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A FISHING KAYAK!
SUP
INSHORE TACTICS WATCH VIDEO
PHOTO COURTESY OF JUSTIN HOOVER IG: @REDFISHING321 / YOUTUBE: ISLAND ANGLER FILMS
VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 9
F R A N C H I S E
SPRING TRANSITION APRIL 2021
O P P O R T U N I T I E S
A V A I L A B L E
W O R L D W I D E
BLACKFIN TUNA ARE BACK !!!! By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
S
ome of the best eating fish in the ocean are back on the menu, and they’re here to stay throughout the summer. Blackfin tuna have already moved back in on the Gulf Coast in the Tampa area, and they should start becoming a regular visitor on offshore and nearshore trips. We might not have as many blackfin as they do down in the Keys, but what we do have are of the jumbo variety. They produce some respectable-sized steaks. While blackfin aren’t overly common in this area, they are also not impossible to target. You might also find yourself catching them as bycatch while fishing wrecks with live bait. If you happen to hook one by accident, keep chumming to keep the school on you, and keep sending out lines rigged the same way as the one that was already hit. Do not be afraid
to have multiple hookups going at a time. Sometimes the bite will come in hot and leave just as quickly. Catch as many as you can while they are eating. While dropping over hard bottom offshore, always make sure to have at least one flat line set up out the back. Utilizing light mono and a small hook, cast a live bait behind the boat. Greenbacks, cigar minnows, small grunts and pinfish all work well. Occasionally open the bail to send out a little more line, so the bait has an opportunity to swim more naturally, faster,
and get farther down in the water column. This is especially effective at enticing a bite when the bait is acting nervous. Make sure your drag is set very loose, and don’t do anything fancy until the fish eats the bait and begins pulling drag. If anything, when you’re fishing larger baits, you can open the bail and let the fish really eat before coming tight. You should be burning a chum block, but also make sure to occasionally toss out a few live baits as chummers, especially when one of your flat-line baits seems to be getting nervous. As we move into summer, this exact
same method will catch wahoo and sailfish, without you having to change any of your rigs or bait. Alternatively, you might stumble across diving birds above a disturbance on the water. Keep your eyes peeled for the telltale flying football shapes, indicative of tuna. Sometimes it might just be a school of bonita, but often tuna and bonita will run with each other, so don’t get discouraged too quickly. Make sure to have a plan and discuss it with your crew in case you do happen to run over a school while heading offshore. Whether you have a rod with a popper on it for casting,
a trolling rod rigged and ready or a rod set up for a pitch bait, make sure everyone else knows what the game plan is so you don’t miss out. Blackfin often surface briefly, and you have to be ready to capitalize on it before they dive back down. Happy hunting, and don’t forget to treat your tuna fillets like steak. Cut them on a clean table and pat the meat dry if necessary, but never rinse it with freshwater. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon fishes out of St. Petersburg, Fla. Call her at 504-920-6342 and check her out on Instagram @CaptainQuinlyn.
MANAGING GEAR I N A L I T T L E P L A S T I C B O AT O
By CAM Staff
ne of the great joys of fishing from a kayak or paddleboard is simplicity. Paddle-powered anglers are minimalists by necessity, and there’s a sense of freedom in this. With just a couple rods and a box of lures, you spend less time bumbling with gear and more time trying to figure out how to catch fish with what you have on hand. Yet, even when you’ve cut your gear down to the bare minimum, the confines of a small vessel can feel cluttered. Through time on the water, most veteran kayak and paddleboard anglers have developed systems for managing their stuff. Here are a few tips for those getting into the sport: • TIE IT DOWN: Leash it if you don’t want to lose it. Whether you’re fishing a river or a rip current offshore, the water will find a way to carry your stuff away. Tether items that require mobility, such as your paddle, and tie down everything else or stow it in the hull. Pack your boat as if you plan to flip it.
• DITCH THE BAIT: Saltwater or fresh, live bait is the best way to catch most species of fish. It’s also a real pain when you’re in a little plastic boat. The coolers and aerators required to keep bait alive amount to a lot of gear on the deck. Pick a target species that will eat lures, and you’ll have more fun fishing. • PFD: Things can south in a hurry on any boat; the potential for disaster is amplified when you’re floating on a small piece of plastic. Find a lifejacket that’s comfortable enough to wear all day and wear it. There are low-profile PFD options as well as those designed as fishing vests to keep pliers, knives and tackle easily accessible. • DITCH BAG AND FIRST AID: Consider the conditions you’re headed out in and plan accordingly. At the very least, you’ll need bandages and antibiotic ointment for treating wounds. Your ditch bag—a dry bag—should contain extra drinking water, energy bars, a knife, paracord, flashlight and something to signal for help. If you’re going into the wilderness, deep into the Everglades
or offshore, it is wise to invest in an EPIRB and/ or a hand-held VHF radio. • FISH BAG: Once you’ve had a big fish flopping between your legs, you’ll understand the need for a quick way to contain them. Cooler bags are mighty handy if you’re keeping fish. They make soft-sided fish bags designed to strap to the deck and stuff fish in. Even zip-top soft coolers made to hold beer can be tied to the deck. SUP anglers have a built-in fish box: a hard cooler that doubles as a seat. • GARAGE TEST: Before you head out, take all the gear you think you need and lay it out next to your boat. Find a place for it. Then consider what you’ll actually use and what you’d need to survive in an emergency. Leave everything else behind. For more tips on fishing under paddle power, visit coastalanglermag.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF HOBIE FISHING
FISHING FROM A PADDLEBOARD:
TUPAT’S TIPS
By Nick Carter
P
atrick “Tupat” Eichstaedt has been mucking around in backwater creeks as long as he can remember. He grew up just north of Florida’s famous Mosquito Lagoon, in Bethune Beach, where the Indian River is a labyrinth of saltwater creeks and channels that snake between mangrove islands. Tupat is a surfer, angler and an entrepreneur, and recently life brought him home to Bethune Beach, where his passion for fishing from a standup paddleboard (SUP) reignited in a big way. “The things a board allows me to see and do is incomparable to being in a boat,” he said. “It puts me as close to Mother Nature and the fish as I can get. I can get to places you wouldn’t dream of in a boat, and the stealth lets me observe fish at a much deeper level.” Casting from an SUP for big snook, trout and redfish is not, however, something you just pick up and go do well. It’s a melding of sports, and Tupat’s surfing background THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE
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gifted him with an awareness of how a board handles in the water. Anyone can spend the day SUP fishing and catch some fish. Getting good at it requires time on the water to learn the intricacies of the sport. Here are some tips from Tupat: SETUP: Fishing from an SUP requires confidence in the board and competence on it. Before you hit the water, it’s wise to research and find a stable board that will float your weight. From there: “You’ve got to develop a core balance and become one with the motions of paddling and fishing and how the board reacts to your movements,” said Tupat. He fishes an 11-foot-long, 36-inch-wide, 5-inch-thick Pau Hana Big EZ Angler. He said it’s stable, yet maneuverable, and called it the ultimate fishing board. Rigging is a matter of preference, but generally “less is more on a paddleboard,” said Tupat. A cooler placed on the middle of the board is a seat and fishbox. Aft of that, a milk crate with zip-tied sections of PVC pipe serves as a rod holder and carry-all. Tupat keeps a soft-sided, rectangular wet/dry bag in front of him on the deck. This is where he keeps tackle, tools and anything he’ll need quick access to. “I’ve tried attachments and all that crap,
and all it’s done is get in my way,” he said. “I need it to be as simple as possible to put me in the best position to catch fish.” STEALTH: The ability to sneak up on fish in shallow water is the primary advantage of a paddleboard. A paddle or any other gear banging on the deck alerts fish to your presence. Tupat said knowing where your paddle is and having a secure place to put it quickly is imperative. You should have a plan for your paddle. Tupat sets his on that softsided wet/dry bag, where it is secure and will not bang on the deck. THINK AHEAD: Unless your board is staked out or tied off, it is going to move. It blows with the wind and drifts with the tide. Even small fish will tow a board during a fight. Tupat constantly considers these factors and comes up with a plan before making a cast. Sometimes, finding wind-shade in the lee of landscape is necessary to fish. Other times, the wind or tide can be used to set up drifts. When you do hook up, you must adapt to the situation. “It’s spur of the moment to decide what you have to do to land the fish.” Tupat said. “You have to use your common sense.” If you’re in open water, it’s possible to play a fish out. The board serves as a secondary drag
system in this situation. In shallow water and tight confines, it sometimes makes sense to step off the board and battle a fish on foot. In other situations, it can be necessary to hold the rod in one hand and paddle with the other to find a more advantageous place to land large fish. Check out Tupat’s Hawaiian Poke Sauce at www.tupats.com, his Youtube fishing show Tupat’s Fishing Adventures and his Instagram feeds @ therealtupat and @tupatshawaiian.
THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE
APRIL 2021
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CHALLENGE NAMES 2021’S
TOP
CUSTOM
ROD T
he International Rod Building Challenge pits some of the world’s very best custom rod builders and designers against each other in a competition that considers creativity, craftsmanship and functionality. The 2021 Challenge, hosted by American Tackle Company, featured many entries from throughout the United States, Germany, Indonesia, Canada and Portugal. For the competition, rod builders were presented a mystery American Tackle Bushido blank to build their creation; everything else was left up to the builder for creativity, design and craftsmanship. Each builder showcased their version of a highly ornate yet functional fishing rod in hopes of capturing the coveted 2021 title. The entries submitted featured both spinning and casting rod configurations including one spinning/
Mark Crouse took first place in the 2021 International Rod Building Challenge for his stunning custom spinning rod.
fly convertable design. The judging panel was comprised of 10 noted fishing and rod-building professionals with extensive diversity of experience in rod manufacturing and custom rod building, as well as noted anglers and editors of well-circulated fishing media. Each judge scored to a list of criteria ranging from design, theme, functionality and craftsmanship in 11 categories. Judges spent hours carefully grading the top-10 rods for the final results. In the end, Mark Crouse was declared the winner, taking first place in one of the tightest races this competition has ever seen. Mark’s entry in the 2021 challenge featured custom-created acrylic grips, a custom fabricated/machined highly polished aluminum reel seat/handle trim, customfabricated extendable rear handle grip and impressive ultra-smooth epoxy finish over finely detailed thread work. His entry was designed into a spinning rod configuration utilizing the titanium version MicroWave Guide Line Control System for better balancing and enhanced performance. Mark is no stranger to winning rod-building competitions. He has been a true craftsman in rod building for many decades. His rod beat out Wade Christensen and Mark Blabaum, who earned second and third in the competition respectively. For more information, visit www.americantackle.us.
CHECK OUT MORE OF THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL ROD CHALLENGE ENTRIES AT:
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/ROD-BUILD THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE
APRIL 2021
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FLY FISHING
CHOOSING THE CORRECT BAITFISH FLY
I
f you look in many fly anglers’ boxes, you will see a huge array of flies in all shapes, sizes and colors. However, having the one correct fly in the box is the key to fishing success. Picking the correct flies for any saltwater fly fishing situation is key to whether or not you’ll be catching fish. Walking into a fly shop and looking into the fly bins can prove mind-boggling to the uninitiated. The bins are filled with so many flies with which the fledgling saltwater fly fisher has little or no knowledge. Saltwater flies differ from their freshwater cousins in size and dress. Sometimes, like the kid in a candy store who is more influenced by the attractive wrapper than its contents, the beginning saltwater fly angler often chooses the eye-candy, over-dressed flies far too bulky to resemble a baitfish or a crab, flies that hook fishermen rather than fish.
