The Angler Magazine - June / Western North Carolina

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA EDITION

Boats

FREE Celebrating Our

And

Motors

Edition

Local

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events PHOTO COURTESY OF SKEETER BOATS VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 280

F R A N C H I S E

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THEANGLERMAG.COM O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

JUNE 2018

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THE LIGHTEST PENN REEL EVER MADE The Lightest PENN Reel Ever Made. The all new Conflict II matches an extremely light weight design with PENN’s legendary durability. Featuring our RR30 body, CNC Gear Technology and HT-100 Drag system, the Conflict II is the ultimate inshore reel.

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Living the life of a FAMILY MAN and a FISHERMAN BUILT FOR THAT

210 FSH ® SERIES Go where no other boat has gone before. With powerful twin TR-1® Yamaha Marine Engines, ample storage and comfortable bow seating, the all-new 210 FSH provides the shallow-water capability to get to those hard-to-reach fishing spots and the versatility to enjoy watersports with your family.

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Don’t drink COASTALANGLERMAG.COM and drive. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT YAMAHABOATS.COM CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA. • THEANGLERMAG.COM JUNEOR 2018 NATIONAL 3

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BLEED TRIM

Ten Years Old (Young)

SAFETY

CEO / EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com COO : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Derrick Oppelt • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794

FLORIDA

BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : Chris Milner • (321) 631-1001 • cmilner@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER MIAMI : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com

flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com

SOUTHEAST

ATLANTA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT : Doug Simmons • (704) 361-6189 • simmons@theanglermagazine.com

Juli Simmons • (980) 333-7273 • simmons@theanglermagazine.com

COLUMBIA/MIDLANDS : John Lux • (803) 807-6885 • jlux@theanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Mike Masiero • (732) 674-3019 • mmasiero@coastalanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com

Laura Tiger • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com

WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD : Kenny Ritter • (910) 550-9094 • kenny@coastalanglermagazine.com

NORTHEAST BOSTON : George Regan • (617) 488-2842 • boston@coastalanglermagazine.com LONG ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 • lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com

GULF COAST MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Adam Nelson • (228) 627-5903 • anelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

BEN MARTIN EDITOR IN CHIEF

Dear Reader, Ten years ago, a new publishing concept was born. At that time, the idea that a magazine could somehow become a franchise offering was so unique that at first it was difficult to explain. How could a fishing magazine have more than one edition each month? How could someone without years of publishing experience and substantial capital successfully launch a new magazine? Not just a magazine, but a fishing magazine, and not just a fishing magazine, but a free fishing magazine? Free? What?

Ten years ago, we began developing the concept of a franchise publishing system that would allow outdoor enthusiasts the rare opportunity to publish a localized fishing magazine as a professionals.

Today there are over 30 editions of Coastal Angler and its interior freshwater component The Angler Magazine throughout the continental U.S., Costa Rica and the Virgin Islands. Every month all over the country local co-publishers work with professional guides and charter captains to share their knowledge of what’s biting where, when, and how with you, our reader!

It’s reliable intel that anyone who loves to fish would benefit from reading. And guess what? There’s a lot of people who like to fish.

The purpose that this fishing magazine serves cannot be denied, and that’s why there are over 30 separate editions of this magazine being published every month.

It is our pleasure, our honor, to present this fishing magazine to you at no cost each month. We actually earn a living by helping to spread the word about fishing. What a great concept. Just like you, we love fishing, boating and the outdoors. In fact, we’re absolutely wild about it. It’s all we want to do. It’s truly amazing how much we all love fishing. Love it. We do, you do, millions of people do!

That’s why ten years ago we knew one fishing magazine was not enough.

We are proud to be celebrating our 10 year anniversary this month.

Our sincerest thank you goes out to all of our co-publishing partners, the guides and charter captains who write for the magazine, the businesses who support the magazine and make it possible for us to continue providing it for free and most importantly to you, our reader. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to produce this FREE fishing magazine each month.

For more information on Coastal Angler and The Angler Magazine franchise opportunities, visit http://franchise.coastalanglermag.com/ or call 888-800-9794.

ALABAMA/PENSACOLA : Paul Caruso • (239) 980-7738 • paul@coastalanglermagazine.com

GREAT LAKES WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Mike Erickson • (561) 262-2242 • mike@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers.

SAFETY

Franchise.CoastalAnglerMag.com

1-888-800-9794 Franchise opportunities available worldwide.

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NO 26

The best fishing stories start with you getting away.

PINE ISLAND SOUND, FL

Islandology is our way of life. It’s trying a new, secluded spot and finding no matter what you catch – you’re hooked.

Plan your trip at FortMyers-Sanibel.com

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POWERFUL FOUR STROKE

OUR MOST

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Boat Accessories Product Reviews INTERLUX MICRON WA ANTIFOULING PAINT

DEXTER VORTEX TRAILER HUBS

Micron WA (Water-Activated) is the latest addition to the AkzoNobel’s Interlux industry leading Micron Technology product range. It is a showcase antifouling paint that offers longlasting, multi-seasonal protection in a waterbased formulation. Micron WA combines powerful antifouling performance while reducing impact on the environment, leaving a smooth, clean hull. It is easy to apply with low odor that makes application and clean up easy. This paint is ideal for cruise, power and sailboats and suitable for all waters.

Using a novel paint technology called Water Activated Matrix, Micron WA delivers a crisp, vibrant color and uniform appearance to provide a striking, attractive finish, while at the same time efficiently delivering powerful antifouling performance.

More information is available at: https://interlux.com/en/us/boat-paint/antifouling/micron-wa

The Vortex lubrication system for marine trailers is designed with towing in mind. Vortex on your trailer axles mean years of service without the hassle of replacing the grease.

A great feature that comes with the Vortex is the 100,000-mile or 5-year limited warranty. And, if you are a trailer owner that likes to work on the trailer in the off-season, the Vortex threaded cap screw on/off cap makes it easier than ever to check the bearings. You never have to use a hammer to remove or install the cap.

We fill the Vortex hub with Lucas Oil Products Marine Grease, a superior bearing grease that has high heat qualities and is water resistant… even in saltwater!

Vortex is available from select OEM trailer manufacturers pre-installed on your new trailer with disc brakes or idler hubs. Vortex hubs can be purchased from marine dealers and marine parts suppliers to replace the old hubs on your trailer. Vortex replacement hub kits are available pre-greased, pre-assembled in clear clamshell packaging, perfect for taking with you in your truck or boat as a spare hub. Depend on quality Dexter Vortex hubs for your trailering experiences.

WWW.INTERLUX.COM

WWW.DEXTERAXLE.COM

ELECTRIC TRAILER DOLLY

SEASTAR SOLUTIONS JACKPLATES

If you own a boat, you know the stress of ParkIt360 Force 10K backing your trailered pride and joy into a tight space. With this in mind, we took it upon ourselves to take Parkit360’s Force 10K electric trailer dolly for a test spin.

Right off the bat, we were impressed.

Assembly was easy, and by connecting the trailer’s power harness to the Force, we were able to control the trailer’s brakes with the Smart Brake Control System, which provides control and safety on a steep grade. Also, the Bosch-designed electric motor supplied more than enough power to maneuver with little to no effort on the part of the user.

The heavy-duty 4”-wide tires maintained traction on concrete as well as gravel and even in wet grass when loaded. The Force dolly proved its functionality regardless of terrain, and that could come in super handy for those parking boats, campers or anything else with a trailer ball where the concrete ends.

But the most striking feature of the Force electric trailer dolly was how easy it made maneuvering the boat. With precise and easy-to-use controls, all the stress was taken out of navigating tight corners and turns in forward and reverse. We put the boat into spots we wouldn’t even attempt using a truck.

Built of quality materials, powder-coated and compact enough to fit in the trunk of an SUV, Parkit360’s electric trailer dollies are a great tool for anyone who pulls a trailer.

WWW.PARKIT360.CA

With its Gen II Standard and Xtreme jackplates, SeaStar Solutions brings to market improved jackplates that handle up to 300 and 400 hp outboards, respectively, and are easier to install and adjust and stand up better to the marine environment.

To handle heavier loads, advanced composite bushings allow for smoother movement of the hydraulic rams when the jackplate is raised or lowered, making SeaStar a superior performing jackplate at all speeds and loads.

Both the Seastar Standard and Xtreme are available with 4”, 6”, 8”, 10” and 12” setbacks.

Redesigned engine brackets allow mounting of shallow-water anchors on both models without the use of adapter plates. Redesigned engine brackets also improve access to the mounting bolts. Side access has been introduced to make it easier to get a wrench on engine mounting bolts while clearance to access transom mounting bolts has also been opened up, making it easier for one person to install the plate.

Installing a SeaStar Jackplate with SeaStar’s ProTap system allows for precise, standardized height adjustment. Key to the ProTap system is the SmartStick sensor, which can easily be installed along the side of the plate.

While adding strength and improving access, the new design uses less material for weight reduction of 15 percent over the originals. Thicker MilSpec anodizing of the aluminum frame and lift and effective sacrificial anode mounting points provide improved protection against corrosion.

WWW.SEASTARSOLUTIONS.COM

EAGLE ONE Your boat will get you around on the water, and you can count on the Eagle One to get you around on land.

The Eagle One is a sleek, compact vehicle that is packed with features and versatile for all kinds of use. It’s small profile makes storage easy. It is offered with a top or without a top, and also features many other customizable options to suit your own preferences and needs. It’s perfect for cruising the neighborhood, work on the farm, getting around at the docks or riding down to the beach.

With seating for two, The Eagle One operates on 36 volts with a top speed of 15 mph. It weighs 672 pounds and has a load capacity of 672 pounds. It measures just 78”x41”x41.5”, so it can be parked out of the way when it’s not in use.

WWW.EAGLEPRODUCTS.US/EAGLE-ONE 12

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ACCESSORIZE YOUR BOAT FOR THE SUMMER SEASON

FILET TABLE

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AVAILABLE IN 2 SIZES

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AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL MARINE DEALER / RETAILER

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SeaChaser 27 HFC Specs: LOA: 27’ Beam: 9’6”

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here’s no Weight: 5,300 lbs. need to Max Capacity: 12 people compromise when you can have Fuel Capacity: 181 Gal. the best of both worlds. That’s the Max HP: 500 idea behind the Sea Deadrise: 20 degrees Chaser HFC Series, built by Carolina Skiff.

With all the features required by hardcore anglers, the four HFC models are serious fishing boats when it’s time to fish. When it’s time to take the family out on the water, these boats convert easily to offer the comforts and amenities that make them excellent cruising boats as well.

It’s all in the name. HFC stands for Hybrid Fish & Cruise. These boats were built from the ground up and designed specifically for the serious angler who is also devoted to family.

Anyone who’s ever fished from a Carolina Skiff knows the company has designing fishing boats down pat. Over more than 30 years, they have earned a reputation for building the most durable, versatile, stable and economical boats on the planet. For this reason, there are legions of anglers who wouldn’t own anything but a Carolina Skiff.

The Sea Chaser HFC is no exception. With the 20, 22 and 24 HFC, Sea Chaser offers great center consoles for fishing and cruising inshore and nearshore. The latest in the line, launched last year, is the 27 HFC. It has the size and range for blue water, while maintaining the features that make it a comfortable family cruiser suitable for long days on the water.

The 27 HFC melds functionality, comfort, style and performance seamlessly. Patented box-beam construction produces a solid, durable wood-free hull with foam flotation that exceeds U.S. Coast Guard requirements. With 100-percent composite construction, it meets stringent durability and dependability standards demanded by Carolina Skiff, and the high-performance step-hull gets the boat up on plane quickly for a smooth, dry ride.

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For an added feeling of safety, it features a 9.6-foot beam with a length overall of 27 feet and a respectable gunwale height. A fuel capacity of 181 gallons feeds up to 500 horses, which is more than enough to get you offshore where the fish are.

This boat is loaded with standard features that will keep both your fishing buddies and your kiddos happy. They include: onboard windlass anchor system; wrap-around bow seating with 400-quart insulated storage; two built-in bow cabinets with tackle center and storage drawers; bow-floor 200-quart fish box; under-gunnel retractable wash down hose; molded fiberglass leaning post with 40-gallon baitwell and two tackle centers; rear 30-gallon baitwell; rear sink with stainless steel faucet; rear starboard cabinet with tackle trays and knife holders; freshwater tank with shower spray wand; step-in console with electric flushing head; molded hard top with LED lighting; speakers and electronics box; AM/FM radio with Bluetooth and USB connection; underwater LED lighting; courtesy LED lighting package; electric trim tabs; port side entry door; two rear foldaway bench seats; 12 flush-mounted gunwale stainless steel rod holders; swim platform with step ladder; and a whole lot more.

It’s easy to see the 27 HFC was designed with both comfort and fishing functionality in mind. Like all the fine boats in the HFC line, it is the answer for the hardcore angler who doesn’t want to sacrifice on all the other fun stuff one can do out on the water.

Check out the SeaChaser HFC series and all of Carolina Skiff ’s other offerings at www.carolinaskiff.com.

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You could get a discount when you combine your auto and boat policies.

geico.com | 1-800-865-4846 | Local Office

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Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. Multi-Policy Discount available to auto insureds that have purchased a boat policy through the GEICO Marine Insurance Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2018 GEICO

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Check Out June’s Cover Shot

“Good Call”

Good Call Sport Fishing team members Ryan Hullihan, Mark Wodlinger, Matt Alligood and Dave Kairalla with release flags flying. Photo by Leonard Bryant Photography.

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FREE Boats And Motors Edition Celebrating Our

epending on which edition of Local Coastal Angler or The Angler you’re holding, the cover photo might be of the Bahama 41’ Good Call.

Good Call Sport Fishing is a professional-class sailfishing team that also fishes for tuna, kingfish, dolphin and wahoo in tournaments off Florida and the Bahamas.

Since forming in 2011, the team has competed in six to eight tournaments a year and has risen as one of the top teams on the circuit. This season has been a successful for Good Call. They opened in November at the Old Bahama Bay Wahoo Cup in West End, Bahamas. In January the team competed in the Silver Sailfish Derby, winning the top billfish tagging award and placing 9th overall. The Buccaneer Cup Sailfish Tournament followed in West Palm Beach, where they placed 7th. In February, they fished The Sailfish Challenge, the second leg of Bluewater Movement’s Quest for the Crest, and finished 8th. In May they were back in West End for the Winners Circle Charities Tournament.

As one might deduce from Good Call’s quad Mercury Verano 350s, the team is sponsored on the Mercury Pro Staff. Fishing reels are sponsored by Daiwa; rods and gaffs are by Chance Rods. Sunglasses are sponsored by Smith Optics. Clothing and apparel are sponsored by Bluefin USA and Gill Fishing.

Follow the team at teamgoodcall on Instagram, Good Call Sport Fishing on Facebook and Good Call Sportfishing on Youtube.

Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events

PHOTO COURTESY OF LEONARD BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHY VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 280

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Gillz Performance Fishing Shirts With their Coolcore

Technology, Gillz has developed a chemicalfree, lightweight, cooling and sun protective shirt that is the No. 1 choice of tournament pros, guides and avid anglers all over the planet.

Coolcore is 30 percent cooler than the competition. Gillz was able to achieve this remarkable feature through research and design of a patented fabric that wicks sweat and moisture away from the body in every direction to keep you dry and comfortable regardless of the conditions. While most cooling fabrics achieve this using any number of nasty chemicals, Gillz has been able to do it chemical-free through their Coolcore Technology.

Gillz shirts cool better, last much longer and offer protection from the sun’s harmful rays (UPF). After extensive testing, the following observations were made: • The fabric is very durable both to extreme abrasion and many washings.

• Coolcore is more comfortable in hot conditions and prolongs and positively enhances athletic performance. This is most notable when worn by endurance athletes during high aerobic activities. This is by far the most comfortable shirt our testers have ever worn in the heat.

www.gillz-gear.com

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TOW & STOW ®

THE LAST HITCH YOU’LL EVER NEED

• Rotate the Ball

• Adjust the Height

• Stow the Hitch

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Mag Bay Yachts Building On A Legacy Of Fine Boats

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arrett Howarth, of Mag Bay Yachts, may be the only boatbuilder in the industry who can say one of his employees has changed his diapers.

