0525-BOAT SOUTH-0513-FINAL-LowRes by BOAT SOUTH Magazine

DESTIN

SNAPPER SEASON

Record Announcement

WHARF BOAT SHOW BY LAND... BY SEA

EMERALD COAST BOAT SHOW

THE GULF COAST BOATING & FISHING LIFESTYLE

State of the Art Marina

We handle every detail so you can focus on what matters- time on the water. From fueling to concierge care, Sunset Isle is your all-in-one destination for premium boating comfort

Legendary Service

Boaters are greeted with seamless, top-tier service upon arriving. Our experienced team anticipates guest requests, offering support and local recommendations. Every visit is smooth, welcoming, and designed for total convenience

Unmatched Location

Located just eight minutes by boat from the East Pass, your only Gulf access for 50 miles along the Intracoastal Waterway, this 142-slip marina is the largest and most luxurious facility in Northwest Florida

Exciting Upland Expansion

Beyond the slips, boaters and their guests can indulge in resort-style amenities, including a stunning 18,500-square-foot Yacht Club with a coastal-inspired restaurant, outdoor pool, bathhouse and a fully stocked ship store

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

“BOAT SHOWS HAVE BEEN GOING ON FOR DECADES, AND FOR ME, THEY BRING BACK MANY WONDERFUL MEMORIES OF MY DAD AND I ANXIOUSLY AWAITING THROUGH THOSE COLD JANUARY WEEKENDS IN TENNESSEE.”

It actually began in November 2024 when we attended the Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show…Boat Show Season 2025, and wow what a busy time it has been! Our goal was to make as many boat shows as we could to meet industry leaders, business owners and of course to introduce and development loyal readers and fans to BOAT SOUTH Magazine, and that we did! As we moved into 2025, the northern Gulf Coast as many call it, our back yard for most of us, began to come alive and the calendar quickly filled. Panama City, Destin, Pensacola, Orange Beach, Mobile, Biloxi and even inland shows like Atlanta…the options were endless from January to the end of April. As show promoters try to space the dates and not overlap, I was amazed at how many exhibitors as well as attendees I met at multiple shows. Of course, this Gulf Coast area is a small world when it comes to boating and fishing and the incredible variety and options for both within a few hours, so it shouldn’t be surprising to see so many people taking advantage of these opportunities.

So boat shows have been going on for decades, and for me, they bring back many wonderful memories of my Dad and I anxiously awaiting through those cold January weekends in Tennessee as the West Tennessee Boat, Sport & Travel Show and the Memphis Boat Show approached. These shows, especially in colder climates, gave hope that spring was just around the corner. As a kid, the excitement was real with the trout pond a favorite, wow how much simpler those

times were without all of the digital toys to occupy our time. As for the show itself, it was mainly boats themselves, as the concept of seminars, demonstrations and lifestyle branding would gradually become a huge part of the experience as the years passed. Now it is common to have well in excess of 100 vendors and dozens of dealers showcasing hundreds of boats of all sizes and price ranges any given weekend. It has also evolved as a family affair. Once considered more of a guys weekend event, these shows are now attended by all ages, male and female alike, and often planned as a family weekend outing. It is exciting to see not only kids, but female boaters and anglers that are very serious about the sport, becoming such an integral part of this industry.

if you ever wondered about the timing, there is a reason boat shows take place when they do…and that’s because it’s now time for the real fun to begin as proud new boat owners hit the water as summer begins.

And speaking of late spring-early summer, it is also that time of the year when weekend fishing tournaments take the place of weekend boat shows. Our plan at BOAT SOUTH Magazine is to attend as many local and regional tournaments as physically possible to keep you connected to the busy and exciting Gulf Coast boating lifestyle!

I hope to see you at the weigh-ins soon!

Jeff

In a recent issue we talked about the ever popular center console and the many advantages which have made it one of the the most popular styles of boat among coastal boaters. While center console designs come in both v-bottom and cat hull designs, we are going to dive deeper into the history and mechanics of the basic hull design that has stood the test of time and its evolution. The V-bottom hull is one of the most significant innovations in boat design, revolutionizing performance, handling, and versatility across various marine applications. Its development traces a fascinating trajectory, from early displacement hulls to today’s high-performance deep-V and modified-V designs

1. EARLY DISPLACEMENT HULLS

The story of the V-bottom hull begins with displacement hulls, which were used for thousands of years. These hulls are designed to push through water rather than riding over it. With rounded or flat bottoms, displacement hulls prioritize efficiency at low speeds, making them ideal for traditional fishing vessels and larger ships. However, their tendency to plow through waves limited speed and handling in rough waters. As boaters sought faster and more agile designs, hull shapes began to evolve.

