WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD EDITION
FREE
Boats And Motors Edition Celebrating Our
Local
Fishing Reports Catch Photos News & Events
PHOTO COURTESY OF LEONARD BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHY VOLUME 23 • ISSUE 280
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O P P O R T U N I T I E S
A V A I L A B L E
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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.
210 FSH®
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YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M
©2018 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws. Drive responsibly, wearing protective apparel. Always drive within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink 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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Ten Years Old (Young)
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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
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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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WHO CARES ABOUT INSANELY CLEAR SONAR? DOESN’T EVERYONE?
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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
POWER AND SPEED
WHEN & WHERE YOU NEED IT
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BFT250, 225, and 200 bring a large displacement 3.5 liter V6. This narrow V6 design offers great torque and top end performance, as well as magnificent fuel econemy.
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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
TUMBLER HOLDER
TRIDENT 3-ROD CLUSTER
AVAILABLE IN 2 SIZES
NO DRILLING REQUIRED
AVAILABLE IN STRAIGHT OR OFFSET
AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL MARINE DEALER / RETAILER
800.653.8568 | TACOMARINE.COM
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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.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.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
TowingAdventure.com 18
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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
THEANGLER.CO
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QUIK-CHANGE II ™ Our Innovative, Interchangeable Fixed Blade Cutlery System 9” FILLET 7” FILLET 5” FILLET 3” SERRATED
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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. For more about Scout Boats’, go to
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5/17/18 1:37 PM
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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5/17/18 1:57 PM
NORTH CAROLINA
A
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.
AD EDITION N/MOREHE WILMINGTO
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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BOAT REVIEW Piranha F2000
electronics. The console grab rail and wind screen keep you steady while underway and the breeze out of your face. The incorporated padded cooler seat offers insulated storage for your meals and drinks or today’s catch. Built into the hull design is our transom pocket tunnel that allows you to get the engine jacked up or down to allow for a smooth dry ride in either shallow or deeper water. The F2000 deck design includes built in toe kick and spray chine to keep you on the boat and the water out. The F2000 is the ultimate fishing platform. Designed by Jesse Rhodes, of Rhodes Yacht Design, an avid inshore fisherman, it takes advantage of the newest hydrodynamics with simplistic style.
SPECIFICATIONS Piranha Boatworks of Sanford, Fla. has designed the ultimate fishing platform with its F2000 Flats/Bay boat. Drafting 6 to 8 inches, with a maximum of 150 hp, this sleek hull can get you to and from your favorite fishing grounds in short order. It offers all that Piranha Boatworks is famous for, a large forward casting deck, plenty of storage fore and aft and 6 under-gunnel rod holders. The deck is laid out with a large dry storage compartment forward and three storage wells aft. The aft wells are comprised of an aerated live well, release well and dry storage in a saddle bag configuration. The F2000’s large center console has space for all your flush mount
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5/17/18 1:47 PM
Wilmington/Morehead City edition
Wrightsville Beach
One of the better fishing months in southeast NC is definitely June... lighter winds, warm days and so many different kinds of fish to target! Redfish are in their summer trend by June and the trick to summer reds is to go early before the sun is high and hot in the sky. Topwater lures and rattling corks in the shallow waters during early mornings and afternoons will produce redfish. I prefer MirrOlure Top Dog Juniors and Top Pups for great “walk the dog action.” Working grubs like Berkley Gulp later in the day in deeper waters will also produce reds for you. Slow rolling spinner baits with a four-inch Berkley Gulp Swimming Mullet in Root-Beer Gold/ Chart Tail as the trailer has produced some nice reds for me when above: Capt. Jot and Don from West Virginia with the water heats up. two cobia that weighed over fifty pounds each, Sometimes, it can caught just off Wrightsville Beach. be just like colder months...slow down your presentation a little when the water gets hot. Give the redfish a little more time to catch up with your bait when the water temperature is over eighty degrees. Everybody loves to catch and eat flounder; they are really getting their act together by June. You can find flounder just about anywhere when June rolls in. Just knowing where to find the keepers is the key! In southeast NC, I look for keeper flounder around deeper channel drop-offs, in waters five to 15 feet deep. The local inlets and cuts, South Topsail, Carolina Beach, Masonboro, Mason’s and Rich’s inlets and Snow’s Cut are always a good place to find some keeper-sized flounders. Last, but certainly not least, are the artificial reefs, ledges and hard/live bottoms from one to ten miles off the beach. These areas always hold very nice flounder in June. Once you have found some flounder you need to know how to catch ‘em. If you want to go the artificial route, try bigger baits; this will greatly help you catch more keeper sized flounder. I prefer five- and six-inch Berkley Gulp Jerkshad in Pearl White, Chart Pepper Neon and New Penny. Another great flounder bait is the 4 inch Berkley Gulp Shrimp; this bait is great for casting up and down inshore drop-offs in creek channels. I rig these baits on jig heads in
1/8- to 5/8-ounce sizes for inshore and 1/2- to 3/4-ounce for ocean fishing; I prefer red, gray and white colors. If you would like to use live bait for the flounders, try mud minnows, small mullets or small menhaden as live bait. Rig them on Carolina rigs with an Eagle Claw L42 1/0 hook, at the end of eight to 14 inches of 30- to 40-pound fluorocarbon as leader. I prefer egg sinkers as my weight; the secret to how much weight you use is “as much as you need to stay on the bottom but the least you can get away with.” You need to be on the bottom for flounder but going lighter will always get you more bites! Last but never least, cobia fishing is in full swing by early June and should remain good until early July. It has already been a great year! I look for cobia around inlets, shoals and bait schools; nearshore/ offshore reefs and ledges are also a good place to look, too. With the water being clear most of the time in June it should easier to see those brown logs in the water. I like to throw big jigs, swim baits and live bait to cobia. Color really does not seem to matter, but I suggest you go bright in color. Blue Water Candy makes a great cobia jig but I always add a 6.5-inch Berkley Gulp Nemesis! When I’m not sight casting for them, we are fishing around inlets, shoals and nearshore artificial reefs. I float fish, bottom fish and kite fish in these areas with live menhaden, spots and mullet as bait. You can chum if you like, but the sharks and rays will come in big numbers! Tackle run down for the redfish and flounder: PENN Battle II & Conflict II spinning reels in 2500 & 3000 sizes. Rods, PENN Battalion and Allegiance II 6’6” & 7’ medium and med/heavy. Line is Spiderwire Ultra-Cast in 10- and 15-pound. Use Berkley Pro Spec Fluorocarbon 30- to 40-pound for inshore leader. For the cobia: PENN Slammer III 5500 & 6500 or Battle II 6000 & 7000 spinning reels or PENN 20LW, 25LW, 25NLD Fathom casting reels. Rods, PENN Rampage or Carnage II Jigging series 50 to 100 class casting and spinning and Berkley Pro Spec Chrome mono in 20- and 30-pound. Tie on 80-pound fluorocarbon leader. For less headaches in tackle storage, I suggest Plano Z-series 3600 and 3700 bags, zipper-less. Stay cool and enjoy your summer fishing! Thanks for reading! Forecast by: Capt. Jot Owens Penn Tackle Elight Staff • www.captainjot.com • 910-233-4139
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MANY IN-STORE SPECIALS!