His parents, Mike and Patricia Howarth, have always been boatbuilders. Along with their partner Henry Mohrschladt, they created the venerable Cabo Yachts. Barrett grew up on the production floor. His childhood was spent in the shop, learning to build boats from the best in the business.

Barrett was conflicted when Cabo was sold to Brunswick Corporation in 2006.

“It was pretty tough on me and my dad,” he said, “because that’s what we did… build boats.”

Through the heart of the Great Recession, when there weren’t many buyers for high-end yachts, Barrett worked in his garage, building and refurbishing smaller boats. Despite protest from his father, who knew how tough the business could be, Barrett continued pursuing his passion.

“At some point, I guess Dad decided, ‘If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em,’” Barrett said.

In June of 2014, Barrett and Mike set out to build what became the first Mag Bay Yacht. Working with hull designs by Michael Peters, one of the most respected designers in the industry, they started work to produce a high-quality 33’ center console that is the embodiment of elegance and function. It took almost a year to get everything the way they wanted it before the first Mag Bay hit the water in 2015.

Since then, a lot of travel, hard work, attention to detail and customer support have brought recognition to Mag Bay Yachts for what it is.

The Mag Bay 33’ is a high-end, expensive center console, and customers expect and receive the best.

Early success allowed Mag Bay to reassemble much of the experienced crew from Cabo, who they consider family. One of those employees changed Barrett’s diapers nearly 30 years ago. They are the same employees who presented Mike with a plaque that hangs in the shop and reads: “I will always build the very best boat—at a profit if I can, at a loss if I must—but I will always build the best.”

Barrett said that’s the philosophy for every Mag Bay that leaves the shop.

“We’ve always tried to build the highest quality boat on the water,” he said. “We’ve always prided ourselves on using the absolute best products. If there’s not anything out there that’s up to par, we’ll make it. Being a family boatbuilder, it’s not about numbers for us. It’s about building the absolute best boat.”

In the near future, the family at Mag Bay Yachts has plans to go back to its Cabo roots in designing a new 42’ inboard express. It’ll be exciting to see what they produce.

For more information on Mag Bay Yachts, see their website at www. magbayyachts.com.

For more on MagBay Yachts, go to

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s there anything more exhilarating than scrambling to recover line that’s buzzing off your reel and then landing a well-deserved bonefish?

Believe it or not, there is: landing that bonefish and finding it has been tagged. Not only are you having the time of your life, you’re contributing to Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s (BTT) ongoing bonefish research. Take it from renowned angler Meredith McCord, who recently caught a tagged bonefish off of South Andros while fishing with the Eleven Experience.

Many are familiar with the term “tagging” due to projects like the Tarpon Acoustic Tagging Project, but BTT and collaborating scientists employ more than one type of “tag” when studying saltwa-

ter flats species. Research involving acoustic telemetry helps identify movement patterns and spawning sites, in addition to regional population and habitat connections that inform flats conservation.

These acoustic tags do not, however, track health indicators like growth rate and sexual maturity—those data are found using something called tag-recapture.

This particular type of tag resembles a small post with a diameter similar to that of a toothpick. Each individual tag is marked with a unique serial number and is inserted just below the dorsal fin. Scientists record the tag’s serial number and measurements specific to the individual fish—weight, fork and tail length, gender and any other observations about its condition. In keeping with best handling practices, researchers release the fish in hopes of another encounter.

That hope was fulfilled when McCord caught a tagged bonefish in the Bahamas. She was able to record its serial number and length measurements before releasing it again.

According to Dr. Aaron Adams, BTT’s director of science & conservation, and Bahamas Initiative manager Justin Lewis, bonefish spawn during full and new moons from October through April. The bonefish McCord recaptured was first tagged at a pre-spawning aggregation site in January 2015. Its recapture, over three years later, occurred 34 miles from the initial tagging location, which is not uncommon, since bonefish typically remain in or near their home ranges except when they leave the flats to spawn in deeper water.

BTT thanks McCord and all anglers, guides, researchers and partnering organizations for their participation in research. Their enthusiasm, not only in tag-recapture studies but in all BTT research projects, is vital to the pursuit of specific and science-driven conservation outcomes for our saltwater flats fisheries.

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Boats: They/You Have Arrived B ack in the mid-1980s, Scout Boats founder and CEO Steve Potts was a plant manager with boat builder American Sail. He had been in the industry since the age of 14, and he knew that one day he would be building his own boats.

Scout is a true American success story. Working side-jobs, weekends and nights, Potts managed to save up $50,000 and launched his company in South Carolina. The first boat he built was a modest 14-foot fishing boat. It was a simple, functional skiff-like craft. What set it apart was extreme attention to detail and craftsmanship. Dealers and boaters noticed the fine fit-and-finish, even on a little fishing boat. It became very popular across the Carolinas and beyond.

With those first boats, built in garages and barns, Potts began constructing the reputation that followed Scout Boats as it became one of the world’s most successful boatbuilders. From humble beginnings, Scout Boats has grown immensely and now offers a full line up of finely crafted and innovative inshore, bay and luxury offshore boats.

Throughout the company, a culture of integrity ensures quality products and outstanding customer service.

Take, for example, Scout’s flagship, the 420 LXF. It is a 42-foot luxury center console that is truly a landmark for the marine industry. No stone was left unturned in the design and development of this beauty. Its EpoxyInfused hull using Carbon/E-Glass provides improved superior structural stability, strength and a Class A finish for unsurpassed performance. There are countless unique features never before seen on a model like 420 LXF. With quad outboards and up to 1,675 max hp, it is a fishing machine laid out with the luxury of a yacht.

That’s the idea behind Scout’s entire line, to build fishing boats with meticulous commitment to craftsmanship and design that allows them to be extremely functional fishing platforms that are low-maintenance, durable and as comfortable and beautiful as they can possibly be.

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Later this year, Scout Boats plans to launch a new flagship, the 530 LXF.

Scout Boat’s flagship, the 420 LXF is a landmark luxury center console.

The commitment to excellence paid off as the world climbed out from under the Great Recession of 2008.

While the boating industry was reeling due to the economic instability of its customers, Scout Boats launched 18 new high-end models. The company saw multiple years of 25 percent annual growth.

With today’s economy chugging away and growing, the customer base for world-class boats is stronger than ever.

That’s good for Scout, and it’s good for you—the angler who is finally in a position to purchase that dream boat.

A decade ago, taking on boat payments was a frightening thought. Now that things have stabilized, buying a boat is a worthwhile investment in your quality of life. And when it comes to producing quality on the water, Scout Boats has the market cornered, whether it’s a 17-foot bay boat or a 42-foot center console.

To see all of Scout Boats’ finely crafted vessels, go to www.scoutboats.com.

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SOUTHEAST

By Paul Tyre

O

n lakes where there is a lot of aquatic vegetation, such as hydrilla, lily pads, reeds, etc., the bass depend on it for cover and prey.

With all of this cover, there is an excellent opportunity for catching big bass on hollow body frogs.

Using the right equipment is essential for hooking and landing big bass out of heavy vegetation. When choosing a rod-and-reel setup, a rod with a soft tip and a lot of backbone in lengths of 7’2” to 7’4” is a must.

Sixty-five pound braided line on an Abu Garcia Revo STX high-speed reel is essential for pulling the big bass out of the thick cover.

It seems like every lure company has a hollow-body frog in their lineup and every color in the rainbow. I prefer the more natural colors in browns, greens and blacks, and in clear water, when the bass are keying in on the edges of cover more, a translucent, almost see-through frog.

The two types of frogs I have been most successful with are the popping frogs and the hopping frogs. The popping frog is designed with a concave mouth that generates an attention-grabbing and enticing chug.

Some baits that I have found that work well in this style of frog are a Strike King Popping Perch and the Booyah Poppin’ Pad Crasher. These styles work really well during the postspawn, when the bass are starting to guard their fry and can really generate some explosive strikes.

The popping frogs work well when fishing course pad fields where you need to pull the bass to the bait by popping the frog to generate a loud chugging sound. Give the bait a pause of three to five seconds to allow the bass time to come to the bait.

The hopping frogs have a pointed nose that is more subtle and can be fished faster. By twitching the rod tip, you can make it move faster to generate a more explosive bite. This works well when the bass are more aggressive. The bait can be worked quickly and efficiently to cover more water. My favorite hopping frog is a Strike King KVD Sexy Frog in tiger color. You can cast it a long way, and the quality Gamakatsu hook in this frog is second to none.

Give frogging a try this summer. Remember to be patient. The explosive strikes are well worth the wait.

For an awesome frogging adventure on Lake Seminole, call Paul at 850-264-7534 or email paultyrefishing@yahoo.com. He is based at Wingate’s Lunker Lodge. They have cabins, rooms and campsites on Lake Seminole.

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NORTH CAROLINA

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By Jimmy Harris

s you know, in an effort to control budgetary expenses, the decision was made to eliminate spring this year and go directly from winter to summer. Many of us would argue that of all the seasons we would like to do away with, spring is not high on the list. But, hey, these things are all run by a bureaucracy, and there’s not much we can do but go with the flow.

Spring this year sneaked in under cover of darkness in early May and by May 13, it was gone. Just like that. BAM! It’s summer.

I personally did not get in enough springtime trout fishing (aka dry fly fishing) this year due to this ill-advised move, so I’m still hankering for more. If you see me over the next few weeks, I’ll likely to be throwing poppers to shoal bass. If you don’t see me, it’s likely because I’m bushwhacking to some small high altitude trout stream with a short 3-wt. fly rod and a pocketful of dry flies. My closest fishing buddies will attest to my addiction for these streams and the little trout that inhabit them.

You don’t need to be an FFI certified casting instructor to fish these little gems. Shoot, you don’t even need to know how to make a backcast. A little water haul as the current pulls your line downstream or a roll cast all of 12 feet will do you on almost all of these mountain creeks.

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Beyond requiring few casting skills, you also don’t have to worry about matching the hatch. There’s so little food in our freestone mountain streams that, as I’ve always proclaimed, the trout have to bite first and ask questions later. Just fish a dry fly you can see in the deep woods, probably a size 14 or 16 Trude, Parachute Adams or Elk Hair Caddis. If you can get in casting position without spooking the pool, you’re almost certain to get a strike if there’s a fish in there.

So consider this: You’re surrounded by Mother Nature’s finest (mountains, clean, cold water and beautiful little trout with magnificent colors), and you are likely to have the stream to yourself. I’ve looked, but I can’t find anything wrong with this logic.

Have a great summer and take a kid fishing!

Jimmy Harris owns Unicoi Outfitters. Check them out at www. unicoioutfitters.com.

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BLUE RIDGE

H Book the Fishing Trip of a Lifetime in the Beautiful Mountains of North Georgia and Western North Carolina with the Area’s Top Rated Guide Service. Fish with the Pros and Get Featured in The Angler Magazine

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inton Center is a Christian retreat and conference center where guests can come to retreat, reflect and renew. Nestled on Lake Chatuge, and just a short drive to the Hiwassee River and Fires Creek, the campus is a particularly attractive destination for those who wish to enjoy the outdoors experiences that western North Carolina and northeast Georgia have to offer.

They provide day meeting spaces as well as overnight accommodations for groups up to 200 and individuals alike. They are a Methodist organization, welcoming to interfaith and non-faith based groups who uphold and honor the values of our organization.

The retreat center includes multiple conference rooms, a serene setting for reunions, weddings and receptions, a lakeside pavilion, World Crafts & Gift Shop, dining rooms, trails, complimentary wi-fi service, boat/swim dock, indoor and outdoor chapels, a labyrinth and memory garden, and a rocking chair porch overlooking Lake Chatuge. Guests also have access to a variety of equipment rentals, including paddleboat, canoe, kayaks and mountains bikes.

The Hinton Center is located just minutes from multiple golf courses, mountain bike trails and the Appalachian Trail, and 45 minutes away from whitewater rafting services.

Perhaps the best thing about staying at Hinton Center is your opportunity to pay it forward. Many guests also come to make a difference in this rural community by participating in mission outreach, making homes warmer, drier and safer for neighbors in need. The revenue generated through Hinton Center accommodations helps to fund home repairs, awareness of issues related to poverty, and programming that focuses on building healthy and effective communities of faith.

Take time to experience for yourself the Christian hospitality at Hinton Center. You can participate in a community of giving by staying at Hinton and spreading the word about our mission and vision.

For more information, go to www.hintoncenter.org.

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JUNE 2018 l WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA

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LAKE HIWASSEE

June Stripers on Lake Hiwassee

S

By Shane Goebel

ummer is finally here. The weather is beautiful, the water is warmer, and the fish are going crazy—it’s the perfect time to hit the lake and catch some amazing fish! What’s the best way to do that?

By booking a trip with Murphy, NC’s #1 striper guide: Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service.

Lake Hiwassee is unbelievable for summer striper fishing. There’s nothing like starting your day off with the birds chirping, morning fog lifting, and an explosion of stripers slamming all your rods. It’s a feeding frenzy of schooled-up stripers and mass chaos of loading the boat with tons of fish. It’s not uncommon for us to boat 30-50 fish per trip out here on this serene Western North Carolina lake.

Currently, Lake Hiwassee is 2 feet below full pool. Water clarity is clear from the main lake to the rivers and creeks, and water temps are in the mid to upper 70s.

Striper fishing remains excellent. We have been catching big fish in good quantities. Just days before writing this, we caught a monster 35 pound striper out here. The early-morning and late evening bites are your best times to see action. In the early-morning hours, there are days we are still pulling planer boards and free lines with live blueback herring and there are days it’s been all downlines. As the sun comes up in the later morning hours, we definitely start to focus on deeper water and switch to all downlines. Target creek mouths We Run Trips 365 Days A Year.

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and rocky points. As the top-water bite has also been excellent, keep a spook or a Red Fin at the ready to snag those surface-busting fish.

Remember to keep an eye on your electronics and watch for schools of these fish. Also, please remember to get these fish back into the water ASAP and keep them swimming. This will be an amazing trophy lake if we follow good catch and release practices.

Smallmouth and spotted bass fishing has been outstanding, too.

These fish are finally off the beds and are schooled up. We’ve been wearing out some nice smallmouths and spots every trip lately. Work everything you need for a success- featured in Angler Magazine—let us shallow humps, creek mouths, and ful day of fishing. So, come fish with help you get your fish on! clay banks. Also, target brush piles the pros for the opportunity to be throughout the lake. Downlining blueback herring has worked best for Shane Goebel is the Owner of Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service and us, but we are also picking up some a member of The Angler Fishing Team. Contact him at www. quality fish on jerkbaits, flukes, and bigolfish.com or (828) 361-2021 / 1-(844)-4-ANGLER. spooks. Look for these bass to continue to school through the rest of next month.

June is a fantastic month for catching a lot of stripers on this lake.

Give Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service a call and let the area’s #1 striper guide service put you on some of Lake Hiwassee’s best trophy fish during the fishing trip of a lifetime. We are Murphy, NC’s only full-time guide service, specializing in striped and The beauty and solitude of the Great Smoky Mountains make hybrid bass. We also serve Lakes this new KOA an ideal spot to settle in and relax for a while.

Nottely, Chatuge and Blue Ridge.

Your riverfront, award winning KOA Campground in the Western NC And for all your live bait and tackMountains. Deluxe Cabins, Full hook up RV sites, and tent camping. le needs, check out Hughes General At the campground, guests can wade into the water to cast their lines Store in Blairsville, GA. They carry for trout in the stocked river or relax in the lounge with friends.

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Welcome to our mountains!

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LAKE CHATUGE

June—Lake Chatuge Hybrids

F

or us, the most exciting trips of the year begin in June. Summer fishing on Lake Chatuge, which borders Western North Carolina and North Georgia, really gets fired up. With warmer water temps, the hybrids and bass really school up, which means we are able to load the boat with 30 to 50 hybrids a morning. Check out or pics we included from last year’s photo shoot with The Angler Magazine.

