pere Marquette, we have world class fishery of wild steelhead. This is very special to have a wild fishery, it draws anglers in my boat, from all over the world. We need to practice more catch and release with these fish especially the females. These steelhead genetically are tough, to be able to hold over in the river all winter. So there going to give off the strongest and biggest fish when they do spawn in the spring. It just makes sense!!! You can find steelhead in November throughout the whole river system. Try fishing with floats under a floating fly line with egg imitations for great success. Or to take a more traditional approach try to pursue these fish with a swung fly. Casting a two-handed fly rod with a sink tip is a great way to cover a lot of water and even if the bite is slow the casting is fun. For up to date, report check out www.outfittersnorth.com or like us on Facebook at Outfitters North.
Ludington
BY: J E F F H U B B A R D
Outfitters North Guide Service (231) B Y 898-6246 : C A P T.
SEAN MCDONALD
Katch Me Charters www.outfittersnorth.com (231) 510-2072
H N
www.centurycircle.com
appy Holidays to everyone! Winter sure hit early this year, with single digit tem-
peratures in the and teens during the day. The Pere Marquette River ovember is evenings a wonderful time and of the to really be on temperature wateryear level are starting to drop. We're starting to see shelf ice and the rivers. anchor ice inGeneral some of theangler middle traffic sections of the river system. is down dueprogresses to the look salmon run fishing to slow down a bit. Instead of an allAs winter for steelhead is dayover forwillanother Any of action throughout the day, usually in the bite you start to getyear. short windows fishermen time of afternoon asout waterthis temperatures startthe to warm. Nymphs will also start to be a key fly to year is generally prettytheserious use this time of year.a When water temperatures really start to drop steelhead and one or atrout non-hunter. Thewhatever anglers resident are looking for they can get as far as an easy meal. Hex Nymphs, know about the best migratory Stone Flies and small Hares Ear's or Pheasant Tails can start to produce. Eggs will also fish this state has to offer and the workseason well. Trytosmall andThe Nukes in more natural colors. For Swinging Flies try best fishClown for Eggs them. more natural colors too, with less fl ash as the water clears. Sculpins in olive or brown can leaves are down, and the woods produce the winter. out myare site for some go-to patterns, www.outfittersnorth. are bare,in and the Check steelhead com. Remember Beads are flies and are illegal in the Flies Only Water. actively feeding.trout During thenotfirst find fish throughout whole river system. The fish are now starting to half You of can November steelheadtheare use their winter pretty easy to runs catchandonpools. anyLook typefor fish in much slower deeper runs with wood to hide them.beads, You can fispawn, nd this type of water in any stretch of the Pere Marquette, ofstructure salmon eggorhowever egg flies work well.access Thewill become more difficult until spring. Play it because of thevery weather; main is that the wading waterthe river. Practice catch and release on wild Pere safe at reason the boat ramps and while temperature is warm (above 40), Marquette steelhead. If they don't get to spawn, we don't get to hook any in the future. The second of Holidays! the month we normally have colder air and water Good luck andhalf Happy temperatures and the aggressiveness and eagerness of the steelhead slow down. Keeping this in mind you will have to work a hole or run more thorough, slowing down since a good percentage of the fish may have been caught before and their metabolisms are also slower. Plugs, swung flies and spinners will also trigger strikes throughout the month but tend to work better when most of the salmon eggs have washed away the second half of November. Look for periods of higher water for new fish that will enter into the river system. Rain brings them in, low clear water makes them drop back to PM Lake or Lake Michigan. A steelhead can enter and go back out of a river system 6 or more times during the winter. They come in, and if they do not find food, they tend to go back out. I feel that the steelhead that make it upstream past Walhalla tend to spend the winter in the river and then spawn in the spring when the water reaches 41 degrees and then return to the lake. The fish that make it upstream of Walhalla tend to still feed on king eggs longer (that is where most kings have spawned in the gravel sections) and find enough nymphs to keep them going all winter. Good luck in November and enjoy fall steelhead before the snow sets in.
FLY of THE MONTH Beaddazzled Stone
T
BY PHIL CUSEY
West Michigan Materials Waterfront &
his is a great winter stone fly Land FLY Hunting NAME: "Beadazzled Stone" imitation! The rubber leg tail provides greater movement Realtor HOOK: Tiemco 2457 - Sz.12- 8 in the water. Using beads for the Uni 6/0 Black HuntingTHREAD: Muskegon, Pere Marquette, body gives a wonderful segmented White,TAIL: andRound Little Manistee rubber - Black - SmallRivers profile and the dubbed head traps plus many wonderful BODY: Spirit River glass bead -lakes Iridescent Plum air and hence releases "bubbles" HEAD: UV Dubbing- Peacock when fished. Be sure and adjust size; smaller for trout and larger for steelhead. Enjoy the solitude of View my listings at winter fishing!