WATCH BAITFISH PATTERNS I believe a sparsely dressed baitfish pattern is preferable to a bulked up flashy fly. Why? The sparsely dressed fly will have a more natural look than will an all-too-spruced-up fly. Also, my experience has shown that a fish is far less selective when presented the sparsely dressed fly. The fly is only an imitation, a hint, of what the fish is feeding on, producing in the fish a reflexive action to strike. Perhaps one of the most important parts of the saltwater fly is its large eye that resembles closely the good-sized eyes on baitfish such as sardines, pilchards, and anchovies. Game fish zero in on that oversized eye when chasing and feeding on baitfish. Focusing on that eye results in fewer lost meals. COLOR Natural colors work best. Olive green, browns, tans and whites 12
APRIL 2021
THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE
VIDEO are all great color combos for baitfish patterns. You should, however, carry a selection of blue and white, red and white and, of course, chartreuse and white in your fly box. SIZE Depending on what type of fish you’re pursuing, the size of your flies will vary. But, in most saltwater fly fishing situations, you’ll also need baitfish patterns that range from small anchovy patterns in size 6 to large sardine or pilchard patterns in size 2/0. Remember, just as it is on the spring creek or on the large river, it’s all about matching the hatch, weather it’s insects or baitfish.
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APRIL 2021
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PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES.
G N I K A Y KA INSHORE TO
WATCH
VIDEO
N O I T AC By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
T
he past seven years, I have taken my kayak out on most of my fishing trips in both fresh and saltwater. I might or might not stay in the kayak all day, because I believe wade fishing is an extremely effective way to catch fish, and it’s also my favorite. However, the kayak gives me access to many otherwise non-accessible areas. Kayak designs and accessories have developed nicely the last few years. Comfort and propulsion are among the highlights in advancement, from my perspective. I bought my current kayak used, and the two selling points were a comfortable seat on a somewhat raised custom platform and a bow-mount trolling motor with a remote. The raised seat is like sitting in a normal chair, which makes long rides easy on my back. This has made my kayaking experiences enjoyable, and it has offered my boys a comfortable ride without paddling. I still use the paddle when I need to get super
skinny and for days when I have connection or battery issues. Today, most manufacturers offer these upgrades already built in. My kayak has a very stable platform, and I frequently stand while fishing and scouting. This is a real benefit in the clear waters where I fish. With polarized glasses, the added height allows me to see bottom contour, structure, bait and even fish. Speaking of fish, lets get into what to look for in the warming waters of spring. It can be tricky to stay on fish during the spring. Although cold fronts don’t pack the punch of winter, they do slow the warming trend, create a lot of wind and keep fish scattered between winter and spring structure and water depth. This time of year, trout and reds can be caught on all types of bottom structure: mud, shell, grass and sand. Focus less on the bottom type in early spring; instead direct your attention to areas in close proximity to
deeper water. The term deeper is in relation to your specific area. A long shoreline that runs parallel to a deeper drop allows fish to access both depths, but it can also cause fish to scatter and make them harder to locate and catch consistently. Find an area where there’s a deeper gut that runs into a shoreline. This could be a natural depression, a bayou or canal. This gives close proximity to the deeper channel with shallow flats on both sides. This is a much easier area to target fish as they try to figure out what season it is. As always, safety comes first on the water, especially in a kayak. Wear your life vest. If something can fall in, tether it, and make sure you can bee seen by power vessels. Take a kid fishing, be safe and have fun this spring. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures, Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE
APRIL 2021
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U J M P N S O P R TA ! T A O B R E V O
F
lorida fishing guide Ben Olsen had an up-close-and-personal visit from a freeswimming tarpon off the coast of Marco Island, Florida in mid-February. You can hear Olsen scream “Oh my God!” as the tarpon flies in front of Olsen, just missing his head. Olsen, co-owner of Thorne Bros. Custom Rod & Tackle, told the website For The Win Outdoors that they were right on top of a school of tarpon that the small group found using electronics. “My initial reaction was simple reflexes! If you watch it in real time it happens in a split second. It is not at all unusual to have tarpon free jumping, even very close to the boat.” The footage was captured with a hat cam by Eric Bakke, one of the clients on the trip that day. Visit Thorne Bros. Custom Rod & Tackle online at thornebros.com.
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APRIL 2021
THE ANGLER VIDEO MAGAZINE
MORE FISHING, LESS GUESSING WITH
SIRIUSXM MARINE FISH MAPPING
F
ish Mapping is SiriusXM Marine’s most comprehensive service package. Leveraging their satellite network, it delivers fishing data and weather services well beyond cellular range. It includes powerful saltwater fishing features plus all of SiriusXM Marine’s weather information to compatible Garmin, Simrad, Lowrance and Furuno multi-function displays. This service is for saltwater anglers who spend significant time on the water fishing tournaments, taking clients on charter trips or just fishing. Fish Mapping identifies locations with the highest likelihood of finding fish by providing regularly updated, science-based data. It includes the following features: • Fishing Recommendations: View locations expert oceanographers recommend with ideal conditions for finding specific types of game fish. View recommendations combined with other Fish Mapping features overlaid on the chart of your multi-function display. Updated on Tuesday and Friday mornings. • Weed Lines: View concentrations of floating algae/plants, which attract baitfish and predatory species. Fish Mapping locates these drifting hot-spots with images updated every 24 hours. • Sea Surface Height Anomaly: View locations where sea height anomalies show fronts, eddies, upwellings, downwellings and convergence zones. Convergence zones create favorable conditions including nutrient-rich water that attracts baitfish and game fish. Avoid
downwelling areas, which don’t support favorable fishing conditions. Updated every 24 hours. • Sea Surface Temperature Contours: View contour lines where sea surface temperatures change. Noticeable breaks between cool and warm water attract baitfish. This feature allows you to adjust to the preferred temperature range of target game fish. Updated every 6 hours. • Sea Surface Temperature Front Strength: View strength of ocean fronts that create distinct boundaries between bodies of water. Steep temperature fronts concentrate nutrients, which attract baitfish and limit fish movement. Strong fronts are good places to find game fish. Locations where temperature and plankton fronts coincide offer even better fishing. Updated every 24 hours. • 30m Subsurface Sea Temperatures: View water temperature 30 meters below the surface. Adjust to the preferred temperature
range of target game fish to identify areas below the surface where they are likely to be hunting. Updated every 24 hours. • Plankton Concentration Contours: View areas of plankton concentrations. Plankton feeds baitfish, which attract hungry game fish. Updated every 24 hours. • Plankton Front Strength: Plankton “fronts” show where murky, nutrient-rich water favorable for baitfish occurs next to clear, predator-preferred water. Strong plankton fronts indicate key areas for game fish feeding activity. Updated every 24 hours. Fish Mapping also provides essential weather information such as Radar, Lightning, Marine Zone Forecasts, Wind and Wave information. Fish mapping service is $99.99 per month. Subscribers can add SiriusXM entertainment at a discount. The All Access programming package is SiriusXM’s most extensive offering and includes Howard Stern, every NFL, MLB and NBA game, every NASCAR race, plus NHL games, PGA coverage and live college sports, as well as SiriusXM’s wide variety of ad-free music and talk programming and several exclusive channels. All-Access and Select subscribers also get access to SiriusXM programming when they are not on the water, on the SiriusXM app and online at www.siriusxm.com. Visit siriusxm.com/FishMapping and their Video Library for more information.
Find your
EDGE “After a 2-hour fight, my daughter landed this beautiful 148 pound yellowfin tuna! We were using Fish Mapping and were right on a Sea Surface Temperature Front line.” — Brian Turner, “Haulin Grass”, 42' Yellowfin
Fish Mapping gives you 8 dedicated fishing features plus all SiriusXM Marine weather information directly on your boat’s display, relative to your boat’s location. The service is delivered via satellite and is available offshore well beyond cell range. Add SiriusXM Radio and you’re all set for an incredible day fishing.
1-MONTH TRIAL + $100 REBATE
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Learn more at siriusxm.com/fishmapping
OFFER DETAILS: Activate a new subscription to SiriusXM Marine Fish Mapping and receive your first month free (a $99.99 savings), plus get free activation (an additional $25 savings), for a combined savings of $124.99. Add SiriusXM Select radio package at the discount rate of $11.99/mo. Fees and taxes apply. A credit card is required on this offer. You must cancel during your free month to avoid being charged. At the beginning of your second month service will automatically renew thereafter every month and you will be charged at the then-current rates. Fees and taxes apply. Please see our Customer Agreement at siriusxm.com for complete terms and how to cancel, which includes calling us at 1-800-985-9200. All fees, content, and features are subject to change. This offer may not be combined with any other trial offers and may be modified or terminated at any time. Subscription and hardware sold separately. $100 Rebate from SiriusXM available through Dec 31, 2021 with hardware and subscription purchase, see Rebate Offer Details at siriusxm.com/fishmapping. © 2021 Sirius XM Radio Inc. SiriusXM and all related logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and its respective subsidiaries. All rights reserved.
WATCH
VIDEO
CHOOSING LURE COLORS By Will Robinson
E
veryone has their go to lure or fly, that certain color and pattern that always gets the job done. But why is that one lure so effective? Is it the color, shape, action or just the fact that you have confidence in it? Undoubtedly it is a combination of all of the above, especially when you consider what the fish sees. The colors fish can see are limited by the light absorbing characteristics of water as well as the amount of light and the water clarity. In water, the longest color wavelengths are absorbed first. Red is affected nearly immediately, transitioning to a shade of gray within depths of just 15 feet in clear water. The absorption continues in the order of the color spectrum to affect orange, yellow, green and finally blue. It is important to note color absorption occurs both vertically and horizontally. No matter the depth, red will appear gray to a fish that is 15 feet away from the lure. The distance is shortened in stained water. Conversely, with blue being visible to about 90 feet in clear open water, it will show up pretty well. So does that mean color has little bearing? Absolutely not; while colors might not pop bright and vivid, they have a profound effect on contrast. This might
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be of even more importance in fishing. Many anglers have discovered that dark colors work better at night, in low light and in dirty water. This may seem counter-intuitive, but consider that fish see the contrast of a bait to its surroundings. Using baits with two colors
boosts the contrast when fishing in turbid water. Colors, shapes and patterns are likely more important when fishing a particular run. If you are fishing the mullet run or a menhaden migration, matching the natural appearance of the food is pretty important. How to put this to use: • Black is generally the most visible color and creates the best contrast in low visibility.
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• Create contrast by using dark colors next to light colors. In dirty water or low-light situations, more contrast is better. Bright clear conditions call for less contrast. • When using lures deep, use blues and greens as they are the last colors absorbed. • Consider the visible colors of natural prey at the depth you will be fishing and match that, not the surface colors. Studies show that fish react to specific colors. Maybe it is a color that occurs during mating or a color that triggers another response. However, what fish see and react to varies species to species. Also, unlike humans, fish can see ultraviolet light, which leads to options when tying flies or using skirted lures. Many materials can bring this into play. There is no doubt that color plays an important role in lure selection. Utilizing colors that show up at the depth you are fishing is a good strategy. Also, use colors that create contrast and make your bait visible under the conditions you are fishing. Will Robinson is an accomplished tournament angler and has been writing and hosting fishing shows for nearly two decades.
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Endless Fishing Opportu Await In M
arathon, the heart of the Florida Keys, offers fishing options as vast as the crystal blue waters that surround the islands.
Fill Your Trophy Wall.