Words cannot explain how many hybrids we caught and it was definitely a day to remember.

Currently, Lake Chatuge is at full pool. Water temps are in the high 70s, and water clarity is clear throughout the lake.

Hybrid fishing is great as the fish are schooling in large numbers, and we are catching some big quantities. Most of our hybrids are averaging 8-12 pounds.

These are some of Lake Chatuge’s hardest-fighting fish, and we’re having a blast wearing them out. The early morning bite has been prime. Look for schools of fish off shallow humps along the main channel, clay banks, and off points. Down-lining live blueback herring has been the best technique. Search out your areas and watch your electronics.

When you mark fish, drop your lines. Fish will be slightly shallower in the early morning hours and will move to deeper water by mid-morning. Top-water bite remains very good as well. When these fish start busting on bait, it’s

By Darren Hughes

always a good idea to have a plug, spook, or red fin at the ready.

Spotted bass fishing remains excellent, too. We are still catching some huge spots throughout the day, and it’s not uncommon to put 30-40 of these feisty fish in the boat in one trip. Early morning top-water bite has been strong. Top-water plugs, spooks, and jerk baits have worked well.

Our downline bite has also been very productive, especially in the mid-morning hours. Look for fish to be schooled up on shallow clay banks, humps, and off points.

In terms of location, the upper end of the lake has been producing slightly better numbers than the lower end.

June fishing on Lake Chatuge is always exciting. Remember, live bait on this lake can be the difference between a successful day of fishing and a horrid one. For all of your bait and tackle needs, come visit us at Hughes General Store in Blairsville, GA--it’s the best place around for quality live blueback herring. We also carry ethanol-free gas and have some of the best hot, made-from-scratch biscuits in North GA. For guided fishing trips on Lakes Chatuge, Apalachia, Hiwassee, or Nottely, or questions about the bait shop, call me, Darren Hughes, at Hughes General Store. And whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, give Chatuge a shot for some of the best spotted bass and hybrids in the area.

Good luck, and get hooked!

Darren Hughes is the Owner of Hughes General Store & Bait Shop and a member of The Angler Magazine Fishing Team and Guide for Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service. Look him up at www.bigolfish.com or give him a call, (706) 745-6569 or (828) 361-2021.

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JUNE 2018

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 5

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Fly Fishing – Not Just for Trout

F

ly fishing has become one of the most popular outdoor activities in America. The problem is that too many believe you can only fly fish for trout. This is a very common misconception, especially in Western North Carolina.

Western North Carolina has many, many fishing opportunities. Lakes, rivers, creeks, and springs flow from tops of mountains to the lowest valleys. Our lakes are some of the deepest, allowing some northern species of fish to survive in them. Certain rivers in the area, especially those running into a lake, support warm water species along with coldwater species. If I get bored with trout, I will fish one of these rivers. It’s almost like the smorgasbord of fishing. I have caught blue gill and trout in the same hole before.

Panfish are abundant in Western North Carolina. They are found in lakes, ponds, and certain rivers. Blue gill and Shell Crackers are the panfish that grow the biggest in the area. I have found that a bigger wooly bugger, that is weighted, works extremely well for panfish. I throw a size 4 to size 8, to avoid the smaller fish. Poppers can be extremely fun, but if you are looking for bigger fish, drop be-

By Justin Mickens

low the surface with a bigger fly.

Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and, unfortunately, spotted bass are found in the area. I have caught many bass on a wooly bugger while fishing for panfish. If I’m targeting bass, I will usually go with a baitfish pattern. I’ve had more luck on smaller flies then bigger ones, when fishing for bass. My “go to” is a size 4, but I have been known to throw size 8 flies.

Carp, and the lesser known redhorse, are really fun species to target. Everybody has their favorite carp fly and swears how well it works. Personally, a pink san juan worm has done well for me. Carp can be extremely picky, and more finicky than a bonefish.

Redhorse are sucker fish that used to migrate from the Mississippi River into tributaries before TVA built the dams. The Cherokee would build fish weirs and catch the redhorse as they would migrate to spawn. I sight fish for redhorse with a bright colored fly. I cast upstream and drift directly in front of them. I wait for my fly to disappear and set the hook. You have to pay close attention or they will spit it before you can react.

These are just a couple of species we have available in the

area. If you are looking for a variety of fish, or even a tug on the end of your line, be sure to look beyond the trout stream. As our waters warm up in the summer time, warm water fishing is just

getting started. As always, check with your local shop for what species are available to catch in your area. Until next time, tight lines and stable rocks!

Justin Mickens is Co-Owner and Manager of Appalachian Outfitters Fly Shop in Murphy, NC.

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JUNE 2018

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 7

MURPHY AREA LAKES

June Fishing Forecast for Murphy Area Lakes

By Aaron Kephart

M

ay has been a bit different than usual this year, primarily because our water temperatures were well below traditional averages (I haven’t seen water temps this low in May on Hiwassee in a number of years). However, that doesn’t mean the fishing has been slow; in fact, May has been an absolutely fabulous month on our Murphy area lakes, and we have caught some big numbers of trophy fish. What it does mean is that the traditional patterns and locations are a couple of weeks behind, and that trend will probably continue into June. With that in mind, here is a quick rundown as to what to expect on Hiwassee, Apalachia, and Chatuge this month.

We have been on a phenomenal striper bite, with most fish coming on live herring, some on big gizzard shad, and a few starting to come on topwater. The key has been to use the absolute biggest herring you can possibly find. We have caught a bunch on the typical live bait rigs (free lines, weighted free lines, down lines, planer boards, etc.), but a huge part of our success has been on unweighted spinning rods, pitching baits to precise locations without a weight. Light tackle is a super fun way to catch these hard fighting fish, and it is something I try to specialize in;

however, keep in mind that you only get a few pitches out of each bait, so make sure you have plenty. We have also been catching some enormous hybrids at times.

June is typically one of the best months of the year for numbers of stripers on this lake, and with the cooler water temps I only anticipate the bite to be even better than usual. Another thing that has been interesting about our stripers this month is the sheer numbers we are catching in the evenings. Mornings are typically always better on blueback herring lakes, but our evening trips have been phenomenal lately (often better than the morning trips), and the only thing I can attribute it to is the fact that we have had a much weaker than usual morning herring spawn so far this spring.

As a side note, I am currently participating in data and DNA collection for our wildlife resource people in order to look at the origins and, I assume, overall health of our striper population in Hiwassee. This process requires a fin sample for DNA tests and also some really quick paperwork regarding fish length, weight, and other general information. If you wish not to participate in this study while you are on a guide trip with me I understand, but I would appreciate any cooperation in regard to gather-

ing this information.

The smallmouth, largemouth, and spotted bass have also been doing their thing. We are seeing a mix of prespawn, spawn, and postspawn fish, due primarily to our crazy weather.

However, we have run into some big ones. The anticipated, and advertised, closure of the Apalachia ramp did not come to fruition due to other needs downstream on the Tennessee River chain, so if you are interested in a trip there we should be good to go. As far as other species, the crappie are finishing up their spawn, and by the time you read this the night bite for them will be in full swing.

By the way, a night fishing crappie trip is always a blast, so if you are interested in some tasty filets consider one of these trips. The walleye are a bit behind due to the water temps, and although we are running into some we aren’t yet catching our typical big May

numbers. I anticipate early June having a better than usual bite for them this year because of water levels and temperatures.

To sum it up, June is shaping up to be a month where we can probably catch whatever you are after. It is looking like an almost perfect storm of delayed warmup and emerging early summer patterns, and I am very much looking forward to it. Whether you are looking for a cooler full of crappie, big stripers, some tasty walleye, or some catch and release smallmouth or largemouth, June should have it all, and I hope to hear from you. Have a great day!

Aaron Kephart is the Owner of Mountain Lakes Guide Service. To book a guided trip on one of the Murphy area mountain lakes, contact him by phone at 865-466-1345 or by email at mtnlakesguide@outlook.com Check out his website at http://www.mtnlakesguideservice.com and catch him on facebook@mountainlakesguideservice

Murphy North Carolina’s

premier trophy smallmouth and spotted bass guide service

SMSS has all the essentials for hunting, target shooting, home defense, reloading and more Call for date & time of monthly concealed carry class.

53 Peachtree St, Murphy, NC • 828-837-7677 Beside the Courthouse

www.smokymountainshooters.com www.facebook.com/smokymtnshooter

8 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA

JUNE 2018

Mountain Lakes Guide Service

Hiwassee - Apalachia - Chatuge Aaron Kephart 865-466-1345 mtnlakesguide@outlook.com

Crappie, Trophy Trout, Stripers, and more available

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ROBBINSVILLE / GSMNP / GATLINBURG

CFC – Making A Difference

A

s another spring has came and summer is upon us, many people are out and about camping. Today I’m going to tell you about my favorite camping trip! This year marks the 9th annual CFC trip for Robbinsville High School & Middle School young men. You probably are wondering, what is CFC? Camping for Christ!

Here’s a thought. Who taught you how to fish? Can you recall the blessed memories of someone investing sweet time and unforgettable moments teaching you how to cast your line and where to throw? We all share that memory in some way and, hopefully, you’re passing it down to someone else now!

Nine years ago, it was decided that part of becoming a man is the fact that you need time and investment from other men.

By James (“Josh”) Lane

Rance Shuler, a schoolteacher, noticed that a lot of boys had plans that they were looking forward to during spring break, but what about the boys with no dad’s, no grandpas, no men eager to spend time with them while they were out of school? We decided to offer young men that opportunity! We call it CFC, camping for Christ!

We invite young man to go on a four-day rugged, adventurous camping trip. Over the past few years it has grown, and I’ve been privileged to be part of CFC the past three springs, and I will say, I look forward to it each year!

We see a lot of returning familiar faces, with many new guys each spring. For some of the “campers”, this may be the first time they have ever been hiking, or camping. Others may come from outdoor enthusiast type families, and some young men, may come

from broken homes, without a positive male figure in there lives at all. Every walk of life is different, but the focus is the same: The love of the outdoors, making new friends, serving others, and living

a Godly life. We hope the guys can go home with a new focus on life“Am I on the right path I need to be on?” We are there for them, a support system. Often these relationships made, carry on through

CONTINUED, CFC – MAKING A DIFFERENCE, PAGE 15

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JUNE 2018

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 9

Outsmarting A Walleye

S

chools out, kids are on the water, and the summer is upon us. This is the start of trolling season, bait has spawned and is suspending offshore, bass are finished with their spawn, so they are ready to beef up. What few walleye left are spying under the bait pods and white bass are doing their best to feed themselves to the point of throwing up all over your boat. Meshing with this season, I had a call from a captain that had guided for 30 years on the Great Lakes, specifically for walleye. It was a really cool rundown of the progression that walleye fishing had made during his time working. When he started, he said the lakes, Erie particularly, was a mess. There was no more than a

By Capt. James McManus

couple of feet of clarity and you could troll as many lines as you had room for and catch fish on them all. As the years rolled on, and changes were made to local manufacturing rules, and environmental issues were addressed, the water cleared to the point where there was an average depth of visibility approaching 35 to 40 feet. When he quit charter fishing a couple of years back, his tactics had changed entirely from when he first started guiding. I told him our fishery had also changed, and not for the better, for the most part.

He told me, as their conditions changed, they had to do a lot of adjusting; things that you might not think about that affect your ability to catch those tasty, toothy creatures.

First, he said they had to cut down on the number of lines trolled.

Originally, with his larger cruiser type boats, they ran 4 or even 6 downriggers and ran stackers on some, giving him anywhere from 6 to 10 trolled baits on a typical setup. When he quit, he said the number of downriggers used had dropped to a single unit. This one, he told me, even had to be used with 200 lb power pro braid to

keep the singing line noise down.

Their dropbacks had increased from only a couple of feet to 50+ feet and even then they went with a flicker shad type billed bait to take the bait below where the ball would run. The ball itself had to be a fish shape, painted like a local fish to further hide from roving sharp-eyed walleye. He insisted that without these changes, you couldn’t buy a bite from these now finicky fish.

I don’t know if our fish are quite the same, but I do know there were many times in the last couple of years that I marked what I was fairly certain were eyes, trolled right through them, and never got a strike. I typically only run a couple of downriggers and at times, you will catch fish on whatever you present, but seems like lately they have been less likely to strike a trolled bait than was usual in the past. Part of it, I’m sure, is that there are a lot of very good trolling fishermen at Fontana.

There is the potential of taking a goodly number of fish out almost every day of the year, and especially this time of the year. Less fish in the lake, I am sure, is a big factor, but it doesn’t explain why the remaining fish won’t hit. A friend who was a guide at Glenville years ago was asked by a client,” So your goal is to catch every last walleye out of the lake?”-and that is not my goal, but I would like to catch a few now and then. With continued stocking, I hope the numbers will rebound, but you can bet there will be days that I run just one rigger, drop back extra far and get me a few sporty colored flicker shads to see if catch rates improve.

Power pro braid is already on my wheels and the paint is drying as we speak on my directional, now spotted bass colored downrigger weights. Only time will tell if all this makes a difference or if it’s just the tinkering of an old fool.

Later, Capt. James

Capt. James McManus is the Owner of 153 Charters. Give him a call for a great day of boat fishing!

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SWAIN COUNTY / BRYSON CITY

Floating High

I

By Ronnie Parris

f you love to fly fish, and especially dry fly fish, this is your time. The waters in our Great Smoky Mountains are some of the richest and most valued jewels around. The temps are up and the top water bite is on. I’m located in Bryson city and in any direction I turn, I can be in a great fly fishing stream in 20 minutes or less. Be sure when you go out, to check what the regulations are for each individual stream, as the creel limit, size limit, and types of bait allowed, are different when fishing park game lands, streams, or hatchery supported streams. If you can’t find out what you need to know, you can call me and I would be glad to help in any way I can. The water is warming up now so I like to put on a pair of shorts and wet wade with only felt soled boots, but you may be more comfortable in waders.

Be sure to wear natural colors of clothing and you will get double the amount of strikes. A lot of the fishing shirts that companies put out today are colors that catch our eye, but also, they will catch a native trout’s eye and spook him.

Although a nymph will work fine if you want to have some fun, get you a 3wt 7ft fly rod and hit the hard to reach streams, as they are not pressured as much and the bite will be much better. Don’t look for monster trout; your average will be from 5 to 8 inches with the occa-

sional 15 plus, inch fish that will make you wonder if that little 3wt is gonna break. Last trip, I had a client catch such a fish, I won’t name the creek we were on, but we were around 2 miles from the parking area. The morning had been good and my clients had caught several brook and rainbows, in the 5 to 8 inch range. We were close to the end of the trip when the fish hit.

We had just fished a really nice pool and to our surprise, didn’t even get a hit, which was odd since we were getting strikes in almost every decent sized pool. The very next pool wasn’t much, maybe a 4 ft pothole with a rock on the side, with a bit of an overhang. As my client flipped the size 14 Parachute Adams in, the fly was washed almost under the overhang. This was the point where we figured out why the nice pool below didn’t have any small trout in it- because the rainbow that took our fly probably had eaten them. As the fish took the fly and my client set the hook, I instantly regretted taking my landing net off my vest that morning so it wouldn’t interfere with the backpack I was carrying. The trout was a great fighter, ending up back down in the big pool below, and after 2 jumps, we were able to work him back over to a little sandbar where we could get him in our hands for a couple of pictures before releasing him to fight another day. In my opinion, there’s noth-

ing more exciting than seeing a nice trout take your dry off the surface. One thing I would like to ask is, if you do go back and fish these streams is to please don’t litter. There’s nothing that looks worse than being in one of these pristine streams and seeing where someone has thrown down their drink bottle or candy bar wrapper. If you would like to book a trip to fish any of our backcountry streams give me a call

at 828-488-9711 and I would be glad to book a trip for you.

