Coastal Angler Magazine | Boston June 2026 Edition

Tall Ships' Maritime Majesty

Remembering Ben Martin

The outdoor and shing community lost a true leader with the passing of Ben Martin, Editor in Chief of Coastal Angler Magazine and !e Angler Magazine

For years, Ben helped shape the voice of one of the most respected outdoor publications in the country. rough his leadership, passion for shing, and dedication to storytelling, he built more than just a magazine— he helped create a community. From o shore anglers and weekend surf shermen to guides, writers, photographers and advertisers, Ben had a way of bringing people together through a shared love of the outdoors.

ose who knew him understood that his passion went far beyond publishing. Ben cared deeply about the shing lifestyle, conservation, and the people behind every story. He believed in supporting local communities, giving outdoor enthusiasts a platform to share their experiences, and keeping shing alive for future generations.

His impact could be felt across every edition, every article, and every relationship he built throughout the industry. He was respected not only as a leader, but as a friend, mentor, and advocate for the outdoor world.

While his passing leaves a tremendous void, Ben’s legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the publication he helped grow into a trusted voice for anglers everywhere.

e Coastal Angler and e Angler Magazine family mourns the loss of a remarkable man who dedicated his life to the sport, the industry, and the people he loved.

Rest easy, Ben. You will be deeply missed.

fve things you should know about boat insurance

Are you ready to embark on your next on-water adventure? Before you set sail, here are fve things to know about boat insurance.

1. Boat insurance isn’t just for accidents

With comprehensive coverage, you’ll also be protected fnancially for theft, vandalism, and unexpected events like storms if you need repairs or replacements due to damage.

2. Accidents can happen to anyone

When accidents happen, boat insurance offers liability coverage for damages or injuries you cause while boating, up to specifed limits. It can also cover lawsuit costs if you’re sued.

3. Boat insurance can cover medical payments

Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you’re in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.

4. Most lenders require boat insurance

If you fnanced your boat, you’ll likely need boat insurance since most lenders require boat insurance to protect their investment. Additionally, some marinas or municipalities require proof of insurance for docking.

5. Progressive offers specialized boat coverages

Ever worry about getting stuck on the water? Progressive’s Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage** can help. It’s an additional coverage that steps in if your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, paying for on-water towing, jump starts, soft ungroundings, and fuel delivery. Fuel cost isn’t included.

Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your voyage. Cruise with confdence thanks to Progressive Boat insurance. Because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.

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Sail Boston 2026: A City Whose History is Inseparable from the Sea Prepares for its Newest Maritime Celebration

Boston. Few American cities are as deeply tied to the ocean. The city’s story is inseparable from the sea—its harbor and maritime trade has shaped its history, economy, and culture.

The English Puritans who settled here in 1630 chose the location largely because of its deep, sheltered harbor, ideal for trade and ship traffic. The settlement quickly emerged as the commercial center of Massachusetts Bay Colony, and by the late 17th century, Boston had become one of the leading ports in British North America.

Shipbuilding became one of the city’s earliest industries, while fishing played a vital role in New England life, and Boston’s exports of salted fish to Europe and the Caribbean created an interconnected Atlantic economy. By the 18th century, Boston’s waterfront was bustling--warehouses lined the docks and ships constantly moved goods and people through the harbor.

Boston’s maritime economy made it a center of resistance to British rule. When imperial taxes hurt shipping and trade, merchants and dockworkers became deeply involved in protest. As children everywhere learn in elementary school, colonists held the Boston Tea Party in 1773.

During the Revolutionary War, Boston’s harbor saw British ships lay siege to the city—until the nascent American army put cannon on Dorchester Heights and forced the Royal Navy to depart for New York. Once American independence was won, Boston expanded into a global trading city: the large ports of Europe, China, South America, and the Pacific became destinations for local ships carrying textiles, tea, spices, and luxury goods. Boston shipyards flourished, while the harbor supported immigrants arriving from around the world.

By the late 19th and 20th centuries, industrial shipping dominated Boston’s waterfront. During both world wars, Boston Harbor supported the patriotic effort. The Charlestown Navy Yard served as a major naval facility, building and repairing warships for more than a century. And no history of Boston’s maritime heritage would be complete

without a salute to the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy, berthed in Charlestown.