june 2018
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5/16/18 4:05 PM
Swansboro/Emerald Isle
May 2018 offered up some of the best fishing we’ve seen in years for bonito, Spanish, large bluefish and redfish. Anglers here along the Crystal Coast should be ready to enjoy all of the opportunities June has to offer as well. Our nearshore waters will be alive with cobia, Spanish, kings, mahi, amberjack, sea bass, flounder and more! The backwaters will be holding plenty of redfish, flounder, black drum, sheepshead, trout, bluefish and some smaller bottom fish. Small boat anglers looking for some intense surface action without having to travel too far offshore can expect to hook-up with four- to seven-pound Spanish and five- to 30-pound kings using four- to six-inch live menhaden fished on light tackle with #4 to #6 gold treble hooks and 27- to 30-pound seven strand to make a minilive bait rig. These fish will congregate around the inlet tide lines as well as all hard bottoms and artificial reefs within a couple miles of the beach. These same areas will hold plenty of flounder and sea bass that will gladly strike those 1.5- to two-ounce bucktails tipped with Berkley Gulp Shrimp. Anglers moving farther offshore to five+ miles will find a mix of kings, mahi, amberjack, cobia, barracuda and an abundance of larger bottom fish. Anglers focusing on the backwater action will begin to see more redfish and flounder moving into the rivers with the movement of menhaden and shrimp coming in from the ocean. Focusing on the flooded marsh bays behind our beaches on high tide then switching over to the oyster beds and grassflats in the sounds and rivers on low tide will help to keep fishing very productive for redfish and flounder. Although a topwater bait will work wonders on those redfish, I like to make sure some anglers on board are casting a
jighead or spinner bait tipped with a scented soft bait to draw the attention of those flatfish too. June is also a great month to target both sheepshead and black drum around area dock and bridge pylons using live fiddler crabs fished on a vertical rig, suspended and various depths, within a few inches of the pylons on the down current side. Finally, anglers wanting to hook up with speckled trout this June will find the best concentrations of fish in the lower portions of the rivers from the mouth to the entrance of the creeks off the rivers. These fish will stage up along shelly bottom, oyster beds, grass flats and mud flats. Locating bait such above: Doug Tomlin, from Greensboro, as shrimp or schools of caught this nine-pound bonito while casting small menhaden will be a Diamond Jig near Browns Inlet one day this a great indicator of the May with Capt. Jeff Cronk. possible presence of trout and other fish in the rivers. My go-to baits for trout include Bett’s Halo Shrimp and Shad, Berkley Gulp Shrimp and suspending hard baits such as MirrOlure’s MR17. Have fun and keep Fish’n4life! FORECAST BY: Capt. Jeff Cronk Fish’n4life Charters • Carolina Fishing TV www.nccharterfishing.com Ranger/Yamaha/PENN/Berkley Pro-Staff Cell 336-558-5697 • Home 910-325-8194 jcronk@ec.rr.com
Salty Dog Charters
Capt. Troy Pate above: Chris Navinski and his friends had an amazing day fishing the nearshore waters out of Bogue Inlet one day this May aboard Fishn4life Charters with Capt. Jeff Cronk. 2 wilmington/Morehead city june 2018
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252-917-0445
capttroypate@aol.com
Aboard the Savanna Leigh
at the Capt. Stacy Fishing Center Atlantic Beach
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
5/16/18 4:05 PM
Big Rock Tourney Donates $200,000 For Domestic Violence Program The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament made one of their largest donations to date this week to the Carteret County Domestic Violence Program (CCDVP). Big Rock President Dale Britt and other board members presented a check for $200,000 to the Carteret County Domestic Violence Program. “We here at the Big Rock are humbled to help provide a safe harbor for many desperate individuals and their children who are victims of domestic violence in our county,” explained Britt. Statistics prove one out of 35 homes were involved in a domestic dispute is Carteret County in 2017. The capital campaign in conjunction with the CCDVP is now underway to build a new shelter and family empowerment program, known as SAFE. The capital campaign committee chair, Robin Parker, said, “we cannot thank the Big Rock enough because this is the first roll out of the program.” Parker also says the current shelter continues to deteriorate beyond repair. The capital campaign hopes to raise 1.5 million dollars for a fivethousand square foot home to provide living quarters for victims in need of crisis assistance. Domestic violence is on the rise in our community. In 2017, over 1900 services were provided to domestic violence victims and and their children in the county. “I would challenge you to think, because domestic violence hits much closer to home than a lot of people imagine,” Parker explains. The motto for the Big Rock is “charity first.” Big Rock board member Tommy Bennett also serves as the treasurer for the capital campaign committee. He says, “as we approach our 60th anniversary it is hard to believe in 1984 we didn’t have enough money to buy t-shirts. Now we have the chance to continue to impact the lives of people in our community.” For more information to make a donation visit thesafecampaign.com.
July20-21, July 20-21,2018 2018 11th Annual Spanish Mackerel & Dolphin Fishing Tournament Guaranteed first place prize
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Spare Change will be playing Friday night! Register online or contact Captain Wes Daniels at danielsw@carteret.edu or (252) 222-6222 Proceeds benefit Carteret Community College students and programs.
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Kayak Fishing It’s Finally Spring!
