SSFHMagazine May/June 2024

Family Owned & Operated Since 1965!

May/June 2024

Your FREE Guide To The Great Outdoors of Florida & Beyond!

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 2

For this month's special edition, we will bring you behind the scenes of how Ponce Fish Network came to be and the inspiration behind it all.

By: Haley Starbeck www.poncefishnetwork.com

The fall of 2019 hit differently, a feeling that I'm sure remains the same regardless of who you ask. My fiancée Jeremy had just been promoted to First Mate aboard the F.V. Super Critter (Critter Fleet), a dream job landed just before the living nightmare began. Just as the work to get ready for busy season was beginning in 2020.. the world was shutting down for the pandemic, putting a full stop to our everyday lives and plans.

During the shutdown we talked a lot about the state of things in the fishing industry; the unnecessary over-regulation of well-stocked fish, outdated advertising models, and the true health of the local fishery… which it seemed the higher-ups had no clue about. A lot of these talks had a fierce undertone of anger and frustration but were mixed with visible apathy. Those who spoke felt no one was listening.. maintaining all the while they felt their hands would remain tied no matter their efforts going forward.

When the shutdown finally ended, I looked for ways to help the struggling business my fiancée had grown up in awe of. The Critter Fleet and its vessels had been around since the 1950s, an area staple and piece of local history that once consisted of a fleet of vessels but by 2020 had dwindled down to just one. Over that first year, I did a lot of research into the industry, the boats & Captains that surrounded us, all while paying careful attention to the management surrounding it all. My first step onto the path that led us to where we are today was the rebirth of some of the Critter's social media accounts. Historically some accounts had been run by its first mate, changing hands every time a new first mate had come on board.

I ran the Critter's Instagram (@critterfleetfishing , photos are still up for those looking) for the last couple of years she ran. Through this, I realized how little of a platform she had to exist on and share her stories. That first year was a struggle; I was met with constant denial by people who had no real understanding or care of what they were doing wrong. I watched as pop-up charter businesses with limited experience had open reign on these advertising platforms, while the household names that created the industry here were shunned, and denied their well-earned right to exist. To say that my frustration motivated me would be denying a personal truth, I have and always will be the kind of person who fights for what's right in a sea of wrong.

It wasn't long after I started trying to help out that talks of closing the business had started, much to our dismay. The tides of the industry had drastically changed during the pandemic- the business temporarily boomed as people had more time & money due to shutdowns, and Florida had become a safe haven from states with harsher restrictions. Seemingly overnight, being a charter Captain became a career choice for many, just as the industry was slowly starting to get back to its pre-pandemic normal. The open talks of selling stopped, and for a brief moment in time, I thought we were in the clear.

In May of 2021 after months of discussion with the best Captain & mates in the inlet, I created Ponce Fish Network with one true but unobtainable goal. At the time if you had asked me, I would have told you I built the network for the Critter Fleet, her Captain, and its crew. I wanted to give them the platform they needed to grow in the social age where management was left in the hands of whoever had the most followers or approved the posting. Nowadays, having lived through the Critter Fleet's last year in business in silence knowing its fate was already sealed, I would say Ponce Fish Network was created so that its closure wasn't in vain. We may have lost one of the best headboats to ever fish these waters, but its legacy will continue to live on as it is the inspiration that has created all that you see here today.

Con’t on page 6 SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 3

613 W. International Speedway Blvd. • Daytona Beach Store Hours: 8:30-5:00 M-F • 9-4 Sat • Closed Sunday

Surplus Gauges $5.00 Small Gauges $5.00 Speedometers $15.00 Tachometers

Fishing Tackle

Shrimp Dip Nets Cobia Jigs and More!

Proud Sponsor of our local fishing tournaments.

TACO

Assorted Rod Holders ***** White & Navy Fishing Boots

Where You’ll Never “Sea” it all on one voyage....“We have what it takes to float your boat!

• 386-252-5019 • www.surplusunlimited.com SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 4

LET US HELP YOU GET YOUR BOAT & TRAILER WATER READY!!

In Loving Memory Jack Escoe Jr. 7-19-1937 - 2-16-2021

• Steering

• Trailer Parts • Stainless Hardware • Control Cables

(Mercury Generation II)

We can order parts same day or next day service!

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SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 5

• Cleaning Supplies • Safety Equipment • Electronics • Dock Lines • Nautical Decor • Tires/Rims • Batteries • Seats/Pedastals • Hatches • Zincs • Anchors • Chain • Jewelry • Head Supplies • Cup/Accessory Holders • Hose • Electrical • Starboard • Boat Fenders • Marine Tinned Wire • LED Lighting • Saltwater Fishing Supplies • Pumps Bilge, Aerator, Washdown, Fresh Water • and so much more.......

Desiree’ Harbster VOLUSIA COUNTY By: and Capt Lynda Hawkins P.O. Box 290002 Port Orange, Fl. 32129 386-478-3725 www.fishnhuntmag.com

Get Caught Up with Caught Up Fishing Charters in

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

To plan your next fishing trip with Captain Bruno and book the ultimate fishing or boating charter adventure

Email: fishandhuntday@gmail.com

Published By: Desiree’ Harbster Shelby Harbster Zona

LL 409 A C 9-7 8 -6 6 8

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

3

WRITERS: Desiree’ Harbster Capt. Lynda Hawkins Caught Up Fishing Charters Capt. Bruno Haley w/ Ponce Inlet Fishing Charter Network Reel Harmony Fishing Charters Capt. Marty

Front Captions: The Mahi bite is on this beauty was caught aboard Fire Line Charters with Capt Mike Kyp out of Ponce Inlet.

