Skip to main content

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026

Page 1

Looking for A fishing adventure? 5 pages to choose from charters, Head Boat or Rent a boat Docked at Cay Marine/Sea Love Boatyard & Marina 4877 Front St. Ponce Inlet

DEEP SEA DEEP SEA FISHING FISHING TRIPS TRIPS DEPARTING DEPARTING DAILY DAILY WWW.SEASPIRITFISHING.COM WWW.SEASPIRITFISHING.COM 386-763-4388 386-763-4388 SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 2


k r a h S Fishing!

ame G g i B

EVERYTHING EVERYTHING FURNISHED FURNISHED EXCEPT FOOD EXCEPT FOOD & DRINKS & DRINKS

Fishing!

Publisher approved Private fishing charters

Ponce inlet/New Smyrna Beach/Indian River/Halifax River CAPTAIN MIKE KYP 386-837-3827 - www.FireLineCharters.com 26’ Century powered by twin 200HP Yamahas Inshore-Nearshore-Offshore Up to 6 Passengers Shark Fishing-Eco Tours Docked at: Adventure Yacht Harbor

3948 S Peninsula Drive Port Orange

CAPTAIN SCOTT HOUSEL 407-314-3355 Bottom Fishing Offshore Fishing Gulf Stream Charters

www.SuddenStrikeOffshoreAdventure.com

31’ Contender with twin Suzuki 300HP 4 strokes ACCOMODATES UP TO 6 PASSENGERS

CAPTAIN MIKE DAVIS 386-675-3890 www.JettieRocks.com 4Hr-6Hr-8Hr Trips Inshore-Nearshore-Offshore 3Hr Shark Trips

CHARTERS

Docked at: Adventure Yacht Harbor

23’ C Hawk with 150HP Suzuki

3948 S Peninsula Drive Port Orange

ACCOMODATES UP TO 4 PASSENGERS

Captain Jamie Thrappas 386-366-3424 Boats Available 17’ Flats Skiff (Back country) 25’ Bay Boat (Inshore & Nearshore) 30’ Center Console (Offshore)

www.YellowDawgFishing.com

www.finn-addict-fishing.com

Half Day-Full Day-Nearshore-Offshore Bottom Fishing-Deep Water Big Game Fishing Docked at Two Jerks Seafood 79 Dunlawton Ave. Port Orange

36‘ Yellowfin Center Console powered by twin 350HP Yahama engines. Accomodates up to 6 passengers SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 3


FULLY FULLY LICENSED LICENSED & & INSURED INSURED CAPTAINS CAPTAINS

/Nearshore e r ho s In Fishing!

shore f f O

Fishing!

Publisher approved Private fishing charters

Ponce inlet/New Smyrna Beach/Indian River/Halifax River CAPTAIN AARON HIGHERS 24' Carolina Skiff powered by twin 140HP Suzukis Inshore-Nearshore-Offshore Fishing

w w w. To p N o t c h F i s h i n g A d v e n t u r e s . c o m Up to 6 Passengers

Half Day / Full Day SHARK TRIPS Up to 6 Passengers Fishing Aboard 29’ May Craft Powered by twin 150 HP Yamahas

Docked at: Adventure Yacht Harbor 3948 S Peninsula Drive Port Orange

w w w. K n o t O n D u t y F i s h i n g . c o m

Trips range from 3hrs-12hrs Inshore-Nearshore-Offshore-River Cruises NIGHT trips are available (weather conditions permitting) Up to 6 Passengers

No Fishing License Required!

Fishing aboard a 25’ Ken Craft Challenger Powered by a 250 HP Suzuki

www.ReefWrecker.com

CAPTAIN KEVIN MORAN 224-501-2802 www.StrippinLipsCharters.com Ask About Inshore Charters Baycraft 185 Flats Edition

Grady White 306 Bimini with twin Yamahas Bottom/Drift Fishing - Trolling Charters Shark Fishing - High Speed Trolling

w w w. D a y t o n a B e a c h D e e p S e a F i s h i n g . c o m

Up to 4 Passengers

Docked at: Adventure Yacht Harbor 3948 S Peninsula Drive Port Orange

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 4

Up to 6 Passengers

26’ Aquasport Center Console Powered by 250HP Suzuki


om Bott

Fishing!