We have made it out of one of the coldest Aprils on record. Spring came fast after that with high air temperatures which finally got the inshore waters warm enough to kick off some good kayak fishing. I felt like I was kayak fishing as if it was still at the beginning of March, but now it is game on! I am now in my normal spring kayak fishing groove...working soft plastics on the bottom for the flounder that have finally decided to start to chew and on topwater for the reds. I have still had some luck with trout, but I am catching fewer as the water warms. Plus, with the moratorium on them till mid June, I’m OK with that because I think that will really help with our fall trout season. So what has been my plan of attack for spring fishing? Well, I am still working baits a little slower since the water is still not as warm as it should be. By slowing the baits down, I feel you have a better chance of hooking up, especially in the morning when it is still a little cooler out. I have noticed that the right size bait is starting to show up in the creeks, so from now on I will always have my cast net with me. You never know what you will have to do to hook up and it gives me a
chance to try a variety of baits. I also like to let the size of the bait I am catching be a guide for what size soft plastics to be throwing. I always try to match it as best as I can. I am not really sure if that matters but it seems to work for me. I am also still using my popping corks; actually I use them nearly year-round now. They always seem to produce fish. I differ the size of my cork depending on the water conditions. If it is windy and there is some chop on the water I will use a larger cork with a flat top to really make some noise. If it is early morning and the water is calm, I will use a cigar-shaped popper. I am a big proponent of adjusting the leader and the end of the cork to accommodate the depth of water I am fishing, so I almost never fish a cork the way it comes out of the packaging. Whether it is with a plastic shrimp under the cork or dead-sticking live bait in the current, a cork can really produce on a slow day for me. I suppose there’s no real rhyme or reason to it, for me they just work. So shake off the cold early spring we had and get that kayak out on the water and get some fish slime in the cockpit. It is only going to get better as the summer comes on. Be safe, wear your life jacket and tell someone where you are fishing and when you plan to be off the water. article BY: Chris Tryon Hook Line and Paddle Canoe and Kayak Outfitters, Wilmington, NC Phone 910-330-6999 • email: hooklineandpaddle@yahoo.com
Flying Around With Captain Lee
Hot dog, time for topwater speckled trout in the shallows, something I always look forward to, as it is a lot of explosive action in the early mornings and late afternoons. Most any topwater lure will work but I like Top Dogs by MirrOlure. Just remember that keeping the specks is not allowed until June 15 this year, due to the cold stun event back in January. The water temps have returned to what they should be for this time of year and for those that missed the Roanoke River striper fishing, it did not disappoint. We saw 60 to 70 fish morning sand most all of us had a great time catching with bait, jigs and flies. Be sure to book early next year to get in on some of this great action. Fishing with topwater for speckled trout in the river is high on my list of things to fish for. I look for edges or drop-offs with a shell bottom and current as well as a good supply of bait for them to feed. MirrOmullet, Top Dogs, Zara Spooks with no rattles and Yo Zuri Banana Boat lures top my list for topwater fishing for trout. Live shrimp is a great bait, but everything else loves them, so you may want to use mullet or small bunker. Flounder are moving in the inlets and are getting to where they like the creek mouths. Falling tides are when I like these areas and both live bait or Gulpworks great. Cast up into the mouths of the creek and very slowly work back. With Gulp, set the hook as soon as you feel the bite; with live bait, let them chew on it a while. In shallow flats, of three feet or less, I like to use a “popping” cork and fix the leader with a small 1/4-ounce lead head so it is about six inches off the bottom. Work it slowly back with small “popping” movements of the cork. Red drum or redfish are in the docks and on the flats. Around the docks, live bait and Gulp are my picks. Fish the live baits on a Carolina rig, and for the Gulp, I like to use a worm hook and rig it weedless so it will not hang up. Fish with a tight drags on both. Topwaters are great and I use the same ones as I do for the speckled trout on the flats. Gold spoons are my “go to” baits for the flats and I like to rub a little Pro Cure Crab on the spoon. Gulp on a worm hook works well also, rigging it weedless allows you to work over an oyster bottom. Again, popping corks with live bait or Gulp will work very well for you. When I’m using live bait I do not pop it very much, but with Gulp, small popping movements seem to help. Some nice blues will still be around and sometimes run with the drum on the flats. You will start finding Spanish in the waterways and Got-Cha’s work great for them. I like using the smaller ones with single hooks. I prefer gold on sunny days and silver on cloudy. Also small darts and jigs will work. Use regular mono for Spanish as they will eat the knots of fluorocarbon. Keep it simple and make long casts to them. As always, be safe out there as when the weather warms people go out in droves, so be sure to watch out for the other guy as he may not be looking for you.
above: Annie Abel of Pawley’s Island, SC with a nice redfish, caught while with Capt. Lee Parsons. 4 wilmington/Morehead city june 2018
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About the author: Captain Lee Parsons 910-540-2464 • www.gottaflyguideservice.com Located In Wrightsville Beach at the Bridge TenderMarina
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june 2018
wilmington/Morehead city 5
5/16/18 4:05 PM
Shallow and Deep Fishing in June
Now that the spawn is over with, you will start to notice that the water temps will be warming up. Remember the oxygen levels will begin to drop, as well. This means that a lot of your bass will head back to the deeper areas of the lake. But it doesn’t mean that you can’t catch fish in the shallow waters, because you can! The first areas I fish are the shallow waters. The main reason is the fish will be feeding there in the low light, before the sun begins to blast the shallow water. Some of the fish will still be there because they had been up shallow during the night feeding, before they head back to the deeper areas. Even if the temperatures get high, there will still be resident fish that stay in the shallower waters the entire time. Many tournaments have been won by anglers staying with this pattern of fishing shallow all day. One of my favorite baits to throw in shallow water is always going to be a topwater lure first. There is nothing more exciting than to watch a fish attack topwater baits first thing in the morning. I like to throw a Lucky Craft Sammy. You work this bait back and forth to make it walk across the water, more commonly referred to as “walking the dog.” If a fish misses this bait, you can stop it and it won’t sink. Sometimes if you twitch it and then let it sit, they will strike it. Another tip I have is to throw a five-inch Deep Creek Sink-N-Catch worm where the fish missed my bait. A lot of times the bass will come back and strike a different bait. www.luckycraft.com. Another great topwater bait to use, especially for covering water is the buzz bait. Freedom Lures has made a buzz bait called Swing Buzz. www.freedomlures.com. This bait features the Freedom swing hook technology and anglers can customize this buzz bait by fishing it with the skirt or putting a toad on it. I like to put a Deep Creek frog on mine. As this bait is going through the water, the legs of the toad cause a lot of vibrations as you bring it across the water. I like to throw this bait on Sufix 832 braid. The reason I like braid is that there is no stretch when you get a strike and you can also get them out of any cover that they might take you into. Just remember that if you are catching a lot of small fish in the shallow waters, this usually means that the bigger fish have already moved to the deeper water. So put your shallow gear up in the rod box and get your deep tackle out. When I leave the shallow waters, I start depending on my Lowrance Depth finders to search for fish that might be located on the nearest points where some of the post-spawn bass might still be. I start looking for underwater structures such as rocks, tree laydowns, ledges, old railroads, road beds and house foundations. Bass love to get on these structures so they can ambush schools of shad. In June, bass will gang up in big schools and feed heavily to regain their strength after they have spawned. As I stated before, I have to depend heavily on my Lowrance HDS8 unit to find the fish when they start going deeper. It helps me to not only locate bass, but the bait fish, which is very important. Find the bait fish and the bass will be nearby, waiting on the lunch bell to go off. When your electronics find bass that are located directly on the bottom, then you know they are eating. You just have to look carefully on your screen to see them. Mark them with a waypoint on your electronics so that you can start casting to them. Some of the baits that I like to use are the Carolina rig. I use a three-foot leader tied onto a swivel with a Daiichi 3/0 or 4/0 hook depending on the size of the baits. The baits I like to throw are creature baits or big worms like eight- and ten-inch Deep Creek worms. www.deepcreeklures.com. Most anglers will use a ½-ounce weight, but I like a one-ounce weight. This heavier weight gives me the abil6 wilmington/Morehead city june 2018
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ity to cast farther and to feel more of the structure. Try it and see if it helps you next time on the water. Another slow bait to use when you are covering the bottom of the water is the football jig. This is where I will throw the Freedom Lure Football Swing Jig. I like to use a ½- to ¾-ounce, depending on how deep I need to fish. This company continues to amaze me with the new designs they produce. The keel weighted head design keeps the free-moving swing hook in the upright position at all times; plus it has a brass echo chamber that will give off a sound to help the fish better locate your bait as it is crawling across the bottom. I like to rig this bait with creature baits or an 11-inch Remy Ribbon Tail worm made by Deep Creek Lures. The combination of the swing head and the 11-inch worm standing up swinging back and forth makes it an awesome summertime bait to find those deeper fish. In addition, I like to cover a lot of water by throwing a crankbait. I recently met David Shumaker of Tishomingo, MS, owner of Core Strike. Some fellow tournament friends kept telling me about this crankbait that actually stands on the bottom on its bill. The bait is part of the S.O.B. series, which stands for Stands On Bottom. What is so unique about this crankbait is that it falls slowly to the bottom that mimics a baitfish going down to feed naturally by standing on its bill. You can actually hop the S.O.B. Crankbait across the bottom or slowly crank it. No matter how you fish this bait, it will land back on its bill and stand right up. This bait will stay longer in the strike zone where you need it to be. Anglers are always looking for an edge on catching more fish and this is one that you should have in your tackle box. Just don’t tell your fishing buddies until they are in your boat and wondering why you are catching more fish! For more information on this new bait go to www.corestrikebaits.com. Okay, I have taken you from the shallows to the deep waters for the month of June. Hopefully, you will go out and try these tips, but most of all take someone that doesn’t fish and introduce them to the world of fishing. It is amazing what memories you can make with family and friends on the water! See you on the water,
Hal Abshire Tournament Angler
left: Hal Abshire with five nice ones from Jordan Lake.
