SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018

March/April 2018

Your FREE Guide To The Great Outdoors Since 1965!

LOCAL

Tournaments News & Events Tide Tables Feeding Times

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 2

40’ Custom Sportfisher

Half Day • Full Day • Gulf Stream

Ask about our multi-day discount pricing. Seasonal

Big Game Offshore Fishing

*Up to 6 passengers *4hr-12hr trips *Licensed & Insured *No Fishing License Required

Capt. Freddie Zona has over 25 Years Experience Fishing our Local Waters!

Docked in New Smyrna Beach at The River Deck Marina

www.freddiezfishing.com SSFHMagazine SSFHMagazineSept/Oct Mar/Apr2017 2018Page Page32

One Man’s Surplus is another Man’s Treasure!

Make your Boat Shine!

We have what it takes to float your boat!

Think Safety!

HOME DECOR

Check out our Fishing Tackle, Ahi Cast Nets & New Arrivals all year!

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 4

Spring

has Sprung!

Don’t wait until the last minute to get your boat ready for summer!

Let Us Help Keep Your Bilge Dry! • Steering • Trailer Parts • Stainless Hardware • Control Cables (Mercury Generation II) • Cleaning Supplies • Safety Equipment • Electronics • Tent Sale Keep • Dock Lines Calm and • Hose Drop an • Electrical Anchor!

• Starboard • Boat Fenders • Marine Tinned Wire • LED Lighting • Saltwater Fishing Supplies • Pumps Bilge, Aerator, Washdown, Fresh Water • and so much more.......

Let Us Light Up Your Boat with Our LED Lights!

Make Sure You Keep Your Bearings when it comes to Your Trailer!

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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 5

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

$595.00

R.S. Harbster & Dorothy Harbster Publications

In memory of Roger S. Harbster December 25, 1929 ~ April 24, 2009

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

WRITERS:

Desiree’ Harbster ~ FOWA Capt. Lynda Hawkins ~ FOWA Tony Young-FWC

Front Caption Tournament Season is around the corner this photo was from a past Halifax Sport Fishing Club Offshore Challenge.

Look for 2018 dates for HSFC and King Of The Inlet Series in this edition.

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

Sales, Service and Parts “We’ll Hook You Up” • Homesteader • Rance Renegade/Lightning • Anderson Trailers • Bad Boy Mowers

• Cargo Trailers • Dump Trailers • Utility Trailers • Motorcycle Trailers

(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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 6

VOLUSIA COUNTY Nancy and the staff at B & G TRAILERS in DeLand @386-734-5244 would like to say Goodbye to Tara. She will certainly be missed by all.

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.

FLORIDA’S FAMILY MARINE 386873-4610 is located on Old New York Ave in DeLand. Stop in and check out their impressive line of boats and their friendly staff. Logan, Frank and Danny are always willing to help with any boating problems and are great people to work with.

Mike of TRUCK STUFF in Deland 386740-9107 tells us 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.

Caught aboard the SOUTHWIND out of New Smyrna Beach call to book 386-576-3953

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 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.

B & G Boat Trailers Deland, Fl.

B & G carries a huge selection of new & used boat trailers made of galvanized steel or aircraft strength, high grade aluminum. Their trailers come in all different shapes and sizes, because they know that your needs depend upon the type of water craft you have.

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 8

Whether you own an Jon boat, Inboard/ Outboard Power Boat, Sailboat, Airboat, Pontoon, Jet Ski or anything else that floats, they have the right trailer for you.

Their boat trailers incorporate the latest in design technology with consistent, quality construction. All their trailers undergo rigorous quality control inspections to ensure years of troublefree operation. They know that the better the quality of their trailers, the more apt they are to maintain their appearance and retain a higher resale value.

386-228-3525

Come Experience The Fishin’ Hole Difference!

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

Darrin Mounts with a nice buck harvested in the Samsula area.

386-252-9804 Certificates

450 N. Beach Street • Downtown Daytona Beach

FREE ADVICE *YOUR SALTWATER HEADQUARTERS*

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

Call For Reservations, Details & Trip Times

386•763•4388

Halifax Sport Fishing Club Charts!!

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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 9

Newly Remodeled

Now Open!

Kimberly Scaccia with a 250 pound boar she harvested in Columbus, Georgia.

She was hunting with her husband.

Great job on her first hog.

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

www.bobsdiscountmarine.com

Nautic al Gifts

Stephen Edwards with 2 nice crappies (speckled perch).

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

Amy Hollingsworth with an over slot red caught in the Mosquito Lagoon.

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

“FREE” Lighted Fishing Pier for Night Time Enjoyment SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 10

Masters 267 Bay Boats 2018’s in stock!

Boat Rentals Available

Bennington From $25,995 (add trailer from $2,200)

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 Mar/Apr 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

Gulf gray triggerfish opens March 1 with new bag and size limits The recreational gray triggerfish season will reopen to harvest in Gulf state and federal waters March 1. When the season reopens, the daily bag limit will be one fish per person (previously two fish per person) and the minimum size limit will be 15 inches fork length (previously 14 inches fork length). These changes were made at the July 2017 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) meeting and are consistent with changes made in federal waters. The changes also include an annual January through February recreational closure in Gulf state waters in addition to the annual June and July spawning closure.