(231) 510-2072
Sean McDonald
Homewaters.net
When Phil Cusey isn't guiding, he can be reached at streamertwo@sbcglobal.net.
THE ANGLER •MAGAZINE JANUARY 4 2014 WEST MICHIGAN NOVEMBER 2017 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM THE ANGLERMAG.COM
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Rivers & Streams
REPORTS & FORECASTS
Grand River
PRIMARY FEEDING TIMES November 2017
BY: G R E G K N A P P Getting Bit Guide Service
November 4 Full Moon
616-570-2946
November 10 Last Quarter
November 18 New Moon
November 26 First Quarter
www.gettingbitguideservice.com
T
he Grand River is going strong with steelhead in November. Our fall run of steelhead are in as well as summer run fish that have been here for awhile, don't be surprised if you catch a lake run brown trout or late run salmon as well. Try fishing spawn bags either drifted along the bottom or under a float. Casting hardware or crankbaits is a fun way to stretch your arm out on some fresh run chrome. Trolling or back-trolling plugs are effective and a relaxing way to fish. Fly fishing with egg patterns or baitfish patterns will get you hooked up. We should have some big steelhead running around this year so get out and take advantage.
Date
Morning
Evening
(EDT)
Minor
1
4:09AM
10:02AM 4:46PM 10:27PM
2
5:18AM
10:53AM 5:18PM
4
7:42AM
12:13AM 6:32PM 12:41PM
5 6
8:56AM
10:08AM
1:09AM
7:16PM
1:39PM
7
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3:10AM
9:05PM
3:40PM
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5:10AM
1:06PM
5:38PM
10 11
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12:22AM
6:06AM
1:51PM
6:33PM
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1:29AM
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3:01PM
8:14PM
13
2:33AM
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3:32PM
9:00PM
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4:39AM
10:08AM 4:29PM 10:31PM
17
6:41AM
11:38AM 5:29PM
18
7:41AM
12:01AM 6:02PM 12:24PM 12:47AM 6:39PM
1:11PM
20
9:34AM
1:34AM
7:20PM
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8:06PM
2:46PM
23
11:56AM
3:57AM
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4:21PM
25
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5:31AM
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Outfitting anglers with fly fishing gear since 1989
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30
6:30AM
12:15PM
3:37AM 5:41AM
8:38AM
11:13AM 12:34PM
4:04AM
Major
11:19PM
2:09AM
Minor
Major ----
5:53PM 11:45AM
8:07PM
2:39PM
4:11AM 10:08PM 4:40PM
6:59AM
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4:01PM
7:25PM
9:46PM
4:58PM 10:53AM
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4:44AM 10:45PM 5:08PM
7:04AM
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2:13PM
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7:27PM
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM
10/19/17 3:23 PM
ES
ber 26 uarter
Muskegon River B Y: C A P T. J E F F B A C O N Michigan Fly Fishing Ventures (616) 560-3195 www.westmichiganflyfishing.com
T
he month of November historically finds the Muskegon River amidst a change of both the target species of great lakes big game fish we pursue, along with different methods we can use in fishing for them. The key word here is "historically," as we're certainly going to see a change in that this year due to the return of summer-like conditions in early October. The record-setting 90+ degree days that stuck around for nearly two weeks has changed how the "fall" season is progressing, and we will surely see chinook salmon in the Muskegon river later than normal, but also have fall steelhead to fish to as well. As the salmon complete their annual spawning run, fall steelhead will be posted up close to them, eager to suck down both the nymphs that get kicked up during the salmon spawning process, as well as the eggs that freely flow down river as well. Resident brown and rainbow trout will also capitalize on these easy meals, as they prepare for the colder months ahead. In general, salmon setups will be the heaviest used, with tippet in the 10-12# range, followed by steelhead tippet in the 6-8# range and going after resident trout with 3-5# line will get the best results. Fly fishing options include the always effective bottom bouncing a.k.a. "chuck & duck," as well as indicator nymphing and swinging or stripping streamers with sinking or sink tip lines. The streamer bite has always been "a lot of work for not a lot of payoff," but there is nothing like the strength of a salmon yanking on a big 'ol streamer ! Fly rods ranging from 8-10 weights are necessary, as we have some BIG salmon swimming the rivers of West Michigan this fall. Spin tackle setups would include 9-10' long, medium-heavy rods, with a reel that has a good drag system. If not spooled with braided line, reels will have 14-16# mono, for bottom bouncing egg and nymph imitations, as well as floating bait under bobbers. For those looking to toss some hardware around, casting-retrieving lures is feasible as well. As we're seeing some rather large salmon this fall, we're sure to see larger steelhead in the rivers this fall and winter as well. Salmon pushing 30# have been caught and I would imagine that a steelhead in the 20# class is not out of the question this year. The Muskegon River has a lot of good habitat for both spawning salmon and fall steelhead, from Croton Dam all the way down past Newaygo itself. With plenty of water to fish, finding walk-in access at or around the most popular launch sites is not a problem. That being said, the Muskegon is a big river, so go slow, wade cautiously and good fishing to all!