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Surf City/Topsail
Inshore this month, look for flounder holding along deep waterway channels, docks, creek mouths, oyster beds, and drop-offs that have adequate tidal movement. Three- to five-inch live menhaden and finger mullet fished on Carolina rigs are very effective on flounder. Use the lightest egg sinkers you can effectively stay on the bottom with, 1/4- and 3/8-ounce are adequate in shallower water, while 1/2- and 3/4-ounce may be needed in deeper zones. Z-Man MinnowZ and PaddlerZ’s fished on Fathom Inshore Jigs are very effective for catching flounder. Make sure the bait maintains close contact with the bottom and use Pro Cure bait scents to consistently catch “flatties” without the use of live bait. Cast the jig upcurrent and let the bait bounce along the bottom back towards the boat. Natural colors like Bad Shad, Mullettron, Redfish Toad, Green Lantern, and Red Bone are among my favorites while fishing clear water. If the water is stained from recent rains or while fishing more tannic water, I opt for darker colors and ones with chartruese. Sexy Mullet, Fried Chicken, Purple Demon, Chartreuse Silver Flake, and Gold Rush are among my favorite to fish in dingy waabove: Justin Clover from PA with an amberjack ter. caught while fishing nearshore with Capt. Chadwick of Redfish can be South End Anglers. found using a variety of different types of structure. Look for the reds patrolling shallow flats, oyster beds, docks, grass shorelines, and creek mouths. Live menhaden and finger mullet fished on Carolina rigs, free-lined, and fished under a float are extremely effective in bringing these fish to the boat. Look for reds to push off shallow feeding zones during the bottom of a falling tide. Some of the best fishing can occur during these times when the fish are concentrated into smaller areas adjacent to flats and smaller creeks. Rapala Skitterwalks are a great way to solicit strikes early and late in the day. The annual shrimp run will take place this month and the inshore species will take advantage of the bounty. Keep a Z-Man EZ Shrimp or VUDU Shrimp tied on to cast to fish feeding on the bounty. Sight casting with a live shrimp can be very effective; use a piece of split shot to aid in casting distance on windy days. The fishing from just off the beach out to 20 miles or so can offer some great options from the top to the bottom. The weather patterns should allow for more days that can be enjoyed “outside” as well. Always be sure your boat’s safety equipment is fully functional and up to date. File a trip plan with someone and don’t overlook the purchase of an EPIRB. Spanish mackerel should continue to keep nearshore anglers busy this month. Clarkspoons trolled behind planers, Blue Water Candy Spanish Daisies, and Yo-Zuri deep diving plugs are how most fill their coolers. Surface-feeding fish can be present throughout the day, especially around area inlets; however early and late in the day will give you the best shot at finding Spanish feeding on the surface. Hogy Epoxy and Heavy Minnow jigs are extremely effective when retrieved quickly through the school. Fly casters have great success using sparsely tied Clouser minnows and Surf Candies. Cobia fishing will be in full swing in June, especially during the first half of the month. Look for fish following schools of menhaden near the shore; pelicans diving can be a dead giveaway.
Nearshore bottom structure, sea buoys, stingrays, and sea turtles with Blue Water Candy Cobia Jigs, Z-Man Mag SwimZ, and HeroZ fished on ChinlockZ and TT Jigheads are very effective for getting bites from these fish. Bottom fishing can be really hot this month for a wide assortment of species including, sea bass, porgies, grunts, gag grouper, triggerfish, vermillion snapper, and rings. Metal jigs tipped with squid and chicken rigs baited with frozen minnows and squid will help “fill the box.” Greater amberjacks and barracuda are team players on most days for those looking for some “pullage.” Live baits are the most effective way to get nearshore jacks feeding. I like to get them frenzied with live baits and then switch to surface poppers and soft plastics to hook them. Barracuda respond well to ‘cuda tubes retrieved quickly across the surface and shallow diving plugs rigged with a short piece of seven strand wire. King mackerel, mostly school-sized fish, can be found in the same areas. Trolling and casting live baits to these fish can be the best way to get bites. Slow trolling with Hank Brown rigs and Pirate Plugs with dead bait are great tools for getting kings to bite. Rapala and Yo-Zuri plugs trolled from six to eight knots work very well at times. Traditional Drone spoons behind planers can help get more bites on days when nothing else will. Be sure and support your local tackle shops and charter captains, they are your ticket to a great day on the water. Give us a call at South End Anglers for advice on inshore and nearshore fishing or to book a charter. Mention Coastal Angler Magazine and take advantage of special pricing. Follow South End Anglers on Facebook at www.facebook. com/southendangersnc/ and Instagram at southendanglersnc. FORECAST BY: Capt. Chadwick Crawford South End Anglers • 540.460.3432 capt.chadwickcrawford@gmail.com • www.southendanglers.com
above: “Chief” with an over-slot redfish caught using live menhaden in the Topsail Island marsh while fishing with Captain Chadwick of South End Anglers.