2. THE INTRODUCTION OF DEAD RISE

One of the most critical concepts in hull design is the dead rise, the angle between the horizontal plane of the hull and the bottom of the boat. A hull with a higher dead rise angle slices through water more effectively, reducing pounding in rough conditions. Early designs with a moderate dead rise offered a compromise between the comfort of displacement hulls and the speed of planing hulls.

3. THE DEEP-V HULL: A REVOLUTION IN SPEED AND HANDLING

The true breakthrough came with the development of the deep-V hull. This design, featuring a high dead rise (typically 20 to 24 degrees), allowed boats to cut through waves at higher speeds with reduced pounding. The deep-V hull made high-speed offshore boating and racing possible by delivering a smoother ride in rough seas. Don Aronow, an iconic figure in powerboat racing, is credited

with popularizing the deep-V hull design in the 1960s. Aronow’s company, Cigarette Racing, designed boats with sharp-V hulls that became the gold standard for offshore performance. His designs were characterized by their ability to handle extreme conditions, making them favorites for both racing and law enforcement applications and evident in the evolution of performance boats and even luxury yachts.

4. MODIFIED-V HULL: A BALANCED APPROACH

While the deep-V hull excels in offshore performance, it comes with trade-offs, such as reduced stability at rest and increased fuel consumption. To address these issues, designers developed the modified-V hull, which features a flatter dead rise angle (usually 12 to 18 degrees). This design balances performance, comfort, and efficiency, making it ideal for inshore and recreational use.The modified-V hull is widely used in modern fishing boats, center consoles, and family cruisers, offering a compromise between the extreme performance of deep-V designs and the comfort of flatter hulls.

5. KEY ELEMENTS IN MODERN DESIGNS

The dead rise angle remains a critical design consideration. A high dead rise ensures better wave-cutting performance but may compromise fuel efficiency and stability at rest. Conversely, a low dead rise offers improved stability but can lead to a harsher ride in rough seas. Many hulls now feature a variable dead rise, with a sharper angle at the bow for wave-cutting performance and a flatter angle at the stern for stability. Also, innovations like stepped hulls, which reduce drag and improve efficiency, build upon the principles of the deep-V design.

The V-bottom hull’s evolution, from displacement to deep-V and modified-V designs, underscores the ongoing pursuit of performance, comfort, and efficiency. Thanks to innovators like Don Aronow, the V-bottom hull has become a cornerstone of modern boat design, influencing everything from recreational fishing boats to high-speed offshore racers. Today, the balance of dead rise, hull shape, and performance continues to define the versatility and appeal of modern boats.

EARLY DISPLACEMENT HULLS

Low speed efficiency

Smooth ride in calm waters

Poor performance in choppy seas

DEEP-V HULL

Superior performance in rough seas

Enhanced speed and handling

Reduced slamming in choppy conditions

MODIFIED-V HULLS

Improved stability at rest

Better fuel efficiency

Versatility for varied water conditions

BOAT YARD

SBashaunders Yachtworks—situated along the Intracoastal in Orange Beach, Alabama—is a premier full-service boatyard facility catering to the Northern Gulf Coast’s boating community. Established as a mechanical service company, today’s state-of-the-art facility has evolved into a comprehensive marine service provider with an emphasis on quality service, integrity, and hardwork—principles that have been the cornerstone of the company since its inception in 1959.

Hospitality and relationships with its customers is also a part of the culture at Saunders. Each year during the Wharf Boat Show, John Fitzgerald, President, along with the help of his marketing director Ashley Andrews and the talented staff at Saunders puts on the anticipated annual Boat Yard Bash. This invitation-only event brings customers, vendors, friends and staff together for a wonderful night of food, live entertainment and even a photo booth to capture this year’s theme “Peace, Love & Boats!”