Guided River Fishing www.WestMichiganFishingGuide.com
CAPTAIN JEFF BACON Phone: 616-560-3195 Email: jrbacon@ameritech.net
Fall Perch Opportunities Michigan’s Upper & Lower Best Bets BY: J O H N B E R G S MA
Escanaba’s Little Bay De Noc. Well this is probably the worst kept secret out there. The fall perch bite on the “Inner Bay” has been steadily improving for the past 3 years. I fished there once last fall and caught a bunch of very nice 9-11” perch. There are diehard perch guys who fish Little Bay all season long. The bite is certainly the best and most predictable in the months of September and October. Nice schools of perch come tight to shore or set up on shallow reefs from the Gladstone narrows north to the mouth of the Days river. These fish move around a little bit but are not hard to find with a good graph. Big schools of fish show up almost like weeds on the graph. Once you find them, it’s simply a case of hovering over them and dropping down on the school with a variety of baits. My favorite is a two-fisted approach of a slip bobber and minnow alongside a 2-hook perch rig. This allows you to concentrate on the perch rig while letting the bobber just do its thing. I have found minnows to be the best bait during the fall. Saginaw Bay & Lake St. Clair. Large bodies of water such as these can be intimidating to the average angler. I found over time it's best to split the lake into three different areas. Deep flat basins adjacent to shipping channels or deep holes, mid lake depth weed beds, and canals or marinas. As the water cools perch generally move from the deep basins into the weed beds. Right before ice the marinas and canals can be excellent. Late fall don't forget for fish your favorite ice fishing holes. This fall is shaping up to be some of the best perch fishing in recent years. Get out there and fish. If you’re looking for a great perch charter, try Captain Eric Long from Long Line Charters. Drummond Island: This fishery was the standard in the perch fishing world for 3 decades. Cormorants did them in for about 10 years, the great news is that this fishery is on the rebound! The mid-September to LateOctober bite is a very good way to spend some quality time in one of the most beautiful places in Michigan! Perch will move in close in all of the major bays that surround the island. If I was going to choose a best one, it would either be Scotts or Maxton. The fishing is not complicated either. Many people will drift the shallows until they catch one or two in an area. You can fan cast single hook and minnow rigs with light split shot or fish directly below the boat with that or a two-hook perch rig. If a great trip is in the plans, get ahold of Justin Bupp at Always an Adventure Charters.
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GRAND RAPIDS, MI 49509
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Cadillac is a Special Place to Many
M
ichigan's oldest operating state fish hatchery opened in 1901 in Harrietta, just 15 minutes west of Cadillac. Both rainbow and brown trout are reared here for inland and Great Lakes waters. Did you know? Harrietta is the birthplace of brown trout in Michigan and is the source of the current state record for this species? If you’ve never been, it’s open now, or plan this excursion into your next trip to Cadillac. Areas of interest to the public while at the Hatchery: • Short drive from Mitchell State Park, Caberfae Ski Area and highquality trout fishing (Pine River, Manistee River, Pere Marquette River) • Interpretative area • Indoor and outdoor exhibits • Self-guided outdoor trail system • Surrounded by thousands of acres of state and federal land • Minutes from the North Country Trail • Location for Hatchery Passport Program for adults and kids alike Check out how many fish are produced in our area for state-wide placement. Harrietta State Fish Hatchery Production Species-Strain
Age
Number Stocked
Brown Trout - Gilchrist Creek
Spring Yearlings
413,303
Brown Trout - Sturgeon River
Spring Yearlings
149,869
Brown Trout - Wild Rose
Spring Fingerlings
352,210
Rainbow Trout - Eagle Lake
Spring Fingerlings
298,517
Total
1,213,899
We can honestly tout we know a bit about brown trout in our area and are honored to have this hatchery alive and well just outside of town, close to our rivers. For detailed information of fish stocked, see the DNR's website at: michigandnr.com/fishstock/ For direct links to more information, go to www.cadillacmichigan.com and search ‘harrietta fish’… Hatchery info: phone: 231-389-2211 Hours: Open at no charge to public. Weekdays, 8:30 am to 4 pm. Weekends, 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. To schedule group tours, please call 231-389-2211.