Black Bass from Georgetown Marina By: Haley Starbeck www.poncefishnetwork.com

The network has changed management-wise a lot since its early days, but the goal remains the same. We will always stand behind the idea of giving Charter Captains the platform they deserve. Here you will find the longest-running and most well-respected Captains in the industry continuing what they do best, filling the box with fish and ensuring you get exactly what you came for; a memory to go home with that will last a lifetime. While we are a paid digital newspaper with advertising catering to fishing charters and fishing-based businesses, we put all of the funds raised right back into advertising our charters and network so that the future local charter industry has the resources it needs to thrive in the coming years. We thank every one of our loyal supporters and businesses for their continued support while we expand in the years to come.

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SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 7

OVERLOOKING THE SCENIC WATER OF PONCE DE LEON INLET www.downthehatchseafood.com

BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY! 386-689-7409

Serving Fresh Seafood & Fine Steaks Daily Accessible By Floating Docks A Locals Favorite Dine Inside Along The Halifax River

4894 Front Street, Ponce Inlet

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E TO

HOM

THE

Species: Bluefish

Ester and her husband found the slab sheepshead fishing out of the Volusia County area.

Ester works at Bob’s Discount Marine Supply off US1 in Port Orange stop by for all your marine and boat trailer needs and so much more.

Species: Snook

Granada Pier

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Species: Sheepshead

Get Caught Up with Caught Up Fishing Charters in New Smyrna Beach, Florida

FWC issues executive order to reopen recreational harvest of greater amberjack in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico from May 1 – May 31 The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) issued an executive order to reopen recreational harvest of greater amberjack in Gulf state waters from May 1 through May 31, consistent with the federal reopening.

NOAA Fisheries is reopening Gulf federal waters because landings indicate the recreational quota for greater amberjack has not been met. The FWC is also opening state waters to be consistent with the federal season and to provide additional harvest opportunities for recreational fishermen.

If you plan to fish for greater amberjack or other specific reef fish species in Gulf state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel, you must sign up for the State Reef Fish Angler Designation (annual renewal is required). To learn more about the State Reef Fish Survey, visit MyFWC.com/ SRFS or sign up today for your no-cost designation at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

FWC issues executive order with new CWD regulations for 2024-25 deer season

On April 11, the FWC issued a new executive order outlining regulations designed to increase sampling and slow the spread of chronic wasting disease in Florida deer. Existing regulations pertaining to the establishment of the CWD Management Zone, prohibition of rehabilitating or releasing injured or orphaned deer, feeding restrictions, and prohibition of exporting high-risk parts remain in effect. New regulations include: The feeding of deer within the CWD Management Zone shall be allowed only during the deer hunting season.

The take of antlerless deer shall be allowed during the entire deer season in Deer Management Unit D2.

Up to three antlerless deer, as part of the statewide annual bag limit of five, may be taken in DMU D2. These new regulations do not apply to wildlife management areas. MyFWC.com/CWD.

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Includes test, book, and all equipment necessary Master Upgrade-Total Tuitions $275 SSFHMagazine July/August 2020 Page 7

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Country Store 1871 West Hwy 44 Deland, Florida SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 9

Open 7 Days 5:30 am Bags & Buckets of Ice

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Hours Bait Sunday 5am-3pm -Red Worms Monday 7am-3pm -Live Shrimp Tues-Sat 5am-5pm -Live Shiners baittackleme@gmail.com -Live Minnows -Live Fiddler Crabs (When Ava.) -Canadian Night Crawlers

Nice cobia caught by Ester and her husband get out and wet a line the fish are biting if you would like to hire a Captain to take you visit the website below. www.poncefishnetwork.com

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 10

Angler: Anthony Vance Jr Location: Rose Bay Bait: Live shrimp E & J bait shop in Port Orange.

Species: Mangrove Snapper

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Angler: Scott Laney Location:Somewhere Astor Species: Big Black Bass

Also available at: www.etsy.com/shop/JustHookinLLC SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 11

OPEN 7 DAYS Gift A WEEK Certificates

Wyatt Eskew with a black drum on Donald’s shrimp.

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450 N. Beach Street • Downtown Daytona Beach Anglers: Scott Laney & Jason Roberson Location:Somewhere Lake County Species: Big Black Bass Best time to target these species are during the months of End of Dec-Jan-Feb March and into April these are the months they tend to spawn.

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www.AlohaMarine.com Anglers: Erica and Andy Leary Location: Caught offshore Ponce Inlet Species: Mangrove Snappers Bait: Granada Pier Bait & Tackle located in Ormond Beach

Expert Free Advice & Friendly Service with a smile!!

Angler: Stephen Location: Granada Pier Ormond Species: Redfish

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 May/June 2024 Page 13

Ponce de Leon Inlet Tides May 2024 Live & Frozen Bait Including Ballyhoo

Live Shrimp 50-$14.99 (per customer) Reserve your Selects (Shrimp) by calling ahead!

Minutes from 3 Bridges and the Dunlawton Bridge Open Mon-Fri 6am-10pm Sat 5am-10pm/Sun 5am-8pm

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

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 14

6 E’ase Lawn Care Lawn Care Specialist Daytona Beach and Surrounding area’s

Owner, John Eskew

352-901-7672 6easelawncare@gmail.com Family Owned & Operated Residential & Commercial

Joey from Arizona caught this beauty from a local pier in Port Orange. He was using bait from E & J Bait & Tackle.