Story

TWatson

he 2025 Wharf Boat & Yacht Show, held from March 21-23 at The Wharf Marina in Orange Beach, Alabama, was a standout event in the Gulf Coast’s maritime calendar. Presented by Porsche Mobile, the show transformed The Wharf into a bustling hub for boating enthusiasts from all around the South. Years ago, when I lived in Tennessee and boated on Pickwick Lake, The Wharf was the show we always anticipated in the the spring and traveled seven hours to attend. I was refreshing to see old friends from Pickwick at this year’s event confirming it still draws boaters from far and near.

This year’s show boasted over $100 million in boats and marine products, showcasing the latest in hull designs, electronics and accessories for a variety of needs and applications.. With thousands passing through the gates over the weekend, there is no question why this show is considered the top boat-buying show in the Northern Gulf of America.

Attendees explored 120 wet-slip boats and yachts, alongside more than 700 center and dual-console boats displayed on land. The in-water aspect of this show, typically found only in South Florida shows, is the highlight of the show for me as you take off your shoes and are invited to board beautiful vessels reaching into the millions of dollars.

& photos by: Jeff

Beyond the impressive boat displays and latest in marine technology, the show offered a variety of activities including instructional seminars, food vendors and live music all staged in the beautiful setting of the Wharf.

LOOKING AHEAD

With Scott Burt and the experienced Coastal Marina Management staff at the helm, next years’ Wharf Boat & Yacht Show scheduled for March 20–22, 2026 plans to be even bigger and better!

For more information and updates, visit the official website at wharfboatshow.com.

“Like an old pair of jeans or a well-worn pair of leather gloves, Pelican’s Perch just wears well on you. Comfortable, easy - it’s the way boatyards used to be and somewhere you feel at home. Danny and his team are friendly, accommodating and welcoming. They know their business and can assist you in getting your boat where it needs to be - back on the water!”

The 2025 Outdoor Adventure Expo, held at Destin Commons on April 5–6, drew outdoor enthusiasts from across the Emerald Coast. This free, familyfriendly event showcased a wide array of land and waterbased adventure gear, home leisure solutions, and interactive demonstrations, making it a standout spring attraction in Destin The expo, held in the spacious parking area between Bass Pro Shops and Uncle Buck’s at Destin Commons, offered attendees an up-close look at the latest in outdoor adventure equipment and services.

A diverse lineup of exhibitors presented products and services catering to various outdoor interests: Area dealers such as Captain’s Choice Boats, Emerald Coast Marine, Aqua Force Marine, Adventure Marina, Marine Max, and Two Georges Marina showcased fishing boats, pontoons, jet skis, kayaks, and paddleboards. Attendees also explored offerings from Ecco Motors, KM Cycle & Marine, Demboske Moto Sport, and Emerald Coast Harley Davidson, featuring ATVs, motorcycles, bicycles, and golf carts. Vendors like Decks and Docks Lumber Company and Patio Depot of Destin provided solutions for creating personal outdoor oases, including decking materials and patio furnishings.

Story & photos by: Jeff Watson

Organized and promoted by Cumulus Media, the expo emphasized community involvement and fostered camaraderie among outdoor enthusiasts and industry professionals. The event’s inclusive atmosphere welcomed individuals and families alike, reflecting Destin’s vibrant outdoor culture.

BOAT

The 2025 Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show took place from February 28 to March 2 at Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach, Florida. This annual event attracted thousands of boating enthusiasts, outdoor lifestyle fans, and families who love the beautiful waters of the Emerald Coast and its abundance of boating opportunities. Spanning three days, the show featured over 400 boats on display, with more than $40 million in marine inventory showcased. Attendees explored a wide range of vessels, from entry-level bowriders and center consoles to luxurious 42-foot models equipped with quad outboards. Leading manufacturers and dealers presented the latest in high-tech engines, electronics, and marine accessories.

The Emerald Coast Boat & Lifestyle Show has announced next year’s show, scheduled for March 6–8, 2026. For more information and updates, visit the official website: https://emeraldcoastboatshow.com/

Story & photos by: Jeff Watson

BEYOND THE BOATS

The event celebrated the coastal lifestyle, offering more than just boats. Visitors enjoyed exhibits featuring stand-up paddleboards, fishing kayaks, docks and lifts, coastal fashion, and many other products and services for perfecting your outdoor experience. . Live music performances, diverse food trucks, and family-friendly activities added to the festive atmosphere.