GRATUITY IS GRATUITY IS APPRECIATED APPRECIATED ON A ON A JOB JOB WELL WELL DONE DONE

Eco

Tours

Publisher approved Private fishing charters

Ponce inlet/New Smyrna Beach/Indian River/Halifax River INSHORE FISHING CHARTERS Ponce Inlet - New Smyrna Beach - Daytona Beach CAPTAIN AUSTIN FERGUSON 321-439-5476 CAPTAIN COLE FERGUSON 321-439-5096 www.FergsGuideService.com

Up to 4 Passengers (2) 22’ Pathfinders with 150HP Yamahas

Inshore Fishing Nearshore Fishing

CAPTAIN JEFF PATTERSON 386-451-4992 www.smallboatBIGFISH.com

Fishing aboard a 23’ C-Hawk with a 200HP Suzuki Accommodates up to 4 passengers

The winter months attract a variety of fish. Nearshore and inlet you can expect to catch big bull redfish, sheepshead, black drum, bluefish, whiting and more. Offshore mangrove snappers, blackfin tuna, wahoo and maybe even a sailfish. Call one of our preferred Captains today to book!

Inshore Fishing Charters Eco, Wildlife, & Sunset Tours

www.CaughtUpFishingCharters.com

Captain Marty Goldys Call or Text: 386.679.0317 www.ReelHarmonyFishing.com

Fishing Aboard a Pathfinder 2200V Center Console Equipped with the latest power pole technology, Minn Kota i-pilot, and Garmin Electronics.

Accommodates up to 4 charter guest Fishing aboard a 243CC Everglades with a 300HP Yamaha

FAMILY FRIENDLY INSHORE FISHING EXPERIENCE! SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 5


h rt Fis ing o Sp Boats

CUSTOMARY TIP CUSTOMARY TIP IS 20% IS 20% OF THE OF THE COST COST OF OF YOUR YOUR TRIP TRIP

er Cent

so Con les

Publisher approved Private fishing charters

Ponce inlet/New Smyrna Beach/Indian River/Halifax River Trips range from 4hrs-12hrs Nearshore-Offshore-Big Game Fishing & Shark Trips

CAPTAIN TIM GARRETT 386-547-0858 www.waterproofcharters.com

Docked at Cay Marine/Sea Love Boatyard & Marina 4877 Front St. Ponce Inlet

Over 40 years Fishing Local Waters!

40’ Custom Built Sportfisher up to 6 passengers Powered by a 650 HP John Deere engine.

Sport Fishing Charters - Ponce Inlet

Trips range from 4hrs-12hrs Nearshore-Offshore-Big Game Fishing & Shark Trips

CAPTAIN DAMIEN LAWLER 386-566-1589

Docked at Two Jerks Seafood 79 Dunlawton Avenue Port Orange

Over 30 years Fishing Local Waters!

www.luckystrikesportfishingcharters.net

CAPTAIN TY EAVES 706-809-2540 www.wildfishadventures.com

40’ Express Sportfisher up to 6 passengers Powered by twin Yanmar 500HP engines

Inshore Fishing Nearshore Fishing Offshore Fishing Sunset Cruises / Island Day Day trip to St. Augustine

Daytona Beach 25’ Sea Hunt Gamefish up to 6 passengers Powered by Twin 150HP Yamahas

our Catch Y ok staura o nt C Re Amenity of taking one of our private charters Boondocks will cook your catch your way fresh the day of your charter for a fee.

ater w h s Fre Fishing!

Home to Publisher Approved Private Charters

Knot On Duty Have Faith Fishing Fire Line Charters Jettie Rocks Fishing

Located at Windward Adventure Yacht Harbor 3948 S Peninsula Drive Port Orange

386-760-9001

www.mywindward.com/adventure-yacht-harbor

Bass Specks Bluegill

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 6


East Central Florida Meet the Captain Aaron Highers Top Notch Adventures

Captain Aaron Highers of Top Notch Adventures is a seasoned angler with a deep passion for fishing and the great outdoors. Born and raised in Port Orange, FL, Aaron developed an early love for the water and the diverse marine life that inhabits it. With years of experience navigating the local waters, he has honed his skills in both inshore and offshore fishing, making him a respected local fishing guide in Port Orange. Aaron's extensive knowledge of the area's fishing spots and species ensures that every trip is a rewarding and educational experience for his guests. As the lead guide of Top Notch Adventures, Captain Aaron is dedicated to sharing his expertise and enthusiasm for fishing with others.