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june 2018
wilmington/Morehead city 7
5/16/18 4:05 PM
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Atlantic Beach/Morehead City
Hard to believe, we’re rolling right into the summertime patterns. Feels like just yesterday when we were wishing winter would end and spring fishing would begin. Now, kids are getting out of school, so I think it’s safe to say summertime has begun and we are starting to see a lot of fish being caught. So far it looks like we’re going to have a good season. May was a pretty good month of fishing around the Atlantic Beach area, so hopefully this will continue right into the summer. We’re still seeing cobia come through the area, so they aren’t gone. We usually catch them until mid- to late-June. Usually, this time of the season we’ll weigh in smaller fish but we’re still weighing fish over 50-pounds. So, over the next few weeks you’ll have a chance of catching that big one. Inside in Bouge Sound, behind Shackleford Banks and at the Cape Lookout area have been good areas to fish. Most of the fish now are being caught bottom fishing with fresh shad and Live eels, both of which we still have instock. Some anglers are still getting shots at them sight fishing along the beaches; looking for bait above: Jason Peters, with a huge dolphin that topped the scales at 54-pounds, caught balls to cast into has been out at the Big Rock. working the best. Localmade Bowed-Up Bucktails, which we have in the shop, have been working great this season along with the live eels which we will have for just another week or so. A lot of the guys trolling for Spanish have been seeing cobia just swimming along the surface cruising, so keep a rod ready because you never know when you might run across one...you don’t want to miss that shot at a huge fish. Over the last couple of weeks, the Spanish fishing has been great. Anglers aren’t having any problem finding limits of fish and catching them pretty quickly. Right now is some of the best action of the season as we’re right before the water heats up; then they’ll become a bit harder to catch. Trolling Clarkspoons and local Bowed-Up Spoons behind #1 planers, mackerel trees and birds with squid chains all will produce a catch. If you aren’t into trolling, good numbers are being caught by casting small jigs. The new casting jigs we have in the shop are producing good numbers too. It always fun to fish when you match exactly what they are feeding on. There have been plenty of fish out front of Fort Macon, down the beach towards the Oceanana Pier and then back up toward Cape Lookout. While you’re looking for the Spanish you will find plenty of bluefish in the mix that can be caught using the same lures as the Spanish. Along with all the good Spanish fishing, anglers are catching plenty of bluefish too. Use the same methods of fishing for Spanish and you’ll have no problem catching them. Keep in mind: if trolling for Spanish and all you are catching are bluefish, speed your troll up and usually that will help you with more bites from the Spanish. Most of the chopper bluefish have moved on now, but, man, we had a great run this spring. They started showing up in April and anglers caught them pretty much all through last month...boat anglers as well as pier and surf anglers had a great time.
It’s that time of the year when the king mackerel start their showing. Most have been the smaller fish, but this past week I’ve heard of some fish over the 20-pound mark being caught. The Shipping Channel, Atlas Tanker, 17 Rock, Barge Wreck, North West Places, Dead Tree Hole and AR 285 are all common spots to find king mackerel action. Live bait and dead cigar minnows on dead bait rigs will be the best choice to find some action. I haven’t talked about sheepshead this year yet, but they are now in the area and action has been pretty good. I had a few customers come by this week with some nice catches. Fishing all the usual places like all the highrise bridges, Port wall and docks along the ICW will be the best places to look. Live sea urchins and live fiddler crabs have been working the best and we have both in-stock. Really, anywhere you find structure you might run across some fish to catch. We keep plenty of live fiddler crabs and sea urchins in-stock and will have them the rest of the season, until it gets too cold to keep them. There’s been some good flounder action on the east side around the AR reefs. Jigging two-ounce Spro White and Glow Bucktails tipped with a four-inch Berkley Gulp White Shrimp is the way to go. Also, AR 315, 320 and 330 could all be holding flounder and so will any other structure you might run across in the above: Judd, with a really nice cobia that ocean. The best inside wa- weighed in at 39-pounds, caught while fishing at Cape Lookout on the bottom ters have been the creeks, with dead menhaden. Port wall, and docks, along with drifting behind Shackleford Banks, have all been producing a few fish. Live mud minnows fished on flounder rigs seem to be working the best in the backwaters. Just remember, flounder like to live around structure, so they could be lying anywhere or around anything, plus they like moving water. Redfish action is still good in the area. You need to be looking for shallow water near oyster bars, grass beds and bait; usually you can find some fish. The Newport Marshes, Core Creek, Carrot Island, Middle Marsh, Newport River Marsh all have places like this...just look for them. As far as baits, Berkley Gulp, Redfish Magics, topwater plugs, popping corks, live mud minnows and dead mullet all are working great. It’s that time of the year when our shark fishing pick ups around the inlet, both just inside on the shoals and outside on the shoals. When they get fired up you can have a lot of fun with some real big fish on the inside waters. Along with being big, they’re pretty easy to catch. We have premade shark rigs here in the shop and plenty of shark bait so we can set you up and show you where to go to get a tug on a six- to eight-foot fish. Just remember you are dealing with sharks and they have teeth that can be very dangerous. You can check our weekly reports for the area at www.chasintailsoutdoors.com and keep up with daily reports on our Facebook page. Get out and catch some fish
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FORECAST BY: Capt. Matt Lamb Chasin’ Tails Bait & Tackle • Chasin’ Tails Charters Atlantic Beach, N.C. 252-240-FISH www.chasintailsoutdoors.com june 2018
wilmington/Morehead city 9
5/16/18 4:05 PM
Offshore-Pelagics
The Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament! Our fishing is great in June but all eyes will quickly turn to this awesome event, and this year is the 60th anniversary. Most of the charter fleet and a large number of private boats and also many large out-of-state boats come in to participate in pursuit of a huge payout. The good news for anyone not competing is that you will have less pressure on the mahi fishing from the charter fleet. June is a great time to be on the water; the cold weather is gone and we typically have pretty favorable conditions throughout the month. The fish will be in their “normal areas” and moving a little closer to shore as the Gulf Stream begins to remain closer – in other words, don’t overrun the fish! Mahi will be the primary species found but there are still blackfin tuna and wahoo to be found as well as the peak of our blue marlin run. This is an excellent opportunity to catch some meat for the freezer and then go hunting for a “fish of a lifetime.” This time of year we leave the dock with our bait box focused on mahi. If you find them you are likely to find them in abundance, so you need to be prepared. I will usually start out with my planer rod working but remove it from the spread once we find the mahi – it is actually more trouble than it’s worth if you get in a heavy mahi blitz. If you are organized, you will be able to keep feeding out fresh baits as you are fighting other fish, which allows you to catch a bunch in a hurry. KEEP COUNT! You should only keep what you are sure you will eat! I hate to see anyone letting these fish go to waste – you need to clean them,