Ronnie Parris is the Owner and Head Guide of Smoky Mountain Outdoors Unlimited-Fontana Lake Fishing Guides, headquartered in Bryson City, North Carolina, heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. (www. smokymountainoutdoorsunlimited.com)

Fontana Lake Fishing Guides – Ronnie Parris, Owner & Head Guide LAKE, CREEK & RIVER FISHING • FLY FISHING • CAMPING We offer both full and half day trips with the most competitive rates available. All tackle and supplies you will need while you are on your trip is covered by our listed price.

1012 East Alarka Road, Bryson City, NC • 828-488-9711, Cell: 828-736-9471

smokymountainoutdoorsunlimited.com

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JUNE 2018

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 11

COUNTING FISH

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recently went on a fishing trip with four friends. At the end of the day, we were deciding were to eat dinner. While we were thinking about were to go, one friend said, “I got about 8 or 10”. Another friend said, “I got close to 15”. I chimed in and asked, “Why do you guys count your fish?” I want to share some of their answers.

Gary: Well, I sort of count. I try

By Eddie Hudon

to measure how good the day was.

Mike: I usually start to count, but then I loose count, or forget. Especially, when I get to double digits.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter if I’m satisfied.

James: I don’t count. I don’t care; however, I know if it’s less than 5.

I’m more concerned about catching.

It’s a challenge to find out what fly is working.

Austin: Well, I do fishing competitions. So, I’m used to counting, not only how many, but sometimes how long, too. Also, if I catch 20 one day, I want to beat that number and try to increase my catch rate.

I fished a father and son combo in March this year. As soon as the father caught the first fish, he yelled out to his son, “One to nothing.” As I continue to guide, I realize that counting will always be a part of the day. I came up with a fun way to count fish, and be ACCURATE at the same time. I use baseball players by identifying their uniform number with their names. Here are some examples: My clients get a kick out of it. FIRST fish caught is Billy Martin. SECOND fish is Derrick Jeter.

THIRD is Babe Ruth. FOURTH is Lou Gehrig. Here are the rest: 5.

6.

7.

8.

Joe Dimaggio Stan Musial Mickey Mantle Yogi Berra

9. Ted Williams 10. Phil Rizzuto 11. Luis Aparicio 12. Gil McDougal 13. Dan Marino (ha) 14. Gil Hodges 15. Thurman Munson 16. Whitey Ford 17. Carl Eskine 18. Ted Kluszewski 19. Jr. Gilliam 20. Don Sutton 21. Roberto Clemente 22. Johnny Podres 23. Micheal Jordan (ha) 24. Willie Mays Here’s Billy, Derrick, Babe and Lou

Eddie Hudon is the Owner of Blue Chip Fly Fishing headquartered in Whittier, NC.

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Swainglers Show Off Their Skills

W

ow, what a great day for Swain High School Fishing Club! We accomplished our inaugural all-day fishing tournament. Swainglers, along with a few Leader In Me Group students, competed against each other for bragging rights. The day began at school with students checking in at school and loading the bus. We made a pit stop at Great Smokey Mountain Bait & Tackle to load up on last minute fishing necessities. After a short drive to the lake for check in, anglers swarmed the banks or met their parents and departed to fish Fontana from a boat. The tournament was open to all lake fish species. A variety of live bait and tackle invaded the waters.

By lunchtime, several fish had already been caught from the shore, including smallmouth and spotted bass. Reports of a slow start were rolling in from the boats, but the bite was picking up quickly. It was weigh-in time before I knew it. Countless fish were brought in, over twenty pounds! First place, which included assorted bass, walleye, and crappie, were caught from a boat by anglers Payton Ball and JT Neugin. Second place was awarded to a group of students that pooled their fish

By Tammy Parris

together, Ben Franklin, Jamie Edwards, Tanner Howell and Emory Shuler. Brooke Shropshire won third place. I have to brag on Brooke, our club president. She was the only girl that fished and she fished solo from the banks. Brooke didn’t have the advantage of being on a boat or combining her fish with a group. The solo female angler fished the entire time and she fished “hard”. Brooke is a rising senior, Secretary of the FFA and an original member of the Swainglers. She didn’t receive the first place prize, but she earned the respect, admiration and, of course, a little jealously from her male peers. The biggest fish prize went to freshman, JT Neugin.

I decided to award gift cards instead of fishing tackle to the winners. Eighty dollars was shared between the two-member team for first place, Fifty dollars was split for second place between four anglers.

Third place was twenty dollars awarded to a single angler. Biggest fish prize was twenty-five dollars. Gift cards were from the best bait store in the south…

Great Smokey Mountain Bait & Tackle, also know as Jacks.

Store owners, Jack and Joanne Parton, have always supported The Swainglers and we appre-

ciate that so much! A special “shout out” to Swain County High School’s new principal, Sonya Blankenship, for allowing the all-day tournament that has been my goal from the beginning. School and community support mean so much to the Swaingler students, myself and co-sponsors. I’m super proud of “my kids” and look forward to many more fishing trips!

Brooke Shropshire, one of the tournament winners, is pictured with one of her fish, a spotted bass.

Tammy Parris is the Leader of The Swainglers fishing club at Swain County High School in Bryson City, North Carolina. They fish once a month of the school year during club time. Contact her at tparris@ swainmail.org for more information or to support this popular club.

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WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 13

Oconaluftee River GSMNP North Carolina

By James Marsh

T

he Oconaluftee River is one of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s better trout streams. This stream has easy access for most of its length and an excellent aquatic insect population for a Smoky Mountain freestone stream. The Oconaluftee River is made up from several streams. The stream is formed by the confluence of Beech Flats Prong and Kephart Prong. It is a small stream at this point. Kanati Branch is a small tributary of Beech Flats Prong.

It has a large tributary stream, Bradley Fork, which is, within itself, a fine trout stream that offers several miles of fishing. It is easily accessed near its confluence with the Oconaluftee River at the Smokemont campground. The Bradley Fork is about as large as the Oconaluftee at this point. It becomes smaller upstream of the

campground but is still a good size stream. It has an excellent population of both brown and rainbow trout with brook trout in its upper waters. Chasteen Creek is a relatively good sized tributary of Bradley Fork. Taywa is another small tributary of Bradley Fork.

Chasm Prong and Gulf Prong form the Brandley Fork.

Collins Creek is yet another small tributary of the Oconaluftee River. Below the confluence of Bradley Fork, the river is quite large in comparison to other streams in the park. It flows out of the park’s boundaries and through Cherokee, North Carolina where it is stocked by the City.

Spring:

Seasons:

Winter:

Spring is probably the best time to fish the Oconaluftee River.

It provides the most aquatic insect hatches.

Summer: All but the very lowest part of the river stays cool enough to provide good fishing on the hottest days of summer.

Fall: Fall is a great time to fish the river. Some would argue that it is even better than the spring. It is certainly the most beautiful time of year.

The fishing season in Great The Oconaluftee provides good Smoky Mountains National Park trout fishing on all but the very coldest days of winter. is year-round.

Fly Fishing Guide to Oconaluftee River: This stream has an excellent canopy of trees throughout its length that provides cover from the sun during the summer and helps keep the water cool but also makes it difficult to cast in many places.

The Oconaluftee River is one of the tougher streams to fish in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for several reasons. It is tightly enclosed as we just mentioned and that makes casting a problem.

You rarely have a clear area for a back cast. You must use all types of creative casts. Below the confluence of Bradley Fork, the river is almost double what it is above the Bradley Fork. Casting isn’t so much of a problem there. The lower part is bordered by open sage grass fields in some areas. This provides some great hopper fishing in the late summer and early fall. There’s lots of cover and a very irregular bottom.

Above the Bradley Fork, the Oconaluftee River isn’t that large of a stream and is very tightly enclosed with tree limbs. It is the typical pool, run and riffle type freestone stream with a medium gradient that is not too steep, yet steep enough to keep a good flow of water. It has an abundant amount of cover. Huge boulders form large pockets. There are deep holes and shallow, short sections of riffles. Some runs are long and deep. There are a lot of places for the brown trout to hide. Undercut banks are plentiful in most areas.

Tree roots provide additional cover for the trout but also make it difficult to fish a nymph.

The Oconaluftee River has some excellent hatches and seems to have more insects than most other streams in the park with the exception of Abrams Creek. Some hatches are huge. When there is a hatch underway, you are far better off using an imitation of the insect hatching than generic or attractor flies. Following closely with a hatch chart will provide a big advantage fishing this river.

Short upstream casts are normal as it is with most other park streams. There are several places where “high stickin” a nymph will pay well. This river has a very good population of brown trout and some of them are very big.

Streamers work well under low light conditions. They also work when the water is slightly stained from heavy rains. I should also mention the brook trout fishing in its many tributary streams is very good. It requires very small stream tactics. The Bradley Fork could very well be treated as an entire stream within itself. It too, has a good population of both brown and rainbow trout and is one of the best streams in the park.

James Marsh is the Owner of The Perfect Fly online and catalog mailorder store. www.perfectflystore.com.

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CFC – MAKING A DIFFERENCE high school, college and young adulthood.

We typically have 18-25 campers and generally, 8 leaders. Leaders consist of 2-3 pastors, youth pastors, fellowship of Christian athletes directors, and just upright men in the community. How we decide where we are going camping is planned out a year in advance. Prior to the trip, the campers have to attend three meetings; two of which are overnighters. It’s all part of the training and relationship building! Our goal is to pour our lives into these young man, teach them about the outdoors, how to prepare wisely for a trip, and study the word of God while discussing Jesus’ love and how He invites us to live life his way! The minimum age is 12, and the reason for that is, we hope to get groups of men for six years in a row! So, by the time they get their license, they are well equipped on how to plan a quality trip in God’s mountains, and spend adequate time in His Word seeking His will for their lives! Each year we pray

continued from page 9

these men know they are loved, and have seen a godly model, and have an opportunity throughout the rest of the year to continue the investment, to continue the training on how to fish! We also have a game at each meeting, and the guys always enjoy that. Hiking gear is always a topic, we help the guys learn how to use their stoves and setup hammocks and tents.

This is a great relationship building time.

Safety is a top priority on the trip. Each camper is required to fill out a medical form prior to the trip. We also have a couple leaders skilled in first aid, and wilderness survival. Being prepared for an accident is critical on a backcountry camping trip.

This is a hiking trip, and the terrain is often rugged, so staying hydrated, and eating well is crucial. Leaders plan out each day’s meals. We break into usually 4 to 5 groups and cook together. After a day of hiking to a high elevation peak, or fishing, or swimming, you’re ready to eat supper.

Some of the past trips have included some beautiful country, such as Slickrock Wilderness, Snowbird Backcountry, and this past spring, we went to Sams Knob area of the Blue Ridge Parkway! We feel, as leaders, we want to take advantage of our area, the mountains, trails, peaks, and trout fishing some of the southeast’s best waters. In a day and age where technology, cell phones, and video games keep youth from being outdoors, It’s a blessing to live in WNC. We want to use what is already here. We usually camp in one spot the whole time but: One of the most challenging CFC’s was in April-2017. We did a three location hike; setting up camp, and tearing down after breakfast the next morning. We wanted to help the guys with scheduling, creating a plan, and learning to perform with a schedule.

Day One: We left Wolf Laurel parking lot with snow on the ground. We stopped for camp at Saddle Tree Gap, adjacent to the

almost 6000 ft elevation Hangover. We had 8 to 10 inches of snow with temperatures in the teens- this was challenging!

Day Two: We dropped in elevation to Slickrock Creek and set up camp again! The temperature was twenty degrees warmer.

Day Three: We went down to the creek, and set up again, just past Wildcat Falls. We all swam in the creek this day.

In four days, on this particular trip, we saw all seasons. It was amazing, with 24 miles hiked.

This is just one trip of many over the past nine years. We take pride in this camping trip, and love to share the experience with others, it is truly a joy, and we wish to see others in surrounding communities, who would desire to use our beautiful natural resources to encourage young men to be leaders in life and positive young men in their communities. For more information send us an email joshlane76@icloud.com or Rance@ etmnc.org

Josh Lane is a native of Western North Carolina in the town of Robbinsville. He is a long time avid fisherman and enjoys hiking, backpacking, writing and singing gospel music.

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JUNE 2018

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 15

East Tennessee Fishing Roundup

By Chad Fouts

Smallmouth

Fishing the National Park right now is spectacular. The weather has been – strange to say the least.

We are still catching way more fish

on nymphs than dry flies. The water level is actually on the low side compared to the amount of rain it says we were supposed to have.

This means you absolutely need to be as stealthy as possible when you’re walking up to your holes.

The pheasant tail and sexy waltz worm having been producing fish, also the pink weenie and the prince nymph have been successful. For those of you who are interested in dry fly, fishing yellow and olive patterns should be your color choices! Try using any type of yellow sally pattern or never-sink caddis, large olive stimulator with a dropper underneath. If you are going to run a dry dropper, separate the nymph and dry between 16 and 20 inches. Occonoluftee has been fishing really well and producing some very nice size fish from the park boundry up. West

16 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA

JUNE 2018

The smallmouth fishing is on fire!!! Sevierville is the place to be from The Apple barn down to Knife Works. The mornings and afternoons will be the best time to fish. During the first part of the day a Murdich Minnow and any type of shad pattern will work on an intermediate sink tip. At dark, a mouse pattern or popper will work very effectively. Size wise we are seeing fish between 16-20 inches. So come on down and chase some bronze-back!

Great Smoky Mountain National Park – Tennessee Side

prong of the Little Pigeon river has been producing great numbers both on nymphs and dries.

For the Brookie fans, Road Prong and Sam’s Creek are prime!!

Eggs and Gulp, work as well. Once school gets out, bring the kids (12 and under) to Herbert Holt Park or Mynatt Park to catch their own Rainbow Trout!

Gatlinburg –

State Stocked Water

Gatlinburg stocked waters are fishing well as always. Its hard not to when it is stocked every Thursday! There are still some big ones in there from the trout tournament that happened a couple months back. Whether you are new to fishing or an expert you will definitely catch fish. Bright fly patterns are still what work best – Mop Flies and worm patterns are always a go to. If you prefer spin fishing, however, using live bait is just as efficient to catch these fish.

Anything scented like Salmon

The state stocking program is in full force with the lower little river and the middle prong of the Little Pigeon and west prong of the Little Pigeon being stocked every two weeks. It gives us an opportunity to be on so much water in a short amount of time.

If you have any questions about fishing in this area give us a call (865)436-8746 No matter where you’re fishing or what style you prefer, just get out and fish! It’s beautiful weather and a beautiful area!

Chad Fouts is the Fly Shop Manager at Smoky Mountain Anglers in Gatlinburg. He is a self described Fly Fishing Junkie.

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RIVER REFLECTIONS

The Twisted Canoe

I

had to put the old lady down this week. She had given me lots of miles, adventures and memories. I figured this month’s column would be my obituary to her. She was never given a name, but let me tell you a little bit about her.

The first boat that I bought was back in the mid-80’s. It was an 18-foot, wide bottom, green Coleman Guide Canoe. She was sturdy, light, and could carry four of us in her comfortably. I was even able to stand up and fish in the canoe if there wasn’t too much wind.

Me and that canoe had a lot of scares along the way too. I even went over a small waterfall in it one foggy morning. (I swear, that was the quietest waterfall I’ve ever encountered.) I remember one trip where me and a friend created a rope pulley system on an overhanging limb to lower the canoe down a cliff face, by yet another waterfall. She was a sturdy companion on long wilderness expeditions for me and my friends. On those trips, she often served as the freight boat, carrying all of our collective gear. When we would find a lonely island to camp on for days on end, weeks even. She was the boat that got loaded down with dead wood from surrounding mainland forests. She once got jammed sideways in some rapids, between large, jagged rocks. Still, she trucked on like an old soldier. Looking back, I really

By Matt Mittan

don’t know how that canoe, or me and my friends, made it through my teen years intact.

As I reached adulthood and moved away, that big old boat was always at home, resting under my parents back porch, waiting for my return. And despite all the carved out scars and scrapes on her underside, she could always be relied upon for a safe and fun filled day on the water.