With visions of Ernest Hemingway’s exploits in their heads, adventurers flock to Marathon from around the globe to fulfill their dreams of catching the sportfish of a lifetime. The offshore deep blue waters are the realm of the mighty swordfish, who live in the 1,500-plus-foot depths. Fishing for swordfish is highly technical and is best done with an electric set-
up. While a magnificent creature to display above the fireplace, swordfish are also prized for their food value. Closer inshore are sailfish, which are unsurpassed in their size range for combined strength and spectacle. These silver speedsters, with their distinctive blue fan-shaped fin, are free-roamers that seem to prefer the coral reef areas. They are best fished for where their favorite foods are plentiful, such as along weed lines or around schools of blue
runners, goggle eyes or pilchards. Perhaps the most elusive of all the sportfish in the Marathon waters is the silver king. The tarpon that visit the middle Florida Keys each spring love to hang out at bridge passes, where their food of choice is easily obtainable. These areas are known for their relative calm conditions, making tarpon fishing a comfortable experience for all anglers, even those prone to seasickness. Using light spinning tackle and circle hooks, fishing for tarpon is about as sporting as it gets. And, to hook one and chase it through the bridge pilings, hoping to be rewarded with a few jumps and maybe a picture at the side of the
tunities By Capt. Chris Johnson, SeaSquared Charters
boat is an unforgettable experience. With a plethora of media coverage of sharks, catch-and-release fishing for them has become increasingly popular. The Marathon area sees a vast spectrum of sharks, including lemons, blacktips, bulls, blacknoses, nurse, spinners, hammerheads and tigers. These range in size from little guys to behemoths at 12 to 15 feet in length. Light tackle, shallow water angling for sharks in the middle Florida Keys presents the opportunity to experience the exhilaration of big game sport fishing closer to shore and easier on your budget. Rounding out the sport fishing options in Marathon are bonefish, snook, Goliath grouper, permit and
barracuda. Each challenging in its own right and all worthy of a place of honor on your trophy wall.
Fill Your Dinner Plate.
When it comes to catching fish with a top-quality food value, you’d be hardpressed to find a greater bounty than contained in the waters surrounding Marathon. On the Atlantic coral reefs and wrecks, snapper of all variety are plentiful for the taking year-round. Yellowtails, mangroves, muttons and lanes offer endless rod-bending entertainment and fill the bellies of hungry anglers at the end of the day. Grouper – blacks, reds and gags – are everpresent as well, although they tend to retreat to deeper waters during the summer heat. Additionally, the season is closed for them from January 1 to May 1. There are many more species that provide high-quality table fare – too many to list – but include amberjack, cobia, kingfish, Spanish mackerel, cero mackerel, pompano and on and on. Marathon’s offshore waters are fishing central for pelagic species that provide angling excitement. Venture 26 miles out to the Marathon Humps and you will be in tuna heaven. Blackfin and skipjack tuna are abundant year-round, and the only thing that can prevent you from getting there to catch them on any given day are the winds. But, on a
calm day, the ride out and back is comfortable and the catching typically rapid-fire. Dolphin (mahi) and wahoo roam the open sea in a continuous hunt for food. Anglers seek them along weed lines and around any sort of floating debris. Feeding birds, particularly frigates, also
indicate their presence. The spectacle of the blue and yellow blaze of a dolphin or the blue and white zebra-like stripes of a wahoo on the end of your line is indelible.
Entertain The Family.
There’s nothing finer for family bonding than spending quality time together on the water, away from the interruptions of everyday life. Marathon boasts multiple venues that are ideal for a day of family fun fishing. The patch reefs, Hawk Channel, the Seven Mile Bridge
and the nearshore bay waters are chock-full of fun-catching fish. Snapper, hogfish, porgy, yellowjack, maybe even grouper, keep the rods bent with tasty rewards at the end of the day. Just for fun, there are sharks, barracuda, jacks and more. Catch ’em and release ’em and on to the next! So, whether you’re looking to fill your trophy wall or your dinner plate, or just
have a great day out with the family, Marathon offers the fishing opportunities to make your dreams come true. Contact Capt. Chris Johnson, with SeaSquared Charters, at 305-743-5305, www.SeaSquaredCharters.com and on Facebook @MarathonFishing.
KEYS TARPON
ON THE MOVE W
hile tarpon are a year-round target for anglers in the Florida Keys, there is no better time than right now if a big silver king is on your bucket list. A typical tarpon season in the Keys ramps up in March and continues into the summer most years. The best months are April and May, at the peak of the spring migration, when large fish are both prevalent and vulnerable to the tactics of anglers. This time of year, catches average in the 80-pound range and anglers encounter fish 200 pounds and larger. There’s nowhere in the world that offers a better opportunity to sight fish clearwater flats for giant tarpon. In their thousands, migrating tarpon push into the backcountry, skirting the edges of flats and channels. Year after year, they follow predictable travel routes, which makes fishing for them a lot like deer hunting. If you know where they’re likely to be, you can stake the boat in ambush and wait for them to roll through. A local guide who stays on top of the movements is worth his weight in gold when it comes to encountering giant tarpon. Notice we said “encountering giant tarpon,” not “catching giant tarpon.” Getting shots at these giant fish is highly likely, convincing them to eat and then fighting them to the boat is not. With a fly, enticing a big tarpon takes skill and luck. First-timers are better off fishing live bait. A crab fished under a float in the passes and around bridges can lead to multiple hook-ups in a day. Fish funnel through the passes and are consolidated in bridge channels, where they are likely to bump into your bait. What follows are powerful runs and repeated jumps. The slightest mistake on the part of the angler will result in a thrown hook or broken line. Even experienced anglers are left with a slack line more often than not.
By CAM Staff
Anglers who win the battle are responsible for reviving and releasing an animal that could be up to 50 years old. Tarpon grow slowly. It takes them seven to 13 years to reach sexual maturity. It is imperative for the future of the fishery to give each fish caught the highest possibility of survival. All Florida tarpon longer than 40 inches must be released, with an exception for anglers holding a state tarpon tag for the purpose of achieving a state or world record. Large tarpon should remain in the water at all times, which means unhooking and photographing them quickly, with an effort to keep the head and gills PHOTO BY PAT FORD in the water as much as possible. Tarpon will often fight to exhaustion, so reviving them greatly increases their chance of survival. Hold them horizontally in the water with their mouth open, moving them forward to push water over their gills. Do this until they swim off on their own. For more information, go to myfwc.com.
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Sea Eagle 350fx Fishing Explorer The Rugged Inflatable Fishing Kayak
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he inflatable 350fx Fishing Explorer from Sea Eagle is a rugged, ultraportable kayak designed to take anglers to fish, wherever they may be. This kayak is virtually bulletproof. It is constructed with 1000 denier reinforced PVC and beefed up with 2000 denier reinforced PVC on the side of the tubes where it’s most needed. Combining the proven design of the Sea Eagle Explorer series and the fishing prowess of the FastTrack Angler 385fta, the new 350fx has everything an angler needs to turn a good day on the water into a great day on the water. Large tubes provide extra buoyancy and superior stability when standing to cast or fight a fish. Sixteen open-and-close drains keep you dry in calm waters and let the water out if you go for a fun run down some rapids or hit some chop. There are also six builtin rod holders; spray skirts with Sea Eagle’s accessory belts that hold tools, lures and tackle; a built-in 40-inch fish ruler; anchor trolley d-rings on both tubes; adjustable foot
braces; EVA foam non-slip foot pad; multiple d-rings to secure gear and seats; and a large removable skeg. The 350fx Fishing Explorer can be used with a double-ended kayak paddle or with an electric motor. The optional motor mount takes up to a 34-pound-thrust electric motor. You can paddle quietly to ease up on the fish, or you can cover water or troll under power. Using the optional Sea Eagle Swivel Seat Fishing Rig allows you to sit higher for a great view into the water. The seat also gives you
two additional Scotty rod holders. At 11’6” long x 39” wide, there is plenty of room for an angler and all their gear. The 350fx weighs only 51 pounds and holds one person or up to 575 pounds. This kayak folds down to just 31” x 19” x 10”, so it can easily be transported in your trunk or stowed away in your camper. When you’re ready to launch, it inflates in just seven minutes. There are four amazing packages available starting at just $1,099 with free ground shipping to the continental U.S. To learn more about the new inflatable 350fx Fishing Explorer, go to SeaEagle.com or call 800-748-8066 M-F from 9-5 EST.
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Weighs 51 lbs. 11'6" long x 39" wide. Holds 1 person or 575 lbs of passenger and gear. Made of 1000 denier reinforced PVC w/ 2000 denier reinforced sections. Can take up to a 34lb. thrust electric motor w/optional motor mount. Floor is removable, double layer, high pressure drop-stitch w/ non-slip EVA foam padding. Standard Features: Customized front & rear spray skirts with built-in rod, tool, hook and lure holders plus plenty of storage below • Built-in 40" fish ruler • Sea Eagle FlexBraceTM adjustable foot brace • Right & left side anchor trolley attachments • 16 self-bailing open/close floor drains • Large, removable rear skeg. *Motor not inlcuded
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MONSTER GREAT WHITE Landed at Pensacola Beach
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art of the excitement of fishing in the surf is you never know what you’ll catch. If you’re fishing big baits, sharks are a frequent occurrence. But a group of spring breakers from Idaho must have been a little surprised when they hauled in a massive great white shark while fishing from shore at Pensacola Beach on March 3. The group chartered John McLean Jr., of Big John Shark Fishing Adventures, for an evening trip from the beach near Portofino Island Resort. They were targeting big sharks with big gear, and the great white they hauled in was estimated by McLean to be 12 feet long and weigh more than 1,000 pounds. They caught it all on video, which McLean posted it on YouTube for the world to see. McLean is a retired professional hockey player who has operated his shore-based shark fishing guide service for about three years. He’s caught big tiger sharks, makos and hammerheads, but this was his first great white and he called it the catch of a lifetime. “This was a thrill of a lifetime,” McLean told Fox News. “I have caught many sharks before but I will never forget the moment I
realized I was looking in to the eyes of a great white shark. Those eyes looked right through my soul. A terrifying and beautiful creature. My great concern was for the safety of the great white. It’s hard for me to believe I was chest high in water with the great white as I encouraged it to swim away.” Great whites are known to swim the Gulf of Mexico, and they are traditionally thought of as coastal hunters. They travel thousands of miles in their migrations and have a lifespan of 70 years or more. A 700-pound, 10-foot long white shark was caught in 2019 from nearby Navarre Beach Fishing Pier.
The research organization OCEARCH has been tracking at least four tagged great whites in the Gulf in recent years. One of them—an 11foot, 8-inch, 1,100-pounder named Edith, was located about 25 miles south of Pensacola Beach in January. She was originally tagged off Nova Scotia in October 2020. McLean’s fish was not tagged, so it was not Edith. The international conservation status of great whites is listed as “vulnerable.” They are federally protected and fall within the “threatened” category, but they are not so scarce to be listed as “endangered.” Knowing this, McLean unhooked and released the fish as quickly as possible after the grueling 40-minute fight that brought it to the beach. He tags sharks and provides information to NOAA’s Cooperative Shark Tagging Program, but he was more concerned with giving this one the best chance of survival and did not take the time to tag or measure it. Federal regulations require anglers to release white sharks immediately. Check out Big John Shark Fishing Adventures at bigjohnsharkfishingadventures.com.
GO FROM FISH TO WAKE TO DAD OF THE YEAR IN THE SAME AFTERNOON.
Go from fishing to wakesurfing to conquering the water. The all new 25-foot FSH® Series from Yamaha is perfect for those who want to get the most out of their boating experience. With fishing-friendly features like a GPS Simrad® system and dual livewells, along with a premium layout and the patented Yamaha swim platform, the new 25-foot FSH Series guarantees you’ll be in the center of everything you love about life on the water. #RUNTHEWATER YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M
©2021 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws. Drive responsibly, wearing protective apparel. Always drive within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and drive. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only, and are not intended to be an endorsement. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT YAMAHABOATS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA.