These federal consistency measures should help maintain fishing opportunities for gray triggerfish in state and federal waters for 2018 and the future.

Eszter from Bob’s Discount Marine in Port Orange caught this black drum from the Volusia County area.

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

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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 12

If you plan to fish for gray triggerfish in Gulf state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel, you must sign up as a Gulf Reef Fish Angler(annual renewal is required). To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/Fishing and click on “Saltwater Fishing,” “Recreational Regulations” and “Gulf Reef Fish Survey” under “Reef Fish.” Sign up today at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

Learn more about gray triggerfish at MyFWC.com/Fishing by clicking on “Saltwater Fishing,” “Recreational Regulations” and “Triggerfish.”

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

ts sen e r P Coming

Soon Kayak Rentals

• Convenience Items • Breakfast Items/Deli Subs • Beer/Tobacco • Soda/Snacks • Beach Items • Kites • Nautical Art & Apparel • Computer Repair & Service • Open 7 Days

From Seabird Island to Disappear Island and Beyond!

386-310-8515

96 Dunlawton Ave Port Orange

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 13

Ponce de Leon Inlet Tides March 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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 14

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

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 15

Ponce de Leon Inlet Tides April 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 Mar/Apr 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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 17

Truck Stuff •Running Boards •Equipment Racks •Specialty Tool Boxes •Accessories •Wheels & Tires •We Install •New & Used Toppers 2500 E. International Speedway Blvd.

(US92) DeLand 386-740-9107

LIVE BAIT & TACKLE

Country Store

1871 West Hwy 44 Deland, Florida

Joe with a nice bass released alive. Photo from Southern Tackle in Tavares.

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 18

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

BREVARD COUNTY

By: Desiree’ Harbster

Advertising Sales Help Wanted for Brevard County *Be your own boss *Work your own hours *Self Employed *Paid Commission *Bi-Monthly Publication Only serious inquiries please!

Others counties are available for sales help.

Email your information to: sfandginc@yahoo.com or call Desiree’ at 386-576-3953

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 Mar/Apr 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 Mar/Apr 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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 21

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 22

$26,995

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 23

PUTNAM COUNTY According to Lorraine at BASS WORLD LODGE 866-522-FISH (3474) Mark (and Black Dog) are catching schooling bass off shore using Rat-L-Traps. Mark is also catching sunshine bass on RatL-Traps. Don and Fon caught two bass today using June Bug 6 1⁄2 inch Sinko’s. Water temperature is around 70 degrees.

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.

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.

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 MESSER’S EAST-WEST BAIT & TACKLE 386-328-4035 – Jimmy tells us they are catching lots of bass, stripers and specks below the dam. Specks are also coming out of the barge canal. A few bass are coming off the bars in the River. Specks are biting below the dam at Rodman and pretty much everywhere; these are good sized ones. Also catching specks in Lake Crescent. Stop in and visit with Jimmy – he has a nice shop and a friendly staff.

GEORGETOWN MARINA & LODGE 386-467-2002 – Austin tells us catfish are doing well and the Glenn and the East shore are producing some nice bass. The guides are using wild shiners with a bobber.

Rodman and Crescent Lake are producing some nice specks.

Captain Adam & Jeff Winkleman have been doing well on their guide trips with several nice bass being caught and released.

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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 24

POLK COUNTY

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

Striped Bass Stockings in the St. Johns River Florida was home to the southernmost native populations of the Atlantic strain striped bass. Natural reproduction of striped bass ceased in the St. Johns River by the early 1970s. Striped bass stocking in the St. Johns River began in 1972. In 1981, further developments in hatchery rearing led to large scale production of

the sunshine bass.

In total, the FWC and USFWS have stocked over 20 million striped bass and nearly 10 million sunshine bass in the last 40 years.

School of striped bass at Silver Glenn Springs. Striped bass seek refuge in these cool waters during the summer. Striped bass (Morone saxatilis) are a popular sport fish and naturally occur from the St. Lawrence River in Canada to the Louisiana Gulf Coast. Established stocked populations occur along the Pacific coast and many inland water bodies across the United States. Florida was home to the southernmost native populations of the Atlantic strain striped bass; however due to degradation of river habitat and water quality, natural reproduction ceased in the St. Johns River by the early 1970s Striped bass are a cool-water fish and do not survive water temperatures above 80 degrees for extended periods. Warm waters like the St. Johns produce small population numbers that rarely reach more than 20 lbs – a small size compared to their northern cousins which may exceed 50 lbs. Landlocked by high ocean temperatures, they cannot survive in Florida’s warm waters without the numerous springs found in the St. Johns River Basin which provide a cool water refuge during the summer months.

Beginning in the late 1960s, advancements in rearing techniques allowed for intensive culture of the striped bass in Florida. By this time, state and federal biologists believed that few striped bass were naturally reproducing in the St. Johns River and began developing stocking plans to both restore the species and provide additional angling opportunities.

