SSFHMagazine July/August 2018

July/August 2018

Your FREE Guide To The Great Outdoors Since 1965!

LOCAL • Tournaments • News & Events • Tide Tables • Feeding Times

Spiny Lobster Sport Season July 25-26, 2018 Regular Spiny Lobster Season August 6 - March 31

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 2

Caitlyn Cardamone caught this 21 pound Mahi offshore Ponce Inlet.

Daniel Fink with 2 nice triggerfish caught offshore Ponce Inlet.

Jim Justice and his son had a great day aboard the Vulcan with Capt Rick Trussell out of Ponce Inlet.

George Brownfield of Port Orange with a nice 6 pound trout caught on live bait from the Port Orange area.

Happy young angler with a Barracuda caught aboard Reel Compulsive Fishing Charters with Capt Tony Varano in New Smyrna Beach.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 2

Thanks to those who served and are serving

We have what it takes to float your boat!

Land of the Free Home of the Brave

GOD BLESS AMERICA

• Steering • Trailer Parts • Stainless Hardware • Control Cables (Mercury Generation II) • Cleaning Supplies • Safety Equipment • Electronics • Tent Sale • Dock Lines • Hose • Electrical • Starboard • Boat Fenders • Marine Tinned Wire Now Carrying Sterling • LED Lighting Silver Nautical Jewelry • Saltwater Fishing Supplies • Pumps Bilge, Aerator, Washdown, Fresh Water • and so much more....... Cast All Your Troubles Away-Go Fishing!

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 4

New Home Decor

For Your Home, Porch, Tiki Bar, Garage, Boat House & Dock

Hurricane Season is among us!

Consoles are in!

Get Supplies Now!

Keep Calm and Drop an Anchor!

Docklines 3/8, 1/2, 5/8 & 3/4

We have your steering needs. Grab it by the Helm!

Make your Boat Shine!

Think Safety!

If Irma hurt your dock, we have Dock Boxes and Dock Ladders in stock.

If we don’t have what you need, make sure you check with Tony or Cindy to see if we can order it for next day delivery!

386.252.5019

www.surplusunlimited.com Store Hours: 8:30-5:00 M-F • 9-4 Sat • Closed Sunday

613 International Speedway Blvd. West • Daytona Beach SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 5

P.O. Box 290002 Port Orange, Fl. 32127 386-576-3953 Email sfandginc@yahoo.com Published By: Desiree’ Harbster

$595.00

In memory of Roger S. Harbster 12/25/1929 ~ 4/24/2009 Dorothy Harbster 3/17/1936-4/18/2018

GATORBACK TRAILER Sales & Service is Daytona’s newest trailer repair center.

WRITERS:

Desiree’ Harbster ~ FOWA Capt. Lynda Hawkins ~ FOWA Tony Young-FWC Tim Camp- Sale Representative

Front Captions *Virginia Vedder and Frank Schaff caught these 2 groupers aboard the Decoy 2 out of Ponce Inlet. *David Gallineau from Louisiana caught this big bass staying at Bass World Lodge fishing with Capt. Don using wild shiners.

We can service, repair and weld any steel or aluminum trailer!

Sales, Service and Parts “We’ll Hook You Up” • Cargo Trailers • Dump Trailers • Utility Trailers • Motorcycle Trailers • Boat Trailers

• Homesteader • Rance Renegade/Lightning • Anderson Trailers • Bad Boy Mowers

(386) 317-6295

www.gatorbacktrailer.com 5481 S Ridgewood Ave, Port Orange, FL 32127 Southern States Fishn’ & Huntn’ Magazine (R) owned by R.S. Harbster Enterprises reserves the right to edit any an all copy submitted for publication. We are only responsible for the space occupied by errors, all special’s, prices, contract deals are final NO REFUNDS. All prices, offers, deals & circulation are subject to change with out notice Neither our publications or our advertisers are responsible for typographical errors, misprints or misinformation or errors of any kind. Our sales persons are non-employees and work on commission (outside Sales). This publication is (R) and fully (C). The magazine welcomes stories, articles, artwork and pictures but are not responsible for unsolicited material. If you would like your information returned please send a self addressed stamped envelope. Southern States Fishn’ & Huntn’ Magazine retains reprint rights on articles and photo’s forever. We can not be held reponsible for lost or damaged photo’s and can place them at anytime in the magazine. All return checks will be charged $25.00 due at once. Advertisers are responsible for checking their advertisements for mistakes after each printing. We are not responsible for long running mistakes. Circulation quotes are based on readers. Photo’s in our magazine are a free service please print caption on back of each picture. Sometimes we use photo’s without a caption, CO-OP is a free service, It is the responsibility of the advertiser to collect merchandise. We are not responsible for CO-OP Merchandise. We print 6 times per year. (Bi-Monthly) Close out is the 15th. of the month prior to print date.

Expert Free Advice & Friendly Service with a smile!!

Live & Frozen Bait - Shrimp-Mud Minnows-Fiddle Crabs Tackle-Rods & Reels-and much more!

Closest & Easy Access to the Boat Ramp!

96 Dunlawton Ave Port Orange, Fl. • 386-760-1871 SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 6

VOLUSIA COUNTY LINE X OF VOLUSIA COUNTY @ 386-740-1040 is offering $50 off their premium bed liners. Please bring in the coupon to receive the discount.

Nancy and the staff at B & G TRAILERS in DeLand @ 386-734-5244 carry a huge selection of new & used boat trailers as well as jet ski, cycle and pontoon boats. They do repairs as well. Their boat trailers incorporate the latest in design technology with consistent quality construction.

Paul & Irene Gercak of DeLAND BOAT CENTER @ 386-734-0166 Family owned and operated for over 16 years. Proud to offer outstanding sales, service, and repairs to Central Florida boaters. They are a Mercury Certified Dealer. Come in and meet the friendly, knowledgeable staff Tues thru Fri 8:30 to 5:00 Sat 8:30 to 4:00.

TRUCK STUFF @ 386-740-9107 Mike has recently moved from DeLand to De Leon Springs. His new address is 5042 Hwy 17, De Leon Springs, Fl. He also said they are overstocked on used truck toppers and no reasonable offer will be refused. Tool boxes and all truck accessories are in stock and they install.

The bait from Donald’s Bait & Tackle in Port Orange appears to be catching the fish. Stop by a get expert advice on what’s biting.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 7

By: Desiree’ Harbster and Capt Lynda Hawkins

Florida’s Largest Trailer Dealer

Large Selection of Used Trailers

B & G TRAILERS INC.

386-734-5244 • www.bgtrailers.com 2340 International Speedway Hwy 92 Deland Fl.

These happy anglers on the right had a great day of fishing aboard the Vulcan out of Ponce Inlet with Capt. Rick Trussell.

Light House Marina

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 8

Custom Aluminum Work 735 Airpark Rd Hanger B-3 Edgewater 386-957-3756

Come Experience The Fishin’ Hole Difference!

OFFSHORE AND INSHORE TACKLE EXPERT ROD AND REEL REPAIR LIVE AND FROZEN BAIT Gift Open 7 Days

386-252-9804 Certificates

450 N. Beach Street • Downtown Daytona Beach

FREE ADVICE *YOUR SALTWATER HEADQUARTERS*

Halifax Sport Fishing Club Charts !

PENN & QUANTUM WARRANTY CENTER RODS ~ REELS ~ BAIT ~ TACKLE ~ ROD & REEL REPAIR 386-788-2120 Fax 386-788-2579

3514 S. Atlantic Ave. Daytona Beach Shores

Parker Adams with a nice trigger fish caught on bait from Salty Dawg Outfitters in Ponce Inlet.