Stop by and take your photo with the BIG great white shark that sits on the side of the building and check out their store you will not believe what is in their.

New Smyrna Outfitters 223A Canal St. New Smyrna Beach

386-402-8853 • NewSmyrnaOutfitters.com • Mon-Sat 9am-6pm Closed Sunday OWNED BY THIRD GENERATION FISHERMAN CODY MOORE

INSHORE • OFFSHORE • FLY FISHING • APPAREL

New Smyrna Outfitters now specializes in offshore bait and tackle as well as clothing, fly fishing and inshore tackle.

We have the equipment, knowledge and experience to guide you through any type of fishing you enjoy.

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 15

Ponce de Leon Inlet Tides June 2024 Live & Frozen Bait Including Ballyhoo

Live Shrimp 50-$14.99 (per customer) Reserve your Selects (Shrimp) by calling ahead!

Minutes from 3 Bridges and the Dunlawton Bridge Open Mon-Fri 6am-10pm Sat 5am-10pm/Sun 5am-8pm

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

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 16

How it Works?

Purchase Plate We Donate Kids Go Fishing!

FISH FLORIDA, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, supports organizations that teach people, especially children, about Florida’s fish and aquatic habitats through donations of fishing equipment, grants, and scholarships.

The mission of Fish Florida is to promote public awareness of and encourage the protection of marine fisheries and coastal habitats. This is accomplished through clinics, classes, seminars, presentations, displays and other means designed to teach and promote responsible angling, particularly to Florida’s youth.

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 17

SHELBY ZONA 386-341-9278 westwindlures@gmail.com westwindwitches.com

CUSTOM OFFSHORE SEAWITCHES PAIR PERFECT WITH STRIP BAIT FOR TROLLING!

3/8 oz naked head - $7.00 1/2 oz assorted head - $8.00 3/4 oz assorted head - $9.00 1 oz assorted head - $13.00 2 oz assorted head - $14.00 3 oz assorted head - $15.00 4 oz assorted head - $16.00 MOBILE 3 STRAND ANCHOR LINE SPLICING Thimble & Windlass Splices, Custom Dock Lines and more!

Ask about Anchor setups.

New Smyrna Beach Ponce Inlet Daytona Beach SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 18

ACMS

Capt. John Miller 407-230-1883 SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 19

DEEP SEA FISHING OUT OF PONCE INLET

Located at: Down The Hatch Restaurant 4884 Front Street, Ponce Inlet FL

Call For Reservations, Details & Trip Times

386•763•4388 • www.seaspirit.com

Owner Haley pictured to the left and her husband/Capt Nick of the Sea Spirit are grateful to offer discounts on fishing trips for Teachers, in addition to Military, Veterans, First Responders & Seniors.

Book online by visiting www.SeaSpiritFishing.com Located at DOWN THE HATCH. Ponce Inlet, Florida SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 20

#CaptainOfTheMonth

Legendary Captain Lee Carver Fish of the Week Judge

For this special edition Captain of the Month, we bring you the Captain who inspired Ponce Fish By: Haley Starbeck www.poncefishnetwork.com Network, a man who has devoted himself to our continuation week after week. Captain Lee Carver, a legend in his own right, dominated the charter fishing industry here in Ponce Inlet for the last 50 years. While his days of sport & head-boat fishing are behind him, he continues to hold his ranking and is now our weekly judge of the best charter catches in the inlet. Ponce Fish Network was built to give Captain Lee's former vessel, the F.V. Super Critter, a social platform to build off of and grow from. In the wake of the business' closure, the Super Critter serves as our inspiration and devotion to the cause, and will always have a special place in our hearts.

Captain Lee Carver moved to the Daytona area when he was just 13 and was instantly fascinated by the area's fishing culture. He spent his teens learning the ins & outs of saltwater and surf fishing, winning his first tournament at 19. Sitting on his balcony overlooking the Halifax River he tells me the story and laughs, noting when he caught the winning triggerfish that day- he wasn't even sure what kind of fish it was.

I laugh with him because if you know this legend, you definitely can understand how hard it is to wrap your head around the idea that once upon a time he didn't know. As we sit he continues, his next tournament win would be a couple of years later; a stud cobia, something I am all too familiar with from his Super Critter days.

By the early 1970s, Captain Lee was hooked, despite being the one who was usually doing the hooking- and his career path was set in stone. In 1973 he landed his first mating job aboard the Sarus, owned & Captained by Dick Shine, which got his foot in the door while he learned more. His next and last mating job would be aboard the Virginia M, owned by Greg LaCour, which he would spend the next several years on. By 1978, his then roommate and friend Captain Dick Harper (F.V. Snow White II), would convince him to get his Captain's license, marking the start of a truly unforgettable career. Captain Lee received his license in 1978 and two months after was offered the helm of the Snow White III, owned by Al Kline. While he remembers Captain Paul Nelson Sr. keeping watch over him later on, he chuckles as he tells me one of his first trips he went it entirely alone.

That feat may seem doable nowadays, but the equipment differences between now and the late 1970s are something worth noting. I remind him he is a natural, which should be an easy fact for him to acknowledge, but he does not. While I know that the man I am interviewing is a legend, it is very clear he is humble when it comes to admitting that.