FWC officials stock striped and sunshine bass into the St. Johns River. The first striped bass stocked into the St. Johns River occurred in 1972, and annual stockings continue. In the early years of the program, biologists did not keep clear records of the locations of collected brood fish. Most are thought to have been collected from the Nassau and St. Marys rivers, but fish from South Carolina and Chesapeake Bay were also used. Biologists believe that original native striped bass may have adapted to the slow currents typical of the St. Johns River by producing more buoyant eggs, a trait missing from stocked fish from other areas. During years striped bass stocking did not occur, biologists found no fish from those year classes were present. This supported the theory that no natural reproduction was occurring in the river.

In 1981, further developments in hatchery rearing led to large scale production of the sunshine bass, a hybrid striped bass created using white bass females from Florida’s panhandle and striped bass males from the St. Johns River. These fish exhibit “hybrid vigor”, making hardier fish with improved growth rates and able to withstand higher water temperatures. Generally, white bass females are easier to acquire for brood fish making it easier to get the number of fish needed to create a successful fishery. These fish supplemented the stockings of the Striped bass throughout the 1980s and 1990s in order to provide more fish for anglers.

As state priorities shifted to the conservation and management of other native species within the river, the sunshine bass stocking program was temporarily discontinued from 2000 through 2008. Decreasing numbers of striped bass brood fish during this same period also resulted in lower stocking success. Although striped bass remained a focus for restoration by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), who took over the Atlantic striped bass stocking program from the state in 2009, brood fish availability became less predictable. Environmental conditions such as flood and drought severely impacted the ability for the USFWS to collect brood fish from South Carolina. Due to angler demand, officials reintroduced sunshine bass stockings to increase angling opportunities.

Most stocked striped and sunshine bass are merely one to two inches long. As part of a joint agreement in 2009 between the FWC and the USFWS, biologists with FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI) at the DeLeon Springs Freshwater Fisheries Lab continue to monitor survival and angler catch data each summer. At accessible locations, fish utilizing the large springs as thermal refuges are counted and photographed and creel surveys are conducted to estimate angler catches. Monitoring allows researcher to detect changes in populations and habitats so that adjustments can be made to stocking requests.

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 25

SEMINOLE-ORANGE COUNTY AHOY MARINE, INC. 407-323-8373 Tina and Steve said they are getting specks out of Lake Jessup. Shrimp are starting to run over on the coast.

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.

Stop in and find out why Steve and Tina are always so busy. They have one of the best repair shops and boat dealerships around.

OTTERS ON THE RIVER 407-6366300 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.

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 407-2932922 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.

SAVAGE GEAR RELEASES FULL SERIES OF BROWSER FISHING RODS FOR 2018 ONTARIO, Calif.: The Savage Gear Browser series of rods are the latest addition to an action packed lineup of baits for serious anglers. Today’s anglers want lightweight, sensitive, rods that deliver enough strength and backbone to get fish to and over the rail. The Browser rods utilize advanced technologies to create refined, powerful rods with both exception feel and rock solid durability.

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

AHOY

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

Steve Meadors, President

407-323-8373

The Browser series of rods were design with the latest technology and insight from leading fishermen around the country. The backbone to the Browser rods is the lightweight Carbon blank with 1DRF tip process. This process blends unidirectional fiber over 24-ton carbon in the extended tip section of the rod to increase lifting strength and power by as much as 400%. The 1DRF technology provides for the ultimate in strength without sacrificing sensitivity so that you can feel even the lightest of bites.

Over 200 Trailers in stock!

Continental Boat Trailers SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 26

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

Otters On The River 407-636-6300

430 Hwy 436 #105, Casselberry 407-834-3008 Warranty Center For: Shimano, Penn, Minnkota, Motorguide

4380 Carraway Place Sanford Fl. 32771 (Next to Boat Tree on the St. Johns River)

www.ottersontheriver.com

www.kelsrodreel.com Hours: Tues-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-3

Riverside Fine Dining and much more •Lunch •Dinner •Drinks

(Closed Sun & Mon)

“The Browser series of rods has been something we were designing and working on for some time,” stated Mike Bennett, Savage Gear USA Product Development Manager. “These rods have been refined and whittled down to the exact specifications we were looking for and designed for those who dare to catch bigger fish.”

The Browser rod lineup utilizes its lightweight Carbon blank with 1DRF tip design in all fourteen models. Three 7-foot spinning rods include Medium Light, Medium, and Medium Heavy for your finesse to big bait applications Three 7-foot models include Medium, Medium Heavy, and Heavy. Two 7-foot 4-inch models include Medium Heavy and Heavy. Two 7-foot 6-inch models include Heavy and Extra Heavy. One 7-foot 11-inch Extra Heavy, and three 8-foot models including Heavy, Extra Heavy, and Extra-Extra Heavy for your big bait/swimbait applications.

The components on the Browser rods are top notch, featuring Seaguide CCS guides for smooth line casting with mono or braided lines, as well as custom reel seats.

All models also feature foam fore grips and a cork butt section for comfortable, long distance casting.

The Browser Rods are available at a retail price of $79.99 to $129.99 and backed by a 1-year limited warranty.

For more information, please visit www.savagegear-usa.