Waterway Village

Grand Opening

Legendary Marine is a prominent name in the boating and marine industry with facilities catering to boating enthusiasts throughout the Gulf Coast region, with its newest addition in Gulf Shores, AL. Waterway Village, a vibrant district in Gulf Shores known for its charming atmosphere and local business developments, is home to Legendary Marine’s brand-new boat sales showroom featuring the most elite brands in the industry focusing on both luxury and performance including Everglades, Sportsman and Barletta.

Legendary Marine recently celebrated with a grand opening week in April with activities each day including seminars, classes and tours. The week of festivities concluded on Saturday evening with an open house and reception for customers, staff and friends. Guests enjoyed food and cocktails, along with a silent auction benefiting The Arc of Gulf Coast Alabama, while enjoying live music and the beautiful new facility.

Tournament Time

Time Species Guide

The Mobile Boat Show 2025 was a highlight for boat and outdoor lovers, industry professionals, and families alike. Held from March 14-16 at the Arthur R. Outlaw Mobile Convention Center in Mobile, Alabama, the 73rd annual event delivered an exciting and comprehensive showcase of the latest in boating and marine technology.

The show opened its doors on Friday, March 14, running from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and continued through the weekend. Visitors flocked to the convention center, located at 1 South Water Street, to explore the exhibits and enjoy a full slate of entertainment and education.

Attendees had the chance to explore a large selection of 2025 boat and watercraft models from dealers across Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. The show also delivered on family-friendly fun. A fan-favorite, Twiggy the Skiing Squirrel, performed on the main show floor throughout the weekend, delighting kids and adults alike. Educational opportunities abounded as well with the Kids Fishing 101 offered along with a trout pond for attendees of all ages to cast a line.

Story & photos by: Jeff Watson

The Mobile Boat Show 2025 is organized each year by Gulf Coast Shows owned by Dan Miller. With Melissa Miller at the helm as president and Mary Boggan as show manager, Gulf Coast Shows offers more than 70 years of experience producing the Mobile Boat Show along with the Biloxi Boat Show held in February each year. Mark your calendars for these two exciting events in 2026 for Feb 27-Mar 1 and Feb 6-8, 2026 respectively.

5 Reasons to Choose

Will Estell for Your Coastal Real Estate:

Sixteen years of experience researching and writing about Northwest Florida Gulf Coast real estate in regionally and nationally distributed newsstand travel and lifestyle magazines.

Twenty plus years of experience as a travel and tourism writer and editor-in-chief, leading to the ability to effectively market your listing online and in local, regional, and national publications to target and capture a desired audience of credible buyers.

Negotiable listing commission rates based on your individual property, allowing you to sell your house or condo while keeping more of your money!

The benefit of Century 21 AllPoints Realty’s multiple office locations across the coastal communities of Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, along with the networking power of over 150 licensed realtors within our Century 21 AllPoints family.

Most importantly, the innate desire to help you and your family discover, invest in, and live your coastal dream, just as my wife and I are. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Reduced $70,000!”

Live here, vacation here, or use as investment property!

Immaculate Gulf view 2/2 on the 11th floor of Palms of Destin Resort, in the heart of all the emerald coast has to offer! This remarkable unit overlooks the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, as well as the expansive pool area of this popular vacation destination -complete with three pools, huge hot tub, splash pad, in-door and out-door restaurant, two on-site bars, coffee shop, fitness center, playground, and covered parking garage. Sold furnished and currently used as a short-term income producing rental when owner isn’t using.

Only $428,900!

$1,950,000 $499,000 “Reduced to $1,800,000!”

Immaculate coastal dream home owned by long-time country music artist!

Meticulously maintained 2,705 sq. ft. spacious two-story, 3 Bedroom, 2.5 bath nestled along a shaded drive only one block from the beach. This home is located in Destin Florida’s sought after Crystal Beach area, and is built for living in and entertaining, featuring over 1,200 sq. ft of porch, patio, and deck space! This home is surrounded by beautifully landscaped front, back, and side yards on a large lot. Spacious wraparound porch, back deck, tiki bar, new hot tub, real hardwood floors, fireplace, outdoor shower, garden outbuilding, and state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen. Sold furnished and ready to live in, vacation in, or use as investment rental.