Offshore/Bottom
June brings warm water and hot fishing
June begins the beginning of warm water rushing inshore that brings all the pelagics inshore of the break. This is the time of year that the sabiki is your best friend. Not only will the sabiki bring up grass grunts and sailors choice that are the ultimate baits to send to the bottom, but the sabiki will produce the live cigs and sardines for the light line. Tuna, dolphin and wahoo will follow the warmer water inshore of the break following the schools of bait into the 100- and 125-foot water depths. This is where they are extremely vulnerable to a large live cigar minnow on the light line. Frozen and/or fresh chum will certainly draw all the predators to your boat, and once they are there, they cannot deny a live cigar minnow and darn sure not a live sardine. I don’t know what it is, but a large live sardine is IRRESISTABLE to everything that swims! Remember…elephants eat peanuts, and large wahoo, dolphin and tuna eat six-inch sardines. I would suggest using a heavy duty single strand wire for a stinger hook rather then the standard 44# connection for the stinger hook. I like the 108# single strand wire for a stinger and a #2 stinger hook for the larger baits… just to be prepared….just saying. When selecting the baits out of the live well, use the smaller baits for the bottom baits, and the larger baits for the light line. The light line can certainly be a distraction to the overall bottom fishing agenda as it can go off so much that you can’t keep everyone on the bottom…fishing. Speaking of fishing the light line and the bottom at the same time is only effectively possible when anchored. I would STRONGLY suggest 10 wilmington/Morehead city june 2018
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package them and have sufficient freezer space to keep them...there is nothing wrong with catch and release! I know I say it every month, but there is no super secret bait – these fish are hungry and most days are willing to attack most anything in your spread, especially once you find the right spot and they become competitive. That said, I do often like to use some bright colors when these fish are thick – I use a lot of chartreuse combos, some orange and of course the old favorite of blue/ white. Once you get some meat in the box put out a couple of larger baits, something like a blue/white Islander or something similar and a horse or select ballyhoo. Push offshore a bit and see if you can get that big bite! There are plenty of mahi out there also, so it doesn’t mean you will stop catching and there is usually a lot less boat traffic to contend with. It’s an excellent opportunity to turn a good day into a great day and make some memories! June is a fantastic time to get offshore and catch some good eating fish and also find yourself a blue marlin. Make sure you have your stuff rigged and ready to go to maximize your time on the break. The Big Rock Tournament will be going on June 9 – 16 so be prepared for a lot of big boat traffic leaving and returning thru the inlet. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, take a minute every day to call a family member and tell them you love them – no fish out there is more important than that! Plan ahead, be prepared and have fun! FORECAST BY: Capt. Troy Pate 252-917-0445 • capttroypate@aol.com
anchoring vs. drifting over a beautiful piece of bottom. The plus side of anchoring vs. drifting is you can get a “rally” going, as opposed to catching one or two on a perfect drift over a stack of fish on a ledge. The 125-foot range can be a real play during June for red and scamps due to the cooler water temps this year. May has always been the best month for scamps, but this year has the potential for being the best for scamps in 125 -140 feet of water. There are select live baits that are best for scamps, but live pinfish are at the top of the list...period. Yes, live sardines on the bottom are the ultimate bait for everything, but a live pinfish (the diameter of a baseball and larger) are “scamp candy”… no ifs, ands, or buts. Sailors choice are equally as effective, but you can put the odds in your favor by taking live pinfish from the marina. This is an easy “no brainer” if you have access to a place to put over a pinfish trap or two. You can accomplish the same thing by pulling the boat up to a cleaning station and chumming the pinfish one chunk at a time. Keep throwing one piece of bait (in the same exact place) over and over until you get the herd of pinfish eating the offerings consistently until it’s time to throw the cast net over the feeding frenzy. One cast of the cast net can produce a couple or several dozen perfect scamp baits. The beauty of going to the 125-foot water or deeper to bottom fish (when the current allows) is the possibilities of tuna, wahoo and dolphin on the light line. As always, take the kids and be a good example of how to take care of harvested fish. FORECAST BY: Capt. Tim Barefoot Barefoot Fishing www.circlehookjig.com www.barefootfishing.net
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Southport-Ocean Isle
more ground when the fish are not biting, or you simply haven’t found them yet for that day due to the fact they are scattered. I like to run a #1 planer with 30 feet of 17-pound test Berkeley Vanish fluorocarbon line as a leader off one of the gunwale 30-degree angled rod holders... in my opinion, the 30-degree holder keeps the line and spoon out of the propwash a little better, allowing for more strikes. Off the other gunwale 30-degree holder I run a #2 planer with 30 feet of 17-pound test Vanish. These “planer rods” are set to where the line is cutting the water with the drag from the planer just in front of the first wave or about 10 feet behind the boat. Down the center I like to run a 15-foot leader of the same material as above behind a two- or three-ounce in-line trolling weight. The conditions of the day will often suggest to me what color and size of Clarkspoon to employ, but oftentimes in the waters around the Cape Fear River I find that gold is the best option. Other times the water is clearer off to the east and the silver and green tape on silver will provide much more action. I try to match the color of spoon to the way I feel the Spanish mackerel are viewing the minnows they are feeding on that day at that time. Here is the most important part to the entire piece of how we troll for Spanish mackerel...coming off the planer I put in-line five small ball-bearing swivels, not 4 nor 6, one hooked into the other; this small trick will allow for you to leader in countless numbers of fish before your leader will tangle, as well as will allow for you to tie the Clarkspoon to the bitter end of the leader. This will create many more strikes by the end of the day! No matter what you are targeting in 2018, June is a great month to find yourself on the water! From red drum, flounder, and speckled trout being reeled in on a Bett’s Halo Shad or MirrOlure tipped with Pro Cure Inshore Angler Scent, to Spanish mackerel on the beaches, king mackerel and grouper in the offshore scene, and mahi mixed with tuna and wahoo in the Gulf Stream, June is the month to break in the 2018 fishing season, if you haven’t already, with great memories to be made and fish stories to be told! We hope to see you on the water!