Great seafood and more including an oyster bar!

Live entertainment inside & outside @ our pool bar.

Savage Gear lures are the result of a team of worldwide anglers that approach each day on the water with uncommon ambition and a driving desire to take down the largest predatory fish in the water. The attitude is less about sharing a beautiful day fishing and much more about total domination of a body of water. Logging hundreds of thousands of hours with a fishing rod in hand, their experience is translated into swimbait, crankbait and soft plastic lure actions. The goal is savage strikes – strikes carried out with complete, absolute and total commitment from the fish to kill and eat the lure.

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

NEW Savage Gear Browser Rods make premier actions, functionality, durability and value accessible to all anglers SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 27

PIMP UR BOAT WITH US!

MARION-CITRUS COUNTY

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

History of Rainbow Springs State Park Rainbow Springs has served as an important natural resource for humans and animals for many years. At one time, mastodon and mammoth fossils were found in the Rainbow River, along with relics of the American Indians who used the river for transportation and fishing. Much later, in the early 20th century, the surrounding area was mined for phosphate. The new industry brought a boom and the towns of Juliette and Dunnellon were founded. Juliette, once located on what is now park property, no longer exists.

Rainbow Springs State Park 19158 SW 81st Place Road Dunnellon, FL 34432

In the 1930s, Rainbow Springs became a privately owned theme park.

Most freshwater springs tourist attractions around Florida offered some form of glass bottom boat ride. But at Rainbow Springs the distinctive sub-boats had stairs that went below the waterline and visitors could look out at eye level. Waterfalls were built on piles of phosphate tailings, and a zoo, rodeo, gift shops and a monorail with leaf-shaped gondolas were also added.

The development of the interstate highway system in Florida eventually led to the demise of Rainbow Springs. The interstate passed by the small towns that hosted such attractions and newer, modern attractions in Orlando drew many away from the older parks.

By 1974, Rainbow Springs was closed.

It reopened as a state park in the 1990s. The citizens that supported the acquisition of the park soon formed the park’s Citizen Support Organization, called Friends of Rainbow Springs. This organization led the way in opening the park by physically clearing paths and bringing life back to the gardens and other features.

Today, the Rainbow River is a designated National Natural Landmark, an aquatic preserve and an Outstanding Florida Water. The park consists of more than 1,470 acres and has three main entrances: the “headsprings” day use area, the tubing facilities and the campground. Visitors from around Florida and the world visit Rainbow Springs State Park to swim in the crystal clear water, tube down the peaceful Rainbow River, and enjoy picnicing with their families.

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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 28

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.

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 and the service and atmosphere is enjoyed by all. You feel like you’ve been coming here for years.

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

Ponce Inlet

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 29

LAKE COUNTY BASS N GAL GUIDE SERVICE 352267-0062 It’s March and time for the fish to just go crazy. Hope everyone gets at least a couple of days to go fishing.

We’ve had some of the most beautiful weather imaginable and for the first time in a long time, very little wind.

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 Harris Chain is hot right now with big bass coming out of all the lakes and the local small lakes are producing some nice sized bass as well. 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.

As they are wanting to bed right now all the canals are producing both male and female lunkers so be sure to practice catch and release. 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 catching some nice sized specks out of Lake Woodriff, Lake Dexter and the St. John’s River is just starting to turn on. Orange colored jigs are working well. One of his customers caught 3.6 lb. crappie out of Dead Lake yesterday. Bass fishing will improve after the new moon.

The new Vexan Inshore rods are available now. Astor Bait & Tackle has Vexan Crappie Rods & are now in stock.

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

Smoked Fish Dip w/this ad

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He has an 8 footer for $49.99; 10 ft. jigging rod is $54.99 and 12 ft. trolling rod which is $59.99 and a 14 ft. trolling rod which is $64.99 and a 16 ft. trolling rod for $69.99. he now has an 18 ft. rod for $74.99. He also carries the Vexan Advantage Sun Glasses in stock from $79.95. 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.

Jake has Millennium Crappie Spider lock rod holders in stock for $139.99. The Southern Pro jigs and the Bobbie Garland jigs in stock. Slider jigs are also in stock.

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. For more information, call Jake at 352-759-2600.

Bill at BROOKER BAIT & TACKLE 352-460-0695 said bass is doing great all over the whole chain using both wild shiners and domestic shiners. Robert Cain and Jay Denham have been doing well this week. Specks have turned on, Ben Hall caught 25 on Monday, 17 on Tues, 8 on Wednesday and 4 yesterday. The FLW tournament will be here this week. Brookers has a well stocked shop and offers expert information on the current fishing, both freshwater and saltwater. They also carry frozen salt water bait.

SOUTHERN TACKLEWORKS 352-742-0036. According to John, Lake Harris, Little Lake Harris, Lake Dora and Lake Griffin are all producing limits of specks. Captain Darryl recently caught 25 per person by 10:00 am on a guide trip. Chartreuse or pink jig heads tipped with minnows are producing great result. Bass are being caught out of Lake Dora and Lake Eustis fishing 4 to 8 ft. of water using Rat-L-Traps or flippin creature type baits.