All that changed a few years ago when I made a trip back home and went to retrieve my canoe from under the porch. What I found was a mangled and twisted wreck of a canoe. The aluminum bar spines were bent, split and deformed. The seats were cracked and broken. The upper aluminum frame rim was gashed, warped and scraped all over.

Needless to say, I was in shock.

How....? Why....? Who...? This canoe wasn’t just a boat, she was a part of me and my life story.

I felt such a sense of violation that someone had destroyed this stalwart warrior of the waterways and then had the audacity

to return it to where they took her from.

Well, over the last few years I refused to let go, thinking that one day I might figure out a way, or have the time and resources, to somehow put her back together again. But the truth was, it was a

fatal blow that she was dealt. Even her outer hull was torn open. I still struggle to imagine how, with all this canoe had survived, it was so completely obliterated.

But as with many things in life, there comes a time to let go of the material things and cherish the emotional parts – the memories.

I have reached that point with this fine old lady. She’s on her way to be recycled or re-purposed as I write this. Since that oversized green Coleman was the vessel that carried me so far down the river of life, toward being who I am today, I figured she deserved her own obituary.

Thanks for listening.

Matt Mittan is a long time broadcaster in NC, based out of Asheville.

He currently applies his years of experience as a business owner to serve as a Licensed Employee Benefits Adviser to companies large and small across WNC, Eastern TN and the Upstate of SC. You can reach Matt by emailing MattsFishingDiary@gmail.com.

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ASHEVILLE / HENDERSONVILLE

HUMBLE PIE…WITH ICE CREAM

By Joe Woody

I

’ll start this off with a statement… “I am a mediocre to decent fishermen.” If you’ve fished with me before, you would probably come down on the “mediocre” side of the argument. If you’ve listened to me tell stories, you’ll be more inclined to place me in the “decent” column…but I would argue the latter statement is true with most fishermen. We can spin a story. That is one of the reasons I love this magazine business…I get to hear the best of them. However, I’ve had the opportunity to fish with some fantastic fishermen, both on the fly and with a spin caster. There’ve been some instances where I stopped fishing and just watched the magic unfolding. If you find yourself in this situation, do yourself a favor and just watch and learn.

The preceding paragraph was more of “one off ”…a little tidbit of wisdom and has little to do with what I’m trying to get at, but maybe I can tie it all back in by the end of this story. Sometimes I get off on tangents, so let’s just go with it.

Back to the actual story…

I was shut out the other day on Hazel Creek. When I say shut out, I mean I caught the collar, I had a big zero in the caught fish column.

Call it what you will but the harsh fact is, I did not catch a single fish.

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JUNE 2018

Now, when I say the other day, I mean over a threeday weekend.

So, to clarify, I didn’t catch a single fish over a three-day weekend on one of the most famous trout streams in the c o u nt r y - Ha zel Creek, that by any metric, is kind of hard to do…but I did it. To make matters worse, the only strike I enticed was on my walk back to Proctor Bridge we were to be picked up for our shuttle back to Fontana Marina. And as a final slap in the face, the fish struck my yellow and

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orange strike indicator, separating it from my leader…it then floated away. I then broke down my four piece, placed it in my tube, and walked to the worn fishermen’s path visible on Hazel Creek during low water. I finished my fishing trip in a bad place.

I could blame all this on the weather of course… sleet and snow, 16 hours of straight rain, broken up by sleet and snow, or just the cold, but I’m not going to do that. I could not solve the puzzle. Usually when a “catastrophe” is in the works, I buckle down, sharpen my focus, get dirty and adopt the “one with the fish” protocol. That weekend, however, had a much deeper lesson for me. The Man Upstairs was teaching me something more profound.

I had the pleasure of fishing

that weekend with my two dearest friends, Barry Holcombe and Ben Bailey. Together, we’ve spent countless days exploring and fishing. Both are extremely competent fishermen. I knew what was coming. They’d been piecing together wise cracks every hour I had not caught a fish and were saving them up for the trip home.

I got kind of lucky…Ben had canoed over and was not taking the shuttle back. But I knew Barry was going to float a few innocent yet stinging statements meant to crack my stoic exterior, but as we were waiting for the shuttle, something amazing happened…

Three or four other groups of fishermen came out of the wilderness to join us on our trip out. They were mostly younger men from all over the Southeast with different levels of experience. They were all on fire about their weekend in the wilderness. They spoke with a passion that men have after days alone braving the elements. Barry and I just listened. One group, who had never trout fished before, talked about the trout they caught. Yes, they had never trout fished before and had caught fish.

They talked about seeing bears… they even had an encounter with a Bobcat. Now, I can count on two fingers the amount of Bobcat sightings I’ve ever had. These young men were on fire for the

outdoors. They would be back.

That weekend ensured seven or eight more members of the HeMan Trout Fishing Conservation Corps.

Barry and I just looked at each other with understanding. Those young men were us, 25-30 years ago. I wanted to join in their conversation but I did not have their passion that day. Let me say that again…I did not have their passion. I was so inundated with my own failings as a fishermen, that I forgot to enjoy the trip. Here I was doing what I loved to do with whom I wanted to do it, in a paradise duplicated nowhere else, and I was not in the moment. How could I let that happen? One of my driving philosophies in life is to live in the moment.

Every so often, the man upstairs will remind you of what’s important. I should have been thankful for the time with good friends, in a beautiful place; but instead, I was stressed out about not catching fish. I received a big plate full of humble pie but then, as he often does, the great spirit taught me a lesson and placed a big scoop of Butter Pecan Ice Cream right in the middle of my plate. Live in the moment…enjoy what you are doing…be passionate…Don’t worry so much about the results. I just needed reminding. It was good medicine.

Joe Woody is Co-Publisher of The Angler Magazine WNC with his wife Debra. He is an Army Veteran and a self proclaimed “Adventure Angler”.

You can usually find him wandering around Western North Carolina telling fishing lies. He is also a baseball nut and a crazy FCS Football fan. He has a Bigfoot magnet on the back of his truck.

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WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 19

My Heroes are Content, But Not Complacent

By Wilson Love

L

ong ago in a land far, far away (Swannanoa valley) lived a great fisherman; a man twenty years older who befriended and mentored me. He gazes down now from his mansion in Glory. I’ll call him T.J. T.J. owned three fishing poles: a lake rod, a stream rod, and a broken rod. He carried his tackle in a brown paper bag. His small lure collection was missing some of the hooks and much of the paint that originally adorned them.

When a Rooster Tail’s spinner became dull from age, T.J. would pick up a small, sharp-edged stone and scratch the “shine” back onto it. “Good for another year or 10,000 miles”, he’d say, “whichever comes first”.

I ate many a tasty meal of walleye and trout at T.J.’s table, proving that the latest, greatest gear isn’t necessary for success on the water.

More importantly, I learned a lot about contentment from T.J. Pitching a plug or setting a trap was all it took to please him.

When it rained he spooled his reels, cruised his extensive sports card collection, or watched a game on TV. In later years and with failing health, he still mustered the strength to take me to his favorite spots. Not satisfied to just remember the good times, my friend T.J kept producing those good times until the very end.

Another man who became great in my eyes lives in a tiny cor-

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ner of the universe called Ivy River. Now retired, Art ran a carpet cleaning business with just one employee – himself. He’s a master gardener and still tries to teach me how to grow a good tomato.

Forty years ago, Art bought several acres of land and set to building himself a house. He had a floor plan, $5,000 and a vision.

Three years later, he and his bride moved into their completed new home – debt free.

In that process, Art gathered river stone for the rock work, labored overtime to buy materials, and bartered with skilled neighbors to get it done. Strong and super active in his early seventies, Art is the only person I know who is smiling every time I see him.

My third entry on this list deserves a medal for persistence and another for commitment; two of the finest qualities a person can have.

Kal came to his senses in his late forties and moved down here to God’s country from somewhere way up there in the frozen north. We met at an Asheville Tourists baseball game and the talk turned immediately to fishing. That meeting grew into a re-

Wilson Love is Owner/Operator of The Practical Outdoorsman, a retail and consignment store.

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warding friendship. He fishes a lot more than I do. I think he spends more time on the water than I do on my feet.

While out wading the French Broad for smallmouth years ago, a nice one twisted off his line. “Oh, man!” I whined. Reaching out to check his lure, Kal replied, “I’ve done this enough that it doesn’t matter when they get away”. I learned something that day. Fishing is its own reward. It is better to have fished and lost, than never to have fished at all.

Most of us have heroes, even the selfies whose hero lives in the mirror. These hero/friends I’ve written about are real, and by the grace of God have profoundly impacted a country boy’s life. They taught me that life doesn’t consist of what happens to me, but of what comes out of me. They taught me to be content; but never stop working, never stop playing.

And above all, they taught me to always give God the credit for a great life to live. May your heroes be as authentic as mine. (Luke 12:22-31)

JUNE 2018

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WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 21

Tips, Tricks and Funny Stories from a Professional BassMan

W

isdom suggests it’s never a good idea to assume you know a person’s story before you get to know him or her. You never know with whom you might be talking.

You may think it’s just a barista or server, but in reality, your barista or server could be the next professional athlete, successful politician or best-selling author.

If you walk into Asheville Burger and Mugshakes—a new restaurant in Asheville’s Fun Depot— there’s a good chance you would meet a guy named Ryan McLaughlin. You might find him cooking a burger, making a milkshake or describing the menu to a new customer, but his restaurant skills are only a part of Ryan’s story. Ryan has qualified for and competed in the previous

By Daniel Day

three FLW College National Championship Fishing Tournaments and the previous two BassMaster Collegiate Series Tournaments. In fact, if you picked up this magazine on the day it was released, you could check out his progress in the 2018 FLW Collegiate Tournament, which ends June 1st.

Ryan has been fishing for nearly 20 years and since, as he put it, “I was able to hold a pole.” His dad taught him to fish on Lake James, and Ryan’s first fishing memory is of dropping a baby cat fish on his foot. “I was seven or eight years old and it dropped right off my hook onto my toe! My toe started bleeding. That’s how I knew what a catfish was.” I asked him if he cried, but he said “no.”

In fourth grade, Ryan met Jus-

tin St.Onge, a friend who shared his passion for fishing, and who is now his teammate. In college, Ryan decided to pursue Division I football, and played for Western Carolina University. After two years, however, he decided to transfer to Haywood Community College and pursue a degree he was sincerely passionate about—Fish and Wildlife. Justin also attended Haywood for a Fish and Wildlife Degree, and the two jumped right in, literally.

Ryan smiled as he told me about a field trip on the Little Tennessee River where the students were equipped with fishing poles and snorkeling gear. They were studying the different species of fish in the river, and it was during this trip that Ryan hooked up with the largest small-mouth bass he’s ever caught. The fish, however, swam into a submerged tree and tangled him up in the branches. Justin jumped in the water and used his snorkeling gear to see what type of fish was on the line. He came up and declared, “It’s a giant smallmouth! But it’s all tangled up in the trees.” “Well go down and untangle it!” Ryan replied. Justin dove down with his mask and snorkel, untangled the fish and Ryan brought it in.

It was during college, that Ryan

and Justin decided to compete professionally. “I’m competitive by nature,” Ryan told me, “and after playing D.I. football at Western, I needed something else to compete at. Fishing was a growing and competitive sport, and Justin and I were getting better at it. I thought it was something I could do well at, so I went for it.”

It was a good thing, too. These guys are talented. In order to qualify for the FLW Collegiate National Championship, the team had to place in the top 18 out of 240 boats.

Ryan and Justin finished 14th.

Their best finish to date is 12th at a BassMaster Regional Tournament. Last year, not only did they qualify for the national championship, but they were doing really well—until they made, what Ryan called, “our biggest mistake, ever!

We already had 5 fish in the boat, but we got greedy. We knew of one more spot where we could potentially get an even bigger bass, and although time was running short, we went for it. As a result of that stop, we arrived at the dock 2-minutes late. Those two minutes cost us a 2-pound penalty, which meant that instead of being in the top 20,

CONTINUED, TIPS, TRICKS AND FUNNY STORIES, PAGE 34

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The Sustainability of Harvesting Trout

T

he trout streams of Western North Carolina are a paradox; being both relatively the same in their structure yet each one holding it’s own uniqueness. This individuality can come from the tiniest details in the watershed’s geological makeup, the amount, or lack, of development, and the abundance of aquatic insect life. All of these factors, in turn, play a critical role in the growth rates and overall abundance of trout in any given stream. I have spent the greater portion of my life fishing and studying these tiny characteristics to get a better understanding of why each stream is as productive as it is. The devil is in the details, as they say. Those details are not as prevalent on other anglers’ minds as they are on my own.

Maybe I just hold too great of a respect for these places compared to others, but I believe everyone would agree that these places are special. This leads me to write about a somewhat controversial topic. I’m going to share my opinion, based on my experience as an angler and a guide: the sustainability of keeping fish.

Our society has become evermore materialistic, and that mentality has leeched into the outdoor community. More frequently, our streams have become renewable in the minds of many. We want our big trophy brown or to catch and keep our limit as quickly as possible without thinking what

By Ethan Hollifield

that might do to a trout stream as a whole, in terms of it’s population health. Why should people worry anyways? A good portion of the streams in the mountains are stocked, who cares if someone keeps a limit every time they go out (if not more)?

Let’s play out this hypothetical scenario that I have personally seen executed more than once.

The regulations that fall under a “wild trout” stream in North Carolina are a limit of four fish, all being 7 inches long, and caught on a single hook artificial lure.

Ten people go out in the span of a week and fish different sections of a stream that is under this regulation, with each legally keeping their limit. Doing some basic math, that would mean 40 adult trout seven inches or longer were harvested out of that stream in a week. Granted, this scenario does not play out on every stream on a weekly basis, but lets take into account some details about wild trout streams in general.

On average, a rainbow trout, born in the wild, will take four years to reach seven inches long, depending on the amount of bug life and factors such as fry mortality, predation, etc. on top of increasing angling pressure. This means that it will take four years to replace the fish previously stated. If that happens multiple times for a given stream, then the trout population will be decimated. With ever increasing angling

pressure across Western North Carolina I can only imagine that the odds of this scenario occurring will become higher. These regulations, I’m afraid, are too broad in terms of overlooking the individual health of trout streams along with increasing angling pressure.

Am I being overly pessimistic? Perhaps, but I think the root of the problem is in our perceptions of these streams in general. Our mentality needs to change from these places being an unlimited supply of fresh trout meat, to being a well-respected nonrenewable resource. Learning about the little details of what makes a stream productive as an angler

will not only help you catch more fish, but will also enable these streams to live on for years to come. Keep this in mind on your next trip on the water: you can keep your limit, but you and future generations of anglers will get to keep the consequences.

Ethan Hollifield is an Environmental/Physical Science Teacher and is also a guide for Southern Appalachian Anglers.

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WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 23

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The D.M.V. Witness

By Danny Maybin

O

f all the places I have to go, I think the D.M.V is my least favorite.

In fact, I can’t think of anyone who has ever gotten up in the morning, excited that they are going there.

If you think about it, the teens are scared to death of the driving test, those who work are irritated that they have to be there and the elderly are worried they won’t pass the eye test. It’s the only place I know of that you wait in alphabetical order just to get in line to take a number and wait!

On one of my visits; I had already gotten to the number stage and like most of the rest, was trying to carry on polite conversation with my fellow sufferers.

Somehow we tend to think this

will make the ordeal more tolerable but I find awkward conversation only tends to heighten my stress level but I seem to always do it anyway, which drives me crazy as well.

On this visit, I was actually sitting outside the waiting room, in the hallway, where you can watch the teenagers walk out to the car with the examiner and come back in looking like they had just seen a horrible accident.

It can be quite entertaining.

The hallway was also the access for the highway patrolmen’s offices and various other related offices. We were all sitting there in those government issue, plastic seated chairs, alternately talking and watching for the next terrified kid, when a man, obvi-

ously upset came walking in.