Mon-Sat 5am-7pm Sun 5am-6pm www.fishingshack.com

Coupon Good for all in Party

$5 OFF Regular Adult or Child Ticket

Expires 12/15/18

Call For Reservations, Details & Trip Times

Located at: Down The Hatch Restaurant Ponce Inlet, Fl.

386•763•4388 SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 9

Jody Lydic from Ocala with a nice mahi weighing in at 18lbs caught on ballyhoo from Salty Dawg Outfitters in Ponce Inlet.

Newly Remodeled

Now Open!

LIVE BAIT & TACKLE Salty Dawg owner Jeremy Farlow with a nice gator trout weighing in at 11lbs caught on a lure from Salty Dawg Outfitters in Ponce Inlet.

Country Store

1871 West Hwy 44 Deland, Florida

Feed-Beer-Soda-Snacks Refill Propane Gas & Cylinders Open 7 Days 5:30 am 10# Bag of Ice $1.09 386-736-4117

www.bobsdiscountmarine.com

Nautic al Gifts

Granada Pier

yak Ka tals n Re

Bait & Tackle Open 7 Days a Week

•Live Bait •Tackle •Gear •Maps & Advice •Smoked Fish

One South Beach St. Ormond Beach

Dale Adams with a nice cobia caught on live pinfish from Salty Dawg Outfitters in Ponce Inlet.

386-676-9078 • www.granadapier.com “Your Snook Headquarters”

“FREE” Lighted Fishing Pier for Night Time Enjoyment SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 10

Stumpnocker Skiffs

Bennington Luxury & Performance 2 Yamaha Master Tech’s on site!

Sportsman Premium Bay Boats & Center Consoles

Boat Rentals

WHEEL-A-WAY TRAILER SALES 3113 Ridgewood Ave./US 1 Edgewater, Fl. 32141 We carry a full line of Enclosed Trailers Dump Trailers & Utility Trailers WE EXCEPT TRADE-INS WE BUY USED TRAILERS

.

386-423-5553 WWW.WHEELAWAYSALES.COM SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 11

www.AnchorHardwareandStorage.com Open 6am-6pm 7 days a week!

Anchor Hardware And Storage

726 North U.S. 1, Oak Hill, Fl “You name it we got it!”

•TACKLE •FROZEN BAITS •LIVE BAIT EVERYDAY •CALCUTTA DEALER •MARINE & TRAILER SUPPLIES •SHRIMPING NETS, LIGHTS & ACCESSORIES •STAR FIRE UNDERWATER LIGHTS IN STOCK •REPLACEMENT HALOGEN BULBS •STAINLESS STEEL FLOUNDER JIGS •CLAM & OYSTER STEAMERS •SHRIMP NETS-FRAME NETS

386-345-0746

Amber Wilson and Mike Davis with two trout weighing in at 8lbs and 5lbs caught on live shrimp from Salty Dawg Outfitters.

Deb Brownfield of Port Orange with a nice 8lb trout caught in the Port Orange area on live bait.

THE COMPLETE HARDWARE STORE

•Bait & Tackle •Fishing Supplies •Surf Rod Combo’s •Tide Clocks •Crab Traps •Cast Nets •Shrimp Nets

•Beach Supplies •Umbrellas •Body Boards •Wind Stocks •Chairs •Kites •Flags

Chris Tomlinson with a nice 6 lb trout caught on live bait in the Port Orange area.

Coronado Hardware PLUMBING - ELECTRICAL PAINT-GARDEN SUPPLIES KEYS MADE ON SITE

716 3RD. AVENUE (BEACHSIDE) NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL.

386-427-0746

Hours: Monday-Saturday 7:00am-5:30pm / Sunday 9:00am-2:00pm SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 12

386-228-3525

www.bluewatercharter.net 386-547-4480

Capt Tony Varano 25 Years Experience 34’ Pro Sport Center Console Deep Sea Fishing Charters Inshore and Offshore Charters 5-10 hour trips Up to 6 passengers Liscensed & Insured Everything Furnished Except Food & Drink

Brian Wilson, Marlon Dill and Matt Greelee with two kingfish weighing in at 27lbs caught on ballyhoo from Salty Dawg Outfitters in Ponce Inlet.

Sand Dollar Charters & Rentals Thinking about renting a boat while visiting New Smyrna Beach, Daytona Beach, Orlando, Ormond Beach or Key Largo? We have two locations both in New Smyrna Beach, Florida or Key Largo, Florida.

Whether your on vacation, a local resident or live close by, we offer a wide variety of boat rentals. Choose from a rigged out fishing boat, pontoon boats, or even an inlet sleeper.

When you arrive at Sand Dollar Charters & Rentals, your boat is always ready to go. When you return, just throw us the keys and we will take care of the rest! www.sanddollarcharters.net New Smyrna 386-957-3913, Key Largo 305-202-1894 SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 13

Ponce de Leon Inlet Tides July 2018 Full Service Bait & Tackle Shop

Live and Frozen Bait, Full line of inshore, offshore tackle and lures Breakfast, Lunch and Ice Cream available Close to boat ramp and jetty • You want it we have it!

Open 7 days 6am-6pm • 4958 S. Peninsula Drive Ponce Inlet, Fl. 386-763-3311 www.saltydawgoutfitters.com Visit www.fl.usharbors.com

Tides, Weather & Local Knowledge

To calculate Mosquito Lagoon (Oak Hill) tides add 6 hours to Ponce Inlet Tides

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 14

*Half Day Trips *Mosquito Lagoon *Shark Fishing AM Trips-Mid Day Trips-Evening Trips **Kids Welcome!**

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 15

Ponce de Leon Inlet Tides August 2018 Full Service Bait & Tackle Shop

Live and Frozen Bait, Full line of inshore, offshore tackle and lures Breakfast, Lunch and Ice Cream available Close to boat ramp and jetty • You want it we have it!

Open 7 days 6am-6pm • 4958 S. Peninsula Drive Ponce Inlet, Fl. 386-763-3311 www.saltydawgoutfitters.com Visit www.fl.usharbors.com

Tides, Weather & Local Knowledge

To calculate Mosquito Lagoon (Oak Hill) tides add 6 hours to Ponce Inlet Tides

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 16

SALT & FRESHWATER FISHING MAPS 8 1/2 X 14 LAMINATED WITH HOT SPOTS MARKED AND EXPLAINED .

Saltwater East Coast

SW#101 Edgewater Ramp to Turtle mound SW#102 Turtle Mound to Oak Hill SW#103 S. Bridge to Eldora Turtle Mound & Government Cut SW#104 Port Orange Bridge to Ponce Inlet SW#105 Oak Hill to Haul Over Canal SW#106 Mosquito Lagoon to Haul Over Canal SW#107 Ormond to Tomoka Basin SW#108 New Smyrna Beach Bridges North & South SW#109 Mosquito Lagoon Merritt Island Refuge to Haul Over Canal SW#110 Sebastian Inlet North & South Backcountry SW#111 Port Orange Bridge Mill Creek North to Ormond Beach SW#112 Palm Bay to Sebastian SW#113 Merritt Island to Palm Bay SW#114 Haul Over Canal area Indian River City to Titusville SW#115 Matanzas Inlet

By: Roger S. Harbster Over 40 years of knowledge!

Saltwater West Coast

WC#401 Suwannee River to the Gulf WC#402 Cedar Key WC#403 Crystal River WC#404 Steinhatchee

Freshwater Lakes, Rivers & Streams

FW#201 Lake Dexter to Lake George FW#202 Lake Beresford to Lake Dexter FW#203 Lake George FW#204 Lake George to Jacksonville FW#205 Lake Crescent FW#206 Rodman Reservoir & Dam (Backcountry) FW#207 Lake Beresford to Brevard County Sawgrass Lake FW#208 Lake Okeechobee

KH#301 How to Shrimp Dip Netting Freelining & Shrimping

$4.95 per map plus $1.50 Postage & Handling & 6.5% sales tax

Total $6.87 Per Map

Send check or money order to: SSFHMagazine P.O. Box 290002 Port Orange, Fl. 32128 SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 17

Truck Stuff •Running Boards •Equipment Racks •Specialty Tool Boxes •Accessories •Wheels & Tires •We Install •New & Used Toppers We Have Moved!!