Like many American ports, Boston’s waterfront experienced decline in the mid-20th century. But beginning late in the century, the city reinvented its symbiotic relationship with the sea. The massive Big Dig project removed barriers between downtown and the waterfront, and the Boston Harbor cleanup dramatically improved water quality. The cleaner, more accessible harbor boosted tourism, recreation, and development.

Today, Boston Harbor still supports shipping, ferries, seafood, and cruise activity. Research institutions study marine science and climate change, while recreational boating and tourism animate the waterfront. The Port of Boston continues to handle cargo, including petroleum, food imports, and consumer goods. Logan Airport itself was built on filled harbor land, underscoring how Boston has continually reshaped its coastline.

In many ways, Boston is still what it was in 1630: a city defined by the water around it. And from July 11-16, the newest chapter will be written more than 60 Tall Ships make their Boston port of call as part of Sail250, a global maritime gathering that celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States. Boston is the fifth, and last, US stop, following New Orleans, Norfolk, Baltimore, and New York City.

For six days – beginning with the regal Parade of Sail into the harbor -- the city will host maritime royalty. Visitors will be able to view and tour the ships at berths along the harbor free of charge, crew members will hold a parade through Boston’s streets, and sailors and traditions from more than 20 diverse cultures will enliven the city. Cadets and crew will share their personal experiences at sea and in their home countries.. To stay on top of all that’s happening, check out upcoming editions of Coastal Angler and visit www.sailboston.com.

Planning for Sail Boston 2026 has been underway for years. Boston, and citizens throughout New England, are about to reap the excitement and enrichment of that effort.

PORT OF CALL BOSTON

Sail Boston 2026 to Commence with the Meet Boston Parade of Sail

More than 60 ships from around the world to be welcomed by the port of Boston

This July, Massachusetts will welcome more than 60 ships from around the world as the Sail Boston 2026 celebration arrives in Boston Harbor. In the largest convergence of ships to assemble in the area since 2000, millions of spectators are expected to enjoy the Meet Boston Parade of Sail throughout Boston Harbor on Saturday, July 11.

Beginning at 9 a.m. that day beyond Deer Island in Massachusetts Bay, crew and cadets will prepare to bring their ships into the city’s inner harbor (past Castle Island) close to 10:15 a.m. The ships will turn around in Boston’s inner harbor before heading to various berthing locations throughout the city. Once berthed, the ships will be open for public visitation through July 15, and

include sailing exhibitions, sailing workshops, and opportunities to interact with multinational crews and representatives. Among the vessels convening in the Boston Harbor this July are 12 Flag Ships, representing allied navies from around the world.

“Sail Boston will give millions of residents and visitors the chance to experience our city and its beautiful waterfront through a spectacular display of some of the world’s largest wooden vessels, just steps from our city center,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu.

“I’m excited for our harbor to serve as the final stop of their journey, and I look forward to continuing our work with partners and the many city, state, and private agencies whose collabo-

CEO of Meet Boston, the presenting sponsor of Sail Boston. “Sail Boston will offer wonderful experiences for visitors and residents alike, shining a light on our museums and cultural institutions, our world-class dining opportunities, the Boston Harbor Islands, and all the beautiful parks and green spaces that align our iconic waterways.”

ration has been essential to bringing this landmark event to life.”

Boston proudly serves as the fifth port of the Sail 250 Regatta, a global gathering of tall ships and military ships to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States. Tall ship celebrations are a beloved Massachusetts and Boston tradition that dates to 1976, when a band of ships came to Boston Harbor as part of the nation’s Bicentennial celebration. Sail Boston managed the convergence of the tall ships in 1992, 2000, 2009, and 2017.

“Boston’s maritime history is so unique; it is integral to our identity, which Sail Boston will showcase in spectacular ways,” said Martha Sheridan, president and

“We are thrilled to welcome the world to Boston this July,” said Dusty Rhodes, executive director of Sail Boston, Inc., the organization in charge of the event. “By bringing these ships into our harbor from all over the world, we hope to promote our city as a leading destination for worldclass – and free -- events, like the Parade of Sail and two fireworks displays.”