Captain Lee Carver ran the Snow White III for seven years, before taking a job with Buddy LaCour running his 40-foot Viking. While he was a mesmerizing headboat Captain and bottom fisherman, his true passion had always been sport fishing, and his favorite will always be sailfishing. He ran the Viking for 3 years when a tournament opportunity would come up that would create the connections that would determine the rest of his career. Captain Lee adjusts himself in his chair as he starts to tell me the story, not just any story either, but THE story of THE fish. Every Captain has a story about their personal best fish, but this one hits differently for me.

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 21

The thing about Captaincy is, how many fish a Captain catches in their respective career, there are usually too many great catches and too many memorable feats.

The ultimate feat is the one that tops it all; the one that stuns the Captain that’s seen it all. That’s what dreams are truly made of.

Captain Lee talks about the lawyer from Deland he took out for a tournament, a trip in which he would meet his future boss and friend Charlie Schammel, and a catch that would forever be solidified in the history books. The tournament was the 16th Annual Invitational Bluewater Tournament hosted by the Northeast Florida Marlin Association in Camachee Island, and Captain Lee would put Charlie on a record-breaking marlin that would drop jaws back at the weigh-in. The blue marlin put up quite the fight, taking half of the 80lb line during the 45-minute fight, and took the 5 person crew almost an hour to get through the tuna door because of its girth. Reading the articles I have my confirmation of Lee's humbleness, as it quotes him directly, 'I'm never comfortable until a tournament is over," he said.

"Our catch looks good, but other boats could come up with points in different categories. We've got to go back out tomorrow and Friday and keep trying."

(Gary Smits, Sportswriter) He never quits. The blue marlin caught that day on the Critter Gitter weighed a whopping 608 lbs, a tournament record at the time. While they didn't win the tournament, being out-pointed by 2 blue marlin releases, they were certainly the talk of the tournament & newspapers far and wide.

Captain Lee has had lots of other tournament wins over the years; including 2 Striker wins, the Stuart Light Tackle tournament, and the NSB Angler with none other than Captain Tim Garrett (F.V. Waterproof Charters Fishing ) & Captain Joe Lyall (F.V. Blackhawk), as well as all the wins previously mentioned. He finally settled back into head-boat life again with Charlie Schammel, owner of the Critter Fleet, after a couple of years of running boats in New Jersey & North Carolina. Captain Lee would be the last Captain the Super Critter had at the helm, his final leg running from 1998 to 2021. Over those last twenty years though, he earned his rightful place at the top and will forever be known by customers for a deck covered in fresh fish, and by our Captains for his trademark 'Too Easy' over the VHF. The adage rings true here; 'home is where your heart is' and you can still find Captain Lee on the water daily. These days he helms Ponce Inlet Watersports Eco & River fishing tours, a well-deserved break after spending most of his life out on the open seas. You can still hear him daily over the VHF offshore though, his verbiage seeps through every mate and Captain who has worked with him or been inspired by him through the years. The greatest lesson he ever taught will forever be if you are doing what you love... it's all 'too easy'.

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 22

This 6 hour reef trip aboard Vulcan Charters produced Linda with her grandkids, lots of fish and some nice ones to take home for a fish fry.

Katie caught this big Triple Tail fishing off the 11th St. Pier in Holly Hill.

C & C PAVERS and More

* Brick Pavers * Walkways * Putting Greens * Sun Pads * Fire Pits * Patios

* Driveways *Artificial Turf * Pet Friendly * Pool Decks * Lounging Areas * LowVoltage Lighting

Let us Pave The Way! • Free Estimates 386-576-4529 SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 23

www.DiamondMotorsAndMarine.com • #DiamondSuzuki SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 24

386-424-9000 • 911 N. Dixie Freeway New Smyrna Beach Fl 32168 SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 25

*General Contractor *Metal Buildings *Barnaminiums *Concrete

Licensed & Insured SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 26

Troy Langford with his 2 boys catching sheepshead sandwiches.

Left Photo Angler: Gina Species: Snook Location: Pier off the river in Volusia County Right Photo Angler: Andy Leary Species: Speckled Perch aka Crappie Location: Lake Diaz Volusia County

Big Game Trolling-Bottom Fishing & Shark Trips.

River Cruises also available.

Capt Cody Kendrath 386-405-0651

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 27

PUTNAM COUNTY

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

Keep silver kings reigning: FWC shares best fishing practices for tarpon anglers When fishing for tarpon be sure to use best fishing practices to keep silver kings reigning. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) consulted a number of external partners, including charter captains, Salt Strong and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, to create a comprehensive list of best fishing practices to guide anglers looking to target tarpon.

Recommendations focus on what gear to use, fighting techniques, handling tips and release strategies.

By following these practices, anglers can quickly and confidently reel in tarpon and help one of Florida’s most iconic saltwater fish species survive release.

Gear: Set up for success with these spin or conventional gear recommendations to catch tarpon quickly and minimize fight time.

When using bait, use nonstainless, nonoffset, barbless circle hooks.

Use single hook rigs.

Use tackle heavy enough by matching tackle to conditions and targeted fish size.

Example: If targeting large tarpon, consider using medium to extra heavy spinning rods with 5,000 to 10,000 series spinner reels and at least 12 pounds of drag, 50- to 60-pound braid, and at least 60- to 80-pound monofilament or fluorocarbon leader depending upon the selected crimp or knot-system. Use 6/0-10/0 circle hooks depending on brand and bait type.

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Have a fighting belt or chair available for additional support during the fight.