He made eye contact with no one and marched straight to the Lieutenant’s office door. Taking the doorknob, he realized that the door was locked and he would have to talk to the receptionist via the intercom beside the door. This apparently irritated the man to no end, as he stamped his foot and said something that shouldn’t be said, even in the D.M.V.!

We were all now listening very carefully as this was the most excitement we had had this morning. Finally, he pressed the intercom button and demanded to speak to the Lieutenant.

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A calm, southern, female voice came back saying, “I’m sorry but the Lieutenant isn’t in today”. He then demanded to know who was over the Lieutenant. Softly the voice came back again saying, “That would be the Captain over in Asheville”.

Now, in an even louder voice, he requested who was over him.

Again, in that sweet voice she said, “That would be the Colonel down in Raleigh”.

By this time, all of us, including a couple of very interested state troopers, were all watching and listening to see what would happen next. I couldn’t believe my ears. He asked once

CONTINUED, D.M.V. WITNESS, PAGE 27

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WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 25

MOUNTAIN WISDOM

The Rest of The Story

By Ben Bailey

I

remember as a young man, I used to sit in my truck and listen to Paul Harvey tell the rest of the story while I ate my lunch. It was not just the news but the stories behind them. Often it gave a whole new slant to the news. I guess that is where I cultivated the habit of looking beyond the surface.

I have a painting in my house painted by Lee Robertson. It is titled First Light. It depicts a log cabin and Springhouse.

There is a thin layer of snow on everything and it seems to be very cold but there is a wisp of smoke coming out of the chimney and a soft glow in the windows. Some have commented that it is a bleak and lifeless

picture. I see just the opposite.

The logs are dove-tailed which took somebody a lot of time and effort. They are also squared and fit expertly together. The small wisp of smoke indicates that the fire has been going for sometime, maybe all night.

The soft glow means a lamp has been lit. He or she is doing something that needs light, perhaps cooking or maybe reading. There are no tracks on the porch so there must be a supply of wood and kindling inside. There doesn’t seem to be a road or car nearby which means that it must be somewhere that I would like to be.

Sometimes it’s hard to discern where observation ends

and imagination begins but I have decided that it really doesn’t matter, it’s the rest of the story… the what we see beyond the surface or even what we would like to see that gives meaning to our experiences. I once went for a walk in a little place called Hurricane. At one time it had been a small mountain community with several homes. As I walked the old fields through the old stone work and sat on the now silent porches, I imagined them as they once were wholesome

and content with useful work.

Confident that spring planting would produce a harvest. To me it was a picture of the way life should be. It gave me a warm sense of peace that I tried to capture in a poem.

Most times in my wanderings it is the mountain top I seek Today I need a valley with tranquil weeds and creek A sunny field to rest a spell, stonewalls with broken sod I need to hear a still small voice, to feel the arms of God

The mountains speak of majesty, endless toil and pain They speak of mighty exploits of effort and of gain.

Today I long to hear welcome home my favorite son Where you been so long I just knew you’d come.

Look see what I made for you and listen to this song How do you like this waterfall your journey’s been too long Man it’s good to have you home Will have a wondrous time All I have is yours you know and all your troubles mine.

I sent you a lot of letters, maybe you didn’t know it was me Remember that hawk at shining rock and a whippoorwill in The tree I sent you that largemouth down on Waterville what do you think of that?

I love you son I’ve followed you. I am where you’re at

And that……. Is the rest of the story.

Ben Bailey, is a native of Western North Carolina, Master Carpenter, Avid Angler, and Naturalist.

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D.M.V. WITNESS

continued from page 25

again almost yelling, “And who is over him?”

There was a long, painful silence in which you could have heard a bug run across the floor.

Finally, the intercom crackled and that still, sweet, southern ladies voice came back saying, “Bless your heart, that would be Jeeesus” and she continued with “Now, I don’t have a number to give you, but I’d be glad to introduce you to Him ‘cause it sure sounds like you need to meet Him”.

The two patrolmen quickly retreated back to their office but you could still hear the laughter through the big oak door. I was glad that I was sitting on the other side of a pay phone where

the guy couldn’t see my face as everyone in the hall was breaking up.

The poor guy was beyond words by now so he just scowled at us and started screaming, not words but only visceral sounds.

He turned and stomped out the door and we all listened as he peeled out of the parking lot.

I don’t know if the man ever got the satisfaction he so desperately sought. One thing I do know; he is now acutely aware of who’s at the top of the D.M.V! Sadly, my reluctance of going to the D.M.V. is now worse because I know I’ll never have that much fun there again.

Danny Maybin’s family have fished and hunted in the area of Lake Summit for at least six generations. He is a state firearms instructor a, blacksmith, musician/luthier, and his favorite, a fishin’ and hunting resort facilitator. He also does voice acting, copywriting, and short story humor.

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HIGH COUNTRY

Back To Basics: Part II Fly Fishing Tackle

By Jeff Dean

I

n April, we talked about the origins of fly fishing and why fly fishing can be an effective way to fish. This month, we will start diving into the tackle and gear and what makes it different from ‘conventional’ tackle. Because this is somewhat of a short article, we will focus on rods, reels and fly lines.

The biggest difference in fly fishing and conventional fishing is, with fly fishing you are casting the weight of the fly line, and with conventional tackle you are casting the weight of the lure(s). Because many of the flies you cast while fly fishing, weigh almost nothing, you need weight somewhere to be able to bend the rod so that you may cast and propel that fly great distances. That weight is in the fly line. Fly rods, fly lines and reels

are all categorized by ‘weight.’ The weight of your fly line will correspond to the weight of your fly rod and the bigger the number, the ‘stiffer’ the rod will be and the heavier the line is. Rod weights range from 0 - 12. For trout, the most common rod weights will be in the 3-5 weight ranges. Generally speaking, the heavier the rod and fly line, the stiffer the rod will be in order to cast the heavier line.

For small streams, with short casts for small fish using small flies, a lower weight rod is ideal. For big water, where you are casting far distances with big streamers for big fish, you will need a larger weight rod. As for the reel, the size will also correspond the to weight of the rod and line. The size and weight of the reel is more important for the balance of the whole

system. For example, you can put a 3 weight reel on a 5 weight rod, but you will need 5 weight line in order for the rod to perform at its best. The smaller reel just may not balance the rod properly. Many people say, ‘the reel is only there to hold the line.’ In smaller weights that is somewhat true, but once you get to 4 weight and above, a high quality drag can make the difference in landing a big fish on small line or snapping him off!

With fly lines, you can have floating or sinking lines. The most common line in trout fishing is a floating line. They will help keep your flies on the surface, yet you can also fish subsurface flies as well. With a sinking line, you are

trying to get your subsurface flies and streamers as deep as possible.

Fly lines are tapered and most of the weight is in the front end of the line, or the head, in order to get that rod bend to allow you to cast those flies. You can spend all day going through different tapers, but the most important thing in the fly line is the head and how it is tapered.

This is just enough to confuse you, but if you have any questions, give us a call at (828)963-5463 or come by and see us at Watauga River Fly Shop and we’ll answer any questions you might have.

Next month we’ll talk about how the system comes together and discuss leaders and tippet.

Jeff Dean is the owner of Watauga River Fly Shop located at 5712 NC Highway 105 South, Vilas, NC. Visit their website at www.wrflyshop.com, email them at info@wrflyshop.com, or give them a call at (828) 963-5463.

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Fish Springs Marina is your gateway to fun on the water!

Watauga Lake is the perfect family-oriented destination for boating, fishing, camping or sightseeing excursions.

Fish Springs Marina is the oldest continuously operating marina on beautiful Watauga Lake, having been in the White family for three generations.

Fish Springs Marina Store We carry all goodies for all your boating needs!

Our marina store has all the essentials for lake activities, including a huge selection of boating supplies, bait and tackle, inner tubes and water toys & more.

Boat Sales & Service • Pontoon Boat Rentals

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191 Fish Springs Road Hampton, TN

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WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 29

A

Big Cove Creek – Highlands of Roan

ppreciating the beauty and ecological importance of the Highlands of Roan, Ben and Leah Sherman recently donated 15 acres in Carter County, TN to SAHC for us to protect forever from development. The property adjoins Cherokee National Forest and can be seen from the Appalachian Trail. Located a scant quarter mile from our Little Cove Creek Preserve, the new preserve borders national forest land at the foot of Wolf Ridge, a high elevation ridgeline that descends from Roan High Knob.

“In 2001, we fell in love with the property adjacent to Cherokee National Forest, at the base of Wolf Ridge on the north side of Roan High Knob,” shared the former landowners Ben and Leah Sherman. “For more than 10 years we raised our young boys among the rocks and creeks and the cozy shadows of The Roan.”

“When we had to relocate,

we knew we wanted to conserve as much of the land as possible.

We were aware of SAHC before buying the land and increasingly learned of the good work SAHC does protecting so many beautiful areas. We are so happy SAHC will protect this property for future generations.”

Although small in acreage, the property contains significant habitat and water resources.

More than half of the property is covered by open areas and early successional forest, which could potentially serve as habitat for rare species such as the Golden-winged Warbler. Nearly 1,000 feet of streams flow through it, including a portion of Big Cove Creek, one of the headwater tributaries of the Doe River. The Doe River watershed is popular for trout fishing.

Near the new preserve in every direction there are public lands popular for recreation — Roan Mountain State Park to

the north, Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area to the east, and the Appalachian Trail and national forests to the west and south.

We are very grateful to Ben and Leah Sherman for donating

We operate a full service fly shop in Boone, North Carolina and offer high quality fly fishing on the Watauga, Linville, Toe, Elk, New River & More

this land for permanent conservation, and to Brad and Shelli Stanback for donating funds for transaction costs and long-term stewardship of the property.

We offer great products and services with local knowledge.

The only Orvis Endorsed Flyfishing Outfitter and Guide Service in North Carolina’s High Country If you would like to schedule a fly fishing trip, ask a question, or come shop at our Orvis store, contact us and we will be glad to serve you

www.foscoefishing.com • 8857 NC Highway 105 South Boone, NC 28607 • (828) 963-6556 30 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA

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WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 31

Voted

2015-2017

Great Food & A Family Atmosphere Since 1990 COUNTRY STORE • CATERING • CAMPING BREAKFAST Saturday & Sunday 8 - 11am LIVE MUSIC Saturdays 6-8

(423) 768-2092 3266 Highway 321, Hampton, TN ShirleysHomeCooking.com facebook.com/shirleyshomecooking 32 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA

JUNE 2018

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East Tennessee’s Original Family Style Restaurant

hirley’s Home Cooking, located near beautiful Watauga Lake on Highway 321 near Butler, Tennessee started as a small grill in the corner of a service station.

Shirley served mainly locals her homemade family style meals which she learned to prepare first-hand from her mother.

All of her menu items are made from scratch and when they say “family style”, just like at grandma’s, it’s all you care to eat.

Today, Shirley’s has a lot to offer, including great food and a family atmosphere. Renovations throughout the years, now allows them to seat around 250 guests and offer great food, live music, and a family atmosphere served with a heaping helping of southern hospitality.

Family-style is serious business at Shirley’s and it starts in the kitchen where they prepare and deliver a choice of two meats and a variety of vegetables. All the menu items are made from scratch and included in your family style meal is a wide variety of homemade desserts.

Diners can choose between boneless breast fried chicken, country ham, roast beef, meat loaf and chicken livers. Also on Friday’s menu is country fried steak and gravy. The vegetables served are seasonal and may vary from time to time.

Shirley’s also has a Country Store for browsing while you wait. The Country Store, has a wide variety of quilts, candies, jams, jellies, wooden toys and

other gifts. Also, there are items in the Country Store made by local craftsmen.

Shirley’s offers catering services for pick up or delivery to your wedding, family reunion, church function or special events. They also offer in-house parties upon request (50 or

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JUNE 2018

more). Either way, your menu can be prepared to suit your specific needs.

For more information or to reserve a catering service, please call/txt to 423-957-1320 or call 423-768-2092, or visit them at www.shirleyshomecooking.com.

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 33

TIPS, TRICKS AND FUNNY STORIES

continued from page 22

we were in the top 40. Only the top 20 boats were invited to continue in the final two days of the tournament. It was a hard lesson to learn, but it just shows you that you need to be satisfied with what you have.”

If only all of us could learn the lesson Ryan learned that day—I think we’d all be more content in every area of our lives.

The final question I asked Ryan had to do with the role of “luck” in fishing. I’ve heard it said that the harder you work, the luckier you get. I asked Ryan if he thinks that has anything to do with successful fishing. “Absolutely! You have to put your time in and work hard.

When we qualified at Hartwell, we went up there three days early to practice. We didn’t catch anything worth talking about! The morning of the tournament, we woke up extra early to get in some more practice. Again, this time we were

completely skunked. During the tournament, however, we found a spot that is probably best described as a wind-blown bank. We threw out a spinner bait near the shore and pulled in the biggest fish of the day. That spot, and that fish, pushed us to 14th, and that’s how we qualified for this year’s national championship tournament. Was it luck? Maybe a little! But I think we were only lucky because we worked hard and put in our time.”

I asked Ryan to offer some advice for anyone who’s interested in bass fishing. Here are a few ideas for you: 1. What are some lessons you’ve learned that have led to your success as a fisherman?

“First, don’t try to do something outside of your comfort zone. Find a lure or two that you understand, and throw something your confident in. Also, keep it

simple! There are two colors you need in your tackle box: something black and blue for when it’s muddy, and something green or pumpkin for when it’s clear. And don’t let the weather scare you away! I hear people say, “It’s too cold for the fish to bite” or “It’s too warm for the fish to bite.” It’s not true! Fish have to eat. A few months ago, it snowed on nearly every day off I had. I still went fishing and I still caught fish.

Commit to it, put the time in and you’ll succeed.”

2. Any particular spot at which you would encourage people to try their luck?

I really like Lake Hartwell because there are a bunch of docks.

Look for docks with rod holders.

A lot of times, people have thrown stuff off the dock to create a place to attract fish. I find that fishing docks

with rod holders usually leads to some good fish.

Ryan’s Bio: Ryan grew up in Western North Carolina and has a degree in Fish and Wildlife from Haywood Community College. He has been fishing professionally for four years and has competed in multiple Collegiate National Championship Tournaments. Specifically, Ryan competed in the 2016-2018 FLW National Championship Tournaments and the 2016-2017 BassMaster Collegiate Tournament Series. Ryan is also the Restaurant Manager of Asheville Burger and Mugshakes—a new restaurant within Asheville’s Fun Depot.

Daniel Ryan Day is the author of two books, including his most recent work: Intentional Christian (now available). He’s also the COO of Cascades Mountain Resort, Old Orchard Tavern and Asheville’s Fun Depot. Daniel lives in Fairview, NC with his wife and three kiddos. Connect with him on Facebook, Instagram or at intentionalchristianity.com

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WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA 35

Upstate Fishing Report

By Karl Ekberg

T

he rivers here in the mountains of South Carolina are in are in great shape. A few big spring rainstorms put a good amount of water into the rivers, and now the height and flows are great for wading and catching many fish.

There is nothing finer than being here on the rivers with the Mountain Laurels and Rhododendrons in full bloom.

Hatches have been subtle, at times early in the day, but late afternoon into the early evening have been better. As the late afternoon temperatures subside, find the shaded runs and riffles to have your best success. As the daytime temperatures of late spring into early summer start to rise, we must remember that trout like colder water. Fishing from the start of daylight until midday, and fishing top water,

36 WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA

will be good, but as the tempera- are here and tures rise, going deeper will be more are commore successful. Fishing midday ing in all sumthroughout the afternoon, double mer long. Rods, nymph rigs will be the trick. reels, line, and If dry flies and nymph fishing anything else are not your cup of tea, let’s not you may need, forget about streamer fishing. for your warm There is an abundance of small water fly fishbaitfish in the rivers now, and ing needs- they streamer fishing is excellent. Try are here at the swinging streamers in the deeper Fly Shop. If you runs, and into the heads of pools. need a way to In the larger, deeper, and slower cool off from waters, casting out and then a the summer Big Bend Falls on the Chattooga River. slower strip-and-pause technique heat, book a will do best. boat trip with our As the water temperatures of guide Zach Hart, for one or two with, and where to target fish. We the rivers have risen, it’s also time people, on the mountain lakes, to hope to see everyone out on the to think about bass and pan fish. catch these fine summer fish on a rivers and lakes, and let’s rememWe are excited about the bass and fly rod. For you your trip, we have ber, “Leave No Trace,” and enjoy pan fish season out on the lakes all the gear you will need, and on the greater outdoors. and rivers, with a lot of new fly your trip, we’ll show what to fish patterns here at the Fly Shop! Top water, or “down under”, patterns Karl Ekberg is the owner of Chattooga River Fly Shop, located at 6832A Highlands Hwy, in Mountain Rest, SC 29664. Give them a call at (864) 638-2806.