5042 Hwy 17, De Leon Springs, Fl.

386-740-9107

Private Fishing Charters

Bottom Fishing ~ Trolling Trips www.captainanthonybell.com

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 18

BREVARD COUNTY

By: Tim Camp

Welcome!!

Tim Camp

New Sales Rep for Southern States Fishn’ & Huntn’ Magazine if you are interested in advertising in the Brevard County area please email Tim at timothycamp23@yahoo.com

Time to get crackin spiny lobster seasons start soon The 2018 spiny lobster season opens with the two-day recreational sport season July 25 and 26, followed by the regular commercial and recreational lobster season, which starts Aug. 6 and runs through March 31, 2018.

Bag limits Stick to the bag and possession limits so there will be enough lobsters for all your friends and family. During the two-day spiny lobster sport season, recreational harvesters can take up to six lobsters per person daily in Monroe County and Biscayne National Park waters or 12 lobsters per person daily in other Florida waters. You may possess no more than the daily bag limit of lobsters when you are on the water. When you are off the water, you may possess no more than the daily bag limit on the first day of the sport season and no more than double the daily bag limit on the second day.

During the Aug. 6 to March 31 regular season, the daily recreational bag and on-thewater possession limit is six spiny lobsters per person for all Florida waters. For more information visit www.myfwc.com.

386-228-3525 Mount a fish you caught in the past!

Decorate your home or office with our mounts!

Catch and Release Mounts

Marine Artist Rick Hardy

www.uniquespecies.com SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 19

FRESHWATER FREELINE The Fishing Book

Area Guide to Florida Freshwater Fishing from Rivers, Lakes & Streams. Over 300 miles of Freshwater and Backcountry Maps, with the areas Fishing Hot Spots Marked. Where, When and How to Fish these Hot Save the S&H Fee Spots.

This book can be purchased at Williams Tackle in Holly Hill.

Other Features include: •Knot Tying •Fish Recipes •How to Fillet Fish •Do It Yourself Smokehouse and Much More!

Name___________________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________ City__________________________State________Zip___________

ONLY $9.95

+ 6.5% Sales Tax and $1.95 S & H (Total $12.55)

Send Check or Money Order to: SSFHMagazine P.O. Box 290002 Port Orange, Fl. 32127 SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 20

*YOUR FRESHWATER* *FISHING HEADQUARTERS* 1861 North Nova Rd. Holly Hill, Fl.

FRESHWATER FREELINE

The Fishing Book Sold Here!

386-677-7863

•LIVE BAIT •SHINERS •MINNOWS •WORMS •CRICKETS •BLUE CRABS

LIVE BLUE CRABS AND J.O. #2 CRAB SEASONING

•FROZEN BAIT •SHRIMP •MULLET •BLUE CRABS

•FULL LINE OF ARTIFICIAL WORMS AND LURES •CULPRIT BAIT •CHARLIE’S SPECIAL 100 LIVE •BASS ASSASSIN MINNOWS •HAL-FLY $15.00 + TAX •BEETLE SPINS •BAGLEY •HEDDON •LEWIS RAT-L-TRAP •SMITHWICK AND MORE •ICE-SNACKS-DRINKS

HOURS: TUESDAY-FRIDAY 6AM-5:30PM / SATURDAY 5AM-5:30PM / SUNDAY 5AM-12 NOON / CLOSED MONDAY

WILLIAMS

SOUTHEASTERN TACKLE SHOP SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 21

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 22

SUMMER

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 23

PUTNAM COUNTY MESSER’S EAST-WEST BAIT & TACKLE @386-328-4035 – Jimmy tells us they are catching shellcrackers and bluegill in Lake George. Black bass and stripers are being caught at the dam.

Red drum are coming out of the River.

Largemouth bass using a One Knocker are being caught from Lake George.

Stop in and visit with Jimmy he has a nice shop and a friendly staff.

GEORGETOWN MARINA & LODGE @ 386-467-2002 – Chance tells us bass fishing is strong right now using live bait and topwater frogs. Several 7 pounders have been weighed in recently. Specks are still turned on even as late in the year as it is and are being caught using minnows and crickets for the bream. The bream bite is excellent right now. Chicken livers and worms fished in the channel on the bottom are producing some huge catfish.

According to Lorraine at BASS WORLD LODGE @866-522-FISH (3474) the bass are in the grass and are being caught on spinnerbaits.

MESSER’S

WEST SIDE BAIT & TACKLE

Open 5am-9pm 7 Days A Week Fishing & Hunting Licenses-Ice-Beer Sandwiches-Snacks Complete Supplies for Fisherman & Hunters Since 1974 Rod & Reel Repair

Palatka Westside Corner of Hwy 19 & Moody Road

386-328-4035

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins * Motel Rooms * Full Liquor Bar * Bar Food * Boat Ramp * Boat Slips * Bikers Welcome * Cater Party’s and Weddings

Landing & Marina New Owners John & Tammy

and First Responders with Discount Cards 126 Georgetown Landing Rd., Georgetown, Fl. 32139

Located right on Big Lake George

www.porkyslandingandmarina 386-467-3956 Mark (and Black Dog) are fishing with spinnerbaits and catching schooling bass using June bug blue ribbon tailed worms and white spinnerbaits. All were released to fight again. Bass World boys are happy as the bream are in and being caught using worms.

John @ PORKY’S @386-467-3956 is located in Georgetown on Big Lake George and has renovated rooms, repaired docks, and has a full service bar with beautiful sunsets on the back deck right on the water. He offers discount cards for veterans & First Responders.

Bass World Lodge has been in the fishing business over 50 years and has had fishermen from all over the world who have experienced the fun of an old fashioned down to earth fish camp. Their cabins range in size from a one bedroom cottage up to a 5 bedroom (10 beds) dorm room. They also have family sized 2 and 3 bedrooms.

PO BOX 171 , 1533 COUNTY ROAD 309 GEORGETOWN , FL 32139

386-467-2002

• cabins • rv sites • ramp •COVERED DOCKS • FREE CABLE • bait & tackle • fishing license • WI-FI • OPEN 7 DAYS MARKER 72 ON ST. JOHNS RIVER @ MOUTH OF BIG LAKE GEORGE

MONITOR CHANNEL 16

NON-ETHANOL • MARINE FUEL & DIESEL

www.georgetownmarina.com

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 24

POLK COUNTY

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

Tracy & Mickey at HOPPY’S MARINE @863-439-7616 are a Tracker Marine dealer and have Tracker Aluminum Boats in stock. Also in stock are: Nitro Boats, Mako Boats and Tracker Pontoons. Stop in and visit with them and catch up on all the local fishing news. They both are always helpful and friendly.

Noma Prescott of Sanford, Fl. with a 6 3/4 pound Talapia she caught while fishing with David Paulk on a recent stay at Georgetown Marina. Photo Courtesy of Mack Paulk.

2018 SCALLOP SEASONS FWC reminds scallopers to stay safe, recognize and use diversdown flags and buoys.

The bream are biting!!!

Noma Prescott caught over 30 bluegill and crappie to 2 pounds on this trip.

Photo Courtesy of Mack Paulk.

With the opening of scallop seasons fast approaching, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) wants to remind everyone engaged in this fun outdoor activity to use a divers-down warning device whenever they are snorkeling or scuba diving while searching for these tasty treats.