ASTOR BAIT & TACKLE

•OUTDOOR ARCHERY RANGE

Live Bait SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 30

•ARCHERY ACCESSORIES

frontstreetbait.com@kvcom.net

23835 Hwy. 40, Astor Florida

352-759-2600

www.blackwaterinn.com

Freshwater Tackle Live Bait-Wild Shiners Rod & Reel Repairs-Free Ice 325 E. Burleigh Blvd.

Tavares, Fl. 32778 352-742-0036

Lakeside Bait & Tackle (352) 742-3336 Located on Lake Eustis

1000 W Burleigh Blvd. Tavares

It recently took 37 pounds of bass to win a recent tournament held on the chain. There were 4 bags weighed in that weighed over 30 pounds.

Good Luck this month, and remember take someone fishing.

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

“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

Mark and Heidi of LAKESIDE BAIT & TACKLE 352-742-3336 tell us that specks have turned on in Dora, Beauclair, Carlton and Little Lake Harris and are in the pads and the grass. Bass fishing has been doing great on the Harris Chain using plastic worms.

Swim baits and plastic worms are both working well. Several customers have brought in some nice catch and release bass. Lakeside Bait and Tackle is located right on Lake Eustis and you can buy your fresh bait from boat or from Hwy. 441.

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

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.

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

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

BAIT & TACKLE

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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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 31

Astor/Pierson Citgo

Cheapest Gas in Town!

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

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Open 7 Days Sun-Thur 6am-10pm Fri-Sat 6am-11pm

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1380 W. St Rd. 40, Pierson 386-749-0180

Look at these beautiful specks Greg and Eddie caught on bait from Brooker Bait and Tackle located on 441 in Eustis.

Nice bass caught with Capt.

Lynda Hawkins with Bass N Gal Guide Service.

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

Welaka Marine

Sales - Service - Accessories Sales & Service 352-759-3655

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

24535 HWY. 40, Astor, Fl 32102

210 Walnut Street Welaka, Fl. 32193 Cell: 386-559-7900 Phone: 386-467-2628 welakamarine.com SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 32

Andrew from ASTOR BRIDGE MARINA & MOTEL 386-749-4407 tells us bed season is upon us, and the bass are on guard! There’s already been a couple nice 5 lb. + largemouth bass caught that we know of, and we know right where to send ya! We’ve seen some quality Crappie, many over 2 lbs. caught these past couple weeks, as Crappie Master’s has our bridge as the northern boundary for their event. Quite a few of them were caught on Vexan Crappie Rods and Skipper’s Jigs American Toad Thumpers, which you can find at Astor Bait & Tackle, located less than two miles west of our Marina on the main stretch of SR 40. In the coming month, we’ll be stocking some select tackle in our Ship Store, and you’ll be able to get a quick fix for your tackle box! We should be up and running by March 1st. We’ve got updated motel rooms ready for your next fishing adventure! Call 386-749-4407 or visit us online at our newly designed website www.astorbridgemarine.com to book your dates!

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.

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.

WELAKA FISH & CRAB Randy at 386467-9776 is located across the street from Welaka Marine on Walnut Street. Stop in and get your fresh seafood and to visit with them.

CRYSTAL RIVER & DUNNELLON ANGLER’S FAMILY RESORT 352489-2397 Leo tells us they have been doing ok with the bass using wild shiners on Lake Rousseau. Domestic shiners are working on the Rainbow River. Specks are being caught using Jiffy Jigs on the Withlacoochee River.

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.

Scott Wilbanks with an 11.44 pound black bass caught from the Harris chain. Photo from Lakeside Bait and Tackle on Lake Eustis.

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 33

The Halifax Sport Fishing Club

“Kids Can Fish Too”

2018 events include 2 tentative dates.

The first is April 21st Lagoonacy at Marine Discovery Center and May 5th at Riverfest.

The club will also host its Annual Offshore Charter Trip on the Sea Spirit for kids and an adult on June 16th. For more information contact Heather Scherer at 732-522-3763 or kidscanfishtoo@hsfc.com. Information about these events will be on the club website hsfc.com and Facebook.

The Halifax Sport Fishing Club 2018 tournament schedule begins with the 18th Annual Offshore Challenge.

March 29th is the captain’s meeting at the club and a new concept to the fishing days with a two-week window in which you can fish 2 days from March 31st to April 14th and the awards will be held April 17th at the club.

May 10th is the captain’s meeting for the 30th Annual Lady Angler Tournament at the club. Fishing is May 12th for wahoo, dolphin, and king. Awards will be held at the club on May 15th.

August 2nd is the 8th Annual Summer Slam captain’s party at the club. Fishing is August 4th for kingfish, barracuda, and bonita.

The Halifax Sport Fishing Club is located at 3431 S. Ridgewood Avenue, Port Orange. For more information on the tournaments contact Jesse Jones at 386453-6489 or tournaments@hsfc.com.

Information about the tournaments can be found on the club website hsfc.com and Facebook.

Celebrating 51 Years!

What Causes Angling Mortality in Fish?