Have a long handled dehooking tool to quickly and easily remove hooks.

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SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 28

Fighting: Aim to minimize fight time of tarpon and use these fighting techniques to reduce stress on the fish.

If the tarpon rises to the surface or jumps, point rod tip toward the fish and drop rod tip down while reeling in.

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Counter the tarpon’s run by using the backbone of the rod to pull in the opposite direction and use short turns of the reel to bring line in.

Put the butt end of the rod into your hip or use a fighting belt or chair to get leverage for the fight.

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If the fish tries to go under or around the boat, move to the front of the boat to prevent the line from breaking or becoming entangled.

Sharks are known to prey upon tarpon during the fight. If a shark shows up, help the tarpon survive by quickly bringing the fish to the boat and cutting the line as close to the hook as possible. Move to another fishing location if sharks are in the area.

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Handling: Keep handling to a minimum and be sure to work quickly to allow for a successful release.

Tarpon over 40 inches MUST remain in the water by rule, unless in pursuit of a state or world record using a tarpon tag.

Tarpon smaller than 40 inches should only be handled with wet hands and be supported horizontally under the belly, if removed from the water.

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SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 29

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Shorten future fight times if tarpon appear lethargic during release.

Additionally, it is recommended to avoid fishing for tarpon from bridges or piers. Only tarpon under 40 inches may be removed from the water, so if you did hook up to a large tarpon from a bridge or pier, you would have to cut the line and leave long line trailing behind the fish, leading to entanglements and reducing survivability.

Fishing for tarpon in Boca Grande Pass?

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Keep the gills of tarpon in the water to minimize air exposure.

Keep fingers away from the gills and eyes.

Avoid dragging tarpon over the gunnel of a boat or over rocks or railings.

Avoid delaying release by having a camera at the ready if you're planning to take a quick picture.

Release: Catch and release tarpon as quickly as possible to reduce stress on the fish. Consider a no-touch release by either using a long handled dehooking tool to remove the hook or cut the line as close as possible to the hook.

If the tarpon is gut hooked or the hook is lodged in the throat, cut the line as close to the hook as possible.

Revive lethargic tarpon by ensuring water passes through the mouth and then over the gills or hold it horizontally in the water to allow it to pump water through its gills.

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 30

Be sure to review the regulations specific to this area. Bottom-weighted jigs are prohibited year-round. This includes fishing with gear that has a weight attached to a hook, artificial fly or lure in such a way that the weight hangs lower than the hook when the line or leader is suspended vertically from the rod. Any jig that allows the attached weight to slip down the shank so that it hangs lower than the hook while the line or leader is suspended vertically from the rod is also prohibited. Any gear or jig that can be described as such, may not be attached to any rod, line or leader and must be stowed when traveling through the Pass. Additionally, from Apil 1 through June 30, no more than three fishing lines may be deployed from a vessel and breakaway gear is prohibited.

It is important to remember that these restrictions apply to fishing for all species within the Pass.

For more information on tarpon best fishing practices, regulations and frequently asked questions, visit MyFWC.com/Tarpon.

SEMINOLE-ORANGE COUNTY BASS CAPITAL

By Captain Lynda Hawkins According to Lorraine at BASS WORLD LODGE 386-467-2267 Mark and TJ caught and released some nice bass using Rat-L-Traps.

Eddie Maylor caught a 4 pound bass using black worms with a blue tail.

Bass are biting well. Bream are starting to bite. It’s the time of the year for catfish to turn on.

GEORGETOWN MARINA & LODGE at 386-467-2002 Chris tells us they are catching some nice bream, bluegill and redfish using crickets and worms. Best places are back in the canals around falling trees. A nice stringer of specks was caught by Larry this week. The water is really super low right now.

Bass are just starting to hit good this week. Several bass up to 8 pounds this past week.

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

Kel’s Rod & Reel Service

Rods, Reels, Troilling Motor Parts & Service 430 S. US 17-92 #105 Casselberry, Fl. 407-834-3008

Warranty Center For: Shimano • Diaiwa • Minnkota • Motorguide www.kelsrodreel.com Hours: Tues-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-3 (Closed Sun & Mon)

Orlando Boat Sales

2715 Lakeview Drive Fern Park, Fl. 32730 orlandoboatsales2@gmail.com www.orlandoboatsalesinc.com

407-253-7111

DUNNELLON

By Captain Lynda ANGLER’S FAMILY RESORT at 352-489-2397 Stan reports bass are around and are being caught using domestic shiners. People are still catching specks using minnow and a bobber.

Over 200 Trailers in Stock!

Dave caught this 7 1/2 pound bass on a plastic fishing out of Georgetown Marina.

Continental Boat Trailers SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 31

Mark your calendars: 10th Annual Lionfish Festival May 17–18 The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Destin–Fort Walton Beach invite everyone to celebrate the 10th annual Lionfish Festival May 17–18 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. CT at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar and HarborWalk Village in Destin.

This two-day outdoor festival is free, open to the public and will include conservation and art booths, live music, an interactive kid’s zone and the world’s largest lionfish tournament, the Emerald Coast Open.

Tournament Details

Are you interested in competing with the best lionfish hunters in the world in the Emerald Coast Open? The tournament will run May 17–18, and include categories for most lionfish, largest lionfish and smallest lionfish with nearly $100,000 worth of prizes up for grabs! For official tournament rules and registration instructions, visit EmeraldCoastOpen.com.

AHOY Marine, Inc.