The divers-down symbol is rectangular or square and red in color with a white diagonal stripe. A divers-down flag displayed on a boat must be at least 20 inches by 24 inches and displayed at the highest point where it can be observed from 360 degrees around the vessel.

Con’t on next page SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 25

SEMINOLE-ORANGE COUNTY AHOY MARINE, INC. @407-323-8373 Tina and Steve said they are catching trout and redfish out of the Shipyard near J.B.’s Fish Camp. There are some reds being caught out in the Lagoon. Steve does a great job and has been repairing boats and engines most of his life so he knows what he is doing, let him make sure everything is in good running order on your boat.

OTTERS ON THE RIVER @407-636-6300 is located next door to Boat Tree Marina on the St. Johns River and is a fun place to eat and drink. They have a great menu and are open from 10 to 10. They are running a special when you purchase 20 piece wings you get a free 16 oz. domestic draft beer with coupon from their ad.

KEL’S ROD & REEL SERVICE in Casselberry at 407-834-3008, is a warranty center for Shimano, Penn, Minnkota and Motorguide.

They are open Tues.-Fri 9-5 and Sat 9-3 (closed Sun. & Mon.) Stop in and visit with the friendly and knowledgeable staff.

David at DAVIDS TRAILERS @407-293-2922 has one of the largest inventories of trailer parts in Central Florida with over 200 trailers in stock. He is located on West Colonial Drive across from the fairground and has been at the same location since 1979. Stop in and visit with him and his friendly, knowledgeable staff.