Priced to sell at only $1,800,000

TOP QUALITY GEL COAT SPECIALIST

MOBILE SERVICE AND DOCKSIDE OPTIONS

YACHT, PLEASURE & FISHING BOAT REPAIR

COSMETIC AND STRUCTURAL

NICEVILLE, FL & SURROUNDING COAST

The inaugural Pensacola Marine Center Boat Show, held on April 25–26, 2025, at 700 Myrick Street in Pensacola, marked an addition to the Gulf Coast’s spring boat show calendar. . The Pensacola Marine Center, nestled along the protected deep-water channels of Bayou Chico, boasts state-of-the-art facilities including ‘The Barn,’ a dry storage facility accommodating up to 550 boats, and ‘The Boatyard,’ equipped with a hurricane haul-out facility and a 110-ton Travelift. These amenities underscore the center’s commitment to providing comprehensive services for boat owners.

The rapidly growing Pensacola Marine Center and its variety of onsite marine service and sales business provides the perfect setting for a land and water based boat show. The show offered an insight into the latest in marine technology and design as well a chance to view a wide selection of pontoons, center consoles and yachts. Given the level if interest of this in-augural event, the Pensacola Marine Center Boat Show is poised to become an annual highlight for the region’s boating community for years to come!

Story & photos by: Jeff Watson

Local businesses and marine service providers had the opportunity to connect with potential customers. Boat dealers and brokers included BGS, Galati, Off the Hook, Legendary & Marine Max.

The Grand Marlin

PENSACOLA BEACH & PANAMA CITY BEACH

As restaurant stories go The Grand Marlin has a rather unique story that began with friends on a boat, back in 2008, perusing the Virgin Islands and hoping to land an Atlantic Blue Marlin. Through the now owners shared passion for big-game fishing, great seafood, fast boats, and entrepreneurship The Grand Marlin was born, and in April 2010, The Grand Marlin on Pensacola Beach opened its doors, followed, in 2016, by the Panama City Beach location.

The name Grand Marlin has become synonymous with upscale coastal cuisine at both its original Pensacola Beach staple and its more recent Panama City Beach location. From the attention to upscale atheistic detail to the beautiful coastal views, Grand Marlin’s brand of dining is a must-go for anyone visiting either of these two beach communities, as well as being well worth the drive from Destin, Fort Walton Beach or the 30A area to dine at either location.

Having dined at the Pensacola Beach location on multiple occasions, I can assure you that everything I have ever tried there has been well prepared with a level of care and taste that will beckon you back each visit.

Personally, I recommend their Ahi Poke and Maryland Style Lump Crab Cake as appetizers, followed by either Seared Red Snapper (when it’s on the Fresh Catch selection of the day) or Honey Wasabi Yellowfin Tuna. If you want more, though, start with some of their delicious gumbo, and don’t forget to sample a few deserts before you call it a full meal. I would also be remiss by not mentioning that among a grand selection of coastal libations The Grand Marlin also offers a selection of over 80 wines. All carefully chosen to compliment your grand experience.

AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

AJ’s On The Bayou

DESTIN & FORT WALTON BEACH

If you consider yourself a knowledgeable fan of ‘America’s Luckiest Fishing Village’ you’ve likely already made a visit to World Famous AJ’s Seafood & Oyster Bar in the heart of Destin’s harbor district. This iconic staple of food, fun, sun, and nightlife has been around since 1984 and now shares its famous name with the restaurant group’s three other Northwest Florida locations -including AJ’s on the Bayou in Fort Walton Beach, AJ’s Grayton, just off world

famous Hwy. 30A, and AJ’s Oyster Shanty on Okaloosa Island.

The mothership of the brand, the Destin Harbor location, along with AJ’s on the Bayou, in Fort Walton Beach, both offer boaters the opportunity to float up, and head inside for some cold beer, coastal cocktails, and an expansive array of delicious food choices, live music and more fun than you even knew you wanted to have. Additionally, most nights during the spring, summer, and fall seasons you’ll find live music on the menu at all four AJ’s locations.

As for the dining aspect, AJ’s offers everything from homemade burgers to fish and chips to fish sandwiches, salads, to a fantastic array of sushi and locally sourced seafood. I’ve been dining at AJ’s for over two decades and have never… and I mean never, had a bad meal at any of their locations. The food quality is always consistently prepared, and both of the water accessible locations offer wonderful views, along with a real coastal ambiance, from the fishing hut décor to the water views.