511 E. 25th. St.Sanford, Florida 32773 Steve Meadors, President

407-323-8373

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 32

MARION-CITRUS COUNTY

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

Lionfish Restaurant Week

Sample lionfish at one of Destin–Fort Walton Beach’s featured restaurants during the Emerald Coast Open Lionfish Restaurant Week. Local chefs will highlight lionfish in unique dishes in the week leading up to the event to help bring awareness to the lionfish invasion in the Gulf of Mexico.

Schedule:

May 10 – The Boathouse Landing Valparaiso Harbor May 11 – La Paz Restaurante & Cantina May 12 – Crab Trap Destin May 13 – Jasmine Thai May 14 – Beach Walk Cafe May 15 – Harbor Docks May 16 – The Harbor Tavern May 18 – AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

What is LRAD?

To increase public awareness about the lionfish invasion and encourage removal efforts, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) signed a resolution creating Lionfish

The Gator Den

352-444-2043

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View Our Full Menu Online at CatfishJohnnysRestaurant.com 2396 N. C-470, Lake Panasoffkee, Fl. 33538

Closed Sundays, Mondays & Tuesdays

Removal and Awareness Day in February 2015. Lionfish Removal and Awareness Day is a statewide day celebrated the first Saturday after Mother’s Day each year.

The 2024 Lionfish Challenge is approaching quickly. This summer-long tournament is open to everyone and is completely free to enter. Participants in the Lionfish Challenge have removed over 1 million lionfish from Florida waters since the program began in 2014! Visit FWCReefRangers.com to register for the Lionfish Challenge.

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 May/June 2024 Page 33

Mary Weeks Realty, Inc. 14100 North Hwy 19 Suite L Salt Springs, Fl 32134

352-685-2468

weeksrealty314@earthlink.net • www.weeksrealty.com 3-BR HOME W/ COMMERCIAL BUILDING IN SALT SPRINGS!

The 3/2 residence has family/dining room combo w/ laundry closet. Kitchen has solid wood cabinets, large pantry, newer stainless appliances.

Master BR is spacious w/ ponderosa pine ceiling & accents. Master bath has been beautifully updated w/ tile, jacuzzi tub, separate shower, & large walk-in closet. 2-porches w/ sitting areas, LAKE DELANCY WATERFRONT! $249,000 an exterior slab w/ electricity available, 20x40 RV/motorhome carport w/ hook-up capabilities This 3/2 totally renovated DWMH has everything you need and then some. Updates completed in 2018 include on concrete slab, & large climate controlled wood-look porcelain tile throughout, all walls & ceilings have new drywall, beautiful cedar-lined closets, updated shed. Lake Kerr access available through club w/ bathrooms, new kitchen with leather top granite & stainless appliances. Has inside laundry room off kitchen w/ room optional HOA membership. The currently existing for storage. Step out onto the covered open deck to breathe in the fresh air & serenity that the private Lake Delancy has to offer! Has private concrete boat ramp, 45' dock w/ 18'x18' platform at docks end w/ electric, covered boat slip 400sqft commercial building can be added on, w/ lift that has new (2024) cables & sling. Dock also has detachable sunshade. Home is turnkey ready w/ furnishings, up to 4,000sqft! The commercial building has dishes, some linens, grill, fire pit, & a bass tracker w/ 45hp Mercury! washer/dryer/water heater hook-ups, 100-amp BACKS TO FORESTRY! Enjoy a remote retreat NICE CANAL LOT… that overlooks service, half bath, and reverse cycle wall unit. where you can watch wildlife meander about with protected wetlands. Canal dead ends and Lots of potential! $349,000 the purchase of this .22-acre property. Property would require airboat to make it out to open water. Subdivision has its own boat

features an older 2/1 MH with well and septic. ramp that allows access into Big Lake Condition of MH is unknown at this time. Has older Kerr, which is a beautiful sand bottom Large 100’x200’ lot just steps away from forestry in Sportsmans Haven. $20,000 metal shed on property. Power is off, status of well lake with crystal clear water. Has older 2 adjacent lots (.24/each) zoned R4 w/ Lake Kerr access. $15,000/each and septic is unknown and not warranted. Property is storage shed on property. Restaurants, Beautiful 100’x150’ lot zoned R4 w/ storage building. $12,000 located deep in the forest, providing a quiet reprieve shopping, ATV trails, and the springs are Wooded 80x100 lot zoned R4 in Hog Valley – near hiking/riding trails. $8,000 only minutes away. from the world. $32,000

18249 E. Apshawa Rd. Clermont, Fl 34715

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• Boat Lifts • Jet Ski Lifts • Boat Lift Parts • Replacement Boat Hoist • EZ Dock & Motor Parts Pile Mount Lift SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 34

LAKE COUNTY

By: Capt Lynda Hawkins

LAKE COUNTY

By Captain 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

LAKESIDE BAIT & TACKLE at 352-742-3336, Larry reports bass are going crazy with a bunch of 2 or 3 pounders being caught using medium shiners. Jeromey caught over 80 shellcrackers averaging 2 pounds each. Specks have slowed down but are still being caught in the shell beds.

BASS N GAL GUIDE SERVICE at 352-267-0062 Reports bass are being caught on the Harris chain using a swimming worm or a small shallow running crank bait. Fishing the shell beds this time of year is productive; using a small red or purple worm. A slow falling sinking weightless worm or a chrome blue or green Rat-L-Trap reeled in as fast as possible, are both working quite well. Specks are still being caught in deep water spider rigging.