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

AHOY

Marine, Inc. 511 E. 25th. St. Sanford, Florida 32773

Steve Meadors, President

407-323-8373

~~~~~~~~~~2 018 SCALLOP SEASONS Con’t ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A buoy may not be used or displayed from a vessel.

A divers-down flag or buoy, displayed from the water, must be at least 12 inches by 12 inches. A flag must have a wire or other stiffener to hold it open, and a buoy may be three- or four-sided.

All divers must prominently display a divers-down device in the area in which the diving occurs.

Displaying and understanding what constitutes a proper divers-down symbol are critical, said Capt. Tom Shipp of FWCs Boating and Waterways Section.

These safety devices are meant to alert boaters to the presence of people under the waters surface and to give them plenty of room.

All vessels must make reasonable effort to stay at least 100 feet away from a divers-down device within a river, inlet or channel. In open waters, vessels must make reasonable effort to stay 300 feet away. For safety, divers should stay within those same distances of their displayed device. A vessel that approaches closer must be fully off plane and at idle speed.

Divers share the responsibility of boating safety with the boat operators, Shipp said.

Diving without the divers-down symbol properly displayed or using it for reasons other than to inform others of the presence of divers is unlawful.

The divers-down device should only be displayed when divers are in the water.

When divers or snorkelers exit the water, it must be taken down.

More information on divers-down requirements is available online at

MyFWC.com/Boating by clicking on Boating Regulations and Divers-Down Devices.

For more information on the 2018 scallop season dates and bay scallop regulations, visit MyFWC.com.

Over 200 Trailers in stock!

Continental Boat Trailers SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 26

Kel’s Rod & Reel Service Rods, Reels, Troilling Motor Parts & Service

430 Hwy 436 #105, Casselberry 407-834-3008 Warranty Center For: Shimano, Penn, Minnkota, Motorguide www.kelsrodreel.com Hours: Tues-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-3 (Closed Sun & Mon)

08/31/18

08/31/18

08/31/18

08/31/18

Rod Salser put his Vexan Rod to the test and was very pleased with his results. Stop

by Astor Bait or visit www.outdoorswithjake.com to find out more about the Vexan Rods.

Bimini Tops Mooring Covers Canva’s Enclosures Custom Marine Upholstery

Alum. Fabrication & Repair Electronics Installation Boat Lettering Fiberglass Repair Gelcoat-Paint T-Tops-Towers Custom Rigging Marine Service

(Interior/Exterior)

Marine Carpet Detailing

Stephen Edwards with a healthy stringer of crappie (speckled perch) caught in the Volusia County area.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 27

PIMP UR BOAT WITH US!

MARION-CITRUS COUNTY

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins Kevin Huovinen with a bass caught on bait from Messers Westside Bait & Tackle in Palatka.

ANGLER’S FAMILY RESORT @352489-2397 – Captain Bob tells us they have been catching some nice bass out of the Withlacoochee River using wild shiners, domestic shiners, green pumpkin or watermelon red worms and top water frogs. A lot of bluegill are coming out of the Rainbow River and Blue Cove using crickets or wigglers. They are also being caught out of the Withlacoochee River as well. Some bass are coming out of Lake Roseau.

A brand new 12 room State of the Art motel is now open at Anglers Resort.

Stop in and visit, you’ll love the friendly staff and beautiful River and enjoy a wonderful meal right on the River at the Blue Gator Tiki Bar. CATFISH JOHNNY’S RESTAURANT @352-793-2083 – is a beautiful, restaurant with delicious fresh food. You owe it to yourself to take a trip to Lake Panasoffkee just to enjoy the wonderful alligator and seafood. The service and atmosphere is enjoyed by all.

The Gator Den

NOW OPE N!

Capt Bob’s

On Beautiful Rainbow and Withlacoochee River Where Fishing is Always Great!

PONTOON BOAT AND JON BOAT RENTALS GUIDE SERVICE - TACKLE SHOP - BOAT & MOTORS Come Catch a Smile!

352-489-2397 • www.anglersresort.us SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 28

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT-CATFISH

EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT!

View our full menu online at CatfishJohnnysRestaurant.com

2396 N. C-470, Lake Panasoffkee, Fl. 33538

352-793-2083 Closed Sundays & Mondays

This is a lake record 6.2 pounds. Yes it is a spotted bass and it was certified by a game warden! Vexan 7ft MHX handles this 6 pound 2 oz spotted bass from Georgia! It must be something to do with the Astor Bait and Tackle shirt because thats where he got the Vexan also!

Rick Hardy (left) caught this 40 pound Cobia while fishing a leg of the King of the Inlet out of Ponce Inlet. Rick is also the artist of Unique Species Fish & Marine Life Replicas.

386-228-3525 Mount a fish you caught in the past!

Decorate your home or office with our mounts!

Catch and Release Mounts

Marine Artist Rick Hardy

www.uniquespecies.com SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 29

LAKE COUNTY BASS N GAL GUIDE SERVICE @ 352-267-0062 – The private lake we fish is all catch and release but is loaded with some big bass. The baits that work well for my customers on this lake are drop shots with a Junebug 4 inch worm, watermelon red Producto’s Hot Rods fished weightless and of course shiners, (freelined and with bobbers).

The local small lakes are producing some nice sized bass. Freelining a shiner (without a bobber or weight) is still producing some of the bigger fish. A slow falling sinking weightless worm (Producto’s Hot Rod works great) or a white and chartreuse spinner bait reeled in as slowly as possible, are both working quite well. Be sure to lift up on your rod tip occasionally then let the spinnerbait slowly fall to make it look like a fluttering bait fish. If you think you are fishing too slow, slow down even more. These baits can produce some huge bass but they have to be worked very slowly. (You want to feel the blades pulling or turning) Lake Dora, Lake Harris, Lake Eustis are still producing some nice bass. Use the drop shot method, this is very productive if you are a patient fisherman. For the fishing trip you’ve dreamed of give me a call @ 352-267-0062.

Jake at ASTOR BAIT & TACKLE @352759-2600 - tells us they are still catching a few specks at the pilings (jetty’s) in Lake George. When the water is running the stripers are being caught using RatL-Traps. The bass are starting to school look for birds diving in the water. It’s been taking 20 plus pounds to win the Thurs. night tournament which is a 3 hour tournament. Vexan is introducing a new combo and Jake has them in stock.

He has set up a station where you can build your own jigs, spinnerbaits, buzzbaits and chatterbaits. Jake is a Nucanoe dealer. He also has the Frontier and the Pursuit Kayaks. Be sure to check out www.outdoorswithJake.com.

His shop is located just off State Rd. 40 on River Road in Astor. Stop in and see him, he has plenty of archery equipment for sale. He also does bow repairs.

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

Great Local Food Menu Featuring:

• Groveland Gator Bites • Swamp Cabbage Ceviche • Blackened Grouper Reuben • Locally Sourced Produce and Meats • Craft Beers - Wine & Spirits • Open 11am-9pm Daily 901 Lakeshore Blvd. Tavares, Fl. 32778 On the East Shore of Lake Eustis

352-742-4400

Gordon at BROOKER BAIT & TACKLE @352-460-0695 said shellcracker and bluegill are biting good out of Lake Dora and Big Lake Harris. It took 11 pounds (3 fish limit) to win the Wed. night bass tournament.

Bass are being caught from the Harris Chain using a Chatter bait. Gene Partian and Wayne Graham recently caught and released over 40 bass using crank baits in Lake Dora. A few Specks are still being caught out of deep water using minnows and jigs. He has been slaying the big trout over at Oak Hill. Natalie caught a couple nice redfish this past week.

Brookers have a well stocked shop and offers expert information on the current fishing, both freshwater and saltwater.

They also carry frozen salt water bait.

HARRIS OIL @352-383-0922 is located at 21901 US Hwy. 441, Mt. Dora. They carry 100% non ethanol gasoline for your boats, mowers and chain saws. They also have gated self storage. We have been using Harris Oil non ethanol gas in our boat for 10 years now and have had

Raw B Wedne ar $9.99 Do sdays zen Oyste

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great success with it. Stop in and visit with them, they have the friendliest staff imaginable.

Nice bass caught on bait from Lakeside Bait & Tackle in Tavares.

ASTOR BAIT & TACKLE

•OUTDOOR ARCHERY RANGE

Live Bait

•ARCHERY ACCESSORIES

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 30

frontstreetbait.com@kvcom.net

23835 Hwy. 40, Astor Florida

352-759-2600

Lakeside Bait & Tackle

www.blackwaterinn.com

(352) 742-3336 Located on Lake Eustis

1000 W Burleigh Blvd. Tavares

Mark and Heidi of LAKESIDE BAIT & TACKLE @352-742-3336 tell us that shellcracker and bluegill are doing well.

Fish in the pads using redworms, grass shrimp and crickets. Venetian Gardens, Lake Harris and Lake Yale are all hot right now. Lake Dora is also giving up some good ones. Bass are being caught out of flowing water using swim baits and dark colored worms. Hydrilla and eel grass are holding some pretty nice bass as well.

Lakeside Bait and Tackle is located right on Lake Eustis and you can buy your fresh bait from boat or from Hwy 441.

Mark & Heidi have taken over GET WET WATERSPORTS which is next door to LAKESIDE BAIT & TACKLE, @352-253-0585 would like to invite you all down to rent a pontoon boat which can comfortably seat up to 12 passengers, a jet ski, a paddle board or a Kayak. Stop in and experience the real Florida from the water.

A friend and I had dinner at FISH CAMP on LAKE EUSTIS last month and had an excellent meal. I had the gator bites and they were the best gator I’ve ever eaten,

“Off the River, or Off the Road” It’s Your Choice