Fish may die after release for a variety of reasons. The most common causes of post-release mortality are physiological stress on the fish resulting from struggle during capture, injuries caused by the hook, and mishandling of the fish by the angler.

Unfortunately, some fish may die after release even though they appear unharmed and despite efforts by the angler to revive the

fish.

Fish that struggle intensely during capture are usually exhausted and stressed from the accumulation of excessive amounts of lactic acid in their muscles and blood. The stress of capture may be more severe for larger fish such as tarpon, therefore, using the proper weight-class tackle, landing your catch quickly, and releasing the fish as quickly as possible increases the fish’s chance of survival. Bringing an exhausted fish out of the water is like asking a triathlon winner to jump back in the water and hold their breath--they both need oxygen to recover!

Fish that are reeled to the surface from deep water may face additional challenges that could decrease their chance of survival.

If you have caught a fish that you do not intend to keep or that cannot be harvested, follow the steps below to increase the chances the fish you release will survive.

Know Before You Go •Knowing before you go is an important step in increasing the survivability of fish you release.

•Decide beforehand which fish are to be kept and immediately release all others.

•Do not engage in a prolonged debate over whether or not to release a fish after it has been landed.

•Make sure you can identify the fish in your area, specifically the fish you are targeting.

•Have a resource to help you identify fish you are not familiar with such as the Fishing Lines guide or a saltwater fish field guide.

•Always know (or have access to) the current regulations for the fish you target.

•Knowing how to measure fish, the size limits, bag limits and seasons minimizes handling time when determining whether or not you can keep the fish you caught.

•Use tackle heavy enough to bring the fish in quickly, and avoid using multi-hook rigs or lures.

•If you have a treble hook, you can remove some of the hooks and flatten the barbs.

•This makes it easier to remove the hooks from the fish and causes less damage.

•Finally, make sure you have all the proper tools and gear on your vessel before heading out for the day.

Circle Hooks Circle hooks are designed so the point is turned perpendicular to the shank to form acircular or oval shape. Circle hooks are best used with natural bait (live or dead).

Circle hooks are 90% more likely to hook fish in the mouth instead of in the esophagus or stomach. Hooking a fish in the mouth reduces internal harm, decreases dehooking time, and lessens the chances of the angler needing to leave the hook in the fish. Fish hooked in the corner of the mouth also tend to fight less than fish that are hooked in the gut.

Pictured is an example of a J Hook (left) and a circle hook (right).

Non-Stainless Steel Hooks Non-stainless steel hooks (steel and bronze) increase survival rates of fish. If these hooks cannot be removed from the fish, they will rust and deteriorate sooner than stainless steel and cadmium or nickel-plated hooks.

They are also less toxic.

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 34

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Best Feeding Times for Fish and Game

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 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.

Mention this ad and receive $100 off

Hog, Deer & Turkey Hunts! **************** Deer Hunting $1295 - 3 Day Hunt August 15th January 1st

Spring Turkey Hunts March 15th - May 1st $1,395 - 3 Day Hunt

Wild Hog Hunts Year Round $1,095 - 3 Day Hunt

Meals & Lodging Included with all pricing!

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 Mar/Apr 2018 Page 39

Hunting News

By Tony Young

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

Working together through partnerships, restoring turkeys in Holmes County is huge success Holmes County hunters in northwest Florida will enjoy their first full-length spring turkey season after 20 years – a result of a successful wild turkey restoration project and partnership between the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC),

National Wild Turkey Federation and local landowners.

“In the mid-1990s, residents and landowners of Holmes County brought it to our attention that their county’s wild turkey population had virtually disappeared,” said Roger Shields, FWC’s wild turkey program coordinator. “Our biologists and law enforcement then set up bait stations throughout the county and monitored them. Those reports were confirmed, and turkey hunting was closed in Holmes County in 1998.”

A turkey trapping and restocking program was initiated during back-to-back winters of 1998-99 and 1999-2000. A total of 121 wild turkeys (43 gobblers and 78 hens) were released at eight different locations within Holmes County over those two years. Local landowners spent their own money on habitat improvements, such as prescribed burns, timber thinning and planting food plots, which helped speed up the restoration process. Additionally, the NWTF formed a local chapter and assisted in turkey trapping efforts.

The restoration goal of re-establishing a huntable population of wild turkeys was attained in 2006 when turkey hunting was opened back up in Holmes County with a limited three-day spring season and a one-bird bag limit. Over the past decade, the spring turkey season in Holmes County has been extended incrementally, and based on harvest data, hunting success in Holmes County is now as good or better than that in surrounding counties. So beginning this spring, the season there will be a full 37 days as it is statewide.

Youth Turkey Hunt Weekend Youth hunters can take part in the two-day youth spring turkey hunt, which occurs on private lands and on 81 WMAs the weekend prior to the opening of spring turkey season. South of State Road 70, that youth weekend was Feb. 24-25. Above S.R. 70 in the rest of the state, that weekend falls on March 10-11. Only those 15 years old and younger are allowed to harvest a turkey while supervised by an adult, 18 years or older.