Yamaha's New 252 FSH Sport and 255 FSH Sport E The Most Capable and Versatile Center Console Boats in Their Class
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ew for 2021 is the exciting 25-foot Yamaha 252 FSH Sport and 255 FSH Sport E center console boats that are the most capable and versatile boats in their class. These larger models of Yamaha’s popular FSH Series are designed with the size, power, and fuel range for serious offshore adventures. The 252 FSH Sport features twin, Yamaha 1.8L High Output engines. These normally-aspirated engines are powerful, reliable, and virtually maintenance-free. Acceleration is instant, bow rise is minimal, and more deck space is available for fishing and fun. For buyers who want the most performance available, and the premium features that come with Yamaha's E-Series drive-by-wire features, the 255 FSH Sport E gets twin 1.8L supercharged Yamaha SVHO® marine engines for a combined 500-horsepower. Zero to 30 mph acceleration is a blistering five seconds with a top speed of 55 mph. In addition, the 255 FSH Sport E feature push-button start, dual throttle lever syncing, and more. Both models come with 111-gallon fuel tanks, the highest capacity fuel tanks Yamaha offers in a jet boat. Paired with Yamaha's fuelefficient engines, there is plenty
of cruising range for boaters who want to explore beyond the harbor surf break. Under the water line is an all-new deep-V hull design that responds immediately to steering input at all speeds and comes on plane instantly. The bow seating area is wide and long, providing ample space for taller passengers to stretch out. And of course, there is plenty of storage available under the hinged bow seats, stainless steel beverage holders in all the right places, and an expansive anchor and bow ladder locker for easy access. Moving into the spacious cockpit interior, there is a transparent live well located portside and a large storage pod topped with padded marine mat adjacent on the starboard side. There is a comfortable bench seat in the front of the center console that lifts up to reveal an extra deep, large storage area that can also serve as a changing room or a head compartment thanks to the curtain enclosure that is standard on all models. Both models are fitted with finished fiberglass hard tops with LED lighting and integrated audio speakers. Completing the tower are five rocket launcher rod holders mounted to the T-Top frame, and there
are eight additional rod holders located under the port and starboard gunnels. The helm is thoughtfully designed with a glass windshield, stainless steel sports steering wheel, locking glove box, and 12-inch Simrad® marine electronics. Also included is Yamaha's Connext® 3.0 helm control system with a 7-inch touchscreen that controls the entertainment and vital system functions of the boat, a mobile phone holder, and USB/AUX ports. Behind the helm is beam width bench seating, a starboard side live bait well, and a low walkthrough transom for easy access to Yamaha's signature stern lounge area. This is the place to be when hanging out at your favorite cove, and a great open access place to cast from. Completing the stern area are stainless steel beverage holders, high-quality padded flooring, a stainless-steel tow eye, and a telescopic reboarding ladder. They also feature underwater lights. From bow to stern, there is nothing cookiecutter about Yamaha's new 25-foot center console boats. From their striking good looks to industryfirst innovations, Yamaha's 252/255 FSH Series models let you do it all on the water, in style and with peace of mind. Learn more at YamahaBoats.com
Get
“Rooted” in the Florida Everglades By Rosemary J. White
F
lamingo is the southernmost headquarters of Everglades National Park, in Monroe County Florida. It is one of the two end points of the 99-mile Wilderness Waterway, and the southern end of the only road through the park from Florida City. The Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. If you have had the privilege to explore this jungle-like paradise, you will not fail to note that it provides crucial habitat for numerous rare and endangered species like manatees, American crocodiles and Florida panthers. The flora of the Everglades leaves one in complete wonder. Nine distinct ecosystems have been identified within Everglades National Park. Bromeliads, cacti/succulents, grasses, lichens, marine plants/algae, orchids and wildflowers are a few of the plants that call the Everglades home.
Equally impressive in this scientific fantasyland is the fauna. Amphibians, birds, fish, insects, mammals and reptiles adorn the land, waters and sky. It is a truly amazing land and seascape, and here we regale an awesome angling experience like no other: an encounter with one of Nature’s most acrobatic and striking underwater wonders, affectionately known as the “Silver King.” Tarpon (Megalops), in brief, resemble a silver bullet. They tolerate a wide range of water salinity, which is an exciting prospect for anglers who might be limited to lakes, canals and ponds. Tarpon are powerful, explosive and acrobatic fighters, with stamina of an Energizer bunny. A behemoth tarpon has long been on my personal bucket list to catch. I’ve caught many juveniles in freshwater ponds, so I’ve have just a sample of the pure power of this species. We packed up to meet Sam Root, an exceptionally knowledgeable Miami-
based fisherman and media personality who has traveled the world to test his fishing skills. I’ve admired Root’s media work, and have been fortunate to collaborate with him over the years through companies like Mustad, Savage Gear and many TV platforms. On this trip, we set out on a product test to demonstrate the Savage Gear Pulse Tail Mullet and Pulse Tail Ballyhoo. These swimbaits are engineered to look and move like the baitfish they resemble, and are molded with Savage Gear’s pulse tail. The tail has a patent-pending split rear kicker that allows for a realistic swimming action fast or slow. The bait also features “line-through” rigging that allows the soft-plastic bait to slide up the line during the fight, giving the fish less leverage to throw the hook. With the aerial tendencies of tarpon, this is a pretty good feature to have. We launched out of Everglades National Park quickly to avoid being air lifted from the ramp by mosquitoes. The scenery was breathtaking. Winding through the narrow
canals, I felt like I was trekking through the Amazon. We arrived at our spot with the moon to the west and the sunrise to the east, both simultaneously visible. That was unlike anything I’ve ever seen. The action began immediately! One after another, we hooked tarpon and got a firsthand perspective of why the line-through technology is helpful in bringing the Silver King boatside. An unobstructed fight, both from the lack of structure and the lack of a lure in the fish’s mouth makes for a pure battle of strength and endurance, on both sides of the rod. The acrobatics and sheer power of these fish as they launched into the air was mind blowing. At one point, it was all I could do to hold on as Root engaged the motor in pursuit and the reel screamed in my hands. After we exhausted ourselves—and several fish—we headed into the preserve canals to do a little sightseeing. We were ecstatic to get a glimpse of the American Crocodile. The Everglades is the only place on Earth where both alligators and crocodiles
coexist. In true tourist fashion, we grabbed at our phones and cameras. It was truly a magnificent and rare sight. When Root said it was time to “call it,” I cringed. I could have gotten lost for days fishing in the unparalleled landscape. The Everglades is a mix of different habitats including freshwater, brackish and salt, an angler’s paradise. I longed for more time to explore and envy those who have that luxury. For me, fishing with artificial lures is the best way to free yourself from the hassle of getting and keeping bait alive. Artificials allow more time to fish when time is of the essence. They are re-usable and sometimes lend themselves to bigger catches. For more information on Savage Gear and their products, Sam does instructional “how to” videos on his Instagram @scssam. Follow Rosemary White @roasty194 for her fishing adventures that feature destinations throughout Florida and @daryn.white.fishing for photography.
EXTREME
anama P Saltwater Fishing In
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lackTipH waited 10 years to find a video worthy of a sequel to their original viral fishing video, “Extreme Saltwater Fishing,” and they think they’ve found it in Piñas Bay, Panama. “This fishing trip is what dreams are made of!” reads the description of their latest video. “We were fishing at Tropic Star Fishing Lodge in Panama, and the ocean was incredibly alive! We caught monster yellowfin tuna, blue marlin, huge mahi-mahi and giant sailfish! I caught my personal-best record-sized yellowfin tuna, weighing 211 pounds! If you love to catch big fish, you have to make Tropic Star a bucket list destination!” Piñas Bay is 150 miles south of
Panama City, Panama, on the country’s remote southern Pacific coast. The Bay itself is a small and insignificant looking dip on the map of the Gulf of Panama. But what lies beneath the waves offshore is anything but insignificant. Piñas Reef, also known as Zane Grey Reef, sits at the convergence of Pacific currents. It is a seamount that ranges from 120 to 350 feet in depth. It is not a huge structure relative to the vast waters of the Pacific, but its location and topography support an abundance of bait and predator species that is astounding. Since famous author Zane Grey located the reef in the 1920s, the productivity of the area has become legendary. Dorado, jacks, bonitos, snappers, groupers, roosterfish and many others live on the reef, but it is the seasonal visitors that draw anglers looking for the trip of a lifetime. When the bite is on, the reef itself can be covered with the big pelagic species. Catch your bait, often bonito, prep it and start fishing right there. When they
are not on the reef itself, they will be nearby. The offshore fishing around Piñas Bay is just 6 to 20 miles offshore, and weather conditions are usually calm. Sailfish averaging 90 to 120 pounds can be caught year-round, but they are the most abundant target May through August, when groups of 10 or more fish can sometimes be spotted on the surface. As the sailfish bite tapers off, black and blue marlin fishing peaks in August and September. This first peak brings most of the areas larger 500-plus-pound fish. It is followed by a second marlin peak from December through March, when exceptional numbers of slightly smaller 300- and 400-pounders are typical. Striped marlin also make an appearance. They are most abundant February through May, so time
it right and there is the possibility of catching all three species of marlin as well as sailfish and big tuna. Any discussion of Piñas Bay would be incomplete without mention of the legendary Tropic Star Lodge. In the early 1960s, when then owner Ray Smith caught the IGFA World Record marlin on 12-pound test, the lodge has logged an impressive string of more than 300 IGFA World Records and Junior Angler World Records for various species. Visit Tropic Star online at tropicstar.com
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Rare Salmon Shark Seen Off Catalina, Cali.
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ana Wharf ’s monthly eight-hour whale watching trips are fun. The target is always whales, and other marine life they happen to come across. They take 25 people about 20 miles off the coast of Southern California to Catalina Island, for the ultimate whale watching adventure trip. On Friday, March 26, Capt. Steve Burkhalter aboard the Ocean Adventure encountered an interesting shark they first thought was a great white off the east end of Catalina, but it looked very different up close. After reviewing and sending the video and pictures to experts, the boat was thrilled to learn this shark was a salmon shark. Salmon sharks are large sharks normally found in the northern Pacific. They are common in Alaska, and this one was a long way from home. It must have been visiting for spring break. An apex predator, they feed on salmon and other fish, squid and other sharks. There is some evidence suggesting adult salmon sharks include pinnipeds, commonly known as seals, as prey. Catalina Island is known for squid, so perhaps that is why it was there. Alisa Shulman Janiger, the expert on the trip, said her shark experts said the sighting is very unusual for Southern California. While they have a range from Alaska to Southern California, none of Dana Wharf ’s captains have encountered one in 50 years plying the waters off “While sa lmon sha Southern California. rks h Visit Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Charters online at danawharf.com
av r captain e a range from Ala s in 50 y ~ Dana W ears have ska to Southern harf Spor Ca seen one tfishing & here befo lifornia, Whale Wa re.” tching Ch a
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Ballyhood Builds Better Custom
BIG GAME LURES B
allyhood International has been producing custom big game trolling lures since 1992. Darrell Primrose, former owner/operator of the Finisterra Tortuga sport fishing fleet in Cabo San Lucas, brings years of experience and first-hand knowledge to the design and manufacturing process of Ballyhood lures. Specializing in big-game trolling lures for tuna, marlin, shark and wahoo, Ballyhood’s custom lures are sold manufacturer direct, although you’ll also find their lures at some of the better offshore outfitters. The list of tournament wins with Ballyhood lures is expansive. The high trolling speed available with the majority of Ballyhood lures gives an angler a real advantage. Covering more ground and enticing bigger fish is the reason these lures are sought out and preferred by experienced Tournament Anglers. Check out these bonafides: • 47 Tournament Wins • 32-oz. Banchee (cowbell) – 27 Tournament Wins • Wahoo Express – 14 Tournament Wins • Wahoo Payback – 2 Tournament Wins – Puerto Rico • 1st place — Red Rum Shoot Out – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • 1st place — Fish Heads Tournament – Panama City, Panama
Ballyhood Hi-speed Wahoo Lures are designed to troll fast and below the surface to attract really big fish. All lures come professionally “tournament rigged.” If you’re an offshore angler and haven’t tried a Ballyhood Lure, you owe it to yourself to see first-hand how these lures give an advantage to your trolling efforts. If your results are like everyone else’s, you’ll be trolling faster and catching bigger! Learn more at www.ballyhood.com.