*Casual or Formal Dining *Daily Additions to our Full Menu *Petite Dinners for the Light Appetite *Unlimited Fresh Salad Bar Open Tuesday-Sunday Call For Hours Closed Mondays Reservations Honored Every Friday It’s Happy Hour 6-8 Upstairs WE CAN ACCOMMODATE ANY OCCASION Hwy 40 & the St. Johns River in Beautiful Astor, Fl.

352-759-2802

Jim from FISH CAMP ON LAKE EUSTIS @352-742-4400 tells us they are now open from 11 to 9 daily. They carry local produce, local meats, local craft beers and wines. You owe it to yourself to stop in and check them out.

They are located right on Lake Eustis next door to LAKESIDE BAIT AND TACKLE and are easy to find from the water or the highway.

Nice bass caught on bait from Lakeside Bait & Tackle in Tavares.

*Central Florida Lakes* *St. John’s River* *PRIVATE LAKES*

25127 Pearl St. Astor, Fl 32102

Owners Bill & Natalie Brooker 1351 A. W. North Blvd.

Leesburg, Fl. 34748 352-460-0695 BrookerBait@gmail.com

55716 Front St. Astor

Bass N Gal Guide Service

Sales, Service, Accessories Travel Lift 352-759-3838

BAIT & TACKLE

Daily Lunch Specials ~ Munchies & Starters ~ Sandwiches & Fun

usually restaurants over cook gator but these were perfect. My friend had the fried cod and it was delicious. Good food and good service.

MIDWAY MARINE

BROOKER

Atop Blackwater Inn

A fun, casual place overlooking the picturesque setting of the beautiful St. Johns River where you can relax in the cool river breeze and visit with friends old and new.

Capt. Lynda Hawkins Over 25 Years Experience

Families Welcome All Tackle Included 1/2 Day $300.00 Cell 352-267-0062 Email llh30@comcast.net

www.bassngalguideservice.com SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 31

toon Ponoats B

Ka Ren yak tals

Pa B ddle ki Renoard Jet nStals Re 1000 W. Burleigh Blvd, Tavarestals 352-253-0585

WELAKA FISH & CRAB @386-4679776 is located across the street from Welaka Marine on Walnut Street. Stop in and get your fresh seafood and to visit with them.

Andrew from ASTOR BRIDGE MARINA & MOTEL @386-749-4407 tells us that, the fish are biting, and the water feels great! No better time to get out on the water, though we would advise you to make sure you drink plenty of water! We’ve had great activity on the river from Mile Marker 17-24 and on the west side of Lake George! There’s still great bags of bass coming off the water, and some studs being caught from time to time! We’ve got non-ethanol fuel on the river, still at $3.99/gallon, and we also offer pumpout services for those that need it! Summer Rates for the Motel Rooms starting at $89/night! Come on out and enjoy Old Florida! For more information on our facility, please check out www.astorbridgemarina.com or give us a call at 386-749-4407.

Astor/Pierson Citgo

Cheapest Gas in Town!

LIVE BAIT & TACKLE Wine-Beer-Cigs-Soda-Ice Snacks-Groceries-Refill Propane Hot Pizza & Chicken Wings

Open 7 Days Sun-Thur 6am-10pm Fri-Sat 6am-11pm 1380 W. St Rd. 40, Pierson 386-749-0180

MIDWAY MARINE @352-759-3838 has a friendly staff and are open 6 days a week from 8 to 5 but closed on Wed. Stop in and say “Hi”. They are located right on the St. John’s River in Astor.

Florida’s Largest Pontoon Dealer All 2017 Models On Sale 2018 Models Arriving Soon

ASTOR MARINE @352-759-3655.

Georgia carries Sylvan pontoon boats, Sunchaser pontoon boats and is a dealer for Mercury, Yamaha, Suzuki and Honda.

Stop in and take a look around they have been in business for 29 years.

Dwayne & David Gallineau from Louisiana fishing with Capt. Don Weaver caught this 8 pound 3 oz. bass out of Lake George. They were using wild shiners and had a great time at Bass World Lodge 386-467-2267.

Sales & Service 352-759-3655

www.astormarine.com email: sales@astormarine.com

210 Walnut Street Welaka, Fl. 32193 welakamarine.com

24535 HWY. 40, Astor, Fl 32102 SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 32

7 year old Noah Scott Athey with a beautiful bass that weighed 8 pounds 4 ounces. Photo from Lakeside Bait and Tackle on Hwy 441 in Tavares.

Ethan Brown caught this Mahi offshore Ponce Inlet while fishing with his father Fred Brown.

Mary Weeks Realty, Inc. 25291 NE Hwy 314 Salt Springs, Fl. 32134

352-685-2468

weeksrealty314@earthlink.net www.weeksrealty.com

BIG LAKE KERR! This custom built 4 bedroom, 2 bath home has it all. Gorgeous Hickory cabinetry in kitchen, tiled counter tops, bar, dining area that opens to screened porch, spacious living room, den/office, huge master bedroom & bath that has a beautiful lake view & French doors that opens to deck & garage. Huge lot (1/2 acre) with 105 feet on beautiful Lake Kerr with many mature oaks and natural flora. $379,000

CUTE AND COZY 2/2 DOUBLEWIDE w/65 feet of prime Lake Kerr waterfront. Spacious living area, fireplace, dining area, eat-in kitchen, den w/wet bar. Watch the sun rise from the spacious patio overlooking the lake. Nice lot, white sandy beach and dock. Own a piece of Lake Kerr at such a reasonable price. $235,000

WATCH THE GORGEOUS SUNSETS from this beautiful Big Lake Kerr waterfront lot! Many oaks grace this gorgeous 2 1/2 acre lot with 100 feet of lake front. Perfect for the dream home that you have always wanted. Restaurants, shopping, the springs and many ATV trails nearby. Lowest priced Lake Kerr waterfront lot on the market. $179,000

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! Handyman special that backs to Ocala Natl Forest and is adjacent to Greenways at the Ocklawaha River. There are 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, living room/dining area, closed in porch & Florida room. Has a large storage bldg. newer metal roof, 6” T&G pine board ceilings & original pine floors.

Price reflects the home needs work. $49,000 SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 33

2.2 ACRES IN THE HEART OF HUNTN’ AND FISHN’ with Rodman Reservoir/Lake Ocklawaha River close by. Heavily wooded, paved road frontage, zoned agricultural with South and West side of property adjacent to the forest. Not many pieces of property like this are available. $22,200

AJACENT TO FOREST! Purchase this nice 3/2 mobile home and be close to spectacular bass fishing, ATV trails and outstanding hunting. Sit on your screened porch and enjoy all the wildlife that comes to visit. Spacious corner lot with many trees. $46,500

Team Diggin Life Wins!!

2018 KOTI Tournament Results

By Desiree’ Harbster Team Diggin Life won the 9th Annual King of the Inlet offshore fishing tournament in Ponce Inlet.

The King of the Inlet consists of three, one-day tournaments focusing on Wahoo, Dolphin and Kingfish.

Each team earns points by the weight of the fish that make the board. One fish per species - 10 points per pound. The grand prize is based off the most points accumulated from the three tournaments.

Team Diggin Life included anglers Mark Pearson, James Fleenor, Jim Perry and Eddie Gibbs. The 4 man team earned 2010 points followed by Marine Specialties with 1528 points for second place, Team total Vision with 1509 points for third place, Team Mama Sea 1407 points for fourth place and Team Shore Bet with 1166 points came in fifth.

Team Diggin Life not only took home the title of King of the Inlet they also won $5,000 as a grand prize winner and many products and prizes from sponsors. Marine Specialities second place in points took home a brand new 25hp 4 stroke Yamaha valued at $4,000.

Stay tuned for 2019 King of the Inlet with a new format change to be announced. You can keep informed by visiting the King of the Inlet facebook page.

The winners for tournament #1

The winners for tournament #2 Wahoo 1st. place Diggin Life 78.8 pounds 2nd. place Mama Sea 73.8 pounds 3rd. place In-Season 66.1 pounds

Wahoo 1st. place Total Vision 66.8 pounds 2nd. place Marine Specialties 39.1 pounds 3rd. place No Fish

Dolphin 1st. place Split Decision 16.9 pounds 2nd. place Tighten Up 16.8 pounds 3rd. place Yee Haw 10.2 pounds

Dolphin 1st. place Cuda Bear 36.8 pounds 2nd. place Kraken 34.4 pounds 3rd. place Andiamo 10.7 pounds

Dolphin 1st. place Rehab 29.1 pounds 2nd. place Marine Speacialties 15.4 pounds 3rd. place Total Vision 15.3 pounds

Kingfish 1st. place Total Vision 17.5 pounds 2nd. place Topless Hooker 14.3 pounds 3rd place Rehab 12.8 pounds

Kingfish 1st place No Filter 44.8 pounds 2nd. place Shore Bet 41 pounds 3rd place Strike-N-Out 38.7 pounds

Kingfish 1st place Yee Haw II 49.1 pounds 2nd. place U-Know 45.7 pounds 3rd place Mama Sea 44.3 pounds

Wahoo 1st. place Diggin Life 60.9 pounds 2nd. place Shore Bet 34.5 pounds 3rd. place Marine Specialties 30.9 pounds

The winners for tournament #3

1st. place Tour #2 Team Diggin Life 78.8 pound wahoo This fish was also a new tournament record for heaviest wahoo.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 34

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 35

30th Annual Lady Anglers Tournament Final Standings Overall First Place Sam Ertel on Team Tighten Up with a 46.3 lb Wahoo.

First Place Slam Heather Way on Team Second Chance total of 84.5 lbs.

Junior Angler - Brooke Scherer -Team Shore Bet - Dolphin 12.7 lbs.

Senior Angler - Pat Hughes - Team Total Vision - King Mackerel 29.0 lbs.

Dolphin Division: First Place -Desiree’ Harbster - Team Megalodon - 45.1 lbs.

Dolphin Second Place - Cindy Hutchings Team Natural High - 40.4 lbs.

Dolphin Third Place - Audra Pounds Team Fishin Aloan - 38.6 lbs.

King Mackerel Division: First Place Helen Smillie - Team Drill Baby Drill 33.3 lbs.

Second Place - Kelly Canuso - Team Inseason - 31.0 lbs.

Third Place - Pat Hughes - Team Total Vision - 29.0 lbs.

Wahoo Division: First Place - Sam Ertel Team Tighten Up 46.3 lbs.

Second Place - Heather Way - Team Second Chance - 44.0 lbs.

Third Place - Ashley Delcastillo - Team Second String - 39.2 lbs.

Everyone celebrated with the winners and the trash talk regarding next year’s standings have already begun! A big “thank you” to our sponsors for making this event a big success. Hope to see everyone back next year.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 36

2018 New Smyrna Beach Striker Offshore Fishing Tournament Results Team Marine Specialties won the 1st Place Team, 3rd Place Wahoo, 2nd Place Kingfish, 3rd Place Kingfish, 2nd Place Double Down Wahoo, 1st Place Double Down Kingfish, 2nd Place Double Down Kingfish, and 1st Place Kingfish Big 4 prizes. The tournament winners are now qualified for the 2019 offshore World Championship in Costa Rica.