Walk-in youth turkey hunt areas These 26 WMAs do not require a youth spring turkey quota permit: Apalachicola, Aucilla, Big Bend – Snipe Island Unit, Big Bend – Spring Creek Unit, Big Bend – Tide Swamp Unit, Blackwater, Choctawhatchee River (only the south portion of the area), Escambia River, Herky Huffman/Bull Creek, J.W. Corbett, Joe Budd, Jumper Creek, Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Kissimmee River, Lake Monroe, Lochloosa, Log Landing, Lower Econfina River, Middle Aucilla, Osceola, Richloam, Steinhatchee Springs, St. Marks NWR (Newport Hunt Area only), Three Lakes, Upper St. Johns River Marsh and Yellow River.

Spring turkey season Spring turkey season south of S.R. 70 always begins the first Saturday in March. This year it is March 3, running through April 8.

In the rest of the state, it always opens the third Saturday of March, with this year being March 17 through April 22.

Walk-in public hunting areas These 43 WMAs don’t require a quota to hunt some or all of the spring turkey season: Osceola turkeys inhabit these areas Big Bend WMA - Jena Unit – 11,651 acres in Dixie County.

Big Cypress WMA – 728,274 acres in Collier, Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. Quota permit required to hunt in the Addition Unit only. Season runs March 3 – April 8. Camping allowed.

Devil’s Hammock WMA - 7,600 acres in Levy County. Season runs March 17-25. There are 15 no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on a first-come, first-served basis.

Green Swamp WMA - 50,692 acres in Polk, Sumter and Lake counties. Hunters must have a quota permit to hunt the first weekend, but there are 200 no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on a first-come, first-served basis for the remainder of season. Camping allowed only by special permit from the FWC. SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 40

Herky Huffman/Bull Creek WMA - 23,646 acres in Osceola County. Camping allowed.

J.W. Corbett WMA - 60,288 acres in Palm Beach County. Season runs March 3 – April 8, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays only. Allowed to hunt until sunset. Camping allowed.

Jumper Creek WMA - 10,552 acres in Sumter County. Camping allowed but only accessible by boat.

Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Area - 21,028 acres in Polk and Osceola counties. Allowed to hunt until sunset. Camping allowed first-come, first-served only at designated campsites.

Management area permit not required.

Kissimmee River Public Use Area - 30,864 acres in Glades, Highlands, Okeechobee, Osceola and Polk counties. Area is split between turkey hunting zones. When hunting south of S.R. 70, the season runs March 3 – April 8. For camping information only, call the South Florida Water Management District at 866-433-6312, option 2. Management area permit not required.

Lake Monroe WMA - 3,098 acres in Volusia and Seminole counties.

Lochloosa WMA - 11,149 acres in Alachua County.

Log Landing WMA - 5,015 acres in Dixie, Gilchrist and Lafayette counties. Season runs March 17-18 and 23-25, March 30 – April 1, and April 6-8, 13-15 and 20-22.

Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge - 55,000 acres in Dixie and Levy counties. Season runs March 17 – April 8. Management area permit not required, but hunters 16 and older must purchase Lower Suwannee NWR Hunting Permit.

Raiford WMA – 9,141 acres in Bradford and Union counties. Quota permit not required April 5-8. Only bows and muzzleloaders (including muzzleloading rifles) are allowed.

Richloam WMA - 58,146 acres in Hernando, Pasco, Sumter and Lake counties. Hunters must have a quota permit to hunt the first nine days, but those without one may hunt the remainder of the season. Camping allowed only by permit from the Florida Forest Service by calling 352-797-4140.

Rolling Meadows Unit – Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Area – 1,800 acres in Polk County. Allowed to hunt until sunset. Management area permit not required.

Santa Fe Swamp Wildlife and Environmental Area - 7,326 acres in Alachua and Bradford counties. Only bows and muzzleloaders (including muzzleloading rifles) are allowed.

Three Lakes WMA - 63,470 acres in Osceola County. There are 625 no-cost, daily quota permits available first-come, first-served at the following check stations: U.S. 44 - 375, Canoe Creek – 50, S.R. 60 - 200. Camping allowed.

Upper Hillsborough WMA - 5,178 acres in Polk and Pasco counties. Wednesdays and Thursdays only. There are 75 no-cost, daily quota permits available at the check station on a first-come, first-served basis. Camping allowed.

Upper St. Johns River Marsh WMA - 120,386 acres in Brevard and Indian River counties. Camping allowed.

Eastern turkeys inhabit these areas Apalachicola WMA - 581,290 acres in Franklin, Leon, Liberty and Wakulla counties. Camping allowed. A camping permit issued

by Northwest Florida Water Management District is required when camping on that portion of the area.

Apalachicola River Wildlife and Environmental Area – 82,975 acres in Franklin and Gulf counties. Camping allowed, but camping permit required if camping in designated campground. Management area permit not required.

Aucilla WMA - 50,471 acres in Jefferson and Taylor counties. Camping allowed.

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 41

Big Bend WMA: Hickory Mound Unit - 14,427 acres in Taylor County.

Snipe Island Unit - 11,687 acres in Taylor County. Hunters must have a quota permit to hunt the first 16 days, but those without one may hunt April 2-8. Allowed to hunt until sunset.