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10/19/17 3:23 PM
Never Stop Learning Being well educated is a valuable asset when it comes to harvesting and enjoying your time outdoors. BY: MA R K MA RT I N Two things come to mind when I start pondering the reasons why you are reading this article. One: You want to be entertained. Two: you want to learn how to harvest more fish and game. Enjoying your time on the water and in the woods—whether the bite’s on or off, and the deer are moving or not—and being well educated are valuable assets when it comes to harvesting and taking pleasure in your moments outdoors. I’ve been a professional angler a long time. I started guiding when I was in my 20’s, and then worked my way up the ranks in the prestigious Professional Walleye Trail (PWT) tournaments shortly after. Much has changed since my start in the business. One thing, however, has not: I never, and I mean never quit learning. And because of that I truly love my job. I always have. Inside out I’m sure you’ve heard the adage “Think outside your box”. In general, it means to look beyond what you do in your every-day life, take notice what others are doing, and then learn from those observations. As a professional walleye
angler, I’ve had to think outside my box a lot. Had I not, I’d never have gone as far in my career as I have. Now thinking outside your box doesn’t mean copying what others are doing to a tee, either. Rather, it’s to examine, get ideas and devise your own tricks and techniques. It’s amazing the things you learn when you do. One example would be what I’ve learned about catching walleyes from others who are not targeting them. Bass anglers often catch walleyes; so, too, salmon and trout anglers; perch anglers, as well. And the list goes on and on. I not only talk to other anglers about their catches, but fish for all these species as well, to discover firsthand what the other pros are talking about. Understanding that experiencing something hands-on rather than just reading about it was, itself, a lesson well learned. What I’ve taken from those who target species other than walleyes, as well those times I fish for them myself, is all the “other places” these fickle fish might reside as well the additional lures and methods that fool them in to striking. And the knowledge I’ve gathered has paid off, big time. Now don’t get me wrong, I’d never give up my go-tos like jigging with Rapala Jigging Raps and Shads and Northland spoons and bladebaits in the places I know walleyes readily swim. But it’s always good to have a backup plan, whether I’m under pressure while fishing in a tournament or relaxed and catching fish with my family and friends in open water or on the ice. They are the places and systems that allow me one more bite. What was, what is To tell you the truth, I can’t help but to sport a smile and snicker under my breath little when I think of the mindsets of anglers back in my early days. I know my thoughts on the matter were not nearly as open as they are today. Take jigging, for example. When I was a kid, anglers jigged for walleye with live bait… and that was it. That’s all changed today. While reaching into my Plano bait bucket and grabbing a lively minnow is never out of the question, neither is nipping on a Berkley GULP! Minnow. I’ve found the imitation has just as much fish appeal as the real thing. Sometimes more. In fact, that was a similar frame of mind of most all professional walleye anglers the first half of my career. There were only a few tactics that we would employee and only on very specific kinds
of structure. But as we fished, we evolved. And, we invented. Take the in-line planer boards we use in open water nowadays, as another case in point. Before the 1990’s, most of us trolled with lures running right behind the boat. (Yes, we caught fish with the technique, and still do to this day, but not nearly as many.) It would be the extremely rare day you’d find me pulling lures and crawler harnesses—my Fenwick rods and ABU Garcia reels set snug in my rod holders—without the aid of Church Tackle planer boards pulling the lures out from behind my boat. In fact, I even take them with me during my fly-in trips to PK Resorts in Ontario, Canada. When using in-line planer boards, I can get more lines out and figure out the bite faster, and, without getting tangled up. Even something as common as fishing line has changed how many fish I catch verses how many strikes I might miss out on. Without the willingness to try different equipment rather than the same old thing, I would never have realized what a difference something as simple as line could make. While I’ve used Berkley Trilene XL and XT since day one, I’d never fully understand the uses of Berkley Fluorocarbon or Berkley FireLine had I not been willing to try. Mono, fluoro and superline all have their place. No better than the rest It was a few years back when myself and other professional anglers started teaching one on one as instructors with the Ice-Fishing Vacation/ Schools (icefishingvacatiponschool.com). One thing I have taken from these school events is, even as the educator, I still never quit learning. Students come from all walks of life, all diverse careers, and even more so all-different abilities when it comes to catching fish. Every day of each and every Ice-Fishing Vacation/Schools I learn something from my students. And then together we teach those around us the tips, tricks or techniques they just enlightened me on. Again, I never quit learning. If you take anything from this article, I hope it’s that you realize if you want to be a better angler or hunter this coming season, spend more time outdoors with others. Listen. Learn. Then give back by teaching. But most of all have fun. Mark Martin is a touring walleye tournament pro and instructor with the Ice-Fishing Vacation/ Schools, who lives in Michigan’s Southwest Lower Peninsula. For more information, check out his website at markmartins.net, as well icefishingvacationschool.com.
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By CAM Special Correspondent Tobin Strickland • Photo fish courtesy of troutsupport.com’s new lure
ig speckled trout are a different animal altogether and require a different mindset compared to finding small trout. In the search for big trout, it’s often said that catching lots of small trout means it’s time to move on. But you might not want to leave so fast. Big trout feed predominantly on fish. They will feed on shrimp when abundant. They will focus on menhaden, shad, piggy perch, pin perch, croaker and small trout. Many times big trout will be shallow to feed on big mullet and small trout in what we would normally associate as little trout habitat. Big trout will find a niche within that habitat to focus their attention, something that will give them an advantage in areas where they can feel safe from predators. So look where others aren’t, and don’t overlook ugly fishing spots. Think like an upper-echelon predator, but remember that dolphins and sharks will eat even the biggest trout. It’s time to don the waders and winter gear to look for big trout. Tobin created TroutSupport.com for those looking to up their game beyond YouTube and ActionCam footage. Professional Grade.