Sail Boston is managed and produced by Conventures, Inc., Boston’s premier event and production agency, in partnership with the City of Boston, Massport, and Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. The event is supported by dozens of local companies, headlined by presenting sponsor Meet Boston.

To learn more about Sail Boston and the Sail 250 Regatta, visit www.SailBoston. com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram and join the conversation using #SailBoston.

Schedule of Events

Meet Boston Parade of Sail

Saturday, July 11, 2026

Sail Boston Festival

Saturday, July 11 – Wednesday, July 15

Public Boarding of Ships*

Saturday, July 11 – Wednesday, July 15

*at the discretion of the ship’s captain.

Fireworks

Saturday, July 11 and Wednesday, July 15

Crew and Cadet Street Parade

Monday, July 13

Tall Ships Departure

Thursday morning, July 16

All events are free and open to the public.

Around Town During Sail Boston

Boston will be the place to be during the Tall Ships visit next month. This month, and next, we will be highlighting some of the local businesses that are getting into the spirit. Here are three to start you off.

Mandarin Oriental, Boston:

Mandarin Oriental, Boston has the esteemed honor of serving as the host hotel for the captain of the three-masted Gorch Fock from Germany—appropriately so, given that the hotel’s general manager, Markus Lindner, hails from Germany. To celebrate and honor the Gorch Fock (pictured), the hotel will feature Lobby offerings throughout the duration of Sail Boston (July 11-16), including a reception to honor the captain that will be open to both the public and guests for a once-in-a-lifetime meet-and-greet during this historic event. The guest services team will also coordinate transportation to and from Sail Boston for guests and provide other add-on experiences so they can see all Boston has to offer. www.mandarinoriental.com/ boston

1928 Rowes Wharf:

Visitors will be able to enjoy views of the harbor and the epic Parade of Sail from the restaurant’s patio. 1928 Rowes Wharf, the second 1928 location in Boston, debuted late in 2025 and its patio recently opened with views of both the Harbor and the Rose Kennedy Greenway. To celebrate the July 11 Parade of Sail, 1928 Rowes Wharf will offer a ticketed patio brunch (tickets will be available on OpenTable; the restaurant will open early at 9 a.m.) Tickets will include a prix fixe menu including brunch and lunch favorites like their iconic tuna tartare and lobster nuggets; specialty cocktails and other beverages will be available for purchase. https://www.1928-restaurants.com/rowes-wharf

Davio's Seaport:

The popular waterfront restaurant will host an elevated waterfront experience during the Parade of Sail on Saturday, July 11. Visitors can reserve a two-hour seating between 9 AM and 4 PM. Offerings will include fresh seafood displays and seasonal favorites from the brunch and lunch menus; Rosé, champagne, and summer cocktail features; and stunning views of the Tall Ships. Availability is limited and reservations are required. https://davios.com/seaport

Tall Ships Explained

What is a Tall Ship?

As defined by Sail Training International, a Tall Ship is a traditionally-rigged sailing vessel. Modern tall ship rigs include topsail schooners, brigantines, brigs and barques. Tall ships can be categorized by the number of masts/shape of the ship or by class (size).

Tall Ships Categorized by Type:

Full-Rigged Ship: This type of vessel has at least three masts which are all square rigged. Full-rigged ships were com- monly seen during deep-water cargo carrying trips in the 19th century.

Barque: A vessel that has at least three masts with the fore and main masts be- ing square. Today many “sailing school” ships are barques.

Barquentine: This type vessel has three masts, all are fore-and-aft rigged except for the square mast. Barquentine ships are most frequently seen in the Baltic and North Sea.

Brig: The brig was originally used as a basic cargo ship in the early 19th century and had the reputation of sailing “fast and well”. Used frequently in the 19th century for historical naval battles like the Battle of Lake Erie!

Brigantine: In the 13th century, a brigantine was known as a sail and oar-driven war vessel. Lateen rigged, which means the boat can track against the wind, on two masts and had eighttwelve oars on each side. It was the Mediterranean pirates’ favorite type of ship due to its speed, mobility and being easy to handle.