PARKIT360̊ ELECTRIC TRAILER DOLLIES Lose the Headache and Make Parking Your Trailers Easier Than Ever!
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ave the parking headaches—one-shot your boat into position every time with one of Parkit360's Electric Trailer Dollies. With a wide range of weight capacities available, easily move any ball mounted, fifth wheel or gooseneck trailer up to 15,000 lbs. Parkit360’s Force ISC™ and Transformer models are compatible with almost every trailer right out of the box thanks to their ballmounted Stablelock technology. Just freewheel the dolly to the trailer, connect it to the hitch, and use the forward/reverse thumb toggle switch on the handle to steer your trailer into place. Unlike a driver that relies on mirrors and backup cameras, the user faces the trailer, giving them complete visibility and control while parking. They can see exactly where the trailer is at all times and steer within inches of an obstacle if needed. Have a unique trailer hitch on your boat trailer? Try the Telescopic Hitch Adapter for a
non-invasive, alternative connection point that bolts around your existing trailer frame. Built strong and secure to safely move on firm grass, packed gravel, and 4-6% inclines. With Intelligent Speed Control, get fast or more precise parking in tight spaces. At the same time, the motor starts and stops gradually to prevent damage to the trailer from sudden stopping, something that makes the Force ISC and Transformer Dollies stand out above the competition. Want a Dolly that’s ready to park, right out of the box? Most models include a 12V U1 Interstate® Battery with all required cables and hardware. With existing features like the Builtin Battery Charger, Electric Brake Controller and a full 2 Year Warranty, Parkit360° has truly made parking simple for every trailer. Parkit360° has been in business for over 10 years and has shipped more than 13,000 trailer dollies to customers all over the world. Move
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LIFE IS A BEACH By Richard L. Matteson
WATCH
VIDEO
Snook in the Surf
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armer days are here again, along with the time change, which allows more time for fishing! Snook are cruising the beaches and moving into the shallows of the Indian River Lagoon. My goal is to catch a snook a day—I don’t always do it – but it’s my goal as a surf caster. My favorite lure is a 3/8-ounce chartreuse jig with a 4-inch pearl white D.O.A. Shad Tail. Run the jig hook through the paddletail’s head and out through its belly where D.O.A. is printed. The idea is to rig the soft plastic as straight as you can. This allows longer casts because the lure won’t twist in the air. The two most important factors to consider in catching snook from the beach are time of day and location. Snook prefer to feed at night. On the beach, baitfish run the trough during the low-light periods at dawn and dusk. So, the best time to snook fish is 10 minutes before daybreak and the last 90 minutes before dark. 50
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This is when snook feed in the carved out area behind the closest breakers. Remember, snook are less than 20 yards offshore when they’re feeding in the trough. Casting out as far as you can means only the last part of your retrieve will be in the snook zone. Either make many short casts or cast almost parallel to the surf line. This keeps your bait in the strike zone most of the time. Snook will scoot under the breakers from the trough and grab your jig in 6 inches of wash. No water is too shallow for them, and from the back of the trough to the wash is where the snook point of attack is. When a snook hits, be prepared. They are extremely fast and strong, so expect them to pull out 15 or 20 feet of line. If you use 10-pound braid, like I do, make sure your drag is set loose or they’ll break you off on the initial run. The three main ways you lose snook are
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with a break-off on the first run, when their gill plates and rough mouths weaken the line, and when they jump and throw the hook. Start with the drag loose; you can tighten it during the fight. Use a 30- or 40-pound fluorocarbon leader, and keep your rod tip low during the fight. This discourages jumping. When you’re ready to beach your fish, wait for an incoming wave and walk the fish through the wash so it’s beached when the wave goes out. In Atlantic waters, anglers may keep one snook a day between 28 and 32 inches until the season closes June 1-Aug. 31. In Gulf of Mexico waters, the slot limit is 28 to 33 inches and the season is closed May 1-Aug. 31. Snook fishing is catch-and-release only in all Florida waters from the Hernando/Pasco county line through Gordon Pass in Collier County. Richard Matteson writes for Stuart Rod and Reel Club. Contact him at (336) 414-3440.
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APRIL 2021
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WESTERN NC’S BEST KEPT SECRET
Heritage Trout Water
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veryone is looking for something. Beauty, peace, inspiration, opportunity, success, connection, adventure. Whatever you seek is here in the people, beauty, the mountains and the sunsets of Mitchell County. But discovery in this magical corner of the world can’t always be planned or anticipated. At the end of your day, your weekend or your lifetime in Mitchell County you may have discovered something completely unexpected…and exactly what you need. Come visit Mitchell County NC… seek and find. Selected by North Carolina as Mountain Heritage Trout Cities, both Spruce Pine and Bakersville offer anglers the best in mountain fishing but your chances of catching the big one doesn’t stop there. With miles of public and private waters, your mountain fishing adventure will be photo worthy! Come visit the first weekend in June for the Troutacular! Kids Fishing Event or catch some of the other fishing dates on the calendar including regional and state fishing qualifiers. Call one of our renowned fishing guides to take you to the “sweet spot”…those secret fishing holes that only they know about! Fly Fishing Tip: Fly-fishing is a great sport but it’s more than a long pole, a fake bug and a casual cast into the water. Fly-fishing
takes time and practice. Knowing what lure to use, as well as when and where to fish is as important as landing a cast in just the right spot with just the right touch. Download a printable “Tips for the Novice Fly-Fisher” card at https://www.ncwildlife.org/Portals/0/ Fishing/documents/Trout_Fishing_Tips.pdf Located in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, the North Toe River stretches all the way north from Plumtree and travels through Bakersville, Green Mountain and finally into the Nolichucky Gorge in Tennessee. Bakersville has its own Mountain Heritage Trout Water with one half mile of Cane Creek running right through the middle of town. Cane Creek eventually joins the North Toe just upstream of the Nolichucky River. The river holds an impressive population of trout in the northern sections from Spruce Pine and up river, while the lower sections are filled with smallmouth, trout and musky. There are two ways to fish the North Toe. If fly fishing is your wheelhouse then begin at Spruce Pine and work your way up stream. If the smallmouth specimen is preferred, float down the river just south of Spruce Pine. Both sections offer phenomenal fishing year round. The upper North Toe is managed by North Carolina State stocking program along with numerous other private trout fishing clubs.
All of which stock the river throughout the year. The delayed harvest section starts in downtown Spruce Pine and stretches a couple miles downriver. Anglers can find easy pull off spots that are accessible to the public. The river offers cold, clear, oxygenated water that provides trout with the right recipe for growing fast. There are plenty of brown trout, rainbow trout and even brook trout in the northern sections of the North Toe. Sections of the river just north of Spruce Pine can be hard to access and many are private. Be sure to watch out for no trespassing signs when stopping to fish. The lower part of the North Toe River is highly concentrated with smallmouth and can be easily accessed on the side of the road. Smallmouth will also come north to feed on war paint minnows and crawfish. Smallmouth can also be found in Spruce Pine throughout the delayed harvest sections in the summer months, while spring and fall are best for trout. Smallmouth fishing can be best approached by using spinning gear or 7wt fly rods. Using flukes, topwater baits, and hair jigs will provide the best bites for spinning gear tackle. For fly fishing use popping bugs, flashy streamers and minnow chasers during the spring, summer and fall months.
rs of the Toe Visit threepeaksnc.com for info, outfitters, guides & more.
River
Upcountry South Carolina
The Best Place to Drop a Fishing Line
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ou don’t need a formal invitation to have fun in Upcountry South Carolina: Come kayak in our crystal blue lakes, hike to our rushing waterfalls, dig into our local cuisine, attend our family-oriented events and festivals, and breathe deep our fresh mountain air any time you want to feel refreshed. But when you hold a valid South Carolina fishing license, it feels like an official ticket to enjoy the great outdoors. Fishing is an activity that anglers of any age can enjoy and whole families can do together. Whether sitting on a boat or standing on shore, you can relax into the simple pleasure of holding a rod surrounded by beautiful green mountains and blue water. There’s a jolt of excitement with each pull on your line and you spring into action to reel in your catch. Only minimal equipment is needed and no specific skills are required, so fishing appeals to novices as readily as pros. Fish are biting year round in the lakes, rivers and streams of Upcountry South Carolina, located in the state’s northwestern corner in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountain. Try reeling in a worldclass catch at Devils Fork State Park in Salem, where Lake Jocassee holds state fish records for rainbow trout, brown trout, redeye bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, and yellow perch. Or try your luck in Lake Hartwell, at Lake Hartwell State Park in Fair Play and Sadlers Creek State Park in Anderson, three-time host of the Bassmaster Classic (2008, 2015 and 2018). The Chattooga River, ranked as one of the nation’s best wild and scenic rivers, boasts healthy wild trout populations plus is regularly stocked by Oconee County’s Walhalla State Fish Hatchery. You can fish for brown trout, rainbow trout, redeye
bass, catfish, bluegill, brown brook and bream in the Chattooga River. The Whitewater River above Lower Whitewater Falls is another great option for wild trout fishing. Lake Keowee at KeoweeToxaway State Park in Pickens County swims with largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass as well as crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, catfish, brown trout and rainbow trout. Pick up everything you need to ensure a great angling experience—including advice—at local fly shops or book a guided fishing trip. Sam Jones of Jocassee Charters knows the best locations on Lake Jocassee to hook trophy trout year round. Buster Green’s Guide Service reels in stripers, hybrids and largemouth bass on Lake Hartwell and Lake Keowee. Chattooga River Fly Shop leads catch-and-release fly fishing trips for trout and redeye bass on the Chattooga and Chauga Rivers. Of course you can get out on the water even if you don’t plan to fish. Jocassee Lake Tours offers tours of the 9,000-acre Lake Jocassee and of the Jocassee Gorges, which National Geographic ranks as a “Destination of a Lifetime.” Some of the most amazing spots can only be reached by boat. Several different tours are offered, so you can learn from a naturalist while riding on a pontoon or paddling a kayak through quiet coves and under waterfalls. Some tours boat then hike to remote swimming spots, South Carolina’s highest point, or other surprises. If you prefer to stay on solid ground, some road vehicle tours are available, too. Prefer to captain your own boat? No problem! Several rental companies, including Tri-County Boat Rental, operate on Lake Keowee, Lake Jocassee, Lake Hartwell, and other lakes to make it easy to get out on the water. Whether you prefer
kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, water skiing, or tootling around in a pontoon boat, it’s invigorating to navigate clear water while surrounded by great mountain views. If you’d rather be under the water than on it, go scuba diving in Lake Jocassee—that’s right: You can scuba dive in the mountains! Lake Jocassee is a world-renowned freshwater diving destination that boasts visibility of more than 50 feet at depth on warm clear days. Dive down to see the “wall” created when the side of the mountain was blasted during construction of the dam. You can also swim through a 40-foot wooden sail boat. Lake Jocassee Dive Shop offers lessons if you’re a novice or hope to refine your diving skills. From fishing to boating, hiking to camping, biking to bird watching and more, the Upcountry’s South Carolina State Parks are a great place to come and play. Dip into the swimming hole at Oconee State Park. Hike past mountain streams to the tops of Pinnacle and Table Rock mountains at Table Rock State Park. Explore the 13,000-acre Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area at Caesars Head State Park. Scuba, swim or fish at Devils Fork State Park. Or create your own adventure at any of the Upcountry’s 13 state parks, with enough fun to fill a trip of any length. There’s so much to explore, it’s best to plan to stay awhile. Upcountry South Carolina is packed with a range of comfortable overnight accommodation options. Stay in a rustic mountain cabin, at an upscale bed and breakfast, a lakefront villa, a city hotel in Spartanburg or Greenville, or even a treehouse. Visit UpcountrySC.com to learn more.
SAVOR THE SEASONS inUpcountry South Carolina
Discover majestic waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and spectacular mountain vistas in Upcountry South Carolina.