He employs a variety of fishing techniques, including light tackle, trolling, jigging, and fly fishing, to target a wide range of species such as Redfish, Speckled Trout, Flounder, Mahi-Mahi, Tuna, and Kingfish. Aaron's patient and friendly demeanor makes him an excellent Captain fishing guide in Florida for anglers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. His commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and customer satisfaction has earned him a loyal following and a stellar reputation.

Captain Aaron is supported by a skilled and knowledgeable crew who share his passion for fishing and dedication to providing exceptional service. The team at family-owned fishing charters in Port Orange works seamlessly to ensure that every aspect of the fishing experience is top-notch, from the moment guests step on board to the time they return to shore. Together, Captain Aaron and his crew strive to create unforgettable fishing adventures that highlight the natural beauty and abundant marine life of Port Orange, FL.

www.topnotchfishingadventures.com Get Your Captains License with us!

Helping Mariners Since 1962

877-447-1950 U.S. COAST GUARD APPROVED

OUPV-6 PACK $675 / Master Upgrade $275 Includes test, books, and all equipment necessary

www.AdamsMarine.com

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 7


KATE’S BAIT & TACKLE P.O. Box 290002 Port Orange, Fl. 32129 386-478-3725 www.fishnhuntmag.com fishandhuntday@gmail.com

Inshore-Offshore-Saltwater-Freshwater-Rod Repair 843 N. Dixie Freeway New Smyrna Beach Fl. OPEN 5AM DAILY! Some days open 24 hrs.

386-788-1234 LARGE SELECTION OF LIVE & FROZEN BAITS

Published by: Desiree’ Harbster

Continuing the legacy in loving memory of Roger & Dorothy Harbster

We also sell Flats of Bait

Front Caption:

Capt. Mike Davis with Jettie Rocks Fishing catching Sheepshead around the Ponce Inlet area.

Sailfish caught on a 6 hour charter with Capt. Chris Endicott from Finn-Addict Fishing Charters.

Quality First Concrete, Inc. “Our Name Says It All”

Servicing All Of Volusia County!

Discount

Country Store 1871 W. Hwy 44 Deland

Specializing In: Mono Slabs Driveways Sidewalks Patios Breakouts

Over 25 Years in Business! 478-391-3036 Al Wilkes Licensed and Insured

Open 5:30am 7 Day a Week 386-736-4117 LIVE BAIT & TACKLE

Feed Beer Sodas Snacks Tobacco and Cigarettes Refill Propane (Gas & Cylinders)

BAGS & BUCKETS OF ICE SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 8

Pierson/Astor Citgo 1380 W. State Rd 40

Open 6:00am 7 Day a Week 386-749-0180 CHEAPEST GAS IN TOWN!

LIVE BAIT & TACKLE Beer/Wine/Soda Snacks/Groceries Cigarettes Hot Pizza Chicken Wings Refill Propane BAGS OF ICE


Breaking news!!! From Roy with Roy’s Surf Fishing Guide Service. The pompano are finally at New Smyrna Beach!!! All caught on Live Sand fleas on pompano banana rigs!!! Supplied by Kate’s Bait & Tackle.

386-345-0746 www.AnchorHardwareand Storage.com

OPEN 7 DAYS 6AM-6PM

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 9


SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 10


EST. 1976

Business FOR SALE

Bob’s Discount Marine

CHECK OUT THE BRAND NEW BAIT SHOP

5110 S. Ridgewood Ave. Port Orange

386-761-5378

Kevin & Sandy London

www.bobsdiscountmarine.com The Area’s Favorite Supplier of Marine Accessories We are your ONE STOP SHOP for

“Your Surf Fishing Headquarters” Free Boat Ramps & Lighted Piers Live Bait Tackle & Gear Maps & Advice Rod & Reel Rentals Fresh Smoked Fish Pedal Boat Rentals OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK One South Beach St. Ormond Beach

Leary Family Owned Since 1999

Trailer Parts Boat Lift Supplies Nautical Gifts & More!

386-676-9078 www.granadapier.com

CUSTOM ALUMINUM WORK Fuel Tanks/T-Tops Platforms & More!

735 Airport Rd Hanger B-3 EDGEWATER

386-957-3756

Billie and Matt with a pair of nice snook caught off the Granada Pier under the lights with fresh bait from Ike.

OPEN 7 DAYS!