BROOKER BAIT & TACKLE at 352-460-0695 Calan tells us the Bass Masters Elite series was just here and it took 84 lbs. 5 oz. in a 4 day event.

Shellcracker are starting to bite. A few fishermen are still catching specks spider rigging out in deep water.

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*American Indian Craft * Carved Cedar Boxes *Swings & Rockers *Indoor & Outdoor Furniture

Happy Mother’s Day & Father’s Day We have a cypress gift for your special someone!

Bass N Gal Guide Service

Vannessa Schurr with a 5 pound Hybrid Bass caught from the Astor area.

*Central Florida Lakes* *PRIVATE LAKES* All Tackle Included 1/2 Day $300.00 Cell 352-267-0062 Email llh30@comcast.net

Capt. Lynda Hawkins Over 30 Years Experience SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 35

BROOKER

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

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

Astor/Pierson

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Call for Information!

PALMERS ASTOR MARINE

22212 State Road 40 Astor, Fl. 32102

352-759-3110

www.palmersastormarine.com SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 36

LAKESIDE BAIT & TACKLE Located on Lake Eustis 1000 W. Burleigh Blvd.

Tavares, Fl. 352-742-3336 Mark & Heidi Bass Owners

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

SPECIAL $7.00 Per Map

Includes S & H & Sales Tax

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 KH#301 FW#203 Lake George How to Shrimp FW#204 Lake George to Jacksonville Dip Netting Freelining FW#205 Lake Crescent & Shrimping FW#206 Rodman Reservoir & Dam (Backcountry) FW#207 Lake Beresford to Brevard County Sawgrass Lake By: Roger S. Harbster FW#208 Lake Okeechobee Over 40 years of knowledge!

Send check or money order along with Map #’s to: SSFHMagazine P.O. Box 290002 Port Orange, Fl. 32129 SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 37

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OF CENTRAL FLORIDA, LLC.

Contact: Desiree’ Harbster 386-478-3725 • Updates @ www.fishnhuntmag.com SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 38

You & Your Boat Deserve the Best Outcome!

We provide fast, efficient, professional mobile boat service, maintenance, repairs or upgrades to all types of boats in Daytona Beach and surrounding Central Florida areas.

www.outcomemarine.com Call George: 386-227-7681

Inboard Engines - Outboard Motors Marine Electronics

BLACKWELDER PUMP AND IRRIGATION

We service both commercial and residential water wells, pump systems and stations, water treatment equipment, irrigation and sprinkler systems, water features and fountains.

Sporting Dog Supplies

If it moves water we service it.

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• Yard Containment Systems and much more...

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Servicing Volusia & Flagler Counties.

www.swampdonkeyoutfitters.com

JJ’S MARINE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA, LLC.

Mobile Outboard Technicians * Johnson * Evinrude *Nissan Marine *Tohatsu * Suzuki Marine * Honda Marine * Mercury * Yamaha

386-561-8901 SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 39

Auto • Marine • Aircraft Custom Interiors • Awnings Covertible Tops Boat Covers • Headliners

3150 S. Nova Rd. South Daytona 386-761-2100 • Del Lyons-Owner

AQUILA

BACKCOUNTRY FISHING ADVENTURES Capt. John Miller 407-230-1883

4 & 8 Hour Trips

Customized Trips Upon Request All Bait & Tackle Included No Fishing License Required

Mosquito Lagoon Banana River Tomoka River Basin Ponce Inet Area Redfish-Tarpon-Snook Black Drum-Sheephead-Trout

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 40

Family Friendly Inshore Fishing Experience

Capt. Marty Goldys (386)679-0317

Preparing for a Kayak/SUP Fishing Adventure

Written By: Captain Marty Goldys Reel Harmony Fishing Charters

www.reelharmonyfishing.com Licensed & Insured Kayak and SUP fishing have become extremely popular in recent years, and our options continue to evolve. There are many advantages when fishing from a vessel that doesn’t require a motor – not having to fuel up your watercraft is a huge benefit. This not only saves money, but the ability to take a stealthy approach and quietly stalk your desired target is likely the greatest benefit of fishing from a kayak or SUP. With any style of fishing, it is critical to be fully prepared and to create a plan prior to your adventure. As we know, advanced preparation is everything when considering a successful fishing mission. Be sure and create a list of necessities before hitting the water for your fishing adventure.

Before planning your day on the water, it is important you conduct a full weather analysis as your day could go from extremely fun to downright dangerous if you find yourself in the middle of a passing weather system (storm or a frontal boundary). If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to seek flat, calm days so you can comfortably navigate the waters.

You’ll want to closely monitor the wind, rain, temperatures, and tides on the days leading up to your desired kayak/SUP outing.

Nothing is worse than being stranded in a perfect-storm miles from the dock or launch ramp site. A good tip would be to stay within proximity to your launch site especially if you are not using GPS or chart plotting technology. While radar technology exists, typically our kayaks and SUPs are not equipped with these rather expensive options.

Next, conduct a survey of the area you plan to fish. This could be executed in many ways. I like to pull up Google Maps on my cell phone to plan my day in advance. Where I will launch my vessel, what sand bars, docks, bridges, mangroves, ledges, or ambush points I will fish. Then, it is critical to create an ‘Exit Strategy’. Should the weather get ugly in a moments notice, where will I wait out the storm or whose dock can I paddle to with ease to seek shelter?