Team Marine Specialties outlasted the competition, taking home the first-place prize at the 2018 New Smyrna Beach Striker Offshore Fishing Tournament. The New Smyrna Beach-based event utilized a different format in 2018, allowing anglers to fish any two days between June 2 and June 22.

Team Marine Specialties is officially qualified for the 2019 Offshore World Championship, scheduled for April 28 to May 3 in Marina Pez Vela, Quepos, Costa Rica.

Entrants had the opportunity to win a host of different divisions, including top team, top junior angler, top lady angler, top wahoo, top tuna, top dolphin, top kingfish, Double Down Options for all four species, and Big 4 Jackpots for all four species. For details and rules Molly Murray, of Team Total explaining each division, please visit the Striker rules page.

Vision, received junior angler recognition.

Teams Cheap Gear & Cold Beer and Sea Genie both caught and released blue marlin during the tournament, unusual catches for an area known more for kingfish fishing than marlin fishing. Unfortunately, blue marlin were not an eligible species at this years event.

The top catch for the entire tournament was Team Blank Checks monster wahoo caught Wednesday, June 6. Angler Jason Carn landed the 107.4pounder, fishing out of Ponce Inlet. Their catch was less than 4 pounds from a new wahoo tournament record.

The tournament spanned most of the month June registration day was June 1 and the awards ceremony was June 24 both held at New Smyrna Marina. Find out what divisions the top teams won. In total, 11 of the 23 total fishing teams won cash or prizes. Some teams won more than one category.

Read more at www.fishstock.com

Team Blank Check caught this slob of a wahoo weighing in at 107.4 pounds.

Angler: Jason Carn pictured in the middle.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 37

Best Feeding Times for Fish and Game

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 38

Collins Low Country Hunt Club is second to none in low country South Carolina guided hunting trips.

As one of the longest running and most successful operations in the area, we continue to stay ahead of the competition by expanding our services and hunting plans to exceed our guest’s expectations. Our hunting opportunity remains the same to all, utilizing all 7,500 acres of our managed lands to provide the best low country South Carolina hunting available. Please feel free to contact us so that we can help you choose the best fitting package for you and your hunting group.

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10640 Ehrhardt Road Ehrhardt , South Carolina 803-267-2825~w w w . c o l l i n s l o w c o u n t r y h u n t i n g c l u b . c o m SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 39

Hunting News

By Tony Young

Join the Dove Club or go primitive on St. Vincent Island

Media Relations Coordinator for the Division of Hunting and Game Management.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Landowner of the Year Award winner Cal Cooksey annually plants dove fields on his family Gadsden County property and for the past few years has hosted youth dove hunts through the Youth Hunting Program of Florida. The future of hunting hinges on finding fun and exciting ways to attract new people to the outdoors and keep them engaged.

Taking someone dove hunting for the first time is a great way to accomplish this. When asked what the best thing a new hunter can do to prepare for a dove hunt, he said to shoot trap or sporting clays at a local shooting range. To find a public FWC-managed shooting range near you, go to www.MyFWC.com/Ranges.

Trap shooting so closely imitates dove hunting, and the same way you have to lead that clay before pulling the trigger, its the same as with a dove in flight, Cooksey said. When Cooksey puts a group of hunters in one of his planted dove fields, he makes sure to space them a good, safe 150 yards apart. He says its best if a new wingshooter can sit alongside an experienced hunter, so they can pick up tips on identifying doves, but also said there’s a lot of great information available on the internet to learn that and how to field dress and cook doves.

I love being able to share with others what I’ve had all my life and see people get excited when they have a successful hunt and start learning about conservation, Cooksey said. Because dove hunting is one of the best ways to introduce new people to hunting and enjoy time afield with friends and family, the FWC created its Special-Opportunity Dove Club Program. It offers hunters the chance to experience dove hunting on the states best public dove fields.

Dove Club permits enable one adult and one youth (age 15 or younger) to hunt all scheduled dates of a dove field, and each hunter gets to take a daily bag limit of birds. Hunters have the choice of applying as a group with up to three adult hunters, or they can apply as an individual. Permits cost $150 per adult hunter. All hunts take place on Saturdays from noon until sunset. Scheduled hunt dates and number of hunts vary between fields.

This coming season, there will be the same five special-opportunity dove fields as there was last year.

Five fields to choose from **Frog Pond North Public Small Game Hunting Area Miami-Dade County has historically been a top producer of harvested doves~This year, there will be 23 Dove Club permits available to hunt 120 acres planted in Japanese millet, dove proso, browntop millet and sorghum. **There are 13 Dove Club permits available to hunt the 100 acres of browntop millet at Allapattah Flats Public Small Game Hunting in Martin County, east of Lake Okeechobee. **Hilochee Wildlife Management Area in Lake County has 15 Dove Club permits available to hunt on 80 acres. This year, the field will be planted in Japanese millet, dove proso, browntop millet and sorghum. **Putnam County Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area has three fields that total about 125 acres, and 30 Dove Club permit holders will be able to hunt over browntop millet, Japanese millet, dove proso, sorghum, buckwheat and sunflower. **The remaining field is at Tenoroc Public Small Game Hunting Area in Polk County, with 13 Dove Club permits available to hunt the 50 acres. Planting on this field is currently delayed due to wet field conditions.

How to apply Dove Club permits will be issued by random drawing during Phase I. That application period runs from 10 a.m. EDT on July 6 through July 16.

After obtaining the correct application worksheet by going to MyFWC.com/License and clicking on Limited Entry/Quota Hunts, you can apply for these season passes by filling out a single worksheet (with up to five dove field choices) and turning it in at any county tax collectors office, license agent or by applying online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. During Phase I, hunters may be awarded a permit for only one dove field.

You can check the drawing results as early as July 20 by logging into your customer account at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com, and a pop-up message will let you know if you are successful. And any applicant who provides an email address will also be notified by email. If you are successful in getting drawn, you can pay for it online by clicking on the link in the Permit Applications section of your customer account, or at any of the above-mentioned license agents by July 30.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 40

Dove hunters online update Brochures on these areas are available online at MyFWC.com/Dove. You can find tips and regulations on dove hunting there as well. Also at that web address, beginning in late September, hunters will be able to find the most up-to-date harvest information on these special-opportunity dove fields. The website is updated weekly throughout dove season.

St. Vincent Island whitetail hunts St Vincent is a wonderful place that remains unchanged from what old Florida looked like. The undeveloped barrier island in northwest Floridas Franklin County offers two white-tailed deer hunts on the 12,490-acre national wildlife refuge.

The first deer hunt is Nov. 15-17 and is an archery hunt. Only vertical bows may be used, unless a hunter has a Disabled Crossbow Permit, in which case a crossbow may be used as well.

During the second white-tailed hunt, hunters may use bows, crossbows and muzzleloaders. That hunt is Jan. 17-19, 2019. There are 250 permits available for each of the two hunts at a cost of $27.50 each.

If you’d like to experience the thrills and solitude of primitive hunting on St. Vincent Island, all you have to do is buy a permit in July.

Accessing the island You can only get to St. Vincent Island by boat, and if you don’t bring your own, you can make a deal with one of the local charter captains to take you to the island and bring you back after the hunt. For a list of boat captains that offer this service, contact the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce at 850-653-9419.

Did I mention its primitive?

The island has no electricity, so its all about primitive camping for three days. You’re allowed to have a small campfire, using only wood you bring with you or deadwood you find on the ground. And its recommended that you bring a bicycle to get to and from your hunting spot.

If you harvest any game, however, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff will pick you and your animal up in one of their trucks. In addition, transportation to and from hunting spots and accommodations are available to hunters with disabilities.

How to get a permit If you’d like to purchase a permit for one or both of these primitive hunts, get the StVincent WhiteTail Deer Wksht & Permit by going to MyFWC.com/License and clicking on Limited Entry/Quota Hunts. Once you’ve completed it, you may buy the permit at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or from any county tax collectors office or retail outlet that sells hunting and fishing supplies, beginning 10 a.m. EDT on July 12. But you had better be quick, cause these permits are being offered first-come, first-served until they are gone.

If your looking for a great hunt in a truly beautiful remote place and don’t mind roughing it a bit, you will really enjoy St. Vincent Island, but make sure your prepared for inclement weather, because you never know what Mother Nature is going to throw at you.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 41