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he waters surrounding Australia are internationally renowned for some of the best sportfishing in the world, and Lizard Island on the Great Barrier Reef provides an exceptional platform from which to be part of the action. The waters off tropical North Queensland, including the iconic Great Barrier Reef, are considered the black marlin capital of the world, with many eager sports fishers flocking to the area annually during the storied marlin season. There is no better way to truly experience Australian sportfishing than with a visit to Lizard Island. Lizard Island, located 17 miles off the coast of Tropical North Queensland, is the most northern resort on the reef and is in the heart of the best sportsfishing grounds. The resort boasts unrivalled access to the Great Barrier Reef, so it is no surprise that fishing is one of Lizard Island’s most popular experiences. Lizard Island offers fishing charters to both the inner and outer reef on the luxury fishing vessel Fascination III. The inner reef takes only 15 minutes to reach and fish species include mackerel, queenfish, trevally and
other pelagic species. For those looking to catch something a little larger, a 50-minute trip to the outer reef should do the trick. Here it is not uncommon to catch mackerel, tuna, trevally, mahi-mahi, sailfish and black marlin at the right time of the year. While there are a variety of fishing experiences and species in the waters surrounding Lizard Island, the real draw is black marlin. Each year from September to December, the celebrated black marlin return to the area. For seven days in October each year, the Black Marlin Classic draws fishermen from all over the world to try their luck at catching one of these famous giants. For these seven days, Anchor Bay is inundated with eager fishermen seeking to catch a grander—a marlin heavier than 1,000 pounds. It is not uncommon in these waters. All black marlin fishing in the region is “tag and release” based, and limited to a particular area to ensure protection and conservation of this captivating species. Whether you are interested in a leisurely week of fishing in the beautiful tropical waters off Lizard Island or a serious sportfishing expedition in search of giant black marlin, Lizard Island will not disappoint. Unrivalled access to the iconic Great Barrier Reef, the luxury and seclusion of the resort, and ample opportunities to catch some truly impressive fish make Lizard Island the obvious choice for an Australian fishing adventure. If this isn’t already on your bucket list, it absolutely should be. For more information, visit the Ultimate Fishing Australia website ultimatefishing.com. au. Check out the four-night Lizard Island Fishing package, available at http://ultimatefishing.com.au/australian-fishing-tours/queensland/lizard-island/. Or contact them via email at info@ ultimatefishing.com.au or by phone at +61 (0) 8 8354 2348.
For more on booking a tour, go to
PEACEFULWATERS.CO Here are a few options: South Carolina Lowcountry: The marshes of the Lowcountry between Charleston, S.C. and Savannah, Ga. offer some of the best fly fishing for redfish on the east coast. Although the big bulls actually move out in fall, the best sight fishing of the year occurs when water temperatures begin to drop. Cool water means clear water here, and young redfish can be found in schools of 20 to 30 fish tailing on the mud flats and in tidal creeks. In less than 3 feet of water, these fish are skittish, and stealth is important. Bring your 8-weight to battle fish from 5 to 10 pounds. If you’re lucky, you’ll find them crushing big shrimp along a grass line, so pack a box of shrimp patterns. But be sure to bring your baitfish patterns, too, because mullet and menhaden will also be on the menu.
By CAM Staff • Photo courtesy of Capt. Michael Bruner
R
edfish spawn in fall. What this means for anglers is spawning-sized reds, the bull reds, will be moving in from offshore across much of their range in preparation for the spawn. Large aggregations of big redfish, hungry from expending energy, become easy targets. The dirty water often associated with the weather of fall can make visibility difficult in many areas, and anglers chucking cut bait from beaches, piers and jetties find an advantage in their stinking offerings. But what about the purists… the fly fishers, who find joy in placing themselves at a disadvantage with self-imposed limitations? Well, fall also brings some of the best action of the year for redfish on the fly. The trick is to choose the location wisely.
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Florida Panhandle: From Steinhatchee to Pensacola, oversized redfish in the thousands push in from offshore each fall to school up in preparation for the spawn. At the same time, menhaden and mullet will be making their way out of the estuaries into the bays in search of deeper, warmer water. The result is a whole lot of big fish gorging on plentiful baitfish around the passes. The reds can show up in pods of 10 or 20 or schooling by the hundreds. Bring your 10-weight rod to battle 20-pound reds as well as a box full of baitfish patterns and spoonflies. A sinking line might be in order as well. Louisiana: With the cooling waters, bull redfish pile into the Louisiana estuaries each year. If tangling with 20 to 40-plus pound reds on a fly rod sounds like fun, this might be the best season and the best place on the planet to do it. Anglers from around the world eagerly await Louisiana’s fall invasion of enormous reds, so if you haven’t already booked your charter, you’re probably out of luck. Clean water means the opportunity is there to sight fish for bull reds that are grubbing up crabs in the marshes. Bring your 10-weight and a box of crab patterns.