SAVOR THE SEASONS inUpcountry South Carolina
Discover majestic waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and spectacular mountain vistas in Upcountry South Carolina.
UpcountrySC.com
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Life on the Trail with
KRISTINE FISCHER By TAM Staff
T
hose familiar with kayak bass tournaments have likely heard the name Kristine Fischer. She’s a driven angler from Weeping Water, Nebraska who dropped out of the rat race a few years ago to hit the road and fish kayak tournaments. Since 2017, she’s proven she’s a lot more than just a breath of fresh air in a male-dominated sport. Fischer has amassed a strong resume from top national tournament trails like KBF, Hobie B.O.S. and B.A.S.S. In 81 tournaments, she’s tallied five first-place victories and fished her way to top-10 finishes 27 times. Along the way, she’s picked up major sponsors like Tincup Whiskey, Hobie Fishing, Z-Man, PLANO, Hobie Eyewear, AFTCO, Omnia, CalCoast Fishing, Dakota Lithium batteries and Torqeedo. These sponsorships allow her to make a living as a professional kayak angler. And while she doesn’t deny her blonde hair and big smile have helped, the 33-year-old said it also drives her to build on her reputation as one of the fiercest competitors on the circuit. Here’s a little Q&A with Kristine Fischer:
robs us of spontaneity and ability to live in the moment. Being a full-time angler was a natural fit, given my love for fishing and my competitive nature.
Q: Why kayak tournaments?
Q: What led you to become a professional kayak angler? KF: My biggest fear has always been leading a life that lacked purpose and didn’t allow me to grow as a person. I’ve always craved adventure in some capacity, and fully believe in the importance of submersing yourself in the wilderness as often as possible. To me, routines and having everything planned out can become mundane and almost
KF: Initially, I considered bass boat tournaments. However, in my mid-20s, I had to consider the financial investment and the headaches that come with being a boat owner and tournament angler. The overhead was much higher, and the list of things that could go wrong was exponentially longer. I thought the added stress might chip away at my passion for fishing. I also considered being a co-angler, but I am a person who needs to be in control of my decisions on the water. I want to live and die by my choices, and I believed I could learn much more being on my own, being forced to break down these fisheries myself. Fishing my
first kayak tournament reaffirmed my choice. I didn’t have to go into debt, and I was able to be a fully independent angler.
Q: What’s the lifestyle on the road? KF: The Internet has a funny way of romanticizing road life. In reality, it’s hardly romantic. Replace sunsets wrapped in fuzzy blankets and barefoot nights by the fire with lights strung in the trees and drone shots of the RV rolling down a picturesque Route 66 with flat tires. Living on the road is 10-second cold showers, eating cans of gas-station beef ravioli with your fingers and praying you get to the next gas station before the truck runs out of fuel. It’s wrapping up a tournament in the Carolinas, knowing you’ve got one day to make it to west Texas. It’s utter chaos. Something always seems to go wrong at the most inconvenient time. It’s little sleep, a gasstation diet and pushing yourself to the limits in every capacity. Despite all that, there’s something about the road that lights my soul. I’ve always found the most joy in those moments of chaos. The best memories are made when everything goes south. I mean, the family camping trips etched on your mind are the ones when gale-force winds destroyed the camp and raccoons stole the last bag of marshmallows. Life is what you make of it, whether it is on the road or at the end of a culde-sac. It’s all about your disposition.
Q: Tell us about being a successful woman in a male-dominated industry. KF: Successful women in fishing are a rarity, and therefore it’s much easier to get noticed. That fact has never sat well with me. I’m the type of person who needs to know I’m absolutely earning opportunities and that they aren’t coming to me simply because I’m
negative stereotypes associated with women in the sport. Over the years, it’s gotten easier. The ability to record my tournaments has helped prove that I’m the “real deal.”
Q: What are the challenges of tournament kayak fishing when compared to fishing from a bass boat? KF: If your first spot doesn’t pan out in a kayak, you can’t run 15 miles down the lake to spot B. This forces you to be more methodical in both practice and the tournament to make sure you become very familiar with the area. I choose diverse areas with multiple “spots” to fish, whether they’re docks and seawalls, feeder creeks, grass flats, deep brush piles, channel swings, bluff walls, you name it. Try and have backup spots close to your launch point in case things don’t go as planned.
Q: What are your goals for the 2021 season and into the future?
a female with a big smile and blonde hair. I want to be recognized as a talented angler who is capable of winning any tournament on any given day. I set my sights on that. The sport is inundated with people who pose as anglers to take advantage of the industry. I’ve had to work to overcome
KF: I’m gunning for AOY in the Hobie series, and I want to make “The TEN” for KBF. Future goals: qualifying for the Bassmaster Elites certainly has lingered on my mind. It’s a lofty goal, but I always appreciate a good challenge. Keep up with Kristine Fischer and her life on the tournament trail at her YouTube channel and through Facebook @kristinefischerfishing and Instagram @midwestfishergal.
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APRIL 2021
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Humbled On
The Davidson
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he Davidson River in Brevard, N.C. is one of the most widely publicized trout fisheries in the Southeast. As such, it suffers from severe overcrowding. With that disclaimer for folks who prefer a little more solitude, it is a challenging fishery with some beautiful water that holds some very nice fish. Part of the Davidson’s appeal, or its main drawback, is easy access. The river flows roadside through most its fishable, publicly accessible length. There is small water in the river’s headwaters accessible only by foot, but for the most part it is a park-and-fish kind of place. On a gorgeous summer weekend, a buddy and I heeded advice from the guys at Davidson River Outfitters to join the dawn patrol. We arrived on the river at first light and could see fish, scads of them, in super clear water, turning occasionally on some subsurface morsel. For the next hour or so, we worked one run together, one or the other of us making the same drift repeatedly as the other man tied on a different fly that would hopefully draw more than a look and refusal. There was a pod of big fish, maybe five of them in the 16- to 20-inch range, hovering near the bottom of a run that was only bellybutton deep in the low water of summer. It was a challenge that bordered on infuriating to see those trout, an occasional belly flash belying the fact that they were eating… just not what we were offering. We tried everything, right down to the size 22 red midge pupa on 7x tippet recommended at the fly shop. Finally, perhaps out of frustration or because we had tried everything else, I tied on a white Woolly Bugger—another Davidson River staple. Just twitching it on the second drift through the hole, a fish we had not previously seen streaked from the periphery of the run and slammed it. Those big fish on the bottom of the run didn’t
do anything. They didn’t scatter; they didn’t flinch. They just hovered near the bottom as I stripped in a pretty 11- or 12-inch brown that was inexperienced enough to be caught.
While I revived the fish for release, an older gentleman toting a Tenkara rod waded down through the side of the run from upstream of where we had been fishing. He watched as the brown trout swam away and then glanced out at the pod of big fish still sitting in the middle of the run. He said something along the lines of, “Wasn’t the one you were after, was it?” My response was to offer him a shot at the fish
we had already spent our arsenal on. He declined. “Don’t want any part of it,” he grumbled. “Spent all afternoon yesterday standing right where you are.” That’s a snapshot of what fishing the catchand-release, fly fishing only section of the Davidson is like. The river is full of fish—and some big ones. It is also frequently full of anglers. On a weekend, if you can find a good run that someone isn’t already fishing, it’s wise to work it thoroughly. Chances are you won’t find another hole unoccupied. This steady pressure makes for wise trout. Of course there’s always that one guy, usually a local, who lights up the Internet message boards with a photo of a big old bruiser. He’ll give advice like, “Use a little split-shot to get it down to them,” but I suspect there’s more to it than that. Good deer hunters scout thoroughly and then only hunt an area being used by a big buck when wind and weather conditions are right. They also hunt long and hard. Obviously, trout are a lot different than deer, but there’s a similarity. Constantly pressured fish are almost always on guard. Convincing one to eat requires perfect presentation of the perfect fly, and it also requires being there in the right place at that right time. Like a big buck that slips up and gets caught out in the open, a big trout will have moments of weakness. Arriving early, staying late and fishing hard makes it more likely you’ll be there with a line in the water when a 2-foot-long trout makes a mistake. This story is an abbreviated excerpt from the book “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia,” which includes maps and GPS coordinates to access points for all the region’s best trout fisheries. Purchase the book on Amazon or by contacting the author at nsc8957@gmail.com.
GREAT STREAMS—AND SPIRITS—AWAIT IN
HENDERSONVILLE, NC
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f you’re an angler who enjoys following up a day on mountain trout streams with a refreshing craft beverage or two, cast your attention to the Blue Ridge mountain town of Hendersonville. This North Carolina town, about 22 miles south of Asheville, offers miles of stocked trout waters, as well as the popular Hendersonville Cheers! Trail. The two resources make it possible to spend the day catching three types of trout – rainbow, brown and brook – while spending an evening exploring three types of craft beverages – beer, wine and hard cider. First, the fishing part. North Mills River is the prime trout stream in the Hendersonville area. The river’s 4-mile section of delayed harvest waters receives an annual infusion of 11,000 trout from N.C. Wildlife. Spring is a great time to fly fish the delayed harvest waters of North Mills River because no trout have been harvested since Sept. 30. Another hot spot for trout fishing is just across the Henderson County line toward Brevard. The Davidson River offers miles of public trout waters that receive annual stockings of 16,500 fish. Other lesser-known fishing spots near Hendersonville include three streams on the eastern side of Henderson County, about 20 to 30 minutes from downtown. Rocky Broad River has a 1.2-mile stretch of hatchery support waters, while Cane Creek, near the Fletcher community, has 1.5mile stretch of hatchery supported waters.
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For those who really want a unique experience, Little River in DuPont State Recreational Forest provides a scenic setting for trout fishing. Delayed harvest waters flow through undisturbed mountains and over several notable waterfalls. Those waterfalls were immortalized on Hollywood’s silver screen in The Last of the Mohicans, as well as the backdrop for the exploits of Katniss Everdeen in the original Hunger Games movie. When the fishing is done, the Cheers! Trail awaits. The trail is one of North Carolina’s best, featuring 16 craft producers offering a variety of
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experiences. Beer fans love Sierra Nevada’s tasting room, which is one of the largest on the East Coast and features an expansive patio and outdoor amphitheater, while Bold Rock Hard Cider has emerged as a national leader in the hard cider industry and regularly hosts live music (indoors and outdoors), along with cidery tours and a food truck. Several craft producers on the trail create small-batch beverages prized for their quality and originality. Three breweries – Southern Appalachian, Triskelion and Guidon – are within a few blocks of each other in the Depot District, while Sanctuary Brewing Co. is only a few blocks away on Main Street. Three wineries produce highquality wines from European varietals. The newest – Point Lookout Vineyards – is located atop a 3,000-foot mountain with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards is on farmland that’s been in the family for more than nine generations. And two miles from Saint Paul, Burntshirt Vineyards offers tastings in its renovated farmhouse overlooking rolling hills of vines. For complete Hendersonville information and lodging details, call 800-828-4244 or visit www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org.
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800.828.4244 Ch e e r s T r ai l.or g
MONSTER TOCCOA RIVER
BROWN TROUT WATCH
O
VIDEO
n Feb. 28, veteran Georgia trout guide Joe DiPietro caught a 32-inch-long brown trout that weighed 18 pounds, 2.4 ounces on the Toccoa River. It absolutely crushed the existing 9-year-old river record of 12-pounds, 3.4 ounces.