Vannessa Schurr and her daughter Ella caught this 32” snook fishing with Capt. Scott Laney out of New Smyrna Beach.

One Stop Shop for your Repairs!

Located at the Daytona Flea Market

2987 Bellevue Ave. Daytona Beach SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 11


Hudson Bailey with a snook caught from a pond in New Smyrna Beach.

Expert FREE Advice & Friendly Service with a Smile!

Closest & Easy Access to the Boat Ramp! Quan caught this sheepshead at the Dunlawton Bridge using fiddler crabs from Donald’s Bait & Tackle

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 96 Dunlawton Ave. Port Orange

386-760-1871

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 12

Live & Frozen Bait Shrimp/Mud Minnows/Fiddler Crabs

Tackle/Rods & Reels and more


Just Hookin’ is the collective result of a not so typical Florida family having a good time! Born in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, Just Hookin’ is here not only to provide functional and sleek outerwear but also to spread the Smyrna lifestyle. Whether you’re cruising the Mosquito Lagoon , Navigating the Atlantic or somewhere in-between, we have something to inspire your fancy. From Our handmade Nautical Fishhook Bracelets and Anchor Bracelets, to our one of a kind apparel and accessories you will not be disappointed. For us, Just Hookin’ is not just a business but a way of life. We’re here to offer you Functional Florida Fishing Apparel at a not so dysfunctional price. As a family endeavor we are proud to be a straight up no nonsense company that will go out of our way to make sure everyone is treated like one of the family. So come hook with us, we promise we won't tell. Mary Ann & Kyle White!

Fish Hook Jewelry & Accessories

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 13

Also Available at: www.etsy.com/shop/justhookinLLC


LET’S GO SHRIMPING The sky still holds its last hint of light as we back the boat down the ramp. The air smells like salt, a slight chilly breeze blows in, and the excitement builds. Trucks idle, bunks splash, and nods are exchanged with other boats doing the same thing. No one has to explain why we’re here...we all know. We ease toward our spot, cutting the motor early and letting the boat drift. Anchors out. Lights and nets are ready. Red headlamps beam, looking for the glow that means it's time. When the tides roll out, everything starts to change. Shadows start to trickle through, and shrimp eyes start to glow red. From there, the night takes over. Scooping and dipping becomes instinctive. Watch the current. Track the shrimp. Time each net. Shrimp flash through the light like sparks, and before long your arms burn in that satisfying way that tells you you’re doing it right. The bucket grows heavier. Laughter breaks out. Someone calls another shadow passing by. Over and over until you've limited out at a full 5 gallons. Shrimping on Florida’s east coast is simple, fast paced and completely hands-on. You don’t need years of experience, just a little patience and a willingness to learn as the night unfolds. Ata CCF, we make it easy with lights, gear, and guidance to help anyone get out on the water and experience it for themselves. SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 14


SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 15


Using A Variety of Live Baits When Fishing in Florida Written By: Captain Martin Goldys Reel Harmony Fishing Charters