The excited call “FISH ON!” can be heard resounding from the cockpit of many fishing boats on the southeastern coast of North Carolina during the month of June, with anglers enjoying the excitement of nearly every targeted species! The water temperatures have finally reached the degree range to where the bait is moving closer to the beaches and the fish are following close after and that creates great action from the backwater to the Gulf Stream. In the Gulf Stream, the mahi-mahi have shown up in full force with fishermen finding big bull mahi near the breaks where bait is being pushed up by the upwellings from the contours of the Continental Shelf below. Be sure not to pass up a weedline during your venture to find fish in the Stream; we like to scout a weedline by approaching slowly and checking to see if there are small baitfish under it. If so, we will chunk a few pieces of cut squid and cigar minnows under the line to see if any action from pelagics is observable. You might even want to incorporate a small circle hook sunk into a squid head on a spinning outfit amongst the other pieces of bait that are drifting under the weedline. Often this will put an angler tied into the first mahi and several others will follow. In these same waters trolling a ballyhoo spread rigged with a couple of swimming style and other ballyhoo rigged with a Laceration Lure Skirt to create a bubble trail. The constant “bobbing” motions as the bait is dragged through the water over structures and temperature breaks will provide action from not only the big mahi, but also from blackfin and yellowfin tuna as well as some quality wahoo reel screamers! A little closer in from the Gulf Stream in the 80- to 120-foot depth range the grouper can be found waiting to take a bait and bury the rod tip when cigar minnows are dropped on a good rock or ledge. If you have the time on the way out to hit some of the navigational buoys (for instance, Knuckle Buoy or the legs of the Frying Pan Tower) with a sabiFORECAST BY: Capt. Chris Foster ki rig, this will provide a bait tank full of ‘liveys’ for the day on the grouYeah Right Charters per ledges. The same rig you utilize for the dead cigar minnows with www.yeahrightcharters.com these live Spanish sardines or cigar minnows will often lead to some nice boat: 336-239-5429 office: 910-845-2004 scamp and gag groupers being put on the deck. Once you have a limit of grouper on board, move around the area you are fishing to some hard bottom areas or where there are more scattered rocks instead of steep ledges and you will often find that the snapper and triggerfish will be lying in these areas. Also remember to try to always keep a light line out with a cigar minnow under it while anchored on these bottom fishing structures and many times you will find several nice king mackerel and maybe even a mahi or two in the cooler at the end of the day. Trolling around these same locations, as well as areas that are even closer to shore (in the 60-foot range) during June will have anglers finding action from king mackerel, mahi-mahi, cobia, and even the occasional African pompano. It is always better to be slow-trolling live bait such as menhaden that were cast netted on the beach on the way offshore the morning of your trip, or to stop and put a bunch of live minnows and/or sardines in the bait tank utilizing the method mentioned above. At the end of the day, most days live bait will always lead to more strikes and in turn more fish in the box! No matter what you are fishing for offshore, June is sure to give anglers some great action in the waters off our coast. Nearshore, the Spanish mackerel have shown up in good numbers and you will most often find the fish schooled up under the seagulls and terns that are feeding on the glass minnows that are surfacing due to the mackerel running them up to the surface. On the Yeah Right we mainly troll for Spanish mackerel and do this using Clarkspoons. I like to have an array of Clarkspoons in silver, green tape on silver, pink tape on silver, and gold in sizes #00 and #0 and I put these behind a Sea Striker #1 or #2 planer. We troll at around six- to seven-knots in this configuration, depending on the current conditions.By doing this, the Captain is trying to match the speed of the baitfish and many times the above: David Dillard, Preston Sneed and Aaron Sneed of Vale, NC and Spanish will only feed when the spoons are being trolled in the direction Fred Church of Hickory, NC loaded the Yeah Right II with limits of black the glass minnows are moving. This speed also allows for you to cover bass, snappers, grouper and almaco jacks on a recent offshore trip. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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june 2018
wilmington/Morehead city 11
5/16/18 4:05 PM
Morehead City Tides
Wrightsville Beach Tides
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina 34.2133° N, 77.7867° W
Day
Fri 01 Sat 02 Sun 03 Mon 04 Tue 05 Wed 06 Thu 07 Fri 08 Sat 09 Sun 10 Mon 11 Tue 12 Wed 13 Thu 14 Fri 15 Sat 16 Sun 17 Mon 18 Tue 19 Wed 20 Thu 21 Fri 22 Sat 23 Sun 24 Mon 25 Tue 26 Wed 27 Thu 28 Fri 29 Sat 30
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Low
3:57 AM 4:35 AM 5:16 AM 6:03 AM 12:39 AM 6:56 AM 1:21 AM 7:50 AM 2:05 AM 8:40 AM 2:55 AM 9:28 AM 3:54 AM 10:14 AM 4:54 AM 11:01 AM 5:49 AM 11:50 AM 12:45 AM 1:40 AM 2:33 AM 3:24 AM 4:15 AM 5:07 AM 6:05 AM 12:31 AM 7:07 AM 1:24 AM 8:07 AM 2:17 AM 9:01 AM 3:14 AM 9:51 AM 4:14 AM 10:37 AM 5:11 AM 11:21 AM 12:08 AM 12:54 AM 1:39 AM 2:20 AM 2:58 AM 3:34 AM
High
Low
Morehead City, North Carolina
JuNe 2018
High
34.7200° N, 76.7283° W
Sunrise Sunset
10:03 AM 3:52 PM 10:25 PM 6:00 AM 8:17 PM 10:51 AM 4:29 PM 11:11 PM 6:00 AM 8:18 PM 11:38 AM 5:10 PM 11:56 PM 5:59 AM 8:19 PM 12:24 PM 6:01 PM 5:59 AM 8:19 PM 1:07 PM 7:05 PM 5:59 AM 8:20 PM 1:51 PM 8:10 PM 5:59 AM 8:20 PM 2:39 PM 9:09 PM 5:59 AM 8:21 PM 3:34 PM 10:03 PM 5:59 AM 8:21 PM 4:33 PM 10:56 PM 5:58 AM 8:22 PM 5:27 PM 11:50 PM 5:58 AM 8:22 PM 6:17 PM 5:58 AM 8:23 PM 6:39 AM 12:42 PM 7:06 PM 5:58 AM 8:23 PM 7:29 AM 1:35 PM 7:55 PM 5:58 AM 8:23 PM 8:21 AM 2:28 PM 8:47 PM 5:58 AM 8:24 PM 9:16 AM 3:21 PM 9:42 PM 5:58 AM 8:24 PM 10:14 AM 4:13 PM 10:39 PM 5:58 AM 8:24 PM 11:13 AM 5:10 PM 11:36 PM 5:59 AM 8:25 PM 12:12 PM 6:14 PM 5:59 AM 8:25 PM 1:07 PM 7:23 PM 5:59 AM 8:25 PM 2:02 PM 8:31 PM 5:59 AM 8:26 PM 2:59 PM 9:32 PM 5:59 AM 8:26 PM 3:58 PM 10:27 PM 5:59 AM 8:26 PM 4:55 PM 11:19 PM 6:00 AM 8:26 PM 5:46 PM 6:00 AM 8:26 PM 6:02 AM 12:04 PM 6:31 PM 6:00 AM 8:26 PM 6:46 AM 12:48 PM 7:13 PM 6:01 AM 8:26 PM 7:28 AM 1:31 PM 7:54 PM 6:01 AM 8:26 PM 8:10 AM 2:13 PM 8:34 PM 6:01 AM 8:27 PM 8:53 AM 2:52 PM 9:16 PM 6:02 AM 8:27 PM 9:36 AM 3:29 PM 9:58 PM 6:02 AM 8:27 PM Tide Tables provided by SaltwaterCentral.Com
Day
Fri 01 Sat 02 Sun 03 Mon 04 Tue 05 Wed 06 Thu 07 Fri 08 Sat 09 Sun 10 Mon 11 Tue 12 Wed 13 Thu 14 Fri 15 Sat 16 Sun 17 Mon 18 Tue 19 Wed 20 Thu 21 Fri 22 Sat 23 Sun 24 Mon 25 Tue 26 Wed 27 Thu 28 Fri 29 Sat 30
High
Low
4:41 AM 5:21 AM 6:02 AM 12:04 AM 6:43 AM 12:49 AM 7:27 AM 1:36 AM 8:12 AM 2:27 AM 8:58 AM 3:21 AM 9:44 AM 4:16 AM 10:31 AM 5:10 AM 11:19 AM 12:16 AM 1:10 AM 2:02 AM 2:54 AM 3:46 AM 4:38 AM 5:32 AM 6:27 AM 12:51 AM 7:23 AM 1:50 AM 8:20 AM 2:51 AM 9:15 AM 3:52 AM 10:09 AM 4:50 AM 11:00 AM 5:45 AM 11:47 AM 12:51 AM 1:38 AM 2:20 AM 3:00 AM 3:38 AM 4:16 AM
High
Low
JUNE 2018
High
Sunrise Sunset
10:27 AM 4:12 PM 10:43 PM 5:54 AM 8:14 PM 11:08 AM 4:52 PM 11:23 PM 5:54 AM 8:15 PM 11:51 AM 5:35 PM 5:54 AM 8:16 PM 12:38 PM 6:23 PM 5:53 AM 8:16 PM 1:28 PM 7:16 PM 5:53 AM 8:17 PM 2:22 PM 8:15 PM 5:53 AM 8:17 PM 3:16 PM 9:18 PM 5:53 AM 8:18 PM 4:10 PM 10:20 PM 5:53 AM 8:18 PM 5:01 PM 11:20 PM 5:53 AM 8:19 PM 5:52 PM 5:53 AM 8:19 PM 6:04 AM 12:07 PM 6:41 PM 5:53 AM 8:20 PM 6:56 AM 12:56 PM 7:31 PM 5:53 AM 8:20 PM 7:49 AM 1:46 PM 8:22 PM 5:53 AM 8:20 PM 8:41 AM 2:38 PM 9:13 PM 5:53 AM 8:21 PM 9:35 AM 3:31 PM 10:05 PM 5:53 AM 8:21 PM 10:30 AM 4:26 PM 10:58 PM 5:53 AM 8:21 PM 11:28 AM 5:25 PM 11:53 PM 5:53 AM 8:22 PM 12:29 PM 6:28 PM 5:53 AM 8:22 PM 1:33 PM 7:35 PM 5:53 AM 8:22 PM 2:39 PM 8:45 PM 5:53 AM 8:23 PM 3:42 PM 9:55 PM 5:54 AM 8:23 PM 4:41 PM 11:00 PM 5:54 AM 8:23 PM 5:35 PM 11:59 PM 5:54 AM 8:23 PM 6:23 PM 5:54 AM 8:23 PM 6:34 AM 12:31 PM 7:07 PM 5:55 AM 8:23 PM 7:20 AM 1:12 PM 7:48 PM 5:55 AM 8:23 PM 8:02 AM 1:52 PM 8:27 PM 5:55 AM 8:24 PM 8:43 AM 2:30 PM 9:04 PM 5:56 AM 8:24 PM 9:22 AM 3:09 PM 9:41 PM 5:56 AM 8:24 PM 10:01 AM 3:47 PM 10:18 PM 5:56 AM 8:24 PM Tide Tables provided by SaltwaterCentral.Com
Great Times...Memories that Last Forever Left: Jesse Perkins holds up a lionfish, an invasive species, that was recently caught aboard the Yeah Right II.