10/18/17 1:59 PM
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TIPS FROM A PRO
FRESHWATER BRANDON LESTER
B
eing from middle Tennessee, I was introduced to many diverse fisheries in my younger years. This area of the country has long been known for great smallmouth bass fishing, as it should be, but in my opinion it can’t compare to the smallmouth fishing in the Great Lakes region right now. I am certainly not bashing the smallmouth fishing down south, but fishing the Elite Series allows me to see some of the best lakes in the country, and the “good ole days” of smallmouth bass fishing on the Great Lakes is right now. Flowing out of Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River is one of my favorites on our schedule because it fishes similar to the rivers back home. The river has a lot of current, which positions the fish. The water is clear, and you can catch smallmouth from 2 feet deep all the way out to 60 feet. The St. Lawrence is absolutely full of smallmouth, and 30- to 40fish days are just another day on the water. In addition to the fishing, the area is also just an awesome place to spend time. Waddington, N.Y., which is our host city when we go, is in a very rural part of New York with lots of cropland and cattle farms. If you’ve not visited this fishery, I strongly suggest you do. Lake St. Clair is on fire right now. The final Elite Series tournament of the regular season was held there this year, and overall bass weights were absolutely phenomenal. The big smallmouth of the tournament weighed almost 7 pounds. In the past, tournaments on St. Clair were won by guys who ran to Lake Erie or Lake Huron, but not anymore. It seems now that St. Clair is the place to be. The style of fishing is different than most smallmouth destinations. Lake St. Clair is just a big bowl-shaped lake with a shipping channel running through the middle of it. That’s about the only real contour change on the whole lake. The big keys are
looking for clean spots in the grass and finding bait. If that doesn’t fit your style, you can run up the river toward Huron or down the Detroit River toward Erie. Both rivers have plenty of current and plenty of smallmouth. After fishing a tournament on Lake Champlain this year, it is my new favorite lake in the country. The smallmouth fishing is phenomenal, and you can catch big largemouth, too. The smallmouth hang out on offshore shoals, old bridge blow-throughs and rocky structure around the shoreline. If you get tired of catching them, there is an abundance of milfoil, docks and reeds where largemouth bass are willing and ready to bite. Lake Champlain, in my opinion, has the healthiest population of bass of anywhere I have ever fished, and that makes it fun, period. Plattsburg, N.Y. is a great place to visit, as well, with lots of cool sites to see. If you make one of these trips, be sure you’re prepared with the right MHX rods, Mustad hooks and Vicious fishing line. Hit Brandon up on Facebook or Instagram with any questions.
Get more tips from Lester at
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By CAM Staff
I
t’s got the beaches, with fine white sand and the emerald green waters of the gorgeous northern Gulf of Mexico. It’s got the nightlife, the shopping and fine dining, the beautiful golf courses and everything else that draws vacationers from around the world. But what Destin, Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa Island—the heart of northwest Florida’s Emerald Coast—have more of than anything else is fishing. Back in 1956, Florida Gov. Leroy Collins called Destin “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village” after catching a big king mackerel on a 15-minute photo-op boat ride during the Destin Fishing Rodeo. More than 60 years later, the historic Destin Fishing Rodeo just wrapped up its 69th annual October-long event, proving once again that this fishing village is just as lucky as ever. Daily weigh-ins at the rodeo give spectators a close look at what the waters off the Emerald Coast have to offer. Excitement builds on the docks in front of the landmark AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar when big tuna, wahoo, king mackerel, dolphin, groupers and snappers come to the scales. And in the Billfish Division, the big sportfishing yachts are out there pulling spreads for sailfish—and marlin that easily eclipse the 500-pound mark. There have been a couple grander blue marlin caught on the northern Gulf Coast over the years and a few more that came very close to tipping the scales past the 1,000-pound mark. Even swordfish show up pretty regularly, meaning there’s a real possibility for a grand slam fishing out of the marinas of Okaloosa County. It’s world-class fishing on the Panhandle, which in recent years has seen the big pelagic species moving closer to shore with changing currents. And what’s more, the action is yearround. There’s a good reason the world’s largest charter fishing fleet is based out of Destin Harbor.
Nearshore
Nearshore, warm and fertile Gulf waters coupled with numerous wrecks and reefs to create some of the most bountiful fishing Florida has to offer. With a short boat ride less than 8 miles off the beach, anglers can bottom fish or troll with family pleasing and cooler-filling consistency for amberjack, numerous snapper and grouper species, cobia, blackfin tuna, king and Spanish mackerel and more.