I personally suggest whatever is on the fresh catch menu on any given day, however you sure can’t go wrong with AJ’s Fish Tacos, or a big AJ’s Burger with fries either. Trust me on that!

Whatever you choose, you will find that owner Alan Laird’s philosophy of simplicity and genuine hospitality resonates through each of the AJ’s locations, and each restaurant makes good on the AJ’s legacy of exceptional service, great food, cold drinks, live entertainment and good times.

Nick’s Boathouse PENSACOLA

Located in the charming and vibrant downtown Pensacola entertainment district, Nick’s Boathouse offers spectacular views of Pensacola Bay along with the opportunity to tie up and catch a majestic Pensacola sunset while taking in some of the best old Florida style coastal cuisine along the Northwest Florida Gulf… and that’s saying a lot!

This Pensacola hotspot offers an inviting and laidback coastal atmosphere, great service, and a menu that will bring you back time and time again. The food is top-notch, but this is a boathouse perfect for boaters, so showing up in your flops, shorts and favorite tee are not only acceptable, they’re encouraged.

At Nick’s you can enjoy anything from their signature grouper sandwich to coconut shrimp and fried crab to potato waffles. While you certainly don’t have to partake in seafood at Nick’s Boathouse, I personally recommend you do, as it permeates most of the menus -as it should- from lunch and dinner to brunch.

I suggest trying their Mahi & Crawfish Etouffee, the Local Grouper (straight from the Gulf of America, I might ad!) and even their Alaska Snow Crab, which pairs perfectly with the fresh Gulf caught shrimp on the menu.

From the seafood to the desserts to the coastal beverage of your choice, you can be sure that whatever you choose, by boat or road, will keep you coming back to Nick’s Boathouse again and again.

“I HIGHLY SUGGEST THE FRESH OYSTERS, AND THE CREOLE FLAVORED LOBSTER ROLL, WITH A LITTLE TWIST ON THE NORMALLY MORE TRADITIONAL BUTTER AND LEMON LOBSTER ROLLS.”

Zeke’s Restaurant at Zeke’s Landing & Marina

ORANGE BEACH

This casual, but upscale, Mediterranean inspired Orange Beach hotspot has become quite the go to for lunch and dinner, as well as being an excellent place for the younger guests in your party to have some fun of their own. Conveniently located at Zeke’s Marina in the heart of Orange Beach, Zeke’s has become well respected for doing everything from their menu just right, and especially for their locally sourced seafood.

I highly suggest the fresh oysters, and the creole flavored lobster roll, with a little twist on the normally more traditional butter and lemon lobster rolls you may be accustomed to.

The Cobia with crawfish and sausage is also a wonderful dish in my opinion, and remember you certainly go wrong simply tying up and walking in with your own fresh catch that the awesome staff at Zeke’s are happy to prepare and serve for you!

Whether you choose a burger and fries or your favorite seafood dish with fresh vegetables, you are sure to find that Zeke’s Restaurant will provide you with the food and service that will make it one of your future favorites along the Alabama Coast too.

PRIZES AND SCORING

With over $15,000 in cash prizes (based on 100 anglers) the scoring system awarded points as follows:

Registration: 10 points

Each Category Weighed: 10 points

Placement Points:

- 1st: 100 points

- 2nd: 90 points

- 3rd: 80 points

- 4th to 10th: Decreasing by 10 points per position

Notably, anglers could only claim one prize per category, ensuring a fair distribution of awards and maintaining competitive integrity. For instance, if an angler placed in multiple categories, they would receive the prize with the highest monetary value, and the next eligible participant would be awarded in the other category.

COMMUNITY AND ATMOSPHERE

AJ’s on the Bayou provided a vibrant backdrop for the event, fostering a sense of community among participants and spectators. The tournament emphasized inclusivity, encouraging anglers of all skill levels to participate. The Fort Walton Beach event was a significant stop in the Shoreline Showdown Surf Fishing Tournament Series, which spans various locations across Florida. The series aims to culminate in a championship invitational, bringing together top performers from each event. With its substantial prizes and emphasis on community engagement, the Shoreline Showdown continues to solidify its reputation as a premier surf fishing competition in the region.

For more information and upcoming tournament details, visit the official Shoreline Showdown website: https://shorelineshowdown.com

O RANG E BE AC H MARI NA

Haven or Heaven Enjoy the experience.