JUNE 2018

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

By Nick Carter

W

ith two anglers flailing away from either end of drift boat, there is huge potential for monumental foul-ups.

A drift boat and a good oar-man can be flyfisher’s best friends, but there are some rules everyone must follow.

TEAMWORK: If both anglers and the rower work together, things tend to go much more smoothly.

The rower’s job is to position the boat so everyone is safe and the anglers have good casts to likely lies. He is the captain. For safety, the anglers must do what he says. If he is a hired guide, he should also know the river, which means he knows where fish hold. When he barks out, “long seam, river left!” he’s trying to help you catch fish. When he starts backstroking hard, be ready to cast. He’s seen something fishy.

The angler at the front of the boat is in the catbird seat. His only duties are to fish well and occasionally look up to monitor for danger. The oar-man can’t see through the angler standing in the front of the boat. If you’re up front and see an obstacle you suspect the rower doesn’t, let him know.

The angler in the rear is tasked with clean-up duty, and he’s also responsible for avoiding crossed lines. The front angler will be facing forward, which means he can’t see what’s going on in the boat. The rear angler must pay attention to what the rower and front angler are doing and adjust accordingly.

Paying attention also allows the rear angler to do his clean-up duty effectively. By watching the front angler, the back angler can fish the good water his buddy missed.

CASTING: Theoretically, if both anglers cast using the same angles, there should never be an issue with crossed lines. And, unless you’re streamer fishing, there isn’t a need to do a lot of false casting or even cast much at all.

One of the cool things about fishing from a drift boat is you’re floating along at the same speed as the river. Making a 45-degree cast upstream of the boat allows your fly line and the boat to float along together. If you’re diligent in mending the line, you can achieve an almost infinite drag-free drift. Look out ahead, pick a good line, cast, and drift away.

BOUNDARIES: Staying within the boundaries is important, especially when chunking and stripping streamers. It is hard not to aim and fire at the next good-looking run every time you finish a retrieve. Really, that’s what you should be doing… as long as you’re fishing within your boundaries.

The angler in the front of the boat gets everything from the rower forward. The rear angler gets everything from the rower back. Staying within the boundaries can avert a lot of frustration and time spent untangling lines or pulling hooks out of the rower’s face.

When you’re dealing with foul-ups, you’re not fishing. And when you’re not fishing, you’re floating past a lot of good water.

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5/17/18 1:37 PM

By Chris Beardsley

M

y first saltwater rod and reel was a budget Okuma Metallix, complete with a 7-foot medium-action rod and a Metallix MT 40 spinning reel. It was a vacation purchase meant to get me by while sitting on the beach in Florida. After nearly 20 years, it’s been dropped, dunked and dragged through the sand.

It’s caught bull reds, puppy drum, whiting, trout and quite a few sharks up to 40 inches.

Annual maintenance kept it squeak, sand and salt free, but… oh that drag. The best words to describe it are jerky, sticky and unpredictable. While fighting fish, I often had to dial it way back because it would refuse to release except only under maximum pressure. I cleaned the felt washers, removing all dirt, grease, etc. and reassembled it with virtually no improvement.

“T

he fish moved.”

That might be the shortest correct answer as to why an angler didn’t catch anything on a trip. Yes, it does have a certain air of Mr. Smarty Pants, but there is a lot of truth in it. Once the basics of fish movement are learned, it will dramatically improve an angler’s chances on the water. Let’s look at the general big-concept moves.

Inshore fish make hourly shifts.

They change depth, move with the tide and follow forage into small tertiary locations far away from the main bays. On a daily basis, fish move their position according to temperature changes, light intensity, wind direction and velocity, as well as their need to feed. Fish also move seasonally with the season-

By Tobin Strickland, CAM Special Correspondent al forage movements on the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. Within the larger season, fish will make moves monthly to shift as meteorological changes occur.

One of the biggest challenges a new angler has is identifying where fish should be. Targeting high-percentage areas is key. I see many anglers falling into the advice of learning only structure within an estuary and focusing their time there. While there is certainly nothing wrong with that sort of intensity, I’d recommend applying that intensity to the part of the estuary where the fish actually are for that season or month. Once you figure that out, finding fish somewhere within their daily movements becomes much easier.

Tobin created TroutSupport. com - TechSupport for speckled trout and redfish anglers everywhere.

I learned to live with it, but it was soon relegated to the back of the closet. Why bother keeping it? Just throw it away, right? I considered that, but if you’re like me you want to drive it until the wheels fall off. Fix it until it can’t be fixed. Since the drag was the offending component, I started there.

Theoretically, the drag on a spinning reel is really very simple.

It’s very much like the clutch or brakes on a car; apply pressure to discs of various materials and let friction do the rest. As the pressure increases, friction also increases generating and generates heat. Like all reels, over time the wear and tear from pressure and heat cause the drag material (i.e. felt, leather, etc.) to become less effective and very much a liability. Eventually the felt is virtually useless, leaving only metal-on-metal braking.

Replacing your drag washers with something more reliable and stable is a great way to breathe new life into an old or cheap reel.

I knew that replacing old felt washers with new felt wasn’t an option, but what then? After a bit of research, carbon fiber seemed the clear leader. For me it wasn’t about increased drag pressure, which is a primary reason to switch to carbon replacements. Instead, I was looking for smooth, controlled drag that released evenly.

You can purchase ready-made washers from companies such as Smoooth Drag or purchase a sheet of carbon fiber and make your own. Regardless, don’t forget to replace the small, often neglected drag washer located between the main gear and shaft carrier base plate. When you remove the spool, it will be the small washer sitting on top of the gear.

New carbon washers were installed in the old Metallix last year, and it’s now better than new. It’s smooth and releases evenly. No more tense moments as I dial it back. Since then I’ve replaced the washers on another favorite with excellent results.

Regardless of whether you decide to make your own or order a set, replacing your tired, worn washer stack will be a significant improvement and just might breathe new life into an old favorite.

Photo courtesy of Miss Judy Charters/ Savannah, Ga.

N

OAA Fisheries is considering new regulations that would open the door for a limited season for red snapper in the South Atlantic in 2018.

Called Amendment 43, it would allow recreational anglers to harvest one red snapper per person per day. Fishing would be allowed on weekends only and the season start and end dates would be announced if the amendment is approved.

The South Atlantic red snapper stock has increased in abundance over the last several years at an even faster rate than predicted. All signs point to a quickly rebuilding fishery. By allowing a limited season, the amendment will reduce the socio-economic hardships experienced by fishermen and fishing communities while continuing to rebuild the fishery. It would also provide much needed harvest and discard data for stock assessments.

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North Carolina angler Dan Bowman with a big dorado and his two favorite fishing buddies, Chloe and Sophie.

s always, it’s tropical, warm and beautiful down here in Costa Rica.

The only change here is that the fishing has been white-hot.

On the Pacific Coast, we mark our fishing seasons by the presence of two distinct feeder fish populations: dorado from November to June and yellowfin tuna from April to October. The months of April and May are a magical time when both Dorado and yellowfin are abundant.

As much as we love coming home with full filet bags of multiple species, the real benefit is that the billfish are in town and they are feeding like hungry hogs.

FishingNosara Hall of Famer Chuck Darner invited radio host Roger Walker for a fun week of action in late April. After lighting it up on the Harvester on the April 23, they moved up to the Wanderer the next day for a productive day offshore.

Walker got it started with a 45-plus-pound dorado, and then hooked up a nice sailfish heavier than 100 pounds.

Then Capt. William pursued a big school of porpoises that were feeding on yellowfin tuna. These dolphin schools are better measured in acres than numbers, and when they are packed in this thick, there is obviously something tasty just beneath the surface.

Walker got in on the action with a beefy 50-plus-pound yellowfin, clearly the best fish of the day. Near the end of the day, they

hooked up another big sailfish, which put on an aerial display on the way to a safe release.

Other boats on the FishingNosara team accumulated eight marlin releases during the month of April, including a two-release day for anglers Craig Sutton and Marino Lora on April 22. We are just beginning to see multiple marlin release days and expect things to ramp up as we approach the summer months.

Speaking of summer, this is a great time to pack up the kids and get them down to Costa Rica for some sportfishing. As much fun as it is to spend three months playing video games and screwing around on the Internet, let the words of North Carolina angler Dan Bowman change your mind.

“Best fishing trip EVER,” he wrote, “and I got to enjoy it with Chloe and Sophie, my 4- and 5-year-old daughters!

We fought through a slow morning with a huge cubera snapping off on the reef to landing three sailfish in the early afternoon (the first two being a double hookup which was super exciting) to be followed up with a monster dorado on the way home.

My girls had the best time ever, as did I! Memories to last a lifetime. Thank you and your crew for being so accommodating!

Can’t wait to come back and go out again!”

It’s a great feeling to see youngsters get their first taste of blue water action; it means that our sport has a bright future.

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What Everyone’s Saying About U.S. Power Squadrons —America’s Boating Club

W

hether you are a first-time boater taking a class to learn the basics or a long-time liveaboard looking for a community of likeminded souls, you’ll find a place in the United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club.

The joy of boating is shared by everyone involved in the country’s largest nonprofit boating organization. America’s Boating Club has built its membership up to over 27,000 by offering classes For Boaters, By Boaters with the understanding that people join the organization for the education, but stay for the friends. Nothing captures this feeling better than the words of the members themselves. Here’s what a few have to say: “My husband, Matt, spent a lot of time in squadron classes and doing homework; I thought he was just hanging out with his buddies. While vacationing in the Florida Keys, we chartered a boat to go cruising and snorkeling, but I was a little scared. How do we know how to get to the reef? How do we get back? How deep is this water? How do we know where we are? My husband answered all of my questions, and I felt safe and comfortable knowing that he knew what he was doing. I still think he enjoys hanging out with his class buddies, but I’m glad he took the courses and I can’t wait until our next boating adventure!” – Debbie Murphy

“My boys, ages 11 and 12 at the time, and my wife became enamored with boating after a vacation at New Hampshire’s Lake Winnipesaukee in 1964, and we ended up buying an 18-foot lapstrake wooden boat with a 95-horsepower motor. I signed up to take courses from New Jersey’s Saddle River Power Squadron. I knew nothing about boating, and I had heard that United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club was the way to learn. Over the years, the squadron and the boat became a way of life. Thank you for 37 great boating years.” – Arnold Bucksbaum “As a child of two long-time members, I regularly participated in boating safety instruction as well as rescues and other safety-related activities during the boating season. I first learned to read and write by keeping the log while cruising the Chesapeake Bay with my family. I learned to tie knots, make the vessel fast to the pier, and even lower and raise the anchor while still a preteen. I have been active in United States Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club since I became a squadron apprentice at 13. I taught my first class, Marine Electronics, at 14. Through the years, I’ve taught the Boating course, Piloting, Advanced Piloting, Weather, Engine Maintenance, Marine Electronics and Coastal Navigation.” – Dwight Bues “My wife and I lived on our 42-foot Tayana Cutter for four years, sailing over 20,000 miles. We give our squadron all the credit for giving us all the tools to live our dream.” — Charles and Marianne Schuler See what everyone is talking about, visit www.americasboatingclub.org to find your local squadron and make experiences to last a lifetime.

Join in the Fun!

United States Power Squadrons is America’s Boating Club Learn boating skills. Engage with boating friends.

Connect with the boating community.

Learn more at www.americasboatingclub.org

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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FRESHWATER FWC photo by Rebekah Nelson

T

he Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission called it the “grandaddy of all catfish” on its Facebook page. It’s an apt description for a blue cat that outweighs the existing Florida state record by more than 50 pounds.

Running his trotlines on the Panhandle’s Choctawhatchee River in April, Joel Singletary must have known he was in for a workout when he pulled up on the 120-pound behemoth. According to the post, the adrenaline rush that comes with hooking such a huge fish was responsible for Singletary’s ability to haul the big blue into the boat.

Because it was caught on a trotline and not on a rod and reel, the fish does not qualify for an official state record to replace the standing 69.5-pounder caught by William Stewart on May 30, 2015. That fish also came from the Choctawhatchee, which speaks to the fishery’s ability to pump out enormous catfish.

The IGFA all-tackle world record blue catfish weighed 143 pounds.

It was caught by Richard Nicholas Anderson in June of 2011 from Buggs Island (Kerr) Lake, Virginia.

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The Pondtoon is the perfect small-water boat for the avid river and pond angler, duck and bow hunter, as well as the family with children or grandchildren. All boats are all-welded aluminum construction made in the USA with premium options to meet every fisherman’s needs in boating.

There are several styles to choose from that include: Fishing Series, Hunting Series, Pleasure Series, Farm/Pond Workboats, Search and Rescue and our new Camo boat. There are even wheelchair accessicle models Our pondtoon boats are factory assembled in three standard sizes with options and additional features that allow you to equip the boat for your fishing and hunting style at a very affordable price.

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Gulf States Announce Red Snapper Seasons

By CAM Staff

Photo courtesy of Larry McGuire/Show Me The Fish Charters

W

ith federal approval of Exempted Fishing Permits (EFPs) for red snapper in the Gulf of Mexico, the five Gulf states will manage red snapper seasons in state and federal waters for the 2018-2019 seasons.

The bag-limit in federal waters remains 2 fish per person per day, with a 16-inch minimum length. Every state except Texas has the same limit for its state waters.

Federally permitted for-hire vessels have their own June 1-July 22 season. State permitted for-hire vessels will generally follow the state seasons, but they will only be allowed to harvest red snapper from state waters.

Here’s a quick look at what each state has come up with to manage Gulf red snapper fisheries for 2018.

FLORIDA The sunshine state has announced a 40-day recreational red snapper season in state and federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico to run June 11-July 20. This season is for private recreational vessels.

For-hire operations without a federal reef fish permit must have a State Gulf Reef Fish Charter on their license, which can be obtained from a tax collectors office free of charge.

All Gulf reef fish anglers are required to sign up for the Gulf Reef Fish Survey. Sign up at the Gulf Reef Fish Survey page at myfwc.com.

ALABAMA The recreational season in Alabama for private recreational vessels is slated for 47 days in state and federal waters. Red snapper harvest will be open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from June 1-Sept. 2, plus July 2-5 and Sept. 3.

Alabama’s season length could change based on when the 985,000-pound recreational quota is met. The catch will be closely tracked through the state’s mandatory Snapper Check App. LOUISIANA In Louisiana, the recreational red snapper season for private recreational vessels opened May 25 in state and federal waters. The season will remain open until the recreational quota of 743,000 pounds is met, according to estimates from the LA Creel program. The state might consider amending the season to weekends only if necessary.

A free Recreational Offshore Landing Permit is required for all offshore anglers. It is available through www.wlf.louisiana.gov/rolp.

All anglers will be subject to LA Creel dockside surveys and associated online and phone surveys. These surveys are voluntary, but participation is strongly urged.

MISSISSIPPI Recreational red snapper season opened May 25 in state and federal waters off Mississippi. The season is projected to run through Sept. 3, Labor Day, with a possible season closure from July 9-22.

The reason for the potential closure is to remain within Mississippi’s 137,949-pound quota, which will be divided between the recreational and for-hire sectors. The recreational quota is 135,149 pounds. The state for-hire quota is 2,800 pounds.