The fish was a long time coming for DiPietro, who has guided and fished this Blue Ridge, Ga. tailrace for more than two decades. He’s seen and caught monsters, but nothing close to the beast that picked up one of his own Pat’s Rubber Leg’s variations during a guides’ day off with his
SAVE YOUR BACK WITH A TOUCH OF A SWITCH!
fishing buddy Colby White. “I got lucky. I think it was just my time to get lucky,” DiPietro said. “It really is amazing that we landed him. If Colby hadn’t been there, there’s no way it would have happened.” The fish was not a stranger. DiPietro has seen it hanging around the boat ramp at Curtis Switch. Georgia WRD staff have reported a huge brown in the area that feasts on catchablesized trout as they are stocked in the river. DiPietro, however, was not specifically targeting the fish. If he had been, he would have geared up. He was fishing a 10-foot, 5-weight rod. The size 6 stonefly anchoring his two-nymph rig was secured with 2-pound-test tippet. The fish ate on the third cast of the day just a few yards from the put in. After the first couple runs, DiPietro knew light line was going to be an issue. White pulled anchor on the driftboat and rowed like a madman to keep up with the fish, which carried them several holes upstream. “When we first saw it, it was just unbelievable,” DiPietro said. “It’s the biggest trout I’ve ever seen in my life. Colby fell in trying to net him. I just threw Colby the net and told him to go get that fish. He lost a shoe, flooded his waders and went up to his neck in 42-degree water. I mean… the line was wrapped around his head. It really is amazing the tippet held.” For more on trout fishing Georgia’s Toccoa River, visit www.blueridgetroutfishing.com.
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Eastern America’s Highest Town
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eech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern America and an ideal vacation spot in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Our elevation (5,506 feet) sets us apart 12 months a year. A visit to the Town of Beech Mountain offers exciting outdoor recreation and mile-high relaxation. In summer, adventure seekers flock to the Emerald Outback at Beech Mountain, a trail park which features more than eight miles of gorgeous trails near the top of the mountain. Hiking, mountain biking and trail running are prevalent in the Emerald Outback, as well as on several other miles of in-town trails maintained by the parks & recreation department. Downhill mountain biking trails, complete with lift service, are available during the warmer months at Beech Mountain Resort. Those trails range from beginner to advanced. The most challenging trails at the resort have twice hosted USA Cycling’s Mountain Bike Gravity National Championships. Families and seniors also covet summer vacations on Beech – hiking to waterfalls, enjoying 100-mile mountain vistas, visiting the animal habitat at nearby Grandfather Mountain and taking in a round of mini-golf in mild temperatures that average in the low to mid 70s. Fly anglers enjoy finding hidden trout streams across the mountain, while recreational fishing is available at Buckeye Lake and Coffey Lake, both of which are stocked annually. The Mountain Heritage Trout Water (MHTW) program is all about convenience. It allows North Carolina residents and non-residents to fish in MHTW streams simply by purchasing a three-day license for just $5. Anglers who already have a statewide fishing license do not need the special
MHTW three-day license. Trout Fishing Buckeye Creek is a hatchery-supported stream (open first Saturday in April through last day of February) that flows out of Buckeye Lake, with nearby parking available at the town’s Buckeye Recreation Center. Buckeye Creek has some nice pools and riffles as it flows out of Buckeye Lake, and further downstream are several good fishing areas below a waterfall. It is stocked annually with brown, rainbow and brook trout. Pond Creek is designated catch-and-release single hook artificial lures only by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. Parking for Pond Creek is available off Lakeledge Road at Lake Coffey. Pond Creek has a longer stretch of available water than Buckeye Creek. It is inhabited by native brook trout. Other options on Beech Mountain are Lake Coffey and Buckeye Lake, two small lakes stocked annually by the Wildlife Resources Commission. Lake Coffey is designated as delayed harvest trout waters, while Buckeye Lake is designated hatchery supported. Both receive a large annual infusion of brown, rainbow and brook trout. Anglers need a regular North Carolina inland license to fish in those lakes. Beech Mountain Guided Fishing presented by Beech Parks and Recreation. Get in the back country of Beech Mountain’s streams and secrete fishing holes. Learn to read water, bait selection, fly casting and how to approach mountain fishing. Call 828-387-3003 for more info and RSVP.
Trout Anglers Have Multiple Options on Beech Mountain... Buckeye Recreation Center A fabulous indoor facility for residents and visitors with a full-size gymnasium, indoor tennis court, pickleball courts, meeting areas, fitness area with state-of-the-art equipment, kid’s playroom, living room area, and indoor walking track.
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PHOTO BY NICK CARTER
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To Barb, or Not to Barb? By John Saporito
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here is a sharp divide among today’s fishermen between those who fish barbless hooks and those who fish traditional hooks with barbs. We all know the barb is meant to keep a hook in the fish’s mouth, theoretically preventing its escape. While there is merit to this, it is ultimately the job of the angler to keep a fish hooked. Barbless hooks have legitimate benefits for both angler and quarry. First off, they cause less damage to the fish and facilitate a quicker hook removal, which reduces the mortality rate among released fish. Second, they are safer for people. If someone is accidentally hooked while fishing, a barbless hook can simply be backed out. While most anglers are aware of these things, what many fishermen may not know is that using barbless hooks will actually improve your hook-up ratio. The narrow diameter of a
hook point without a barb makes penetrating the mouth of a fish much easier. This is especially true for gamefish with hard mouths. Many fish are lost because the hook simply doesn’t get buried deep enough on the hookset. Braided lines and graphite rods help, but to really make the process efficient, ditch the barb and watch your numbers grow. You don’t have to purchase special hooks to fish barbless. The barb on any hook may be removed in a number of ways. Barbs can be filed down with a rasp or grinding stone, they can be pinched down with pliers, or they can be crushed with a crimping tool. I like to grind them down with a power drill and a grinding bit made for a rotary tool. This is quick to do and you don’t have to worry about compromising the integrity of the hook, which can happen when you apply too much pressure with pliers. However you choose to do it, be sure to wear proper eye protection and a mask so you don’t get hit with or ingest any small particles or shrapnel.
Whether bait fishing or using lures, a barbless hook will give you a better chance of a complete hook set. As long as you keep a bend in the rod—which you should be doing anyway when you are fighting a fish—you will seldom lose a fish because of a barbless hook. Perhaps the only times barbs offer a true benefit for the angler are in the presence of big waves, which can cause sudden slack in the line, or with species that tend to leap or shake their heads. Regardless, I’ve found that in most fishing circumstances barbless hooks offer me a great advantage in converting more strikes into landed fish. The hardest part about going barbless is making the switch. Many anglers are resistant to change, but it pays to be open to experimentation. Give barbless hooks a shot; you have nothing to lose and many fish to gain. John Saporito is a lifelong fisherman and student of the seas. Visit him online at guerillaangling.com.
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EXPERIENCE WITH A
PADDLE By Nick Carter
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f there’s a heaven for folks who fish from paddlepowered boats, it must look a lot like Venice, Louisiana. This narrow spit of marshland at the Mississippi River Delta is a maze of canals and bays that flush into the Gulf of Mexico with fecundity born of joining waters. Channels and marsh ponds tucked into thousands of acres of wetlands make it the perfect habitat for redfish, seatrout, flounder and other species. It’s like the landscape was designed for fishing and exploring with a paddle. Kevin Hawkins is the president of Kaku Kayaks & Paddleboards but calls himself the company’s chief pro-staffer. He prides himself on the amount of fishing he does and designs his boats on experience. Venice is one of his favorite testing grounds. Whether its launching roadside into the marsh, a trip outside the pass from remote Port Eads or a mothership expedition to the Gulf ’s famous oil rigs, it’s the perfect setting to test his boats. It doesn’t hurt that the fishing is awesome. When the seas aren’t too rough, there’s no adventure quite like a mothership trip out to the oilrigs in search of cobia, kingfish and bull reds. Kaku pro-staffer Capt. Jeff Schneider is also a tuna captain who runs a 36-foot Contender when he’s not paddling a small plastic boat. With kayaks loaded, it’s about an hour and a half run from Venice Marina out to 50-foot-deep rigs in West Bay. Hawkins described a day he fished with Schneider, and although the primary target was cobia, a big 45-inch redfish
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was the highlight. Armed with 5000 size reels and 40- to 50-pound tackle, they dropped kayaks into 2- to 3-foot seas. Hawkins said it might have been a bit much for new paddlers, but for a veteran it was fun. “It’s awesome, man. I love paddling a good kayak in that stuff and busting over big waves,” said Hawkins. “When it gets rough like that, it’s fun.” They fished a series of four or five structures linked by a bridge, which gave space to paddle around and explore. Hawkins said he paddled right up to the corner of a pier, dropped his jig straight down and began back paddling before jigging. That’s when the big bull red ate. “When you’re in the shallows and they pull you around, they call that the Cajun sleigh ride,” Hawkins said. “When you’re in deep water like that, he heads straight down. He was pulling me, and that kayak was smashing straight down on those waves. It was pretty intense.” Invariably, fish seek something to wrap the line around, and only by kicking off a beam was Hawkins able to keep himself from going under the rig and losing the fish. He gave a piece of advice for battling big fish from a kayak in deep water. “Keep the tip of the rod toward the front of the boat,” he said. “When the rod goes to the side, that’s when you run the risk of flipping.” If an open-water mothership trip seems a little much, Port Eads sits on the southernmost
tip of Louisiana, right at the end of the Mississippi River. It’s only accessible by boat, and reasonable prices buy lodging and good meals. Also known as South Pass, the location is a few minutes paddle from the open Gulf and offers excellent fishing for big jacks, reds, cobia, blacktip sharks and any number of other species big enough to warrant mediumheavy rods, 3000 to 4000 reels and 30- to 40-pound-test lines. Hawkins likes artificials and prefers Slayer Inc.’s Sinister Swim Tail rigged on a 4/0 jig head. For him, sinking bait outside the pass would detract from the reason he fishes from kayaks and SUPs in the first place. “Kayaks are about stalking and hunting the fish,” he said. “You’ve got to use your instincts to find them. I don’t like to just sit on a hole and fish bait.” It’s as much fun as you can have sitting down… or standing up if seas are calm enough.
Perhaps the best bet for calm waters is a third Venice option, to launch roadside. Highway 23 runs from New Orleans to Venice, and Tidewater Road is where the pavement ends. There are any number of places to hand-launch a kayak or paddleboard. Hawkins mentioned Yellow Cotton Bay as well as a series of marsh ponds and cuts at a circular canal known as The Pinwheel. Once you find fish off the grass edges, it’s probably the best inshore action in the world, and it’s easily accessible to paddlers. Popping cork rigs are a no-brainer, but Hawkins said once you get tired of catching scads of rat reds and trout, it’s time to switch to the paddletail rig he likes to fish outside the pass. “We’re looking for the big ones,” he said. “You’ve still got to be ready for the big ones. No matter where I am in Venice, I’ve got a 30-pound rig.” For more information on Kaku Kayaks & SUPs, see kakukayak.com.
DON’T GO CHEAP ON TERMINAL TACKLE
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Tim Barefoot
Everyone has their own favorite hook brand and style, but you can’t go wrong with the old faithful brands like Mustad, Eagle Claw, Gamakatsu and Owner. There are quite a few high-quality imported hooks as well. You have to look around like I did, but stick with the ones listed above unless you’ve done a lot of homework. Even with all the correct terminal tackle, it is worthless if you don’t tie good knots! Buy good tackle, fish pretty baits and tie good knots! This is the best recipe for success. Buying “cheap” terminal tackle is like sitting in a duck blind and shooting cheap shells. You went to a lot of trouble and expense
know… fishing tackle has gotten so expensive that it isn’t even funny. But there are a few corners you absolutely should not cut. Sinkers are one thing; lead is pretty much lead, bismuth etc… That’s a given, but when it come to the last few feet of tackle that connects you to the fish, that’s where the smallest details come into play. First and foremost, everyone has gone to fluorocarbon by now, right? If you haven’t, you should. I know this through first-hand observation. Years ago, when I first started making grouper jigs, I lowered a camera to watch the reaction fish had to my jigs. I wanted to see how my jigs compared to standard bottom tackle with a triple swivel and an 8- to 16-ounce bank sinker. The observations on visibility of different line types was eye opening, to say the least. At depth, monofilament is white in color and looks as big as a rope compared to a quality fluoro like Hi-Seas 100 percent fluorocarbon, which was almost completely invisible. Next is the swivel, and I didn’t need a camera to teach me this lesson. Cheap swivels (not calling any names) can break your heart in the heat of battle. One of the swivels in the accompanying photos cost me a very large nearshore gag grouper. I had it well out of the rocks and far enough off the bottom that we could see it. When it decided to make one more run for the rock ledge, the rig busted at to get the fish to bite, so take that one last least-expensive step and make sure what’s on the end of your line allows you to close the the swivel. Moral of the story: I pay more and never even blink at the price deal. for premium Spro swivels, because when they say 130-pound, they For more from Capt. Tim Barefoot, go to barefootcatsandtackle.com. mean it. I’ve never had any more swivel problems after I switched.