Relax . Every need is met at our beautifully secluded, secure location with covered and open slips available. Enjoy on site watefront dining and shopping as your yacht gets all the attention it needs with on site service and repair. Located just minutes from the Gulf of Mexico at Perdido Pass and the Intercoastal Waterway.

TENANT AMENITIES

Outstanding Marina Staff

2 Restaurants On Site

6 Bay Fuel Dock

Upscale Dock Store

Dockage to 130’

Private Showers & Restrooms

ON SITE SERVICES

Shipp’s Dockside Grill

Mobile Big Game Fishing Club

B&T Marine

Bluewater Yacht Sales

Boat Washing & Detailing Service

Inshore & Offshore Charters

NEARBY

White Sand Beaches

Commercial & Private Airports

Walking, Biking & Nature Trails

Shopping & Outlet Centers

Grocery & Drug Stores

Golf Courses - 6 within 20 Minutes

SNAPPER

be hypnotizing. I never get sick of it, and I think everyone on my boat knows that. Next, you realize a 15lber ate your tiny little bait and now you’re locked in to the fight. We can get away with very light tackle – if we’re getting surface bites in 80’ of water, you have the entire water column as an arena to steer him around before he gets back into the bottom. You don’t have to be a very good fisherman to get away with this. It might be a little more work to get the bite than just cranking them off the bottom, but I find people remember some fish more than others. Plus, with that much bait and excitement in the water, you never know what else will be attracted. Mahi, wahoo, kings, mangrove (black) snapper, and of course sharks can always show up.

I tend to rig my bottom fishing snapper setups a little differently than most. I have noticed a trend in the lighter direction, but most guys use conventional reels, with a 8oz lead sinker above a 60lb leader and a 7/0 hook. That just about gets the job done for any fish that might be swimming by. I prefer spinning tackle, and I think it’s a lot more fun. With live or dead bait - I run somewhere around 40lb PowerPro for my mainline, to a 3 way swivel. One branch of the swivel is to the hookabout a 6’ leader of 60lb, and I connect a snap-weight to the other eye of the swivel. This way, if we’re fishing deeper, I can clip on a heavier lead, and if we’re moving spots, I can unhook the weight and not worry about weights swinging around in the rod holders. I also think a lot of guys who lose fish to the bottom actually have their weights stuck in the bottom. If I don’t have a snap lead – a little loop of 20lb mono to form a breakaway weight has paid off in the past!! I always feel like a genius when this works and we get a fish in the boat without a lead attached. Our jigging combos and setups deserve their own respect, but there’s enough information about slow pitch jigging out there to cover that. I size them just heavy enough to stay vertical. I still lean towards gold and glow colors for my jigs. I think a lot of people fish with jigs that are too big. At the filet table, I always take note of the stomach contents of these fish and see what they’ve been feeding on. A lot of people like to see that stuff too. Weirdos. If we’re keeping them, I’ve tried to harvest things a little differently over the last few years. I think processing the fish in the right way can go a long way, and that starts on the boat. A quick google search will tell you everything you want to know about Ikejime, but the process is pretty simple. Brain spike, bleed out, destroy the spinal cord (wire), gut, fillet. We did a lot of this in Japan, but I’m glad to see companies adopting and promoting the process in the US; it can really change the colors and flavors of the meat. At the fillet table – don’t forget the throats. I’ve grown to almost prefer the fattier meat in the throat, grilled in my Kamado and drizzled with a homemade unagi. The rest of the fillet is pretty hard to screw up. You can grill it, blacken it, fry it, bake it, or turn it into an awesome ceviche. If releasing, keep an eye on barotrauma. There are new laws in effect this year about carrying descending devices, and there are some groups out there offering free devices and venting tools.

As a charter captain, I’m on the water almost every day. I absolutely love it. But you’ll know when snapper season is open. Every boat in Florida will be out on the gulf. It seems like people come from all over the country for their chance for the fight, the pictures, and the fillets - for good reason. I feel like the more fish people catch, and the more experience they have, the less they care about those “limit” pictures and start to care more about the fish and the experience. These fish are awesome, they’re always here, and they’re fun as hell to catch. Keep that in mind this season. Try dropping a jig, try catching them on the surface, and only keep what you need.

Captain Mark Hotze (right) runs fishing charters out of 30A/Destin, Florida and can be found at www.30alighttackle.com and on social media @30alighttackle.