Offshore
Due south about 25 to 30 miles out, the continental shelf drops and there are multiple renowned hotspots, with some of the best big game fishing in the Gulf. South Florida seems to get most of the bright, hot spotlight when it comes to the big pelagics, but serious anglers out of the Emerald Coast quietly and consistently catch serious fish. Whether it’s a full-day trolling trip or an overnight expedition deep into the Gulf, dolphin, blue marlin, tuna and
wahoo are available to those who mean business when it comes to fishing.
Inshore
Those who would rather explore grass flats and oyster beds in search of trout or tailing redfish will also find that on the Emerald Coast. Inside East Pass and Okaloosa Island, Choctawhatchee Bay spreads out vast and shallow. It’s the perfect place to launch a skiff or a kayak into 130 square miles of inshore action that’s some of the best on the Panhandle.
Spring Cobia
Finally, any discussion of fishing options around the Emerald Coast has to include the cobia run, which is one of the best on the planet. Book your charter now, because in spring—peaking in April—cobia that have migrated north along the Gulf Coast arrive off the beaches bringing some of the most exciting fishing there is. This is sight fishing for one of the ocean’s tastiest and hardest fighting fish, and during this spring run they can arrive with weights in excess of 100 pounds. With a spotter in the tower, you cruise the clear blue-green waters looking for the telltale brown shadows of a pod of cobia doggedly pushing west. With a Airline_CoastalAnglerAd_3-2016_Layout 1 3/18/16 1:07 PM Page 1 smooth approach, the boat moves to intercept, and then it’s up to the angler to make an accurate cast with a live bait or a jig. Anticipation is almost unbearable for a few seconds before the take, and then bedlam breaks loose. Cobia put up the most unpredictable fight in fishing. They are capable of long, drag-burning runs, leaps, rolls and deep dives, but sometimes they save the thrashing until they hit the deck. Either way, catching a big cobia is exciting, and there’s no better grilling fish that swims. So, while the Emerald Coast offers gorgeous beaches and all the activity of a top-notch beach vacation destination, on the water it remains what it was before the Miracle Strip and Harbor Boulevard grew up around it. It’s one of the best fishing destinations in the world in terms of quality, quantity and variety of angling opportunities. For information, go to www.emeraldcoastfl. com. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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MODEL: VEN4145
$99
HUSKY
$ $
COMPARE TO
SAVE $169
SAVE
$ 99 55%
ITEM 61363, 68497, 61360, 68498, 61359, 68496 shown
*52393210 * 52393210 LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
• Laser guide Customer Rating
ITEM 61969/61970 69684 shown Blade sold separately.
$
COMPARE TO
KOBALT
299
$12999 $
MODEL: SM3055LW
19999
*52358721 * 52358721 LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET
SAVE $79
Customer Rating
14999
179
Customer Rating
ITEM 61634/61952 95659 shown
MODEL: HOUC3304B10
*52373087 * 52373087
$599 $899 SAVE 70%
COMPARE TO
LOWE'S $ 99
19
MODEL: 77280
ITEM 69505/62418/66537 shown
*52382891 * 52382891
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
• 1000 lb. capacity
18" x 12" MOVER'S DOLLY
COMPARE TO
SCHUMACHER
$
ITEM 61899/60497 63095/63096/63098 63097/93888 shown
12999 MODEL: SL1
99
$69
$
79
99
SAVE $60 ITEM 62749
*52400572 * 52400572
COMPARE TO
MILWAUKEE $ 97
19
MODEL: 33700
Customer Rating
SAVE 59%
$
10
99
$799
*52400620 * 52400620
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
I
I
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare” or “comp at” price means that the same item or a similar functioning item was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare” or “comp at” price by another retailer in the U.S. within the past 180 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare” or "comp at" should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 3/1/18.
hft_coastalangler_1117_M-REG109349.indd 1 CANGL_NAT3-NAT18.indd 17
12" SLIDING COMPOUND DOUBLE-BEVEL MITER SAW
Customer Rating
Customer Rating
7
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
JUMP STARTER AND POWER PACK
• 5 mil thickness
COMPARE TO
ITEM 62314/63066 66383 shown
29
SUPER COUPON
$599
99 SAVE 60%
COMPARE TO
1399
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
5755
MODEL: H-21
99
*52365913 * 52365913
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
29
$
59
*52362225 * 52362225
$
$ 99 *52390682 * 52390682
LOWE’S
• Weighs 97 lbs.