above: Jake Simmons, from Raleigh caught this early season five-pound Spanish mackerel this May using a four-inch YoZuri while fishing near Brown’s Inlet with Capt. Jeff Cronk of Fish’n4life Charters.
Left: Walker Raeburn with a nice Spanish he caught trolling with a Bowed-Up Spoon. 12 wilmington/Morehead city june 2018
6_2018 CAM .indd 12
RIGHT: Although the current was “screaming”, this Oak Island/ Southport group of Gary MacDaniel, David Diehl, Jason Hartford, Frank Styles, and Ray Barkalow, caught black bass, almaco jacks, groupers, silver and gray snappers, vermillion snappers and a shark when they went offshore with Capt. Butch Foster.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
5/16/18 4:05 PM
S
outh Carolina legislators enacted new regulations in May for striped bass in the Santee River system. The changes extend the period in which striped bass may be caught and implement a slot limit for keeper fish. The changes to state law were signed by Gov. McMaster on May 3 and made effective immediately. Within the boundaries of the Santee River system (including lakes Marion and Moultrie), from Oct. 1 through June 15, it is unlawful to take or possess a striped bass less than 23 inches or greater than 25 inches, provided that one striped bass taken or possessed may be greater than 26 inches. Anglers fishing the Santee system from now until June 15 can still keep three fish, but they must be between 23 and 25 inches, or one of the three may be greater than 26 inches. The law also extends the legal period for keeping fish for two additional weeks—through June 15. Previously, the waters of the Santee system were closed to striped bass fishing between June 1 and September 30. The seasonal closure was started in 2008 to reduce the stress-related mortality of striped bass during the warm summer months. Length limits alone cannot protect striped bass during the warm season because catch-and-release stress results in a high rate of mortality.
Fish until the cows come home.
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5/17/18 1:48 PM
“Let’s go fishing dad.” That’s all I needed to hear from my wife and daughter to get a boat ready. Wait a minute, I sold my inshore boat a few days ago. I have a tendency to do that being the owner of a boat dealership. Big Boys Play Toys Inc., in Palatka, Fla., has made it easy to get my hands on a new boat whenever I felt the need. “Well girls, let me see what I can come up with.” So I grabbed a 17 Mitzi Skiff powered by a Honda 50 hp and prepared the boat for a trip to the Intracoastal. We loaded up two girls, a 75-pound boxer named Cupcake and off we went. Basically, four people popped up on plane and off we went wiggling our way through the creek, dodging oyster mounds and grass islands heading for my favorite hole. The whole time I’m thinking, “I can’t put a scratch in this new boat or the value will drop.” That is when the Mitzi Mini Tower was conceived. I stood up on the rear deck to see the next obstacle that could devalue this beautiful Mitzi and realized this was the vantage point that every owner could appreciate. The fishing trip was a great family outing, but I had a mission now to create the best stand-up inshore fishing machine for the money. What better platform to work with than the 17 Mitzi tiller model with no console. Each one we build continues to get better as we take the advice of guides and customers and put that in the next one we build. The interior deck space is increased along with the poling platform being lowered and moved forward to create a leaning post. This makes the balance better when poling the boat. It’s a great machine derived from a need to protect your investment.
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5/17/18 1:48 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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JUNE 2018
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Garmin inReach Mini Measuring just 4”x2” and weighing just 3.5 ounces, Garmin’s brand new inReach Mini is a powerful, yet compact, satellite communicator that offers two-way messaging and 24/7 SOS function when combined with subscription to access the Iridium satellite network. Small enough to fit in your pocket, the inReach Mini eliminates the need for cell tower coverage. It works anywhere when using the Iridium satellite network. The inReach Mini can be used on its own or paired with a compatible device. The Earthmate app pairs with the inReach Mini via Bluetooth to a compatible smartphone for access to maps, aerial imagery, and charts. The Earthmate app also allows inReach features to be accessed through the paired mobile device, so a user can reach anyone in their contact list. The inReach Mini also works with Garmin’s fenix smartwatch to send and receive messages from a watch. Every inReach device gives users access to a cloud-based website to plan trips with waypoints and routes and to create preset messages and quick texts. In the website, users can sync and manage device settings, update firmware, link social media accounts and store unlimited tracking data. To receive weather forecasts, the optional service provides detailed weather updates directly to the inReach Mini. Small but mighty, the inReach Mini is impact resistant and water-rated to IPX7, so it’s built tough to withstand extreme conditions. The inReach Mini includes an internal, rechargeable lithium battery for up to 50 hours of use at the default 10-minute tracking mode and up to 20 days at the 30-minute interval extended tracking mode.
www.garmin.com/inreach COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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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
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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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BOAT REVIEW CustomBilt Pondtoons
SPECIFICATIONS LENGTH: 14’ to 16’ BEAM: 5’ to 6’ MAX HP: 9.9 Hp CONSTRUCTION: .090 Marine-Grade Aluminum BUILDER: Custombilt Pondtoons
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. Contact us at 334-684-2210 or pondtoons@gmail.com with any questions to help you “customize” your very own CustomBilt Pondtoon boat.
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5/17/18 1:37 PM
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. 5 Boat packages available starting at $1799.* *NY & WA residents add sales tax.
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There’s a lot going inside a 4-Stroke engine. Keep it protected with ECSTAR Suzuki Genuine Oil. Available in Gallons or Quarts at a Suzuki Marine Dealer Near You.
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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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FLY FISHING
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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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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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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
A
Out Of Thunder Bay, Canada
ER
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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.
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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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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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