Take a hunter safety class this summer!

By Tony Young “Hunting teaches patience while fostering one of the closest relationships we can have with the natural world around us,” said University of Florida rising sophomore Hanna Hodges. “Hunting also contributes to conservation.”

Hodges loves hunting for deer and turkeys with her family and boyfriend, and enjoys introducing new people to hunting and taking youth on their first hunting trips. However, that hasn’t always been the case for Hodges.

As a young girl growing up in a family that enjoys the outdoors, Hodges spent many weekends fishing, boating, kayaking and hiking. But, she admits she was intimidated by some of the elements of hunting, and credits her father and the hunter safety class she took at age 10 for giving her knowledge and confidence to safely develop what became her greatest passion.

“My dad first introduced me to target shooting and hunting – he was a great coach,” Hodges said. “He actually introduced my mom and brothers, too and now hunting is a family affair.”

Hodges’ father signed her up for a weeklong Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) hunter safety camp at the Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center during the summer before her sixth-grade year.

“It was a great experience attending the hunter safety summer camp at Beau Turner,” Hodges said. “I made numerous friends there and loved it so much that I volunteered there for several years.”

Growing up in a hunting family and attending hunter safety camp had such an effect on Hodges that she is now majoring in wildlife ecology and conservation and hopes one day to work in a field that blends hunting and conservation. And for this summer, she is proud to announce she will be a hunt camp counselor at the place where it all got started for her – the Beau Turner Youth Conservation Center.

For more information on the Center,

which is east of Tallahassee, or to register your child for summer camp, go to BTYCC.org. If you haven’t completed the state’s hunter safety course requirement, now’s a good time to sign up. Many of these classes, offered statewide, fill up fast.

People born after May 31, 1975, must complete the FWC’s hunter safety class before they can buy the type of hunting license that allows them to legally hunt alone.

If you’re a youngster and already into hunting, I suggest you go ahead and take a hunter safety class before you turn 16. And you can purchase your very first hunting license that’s good until your 17th birthday.

Even if you were born before June 1, 1975, and are exempt from having to take the class, it’s still a good idea because you’ll learn so much. The FWC encourages beginning hunters to do so. Even the most experienced hunters will learn something new, which will help them become even better hunters or mentors.

If you’re new to our state, these classes will make you aware of Florida’s hunting laws.

Or if you just relocated from another town, the classes are a great way to meet other hunters. You can make some new hunting buddies or maybe even get a line on a great hunt club that’s looking for new members.

You can register for a hunter safety class by going to MyFWC.com/HunterSafety or by contacting your nearest FWC regional office.

Florida Virtual School Florida also offers a virtual school outdoor education course. This course, which combines hunting and boating safety, is free and open to Florida residents ages 12 to 18.

Participants will develop outdoor skills and learn about the benefits of physical activity while using proper safety procedures to experience a range of outdoor activities.

By meeting all the requirements of the Outdoor Education course, students will receive their Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card and be eligible to obtain a Florida Hunter Safety Certificate. They’ll also earn half a credit for high school, and meet public school requirements for taking an online course and a physical education course.

Registrations for these instructor-led courses are limited. Those who are interested can find out more at MyFWC.com/HunterSafety.

Online training and skills day A popular option for completing the hunter safety training is to take online training and a skills day. The online course is designed to help new hunters of all ages learn how to be safe and responsible hunters.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 42

Before you begin the online training, you’ll need to register to attend a skills day.

Skills days are led by a corps of volunteer hunter safety instructors who give you the opportunity to demonstrate the skills you learned in the online course. Skills day takes about five hours to complete and includes time on the shooting range.

During skills days, you get hands-on training and must demonstrate proper firearm and tree-stand safety.

In the last hour of the skills day, you’ll be given a standardized test of multiplechoice questions. You need to score 80 percent or higher to successfully complete the course.

The last steps After you pass the test for either course, you’ll be given a temporary hunter safety card. You’ll receive a permanent card in the mail about four to six weeks after the class. Once the hunter safety requirement is met, you can purchase your first Florida hunting license and be ready for opening day.

Just a couple of things for parents to remember: The course is designed for youth ages 12 to 16. If your child is younger than 18 years old, you must fill out our parental release form and present it to the instructor at all courses. Also, if your child is younger than 16, you are required to accompany him or her to all classes.

Register to take a hunter safety class today, ’cause the 2018-19 hunting season will be here before we know it.

SSFHMagazine P.O. Box 290002 Port Orange, Fl. 32128 SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 43

Dangerous Snakes to watch out for in Florida’s standing water and hot temperatures we are experiencing!

The cottonmouth, or water moccasin, is a dark-colored, heavy-bodied snake that can grow to an average of 2-4 feet in length. Juvenile cottonmouths are a brown or tan color with darker, reddish brown crossbands containing many speckles down the back. Juveniles also have bright yellow tail tips.

As cottonmouths age, the color becomes darker, so that adults show only a trace of the original pattern or are uniformly dark. Cottonmouths have a broad head and a dark stripe that runs through the eye, and there is a deep facial pit between the eye and the nostril.

Cottonmouths are often confused with the more common, nonvenomous water snakes. They can be distinguished by the vertical pupil, presence of a facial pit, and when viewed from above, the eyes of cottonmouths are not visible because of an overhanging brow ridge. Water snakes have round pupils, no facial pit, and when viewed from above, have visible eyes.

Habitat: Cottonmouths are found throughout Florida in wet areas, including streams, lakes, marshes, swamps, retention ponds, and roadside ditches, although they can wander far from water.

Behavior: While cottonmouths are not necessarily aggressive, they are venomous and should be avoided when encountered.

Juvenile Cottonmouth

The eastern diamondback is a large, heavy-bodied rattlesnake. Adults can grow to an average 3-6 feet in length and can weigh up to 10 pounds. The background color is brown, tan or yellow with brown diamonds down the back which are outlined in cream. They have large, broad heads with a dark stripe which is bordered in cream on both sides running diagonally through the eye. There is a facial pit between the eye and the nostril, and the tail ends in a rattle.

Habitat: Eastern diamondbacks are found throughout Florida, primarily in areas that contain palmetto thickets including pine flatwoods, sand pine scrub, and longleaf pine and turkey oak habitats.

Behavior: They spend most of their time concealed in vegetation waiting to ambush prey, or during winter months, in gopher tortoise burrows or stump holes.

Diamondback rattlesnakes are venomous and can strike a distance up to 2/3 of their body length.

This species is best left alone when encountered. A venomous reptile permit is required to possess or transport live rattlesnakes.

For more information please visit www.myfwc.com.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 44

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Tiffany Richardson harvested her first turkey on her family’s property in Pierson.

Tripletail and Sheepshead changes effective July 1 Several changes to the management of tripletail and sheepshead go into effect July 1 Tripletail: The minimum size limit will increase to 18 inches total length.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commissions (FWC) recreational and commercial regulations for this species will extend into federal waters (including only allowing the use of hook-and-line gear and the new size limit).

Sheepshead: The recreational bag limit will be lowered to eight fish per person, per day yearround.

There will be a recreational vessel limit of 50 fish per vessel, per trip during March and April.

FWCs recreational and commercial regulations for this species will extend into federal waters (including the new bag and vessel limits).

Learn more about regulations at MyFWC.com These proactive measures will help conserve both fisheries for current and future generations.

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 45

SSFHMagazine July/August Page 46

40’ Custom Sportfisher

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4 hr $700 6 hr $900 8 hr $1,200 10 hr $1,400 12 hr $1,600

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Everything is furnished except food and drink. 20% gratuity is appreciated on a job well done!

SSFHMagazine July/August 2018 Page 47

n o i t a d i on u

Victory Marine

Liqale heldds of n S u o r g the

All Boats are priced to sell - trades will be taken on a limited basis Expires August 31st, 2018. All Sales are final.

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•Starcraft •Sea Fox •Mako •Tahoe •Glasstream Boats Powered by Mercury and Yamaha

5524 S. Ridgewood Ave. (us1) Port Orange, Florida

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www.victorymarinesales.com