Tarpon

Flounder

Black Drum

Sheepshead

Redfish

Snook

As a charter captain in central Florida the absolute best approach to catching fish consistently would be to utilize Live baits. While fishing with artificial baits and lures can be very effective and fun, most charter fishing customers aren’t familiar with how to apply these approaches. On the other hand, anyone can cast out a live bait and produce a solid result. For this reason, you’ll always find a variety of live baits on my charter fishing vessel. Somethings to consider before selecting your bait of choice would be the time of year you plan to fish, the area/spots you desire fishing, and the species of fish you intend to target. As we know, fish will often alter their diets and feeding habits based on the time of year (weather fluctuation) and/or their reproductive cycle (when they spawn). Below, I’ll break down my favorite baits to use when targeting the most desired saltwater fish species in Florida. Let’s start with my favorite saltwater species, the Redfish. When targeting Redfish in Florida, I always use crustaceans as my ‘Go-To’. When I say ‘Crustaceans’, I mean Live Shrimp, Live Blue Crab, and Live Fiddler Crab. I’ve caught my largest and the most Redfish while using Crustaceans. Every once in a while, I’ll use live finger mullet or Pinfish to target larger Bull Redfish. When targeting the Snook, I’ll always gather a variety of live fish baits as this species can be rather selective when hunting for their next meal. Personally, I like to use live fish baits that make noise and create an auditory appeal such as Pigfish or Croaker. I’ve also had a lot of luck catching Snook on live mullet and Pinfish. When fishing docks and bridge fenders I’ve caught Snook in larger numbers using Live Shrimp. When searching for dinner and targeting Flounder, my first choice in bait would be live Mud minnows on a jig head. This bait and tactic never fail when targeting this tasty species of fish. You can have similar luck catching Flounder using live shrimp on a jig head. It’s the constant movement on the bottom of the column (sea floor) that stimulates the Flounder to attack its prey. Another tasty species of fish would be the Sheepshead. When targeting sheepshead there are a wide variety of baits that are effective. While my first choice would be the live Fiddler crab, others like to use live Sandfleas and broken up pieces of shrimp. I’ve even used pieces of clam and broken up barnacles to effectively catch Sheepshead during the winter season. Speckled Trout are really fun to catch with live shrimp under a popping cork. Trout seem to easily seek out a live shrimp dangling/fleeing in the middle of the water column. Once you locate a single speckled trout, there are typically more hanging out in that area. A larger species of fish that puts up a great fight would be the Tarpon. When targeting the Silver King, I always strive to use the largest Live fish baits I can find. While giant Mullet (6-12”) work really well, I’ve also used small to medium sized Lady Fish to lure in feeding Tarpon. Keeping the Tarpon fastened can be he challenge. Ensuring your landed Tarpon receives a proper release is key to their survival. Getting your hands on the correct live baits and keeping them preserved can often be a challenge. Knowing where each live bait thrives and how to catch them is a skill set in itself. Or,having a good relationship with your local Bait & Tackle shop can be very helpful. If you’re looking to catch the trophy fish of a lifetime with a knowledgeable and friendly fishing guide, consider reaching outto Captain Marty of Reel Harmony Fishing Charters as he prides himself on providing a quality fishing experience while meeting your desired fishing goals. Capt. Marty (386)679-0317 ReelHarmonyFisingCharters@gmail.com Instagram:@capt_harmony www.ReelHarmonyFishing.com SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 16


SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 17


Add a little bit of body text Add a little bit of body text 911 N. Dixie Freeway New Smyrna Beach, Fl. SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 18

386-424-9000


www.DiamondMotorsAndMarine.Com SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 19

#DiamondSuzuki


SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 20


New club record HSFC Weighmaster Jim Cecelic with a 3.74 pound yellowtail snapper.

Brooke Scherer with a nice sheepshead she caught while fishing the HSFC members only poker fishing tournament a benefit of being a member win$$$$ and you can do it fishing from land!

It does pay to go fishing when your a member of the HSFC

Angler of the year CHARLIE BIRD Rookies of the year Eric & Brooke SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 21


Wylee Richardson 5 yrs old caught a nice bass with his gramps in one of the family ponds in Emporia.

Gina Hesch with a Black Drum

Jim Cecelic with a Sheepshead SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 22


Dave did it again catching this sheepshead with shrimp from E & J Bait & Tackle.

Bobby Gage came down for some golf lessons from Capt Patrick Preston and even went fishing too.

Seasonal closure for recreational snook harvest begins Dec. 1 on Florida’s west coast and Dec.15 on east coast The recreational harvest season for snook closes Dec. 1 in all west coast snook management regions (Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay, Charlotte Harbor and Southwest) and on Dec. 15 in all east coast snook management regions (Southeast, Indian River Lagoon and Northeast). This includes all Florida state and inland waters within each management region as well as adjacent federal waters. The regional management regions are part of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) holistic management approach for Florida’s most popular inshore fisheries. This approach uses seven metrics to evaluate the fishery by region, allowing the FWC to be more responsive to local concerns. To learn more, visit www.MyFWC.com/Snook. This page includes the snook annual reviews, which provide summaries of key findings from the annual evaluation of management metrics for each region. SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 23


FWC sinks 227-foot freight vessel to build new marine habitat

On Nov. 18, with funding from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Derelict Vessel program, in partnership with Martin County Environmental Resources, the FWC successfully sank the Borocho, a 227-foot derelict freight vessel, to create a new artificial reef. The ship now rests nearly 200 feet below the surface in Martin County, 9 miles offshore of the St. Lucie Inlet. The vessel had remained in the Miami River for a decade after its previous owner allowed it to fall into disrepair. Following a derelict vessel investigation, the FWC hired a removal contractor, Resolve Marine Group, Inc., to remediate, relocate and reef the freighter. Resolve Marine began the sinking process by cutting holes along the vessel’s sides to allow it to flood. Within approximately one hour, the Borocho was fully submerged. SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 24