COMPARE TO $ 98 IRWIN UNIBIT MODEL: 15504PKSM
ITEM 69676/69729/63080/63079 shown ITEM 69728/63090/63089, CALIFORNIA ONLY
$
COMPARE TO
99
ITEM 69087 60379 91616 shown
98
*52331956 * 52331956
LIMIT 7 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
$8
$3999
COMPARE TO $ 62 PORTER-CABLE MODEL: PCFP02003
Customer Rating
SAVE 65%
3 PIECE 26", 4 DRAWER TITANIUM TOOL CART HIGH SPEED STEEL • 6200 cu. in. of storage STEP BIT SET • 580 lb. capacity
SAVE 85%
YOUR CHOICE
5699
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
99
HEAVY DUTY FOLDABLE ALUMINUM SPORTS CHAIR
$54
ITEM 60637/61615 95275 shown
SAVE 59% $ • Air delivery: 0.6 CFM @ 90 PSI, 1 CFM @ 40 PSI
$1 999
ITEM 62515 66911 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
• GFCI outlets
$
119
99
A. HOT DOG
ITEM 69269/97080 shown
B. PANCAKE
STEP STOOL/ WORKING PLATFORM
Customer Rating
*52352148 * 52352148 • Drill 28 Hole Sizes from 1/8" to 3/4"
B
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
$
SAVE $64
1999
*52331660 * 52331660
MODEL: 7424XP
SUPER COUPON
SUPER QUIET
$
PORTER-CABLE
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
4000 MAX. STARTING/ Customer Rating 3200 RUNNING WATTS 6.5 HP (212 CC) GAS GENERATOR
$9
COMPARE TO
Tools sold separately.
$12999
99
8497
A
SAVE 88%
YOUR CHOICE
MODEL: H2DTWA
Customer Rating
ITEM 93454/69054 63395/62603 shown
$
COMPARE TO
SUPER COUPON
3 GALLON, 100 PSI OIL-FREE AIR COMPRESSORS
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $285
• Accuracy within ±4%
Customer Rating
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
60" HARDWOOD WORKBENCH 6" VARIABLE SPEED WITH 4 DRAWERS DUAL ACTION POLISHER
LIMIT 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trenchers, welders, Admiral, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Hercules, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 3/1/18.
LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 3/1/18. Limit one FREE GIFT coupon per customer per day.
*52330318 * 52330318
LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
*52309815 * 52309815
*52320448 * 52320448
SUPER COUPON
SAVE 70%
ANY SINGLE ITEM
ITEM 63604/63758 98025/69096/63759/90899 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
$9
20% OFF
• 3.5" LCD Display • Battery Included
MODEL: DCD780C2
12 VOLT MAGNETIC SAVE TOWING LIGHT KIT $106
13
51
MODEL: MT-1210
*52324497 * 52324497
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 3/1/18*
$
ANY PURCHASE
7 FUNCTION DIGITAL MULTIMETER
COMPARE TO
HOME DEPOT
SAVE $80
99
ITEM 63100
WITH
Customer Rating
• 576 in. lbs. of torque • 2.5 amp hour battery • Weighs 3.6 lbs.
$7999 $9599 Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
20 VOLT LITHIUM CORDLESS 1/2" COMPACT DRILL/DRIVER KIT
HUSKY
20"
SAVE $69
Customer Rating
$
FREE
M-REG109349_CoastalAnglerMagazine
DEWALT
BEATS
SUPER COUPON
NOVEMBER 2017
NATIONAL
17
10/6/17 9:40 3:42 AM PM 10/19/17
SUZUKI MAKES IT
EASY AS
1-2-3
The leaves might be falling, but the deals are just starting to spring up at your Suzuki Marine dealer. Make your best Fall Boat Show deal on a new Suzuki outboard from 25 to 300 horsepower and take advantage of not just one, but all three special Suzuki offers. See your Suzuki Marine dealer today and get on the water with a powerful, reliable new Suzuki.
REPOWER FINANCE
1. Six Years of Protection at no extra charge on all new outboards 25 to 300 HP.
2. Cash Rebates on select models. See your dealer for details.
3. Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards (OAC).*
Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 300 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Cash Rebates apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Customer and participating Dealer must fill out the appropriate rebate form at time of sale. Cash rebate will be applied against the original dealer invoice (Suzuki will credit Dealer parts account). There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 9/01/17 and 12/31/17. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2017 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
CANGL_NAT3-NAT18.indd 18
SZ_Q4Promo_1PG.indd 1
10/19/17 9:40 AM 9/8/17 2:55 PM
COMMON CVRS_1117.indd 3
10/18/17 3:19 PM
© 2017 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
THIS SEEMS TO BE THE PLACE WHERE ALL THE FISH HANG OUT. I THINK I’LL DROP IN.
12”
PROGRAMMABLE
HOT KEYS
PRELOADED
BUILT-IN
BLUECHART® G2 + LAKEVUU¨ HD CHIRP SONAR + CLEARVUU¨ + SIDEVU¨
GPSMAP® 1242xsv
COMMON CVRS_1117.indd 4 17-MCJT512 GPSMAP 1224xsv Coastal Fishing Ad_US-8.125x10.875-CoatalAngler.indd 1
10/18/17 3:19 PM 3/8/17 9:13 AM