Spring Creek Unit - 14,600 acres in Taylor County.

Tide Swamp Unit - 19,538 acres in Taylor County.

Blackwater WMA - 191,651 acres in Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties. May not turkey hunt in Field Trial Area. Camping allowed at designated campsites.

Chipola River WMA - 9,094 acres in Jackson and Calhoun counties. Quota permit required to hunt Altha Tract only. Camping allowed only at designated campsites by permit from Northwest Florida Water Management District.

Choctawhatchee River WMA - 57,998 acres in Bay, Holmes, Walton and Washington counties. Southern (non-spring turkey quota area) portion of the area may be hunted without quota permit. Camping allowed. A camping permit issued by Northwest Florida Water Management District is required when camping in designated campgrounds.

Econfina Creek WMA - 41,193 acres in Washington, Bay and Jackson counties. Quota permit not required to hunt after the first nine days, except in the Cat Creek and Fitzhugh Carter areas (where quota permit is needed). Camping allowed only at designated campsites by permit from Northwest Florida Water Management District.

Eglin Air Force Base - 250,000 acres in Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties. Hunting and camping allowed only by permit from Jackson Guard Natural Resource Office by calling 850-882-4164.

Escambia River WMA - 35,413 acres in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Camping allowed. A camping permit issued by Northwest Florida Water Management District is required when camping in designated campgrounds.

Lower Econfina River WMA - 3,004 acres in Taylor County. Season runs March 17-25.

Mallory Swamp WMA - 31,225 acres in Lafayette County. Season runs March 17 – April 1.

Ochlockonee River WMA - 2,790 acres in Leon County. Saturdays and Sundays only.

Osceola WMA - 266,270 acres in Baker and Columbia counties. For camping information on Osceola National Forest, call 386752-2577; on John M. Bethea State Forest, call 904-259-2157 or click on area link and see “Camping.”

Pine Log WMA - 6,911 acres in Bay and Washington counties. Season runs March 17 – April 8. Camping allowed by reservation from Florida Forest Service by calling 850-373-1801.

Point Washington WMA - 15,355 acres in Walton County. Camping allowed at Eastern Lake campsite by reservation from Florida Forest Service by calling 850-373-1801.

Steinhatchee Springs WMA - 24,442 acres in Lafayette, Taylor and Dixie counties. Hunters must have a quota permit to hunt the first nine days, but those without one may hunt March 26 – April 8. The Dixie County portion of the area is inhabited by Osceola turkeys.

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge – 32,000 acres in Wakulla, Jefferson and Taylor counties. Permit required on majority of the area, but not required for Newport Hunt Area.

Management area permit not required but must have signed refuge hunting brochure in your possession.

Talquin WMA - 3,053 acres in Leon County. Saturdays and Sundays only.

Yellow River WMA – 27,208 acres in Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties. Camping allowed.

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 42

Bag limits and regulations Hunters may take bearded turkeys and gobblers only, and the daily bag limit is two on private lands. On WMAs, you may only take one bird a day. The season and possession limit on turkeys is two, except in Holmes County, where it is one.

wish to hunt to be sure.

On private property, any legal rifle, shotgun, muzzleloader, crossbow, bow or pistol can be used to take turkeys. However, the allowed methods of take during spring turkey season are more restrictive on WMAs. Rifles and pistols are generally not allowed, and shotguns must use shot no larger than No. 2. Check the WMA brochure on the area you

Shooting hours on private lands and some WMAs are one-half hour before sunrise to sunset, but on most WMAs, you must quit hunting by 1 p.m.

You can use decoys, but you’re not permitted to hunt turkeys with dogs, use recorded turkey calls or sounds, or shoot them while they’re on the roost, over bait or when you’re within 100 yards of a game-feeding station when feed is present.

License and permit requirements Besides a hunting license, you’ll need to buy a turkey permit. For Florida residents, the turkey permit costs $10. For all the out-ofstaters who may be seeking an Osceola to complete their “Grand Slam” or who want to begin their season in the Sunshine State, the permit costs $125. And if you plan to hunt on a WMA, you also must purchase a management area permit for $26.50.

These licenses and permits can be purchased in Florida at county tax collectors’ offices and at most retail outlets that sell hunting/fishing supplies, and with a credit card by calling 888-HUNT-FLORIDA (486-8356) or at HYPERLINK “http:// gooutdoorsflorida.com/” GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

During Youth Turkey Hunt Weekend, no license or permit is required of the supervising adult, unless the adult plans to help “call-in” a bird or otherwise participate in the hunt. In that case, the adult will need a hunting license and turkey permit, and if on a WMA, they will also need a management area permit.

Good luck!

Here’s wishing all of you a safe, successful spring turkey season!

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 43

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 44

HICKLING FEED

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Derek Pell and Jeremy Smith with a wild hog they harvested .

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 45

Best Selection • Best Prices • Best Service

• Boat & Trailer Sales • Service/Repairs • Accessories • Supplies 2460 Old New York Ave DeLand, Florida www.floridafamilymarine.com SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 46

SSFHMagazine Mar/Apr 2018 Page 47

APRIL 20 & 21 9a

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