Artificial reefing was selected as the lowest cost option (cheaper than land-based disposal), realizing significant cost savings for the derelict vessel program through beneficial use of creating long-term habitat as an artificial reef. A collaborative effort between FWC Law Enforcement, Martin County and the FWC Artificial Reef Program resulted in the creation of the Boo McCulley Reef. For over two decades, John “Boo” McCulley, through his company McCulley Marine, was an integral part of the development of artificial reefs in Florida’s waters. This new reef will provide vital marine habitat, enhance local fish populations, and create new opportunities for fishing and diving. The Boo McCulley Reef now marks the southernmost extension to an over 1.14 nautical-mile-long fishing corridor established in 2002 within the Sirotkin permitted area. This area is popular with local recreational anglers targeting reef fish species such as mackerel, amberjack and snapper. The FWC’s Derelict Vessel Removal Program, which is funded by the Florida Legislature, helps state, county and local government agencies with the costs related to removing derelict vessels. Leaving a vessel in a derelict condition is a crime, visit MyFWC.com/Boating.

Purchase a Fish Florida Sailfish Plate Purchase a Fish Florida license plate for your vehicle to support kids’ fishing education and show your passion for fishing in Florida. The sailfish design looks great with any vehicle and boat trailer! The Fish Florida plate is available at your tax collector's office SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 25


East Central Florida WiDa Outdoors located in Astor held their inaugural Crappie Tournament with 17 boats, and every team caught fish—and I mean a TON of fish. One team really showed up and showed out, but there were battles all the way through the Top 5 with some true hogs weighed in. 1st Place: Jacob & Parker 16 lbs 13 oz Big Fish: 2 lbs 12 oz 2nd Place: Donnie & Ronnie 14 lbs 6 oz 3rd Place: Denny & Mitch 14 lbs 1 oz 4th Place: Hayden & Alton 11 lbs 12 oz 5th Place: Will Lucas 11 lbs 10 oz

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 26


Winters in Florida are for Speckled Perch (Crappie) Fishing!

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 27


SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 28


North East Florida

What an amazing day over 200 kids and their families came out to fish with a deputy at Tropical Resort & Marina in Deland. Thank you for all the support and our sponsors.

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 29


North Central Florida Floridians First Budget prioritizes Florida’s oyster reefs, manatees and Floridians' constitutional right to boat, fish, and hunt Today, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Chairman Rodney Barreto and Executive Director Roger Young issued the following statements in support of Governor Ron DeSantis’ 2026-27 Floridians First Budget, bolstering his Administration’s commitment to Florida’s fish and wildlife: “Since Governor DeSantis took office, his unwavering dedication to preserving Florida’s natural resources has ensured our conservation legacy will thrive for generations to come,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “With his support, Florida continues to remain the Fishing and Boating Capital of the World and provides exceptional recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.” “Florida leads the way in conservation thanks to the leadership of Governor DeSantis, and that includes our efforts to expedite the restoration of oyster reefs in Apalachicola Bay and seagrass along Crystal River,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young

.”Under his stewardship, Floridians will continue to thrive in the Free State of Florida, with increased fishing, hunting, boating and outdoor recreational opportunities.” Florida is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a significant contributor to the state's economy. Our state is home to some of the country’s top destinations for world-class fishing, unique hunting opportunities and outdoor recreation. These activities contribute nearly $15 billion in economic impact, demonstrating how conservation directly benefits public access and outdoor experiences, supporting residents and visitors alike. With more than 34 million acres of public and private land and over 12,000 square miles of water, maintaining our fish and wildlife resources is critical to sustaining a healthy way of life and a robust economy. Visit www.myfwc.com for more information.

Capt Aaron will not only put you on some saltwater fish but he will get you hooked on some crappie fishing also.

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 30


Collins' Lowcountry Hunting Club offers premier deer hunting on privately held leases in the low country of South Carolina.

803-267-2825 www.collinslowcountryhuntingclub.com

10640 Ehrhardt Road Ehrhardt, SC

SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 31


SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 32


SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 33


SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 Page 35


Kick off Party Thursday, April 9

April 11, 2026 See you at OFF THE HOOK at INLET HARBOR


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
SSFHMagazine Jan/Feb 2026 by SSFHMagazine - Issuu