Recreational catches will be monitored through the mandatory Tails N’ Scales reporting program, accessible through the app, as well online at tailsnscales.org or through the call center at 1-844677-6277.

TEXAS Texas recently projected an 82-day recreational red snapper season in federal waters starting June 1. Harvest of red snapper in state waters is expected to remain open year-round. Texas has its own 4 fish per day, 15-inch minimum bag limit for state waters.

Once Texas’ allotted poundage is reached, the season will be closed. Download the iSnapper app to report red snapper landings.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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BOAT REVIEW CraigCat E2 Elite

Since 1990, the patented CraigCat horizontal catamaran has radically redefined the image of recreational boating. Completey unique in form and function, this state-of-the-art craft offers all the responsiveness, stability and sporty handling associated with a larger boat at a fraction of the price. It is the world’s finest compact watercraft.

Quick, roomy and exceptionally wellbuilt, the CraigCat delivers a rare blend of performance and genuine comfort that appeals to both the novice and seasoned boater alike. You’re going to love what the CraigCat does!

With many options, it’s possible to trick out your CraigCat just how you want it. Here’s a quick look at some of the standard equipment offered on the E2 Elite, the king of the CraigCat fleet.

It comes with: JBL Audio stereo with two HD speakers that pump your tunes out loud and clear; full-width storage compartment for your gear; convertible Bimini top, two polished stainless steel beverage holders; LED interior deck lighting and anchor light; super bright ion halogen docking lights; navigational lights; Four-rod fishing rod holder; electric key start with full remote control; twin side-by-side bucket seats; and more.

It’s easy to see how this cool little boat offers all the comforts of a larger, more expensive vessel. Everything on the CraigCat is top quality and built for the marine environment, with stainless steel hardware and brackets of marine-grade aluminum. On freshwater or salt, it’s a machine build for fishing and fun.

For more information, call 1-833-CRAIGCAT or visit craigcat.com.

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The Sea Eagle® FishSkiff™ 16 inflatable boat can be motored long distances to fishing spots other anglers only dream about. Fold up & carry in your car, SUV, camper or on a small plane. Features 2 swivel seats with rod-holders, 2 built-in 40” fish rulers & 2 Scotty mounts & 3 separate air chambers for safety.

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There’s a lot going inside a 4-Stroke engine.

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ECSTAR. the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket when on the water and read your owner’s manual. © 2018 Suzuki Motor of Ameria, Inc.

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5/17/18 1:38 PM

FLY FISHING

S

altwater fly fishing can take you to places off the beaten path. Whether you’re inclined to travel far or stick closer to home, traveling with a fly rod packed in your luggage can be a great adventure.

Here are some of my favorites.

Keys Tarpon I love the Florida Keys! There are few things that get me more stoked than the thought of sight fishing a fly to a cruising tarpon in shallow water over a white sand flat! The fishing areas in the Keys are endless. If I were to pick one spot that gives the angler the best opportunity to hook a tarpon of a lifetime on the fly, it would be Bahia Honda.

From April through June, you have shots at tarpon of all sizes, fishing over white sand flats just a few hundred feet off the shore. If you’re lucky enough and your timing is right, you might experience the legendary palolo worm hatch. There is nothing more exhilarating in saltwater fly fishing than having the opportunity to target tarpon during this annual springtime event in the Keys. The sight of very large tarpon lazily slurping these tiny red worms off the surface will give any angler buck fever!

Texas Coast (South Padre Island) If you’re looking for a great fly-fishing/camping adventure, then South Padre Island on the Texas Gulf coast is about as good as it gets!

The dune-lined beach runs more than 30 miles east of the coastal town of South Padre. You’ll find great camping among the sand dunes and excellent fly fishing for redfish, jacks and sharks. Also, if the wind lays down and you get a day of glassy water conditions, there is a good chance of hooking a few rolling tarpon from the beach!

Baja’s East Cape is a far-out adventure where West Coast saltwater fly fishing got its start more than 50 years ago. Baja is rugged and wild, where the blazing hot, cactus-filled desert meets the deep blue waters of the Sea of Cortez. Los Cabos is your starting point. Drive north along the beaches to Los Barrilles, also known as the East Cape, and you find some the best roosterfish fly fishing in the world. This area is a sight fisherman’s dream, where roosterfish run along the beach in ultra-shallow clear water, looking for sardines and mullet to eat. The best approach for the fly angler is to stake out in a bait-filled area and wait for the roosters to swim within casting range. Be aware! Roosterfish are one of the toughest game fish to catch on the fly, but once you entice the pes gallo to take the fly you’ll return year after year to pursue these great and unique gamefish.

So, get out and go! Venture off the beaten path and explore waters close to home or far way. But make sure you pack your fly rod!

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N • THU

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• THU

LIST

B A Y, C A

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dawn. The weather was unusually cold and foggy for a late August morning. The thermometer showed zero degrees Fahrenheit. Long-range forecasts predicted pleasant temperatures, but Vicki and I were glad to have prepared for the worst clothing-wise.

The cold front suppressed the bite, but with help from Gino’s friend, Bruce Iwasa, we managed to land enough brookies for a shore lunch on one of the lake’s breathtaking islands. The setting was perfect on this uninhabited wilderness island. We sat on tree stumps, drank wine and watched as salad, trout, potatoes and dessert were prepared around a campfire. The fish were caught on light tackle using Muddler Minnow flies tied on jig heads. The unspoiled, wilderness scenery was more than we expected. We returned that night to Thunder Bay to enjoy filet mignon, red wine and a good night’s rest, so to be ready for another early morning departure, this time on the Nipigon River tailwater in search of Chinook salmon.

The temperature was only 3 degrees warmer at 7 a.m. when we launched just below Alexander’s Dam on the Nipigon tailwater. Chinook are a species of Pacific salmon. Obviously they are not native to the drainage. They were introduced as a sport fish decades ago and have become one of the river’s most popular species.

A thick early morning fog initially restricted us to trolling a small area with Rapala Countdown 11 lures on St. Croix Legend Tournament rods with small Shimano reels loaded with Stren MagnaThin 6-pound line. Two hours later, we were able to navigate downstream, where we tried our hand at fly fishing. Vicki hooked a nice brookie on spinning gear, while Gino and I struck out with fly rods.

Around midday, the temperature had warmed and Gino suggested we go back up river to try trolling Rapalas at the dam. It worked! Vicki and I hooked and landed a 12-pound and 5-pound salmon, respectively. They were a blast to battle on light line.

Having ended the day on a very high note, we headed back to Gino and Jennifer’s luxury cabin that has a view of Lake Superior to die for. The evening was enjoyed eating scratch-made pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven and meeting family members.

The day-3 plan to fish Superior was scrapped because of rain and high winds. We enjoyed the balance of our trip eating gourmet foods such as salt-crusted salmon, Italian pastas, homemade sausages, salads, desserts and lots of beverages with new Canadian fishing friends.

The scenery around Thunder Bay is enough to make it a worthwhile trip.

The potential for world-class freshwater fishing on an unbelievable amount of diversified waters around the town is limitless.

Check out Capt. Terry Fisher and Fish Face Charters in Cape Coral, Fla. at www.fishfacecharters.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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D

DA

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2018

BUCKET D

By Capt. Terry Fisher

ne of the benefits of being a charter captain in southwest Florida is the people you meet. Almost always, my first mate Vicki and I have fishing in common with the folks we take out on the water; sometimes the connection runs deeper.

That’s how we became friends with Gino Mascarin and Jennifer Wintermans, of Thunder Bay, Canada. Like Vicki and I, both are avid anglers, and over the years we discovered we have many other things in common, including travel, fine foods and fine wines.

On their last visit, Gino and Jennifer insisted we travel to their neck of the woods to fish for world record brook trout on Lake Nipigon and Chinook salmon on the Nipigon River. I had never fished Canada, so I decided to give it a try, especially since our hosts are people who know how to catch fish and also appreciate some of the other fine things life has to offer.

We departed for Thunder Bay, by way of Toronto, in late August for four days of pampering, which was to include three days of fishing, gourmet cooking and wine tasting. Thunder Bay is a town that sits on the banks of Lake Superior just across the border from Minnesota on the Canadian side of the lake. It is in a relatively sparsely populated western corner of the Ontario province, where a web of lakes and waterways offers an unbelievable amount of good fishing.

Over three days, we were to fish for different species at three different venues: brook trout on Lake Nipigon, Chinook salmon on the Nipigon River tailwater and walleye on Lake Superior.

Lake Nipigon is renowned for producing large brook trout, including the world-record 14.5-pounder caught by Dr. JW Cook in 1915. Although it is dwarfed by nearby Lake Superior, Nipigon is a pretty big lake at 1,872 square miles of surface area. It feeds the Nipigon River, which is Lake Superior’s largest tributary. Over the months preceding the trip, Gino and Jennifer had shared photos of their catches, and our excitement was running high.

We launched Gino’s 19-foot Lund Pro V Tournament Series before

B A Y, C A

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ne of the most dangerous risks to divers is being struck by boat propellers while at the surface. I have personally experienced more close calls with boats than any other hazard, and I’ve witnessed the results of some horrific accidents.

There are dive flag laws in place to protect divers. However, accidents occur more from lack of awareness, not due to anyone breaking laws on purpose. In any case, it’s worth reminding both boaters and divers of the rules.

The laws are similar from state to state with a few variations. As an example, Florida law requires divers and snorkelers to display a “diver down” flag when in the water to caution nearby boaters.

The flag is a red square with a diagonal white stripe with a wire stiffener to keep the flag extended and visible. If on a dive boat, one must ensure that

the flag is visible from the boat’s highest point from all directions, and it must measure at least 20 by 24 inches. It must also be removed when divers are not in the water. If the dive excursion is from shore and not using a boat, a flag must be towed by the diver, and the flag must measure at least 12 by 12 inches.

Boaters must stay at least 300 feet away from dive flags in open waters and 100 feet away in rivers, inlets and navigation channels. Boaters who must approach a diver-down flag must slow to the minimum speed.

Likewise, divers must take care to stay within the same distances to the flag.

Tips for Divers:

1. Avoid diving in high boat traffic areas.

2. The more visible you are, the better, so consider displaying a larger flag than mandated by law.

3. Consider wearing a brightly colored hoodie and/ or towing something that will make you more visible.

4. Consider carrying a backup marker, such as an extra reel and float, in case you get separated from your flag. Abort the dive if you do get separated, and deploy the backup immediately.

5. Listen for boat traffic before ascending. This won’t apply to sailboats, so always make a quick 360-degree scan as you come up.

6. As a last resort, dive down for safety.

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Refrain from using autopilot in an area where diving takes place.

2. If traversing areas with dive sites, stay extra alert, watch for dive flags and maintain a safe distance.

3. Even if there are no dive flags, look for divers the same way you look for other hazards, as there can be instances of divers getting separated from

their flags.

4. Monitor channel 18 (or whatever is used locally) for dive advisories or to communicate with dive boats.

If you make these tips a part of your float plan, you will minimize the potential for accidents. We all cherish our time on the ocean and want to come home with happy memories!

Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.

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TIPS FROM A PRO

WHY ELECTRONICS ARE SO IMPORTANT BRANDON LESTER

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lectronics are a very important tool in locating and catching bass, just remember to use them to look for everything underwater, not just big schools of fish.

When I launch on a new lake my GPS mapping is everything.

I’ll just run full screen S i d eV i s i o n .

The newest revolution from Raymarine is the RealVision 3D. It paints a 3D image of what’s under the boat and is amazing for providing an underwater

I run Navionics Platinum in my Raymarine Axiom Pro units and it works great. Your map card should show great detail and well-defined contour lines.

This helps you find new spots when you get on a pattern by simply looking at your map for similar places.

Tracks are important, also.

I run tracks all the time on my map so I can tell where I’ve been and where I haven’t. I change the color of the tracks each day when fishing multiple-day tournaments to keep track of when I was there, as well.

I run three 12-inch Axiom Pros, two units at the console and one at the bow. The reason for two units at the console is so I can have one unit strictly for mapping. I like a full 12inch screen so I can easily see contour changes and such. So many times I’ve been running down the lake and seen a place that looked good on the map and pulled over and caught fish.

The second unit at the console is mostly used for SideVision, DownVision and RealVision 3D. I run a split screen most of the time, but if conditions call for it, I run full screen SideVision and/or CHIRP sonar depending on bottom composition. For instance, if I’m scanning a huge flat looking for isolated cover like stumps or brushpiles,

perspective.

Keep in mind any time you’re scanning to pay attention to everything you see. We all want to find that mother lode of fish, but more times than not that’s not how you find great fishing spots. Keep your eyes peeled for baitfish, grass, brushpiles, rock piles, roadbeds and anything unusual. The best places are not always obvious.

My settings for my bow unit are pretty simple. I run a split-screen 90 percent of the time, with mapping on one side and CHIRP sonar on the other. Mapping is important for following contours and lining up on waypoints. CHIRP shows everything that’s going on under my boat. I find myself constantly looking at this unit because it tells so much about how fish are acting. If I see a lot of fish suspended up high, I might try a jerkbait instead of a jig, or vise-versa.

I recommend the Axiom Pro because they’re easy to use, super-fast and have a touchscreen as well as a keypad with a scroll knob, which is nice for zooming in and out on the map while running.

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any anglers think of fall as “striper season,” but there are instances throughout the spring and summer when your odds of catching a truly big cow are actually better.

“That’s exactly the case with the striper fishery out of Barnegat Inlet, New Jersey,” said Capt. Dave DeGennaro of the Waretown charter vessel Hi Flier (www.hiflier.com). “We have a 13-mile stretch of ocean between the inlet and Lavallette that gives up a ton of 30- to 50-pound bass this time of year. It’s reliable trophy action and a lot different than you might imagine.”

Indeed, it is. Stripers here generally set up in 50- to 65-foot depths paralleling Long Beach Island State Park. Rather than stalk baitfish schools, the big fish spread out. In response, sharp skippers troll to cover more water.

“The bottom here is mundane; no real structure, no drop-offs,” said DeGennaro. “It lacks character in terms of bass cover so we use bunker spoons to target these cows. Every ten minutes, we’ll mark a big fish on our electronics, but that single scratch often translates into a vicious strike. ” No one seems sure why the linesiders favor this bland stretch, but no one is complaining, either. Captains that can troll big spoons effectively rarely get shut out and most work up two to five trophy fish per half-day trip. Some days, the action is considerably better.

“I put out a pair of Tony Maja E-Z Out-Rodders and 8-foot rods with soft tips,” explained DeGennaro, who pursues these fish aboard a World Cat 25CC catamaran with twin 150 Suzuki Four Stroke engines. “With the rods at a 90-degree angle to the water, there’s not much upward pressure on the spoons, so they’ll run deep without a drail. My favorite offering is #4 Tony Maja (www.tonymajaproducts.com) in white or chartreuse split (half chartreuse, half green). It has a great slow-roll action stripers can’t resist. It comes with an 8-ounce keel weight you can swap out for 12 ounces to help keep the spoon riding down near the bottom.”

DeGennaro uses 80-pound-test, high-visibility Dacron for backing, 300 feet of 40-pound Monel wire, and 30 feet of 60-pound test High Seas Quattro monofilament. He attaches the spoon with a Rosco #56, 150-pound Duo-Lock Snap. Don’t use a snap swivel, he cautions, it hurts the spoon’s action.

Catches during this big bass bonanza are best on moving water, so concentrate your efforts when the current pushes hardest. Trolling speed varies between 2.5 knots and 3.5 knots. Your spoons are working right when the rod tips are pumping hardest.

“These are big, beautiful fish,” said DeGennaro, “but keep in mind they are breeders. It’s okay to toss some of the big girls back.”

Barnegat Inlet is easily accessible via Barnegat Bay, from Beach Haven from the south or Manasquan to the north. Holiday Harbor Marina (www.holidayharbormarinanj.com) and Long Key Marina (www.longkeymarina.com) in Waretown are full service operations that accommodate transients. For lodging, check out the Holiday Inn in Manahawkin, N.J.

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