Being familiar with the region you plan to fish can make a day on the water very successful. Whereas fishing territory you have never been or paddled could result in a rather long, frustrating, and stressful (fish free) day.

Remember to keep it simple when fishing from a kayak or SUP. There are certain items you are required by law to bring along when fishing from a kayak or SUP. One must always wear a US Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD). All PFDs should be in good condition and fit properly. A whistle is also required when fishing from a kayak or SUP in Florida. I recommend affixing your whistle to your PFD for easy access. If fishing in the dark, one must have a 360-degree white light shining so other vessels can identify you from a distance. Otherwise, reflectors and small LED lights are always an advantage when operating a kayak in low light environments.

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 41

Other very important equipment to consider before fishing from a kayak or SUP would be aback-up paddle or an alternative device for pushing water. Too often, kayak peddles will malfunction or fail and this will require you have another way to push surface water so you can still cover ground and return to your launch site.

It is always a good idea to bring along some sort of anchor or poling device, so you can stay in one location and not drift. While some kayak anglers prefer a simple mushroom anchor system, Grapnel and Bruce Claw Anchors are also commonly used. Drift chutes, brush grippers, and drag chains are also utilized to control drifting when fishing from a kayak or SUP. For equipment storing purposes, I always carry an empty milk crate that contains my essentials. An empty bucket, box, cooler, or plastic bin would also work well for storing and securing your equipment. My first aid kit, a dry box for my cell phone, a compass, multiple containers of water, snacks, SPF, face coverings, sunglasses, my tackle box, collapsable landing net, and fishing rods are all necessities when kayak fishing. Get creative with how to mount your fishing gear to your watercraft.

Keep your equipment easily accessible just incase you tip over or need to quickly abandon your vessel.

You’ll want to be sure you dress to swim when on a kayak or SUP fishing adventure. Just incase your vessel decides to flip over unexpectedly, you’ll be prepared to swim to safety. Also consider rigging your fishing kayak to flip. Not that you have intentions of flipping but, if you do, you have secured all your gear by attaching it to a leash, snap system, or dry bag.

Technology and cell phone applications have come a long way in recent years. There are several phone apps that I heavily rely on leading up to planning and during my Kayak fishing outings. These are tools that can help to predict the best window to fish.

There are apps to identify the flow of tides, expected winds, and overall weather conditions. I greatly rely on one application that tracks lightning strikes in the area. I can set the proximity in which I’d prefer to be warned of nearby storms and lightening strikes. This type of phone application is a MUST in Florida considering our unexpected weather patterns.

Be sure you are well rested before heading out on your kayak fishing adventure as there is a heavy physical demand on the body when committing to hours of fishing from vessels without a motor – especially if there is wind. Be sure and stay hydrated throughout the entire duration of your journey. Consider taking along a friend or small group anglers if you are new to kayak fishing. Sharing your adventure with an experienced kayak angler will help you to become more efficient and likely catch more fish. If you plan to go on a solo outing, be sure you relay your location to friends and family so they know where you could be found. At the end of the day, the better prepared you are for your kayak or SUP fishing adventure, the more enjoyable your experience will be.

Catch and Release Mounts

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386-228-3525 SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 42

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BEEF JERKY To Try Some visit

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Location:Off Ponce Inlet Jetties Species: Huge Yellow Tail Jack SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 43

Mention this ad and receive $100 off Hog, Deer & Turkey Hunts!

DEER HUNTING SEASON August 15th-January 1st 3 DAYS HUNTS $1,295.00 5 DAY HUNTS $1,995.00 Meals & Lodging Included with all pricing!

We have the longest deer season in the US August 15th-January 1st, with weapon of choice for the entire season. The velvet hunts last through Labor Day weekend and the rut is throughout the months of October and November. We hunt seven days a week and allow two bucks per day, only with one small (under 12" wide) per hunter, per season.

We have open areas where first timers can take a buck, Long Managed Trophy Areas where bucks must be a minimum of 15" outside spread. Then we have our special Big Trophy Area, where the bucks have been on strict management for only mature bucks for the past 13 seasons, the bucks there have to be 16" outside spread of 110 Boone and Crockett Score.

That area will be for very serious Trophy Hunters only.

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 44

www.collinslowcountryhuntingclub.com • 803-267-2825 • 10640 Ehrhardt Road Ehrhardt, South Carolina

Spring Turkey Season March 20th-May 5th 3 Days $1,395 Meals & Lodging Included with all pricing!

Turkey Season opens on March 20th each year and runs through May 5th.

We have 5,500 of prime turkey woods with a mixture of river bottoms, pine ridges and lots of food plots planted with chuffas, the turkey’s favorite. Our seasoned guides are very familiar with our properties and are very personable and experienced. While on your turkey hunt , if you would like to sit for a wild hog in the afternoon, you are allowed to take one hog during the three day hunt for no extra charge. We have lots of them and some really big ones.

Wild Hog Hunts Year Round 3 Days $1,095

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We can hunt hogs year round and some of our most productive hunts this past year took place in May, June and July. We have plenty of land now with hogs to be able to hunt large groups, up to 10. We can even accommodate bow groups that large. Hogs are very smart animals, don’t come thinking they are just dumb farm animals. This is a fun hunt for all who just do not want to quit hunting after their deer season closes.

The finest deer, hog, and turkey hunting in the low-country of South Carolina!

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 45

SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 46

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SSFHMagazine PO Box 290002, Port Orange Fl. 32129 SSFHMagazine May/June 2024 Page 47