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and the Permit By Rex Hannon
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n January, my buddy, Jordan May, and I were fishing the Mayan Riviera Coast near Xpu Ha, Mexico. It’s a beautiful and productive location I visit as often as possible. Xpu Ha is one of those best-kept secrets on the Yucatan, with gorgeous beaches and less tourist traffic than Playa Del Carmen or Cancun to the north. The resort island Cozumel sits in the Caribbean Sea to the east, but Xpu Ha is quieter. There are a few hotels and restaurants in the area, but nowhere near the bustle of the Yucatan’s larger cities. I enjoy fly fishing the clear shallows of the Mayan Riviera and had never encountered another angler in prior visits to Xpu Ha. Just imagine our surprise when, on our first full day there, as we were making the morning walk to our chosen location, there in the distance was the unmistakable silhouette of
a person with a fly rod. We had to meet him. After some introductions, Alex informed us this was his first visit to the area. He was from Dublin, Ireland and was stranded in Paradise because of the pandemic. I invited Alex to join us. We were headed to a reef known to hold triggerfish and an occasional permit. He jumped at the offer. Alex said his goal for this trip was to check permit off his bucket list. It’s a species he’d been chasing for several years. Over the next few hours, we waded and Alex had several opportunities at tailing triggers on the shallow reef. He got a few follows that day, but no hook-ups. He managed to cross triggerfish off his list the following morning. When Jordan had to return to the states, Alex and I made plans to fish farther south at Sian Ka’an. South of Tulum, Sian Ka’an is a large nature preserve of coastal wetlands and inland jungle. Our goal was to target bonefish, with high hopes for an elusive permit.
The winds were relentless and the partly cloudy skies made spotting fish a challenge. An hour into our stalk, at 50 yards, we saw the tell-tale shadow of a good fish. Alex said it looked like a nice bone. I said, “No, permit!” Alex’s first cast fell short. No a big deal. It was better than a long cast that would have spooked the fish. After reloading and taking a few breaths, Alex’s next cast was a quartering shot, 2 feet ahead and 5 feet past the fish. Perfect! Alex stripped twice. The permit noticed the fly, but began to turn away. I knew we were still in the game and told Alex to stop. When the fish turned back to the fly, I said, “strip!” But it was too late… the permit had pounced, and with a perfect strip-set the game was on! Within 10 minutes of keeping constant pressure, “Alex the Irishman” fought his first permit to the net. It’s a fish both of us will remember the rest of our lives.
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SUZUKI LAUNCHES NEW DF115BG/DF140BG 4-CYLINDER OUTBOARDS
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uzuki Marine is recognized worldwide for making advanced technology and features available to boaters of all types— not just those who run the largest, highesthorsepower outboards. This tradition continues with Suzuki’s newfor-2021 DF115BG and DF140BG four-stroke outboards, the first in their class to offer all the advantages of driveby-wire technology. By bringing its proven drive-bywire technology to its 115HP and 140HP in-line four-cylinder models, Suzuki provides simplified rigging for a wide range of boat builders, along with silky smooth shifting, instant throttle response, enhanced performance and superior fuel efficiency. Enhancements to Suzuki’s new DF115BG/ DF140BG go far beyond the integration of drive-by-wire technology. An upgraded compression ratio of 10.6:1 helps these new 2.0-liter displacement outboards achieve better
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top speed and acceleration by improving thermal efficiency. Fuel efficiency has also been increased as compared to Suzuki’s existing DF115/DF140A models. Tests
demonstrate as much as 5 to 7 percent better fuel efficiency for the DF140BG across mid-range to high-end cruising speeds. The new DF115BG has demonstrated up to 5 to 6 percent better fuel efficiency at cruising speed. This engine also features a sporty, streamlined
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exterior design that looks great on center consoles, flats skiffs, pontoon boats, walleye rigs, bass boats and more. With 20-inch (L) and 25-inch (X) shaft lengths available, the new DF115BG/DF140BG outboards are an ideal power choice for a wide range of fresh and saltwater boats. The redesigned cowl also incorporates a new air intake structure with improved water separation and a silencer–resonator system to attenuate engine sounds and provide a pleasant boating experience at all engine speeds/RPM. To make routine maintenance easier, Suzuki made it possible to replace the oil filter simply by removing the upper engine cover. A new Oil Spill Catcher surrounding the oil filter mount allows for changing the filter without making a mess. Suzuki also added an easy access Water Detection Fuel Filter to help protect the engine against contaminated fuel. To learn more about the new DF115BG and DF140BG models — or Suzuki’s line of 4-stroke outboard motors ranging from 2.5 to 350 horsepower, —visit www.suzukimarine.com.
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REPOWER FINANCE Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards on approved credit.* [60 Months]
Instant Savings applies to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 04/01/21 and 06/30/21. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Instant Savings must be applied against the agreed-upon selling price of the outboard motor and reflected in the bill of sale. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on creditworthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 04/01/21 and 06/30/21. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2021 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
THE PERFECT WAY TO FILLET By CAM Staff
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very blade-handy angler has their own techniques and tricks for peeling the perfect fillet off a fish. But anyone who has spent enough time around a cutting board knows the perfect way to fillet is a combination of three crucial elements: technique, tools and practice. Whether it’s a 15-pound red snapper or a 6-ounce bream, the basics of filleting a fish are the same. The idea is to remove the meat along the fish’s flanks, while leaving behind the head, bones and guts. Step 1: Make a vertical cut just behind the fish’s gill plate and pectoral fin. This cut should go all the way down to the bone and extend from back to belly. Step 2: Run the blade from the first cut all the way down the top of the fish, along the backbone to the tail, making a shallow incision as close to the backbone as you can get it. Step 3: Using that long cut along the backbone, utilize smooth, light strokes to work the fillet away from the bones moving from the back to the belly. The other hand can be used to peel back the meat as you go. Cut around the ribcage when you arrive at it. Step 4: With step 3 completed, you should have a beautiful skin-on fillet. To remove the skin, place the fillet on the board skin side down. Start from the tail and insert the knife through
PHOTO BY JEA
the meat down to the skin, leaving a tab of meat and skin at the tail to hold onto. Turn the knife horizontal and run the blade up the skin to remove the meat. Step 5: Use tweezers to pick out any pin bones left in the fillet. The technique seems simple enough, but if you don’t have good, sharp, flexible knives that are sized correctly for the fish on the board, you’re going to make a mess out of your fillets. Havalon has come up with an all-in-one solution for this issue with its Talon system. With five styles of high-quality blades that all fit on the same handle, switching from a 7-inch blade down to a 5-incher or even down to a 3.5inch utility blade is as easy as pressing a button
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with their Quik-Change II blade replacement system. The blades can be resharpened as well as replaced to make sure they are razor sharp when you need them. Also, with a handle that opens up, clean-up is both thorough and easy with the Havalon Talon system. Rinse your tools down and roll them up in the included canvas kit so they’ll be ready the next time you need them. And next time should be soon, because practice is the final and most important element in the perfect way to fillet. Go fishing enough, and you’ll be peeling off perfect fillets for the table in no time. Check out the Havalon Talon System at www.havalon.com.
EZ ANCHOR: Must-Have Solution for Fiberglass Boat Builders is the Charter Captain’s Best-Kept Secret
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s charter captains, the time-consuming task of dropping and retrieving anchors not only becomes tedious, it cuts into valuable manpower, time and profits. Capt. Phillip Ridge, a Florida native, couldn’t settle for a typical windlass to anchor his fleet. “I have had [an E-Z Anchor Puller] unit on the bow of three different boats,” the founder of Blue Runner Charters said. “I was one of the very first captains in the area to install them... [they are] the best by far.” Charter fishermen across the United States have depended on the speed of E-Z Anchor Puller’s drum anchor winch for more than 30 years. Now, the value of owning an E-Z Anchor Puller for commercial fishing is recognized as the windlass upgrade customers want on their boats straight from the factory. Among the first fiberglass boat builders to embrace these true, free-fall winches for center consoles is SeaVee, which had already been a familiar, customer-driven installer of the Classic series. Shurhold CEO Barry Berhoff, who personally installed the Rebel EZ-4 on his 40’ SeaVee, gave praise to the quality of the “strong, marine-grade piece of equipment” in a Youtube testimonial. Following in SeaVee’s footsteps, Georgia boat builder Carolina Skiff began factoryinstalling the Rebel EZ-4 on their Sea Chaser 35’ HFC Center Console after a company representative praised the brand from personal experience. “It works so great on our 35, I decided I needed to have one on my own personal boat.” Ed Johnston, Manufacturing Representative for Carolina Skiff, said of his E-Z Anchor Puller drum anchor winch.
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Sea Pro Boats recently debuted the 320 Deep-V series at the Miami International Boat Show in 2020 with the Rebel EZ-4 as the factoryinstallation. The Rebel series appeals to boat owners and boat builders who need a versatile, no-jam solution that can hold ½” nylon rope or ¼” dyneema. What further sets Rebel anchor winches apart from the competition is its true, free-fall capabilities. Unlike other anchoring solutions, which manufacture “free-fall” mechanisms for emergency use only, E-Z Anchor Puller units are created to free-fall for regular, everyday use. Activating free-fall is simple. Press the “down” button for a quick 2-second push, the drum winch disengages the clutch plate and releases it to free-spool as fast as gravity allows. To quickly and neatly retract the line back onto the spool, press the “power up” side. Other notable fiberglass boat brands with E-Z Anchor Puller installations include Albemarle, Insetta Boatworks and Southport, with a plethora of customer and E-Z Anchor Puller authorized installers fitting Patriot EZ-3 and Rebel EZ-4 and EZ-5 units below deck. Call 1-800-800-1640 for more information or consultations, or visit ezanchorpuller.com to see video testimonials and customer submission in the Above/Below Boat Gallery.
G o to An ch or Pu lle ri st he W ay or Be lo w ,E -Z D ec k Ab ov e Above-deck on the 3025 GFX or below-deck inside the rope locker of the 35’ Sea Chaser HFC, the Rebel drum anchor winch is included as the standard or optional upgrade feature on these and other 2021 models. The compact design and 316 stainless steel components ensure E-Z Anchor Puller drum anchor winches can be retrofitted into tight spaces and perform in harsh, saltwater environments.
E-Z ANCHOR PULLER MFG. CO. America’s Anchor Winch Since 1990 Call 1.800.800.1640 | ezanchorpuller.com E-Z Anchor Puller’s drum anchor winches are complete 316 stainless steel with patented motors. This jam-free, hands-free solution neatly stores any diameter rope and chain right on the spool - no more tying off to a cleat!
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888-800-9794 | info@vidmag.com www.VidMag.com The Angler Video Magazine connects fishing and boating enthusiasts with industry news and shared community interests in a unique, industry-first format — a video magazine. Sent to over 1,300,000 licensed anglers, The Angler Video Magazine is provided to its readers for FREE. No subscriptions or payments are required for viewing. Support The Angler Video Magazine's mission to provide FREE content to the recreational fishing and boating communities and industries throughout the world by sharing, subscribing and advertising.
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