Schooner: These vessels were first used by the Dutch in the 16th and 17th cen- tury. Soon after, schooners were developed in North America and were heavily used in New England by the 18th century. Defined as having at least two masts, schooners were most commonly used for tasks that required

speed such as blockade running, slaving privateering and offshore fishing.

Tall Ships Categorized by Class:

Class A: Consists of all square-rigged vessels including barques, brigs, brigan- tines and all other vessels more than 131 feet in length overall.

Class B: Contains all traditionally rigged vessels. Some of these include gaff rigged sloops, schooners, and yawls. To be in class B each of these vessels need an overall length of less than 131 feet and a minimum waterline length of 30 feet.

Class C: Contains ships with an overall length of less than 131 feet and a water- line length of at least 30 feet. Modern rigged vessels such as Bermudan rigged sloops, ketches and schooners belong to this class.

Class D: Class D, like Class C, contains modern rigged vessels such as schooners, ketches, and Bermudan rigged sloops, and each with an overall length of less than 131 feet and a water- line length of at least 30 feet. The difference is that the D class vessels carry spinnaker like sails.

Sail Boston 2026: Get to Know the Ships

Thank you To Our Sponsors

Route of the Parade of Sail

• BOSTON

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(Provincetown, Martha’s Vineyard, Cuttyhunk, Newport, Isle of Shoals)

Quincy’s 75th Flag Day Parade Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary Saturday, June 13, 2026 • 7:00 p.m.

As the nation prepares to commemorate its semiquincentennial, the City of Quincy is set to host a Flag Day celebration that reflects both deep local tradition and national pride. On Saturday, June 13, 2026, Quincy’s 75th annual Flag Day Parade — recognized as the longest-running Flag Day parade in the United States — will take on added significance as part of the broader celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

Founded in 1952 by Mayor Thomas P. Koch’s father, Richard “Dick” Koch Sr., the parade began as a modest march of neighborhood children around Norfolk Downs, culminating in a simple flag-raising ceremony. Over the decades, it has grown into a major civic event drawing thousands of spectators, complete with marching bands, drum corps, patriotic performances, and a fireworks finale.

Today, the parade stands

as one of Quincy’s defining civic traditions. “There’s no greater tradition in our city than the Flag Day Parade,” said Mayor Koch. “It is an incredible community celebration of our flag and the values it represents — an unofficial kickoff to summer and always one of the best days of the year.”

This year’s milestone event will feature an expansive lineup of participants, including elite drum corps and military-style marching bands such as the Crusaders Senior Drum & Bugle Corps, North Star Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps, 7th Regiment Drum & Bugle Corps, Connecticut Hurricanes Drum & Bugle Corps, Branches Steel Orchestra, New Magnolia Jazz Band and the Conn Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps. Local talent will also take center stage, including the combined Quincy/North Quincy Band and several community music groups, alongside patriotic floats celebrating

America’s 250th anniversary, classic cars, specialty units, public safety, veterans’ color guards, and more than 1,000 flag-waving children.

A highlight of the evening will be a special patriotic musical performance, further underscoring the event’s ceremonial and emotional significance.

In recognition of both the city’s rich history and the nation’s milestone anniversary, Mayor Koch has invited back all past recipients of the Richard and Simone Koch Youth Service Award dating back to 1997, along with prominent civic, military, and community leaders — each representing a lasting legacy of service, leadership, and commitment to the community.

The parade will step off at 7 p.m. and proceed through the city before concluding at Pageant Field, where a 50-by-80-foot American

flag will be raised over the crowd to the tune of “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”

The 75th Annual Quincy Flag Day Parade and America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration will conclude with a fireworks display over Black’s Creek, sponsored by Quirk Auto and Dan Quirk — providing a fitting finale to a day celebrating history, patriotism, and community spirit.

As Quincy marks 75 years of its Flag Day Parade alongside America’s 250th anniversary, the celebration serves as a reminder of the enduring power of civic traditions — and the role they play in bringing generations together in shared appreciation of the nation’s ideals.

For more information and updates on upcoming events and celebrations, visit the City of Quincy’s social media channels or the City’s website at quincyma.gov.

Sales Representative

Coastal Angler Magazine, Boston

JOB TYPE: PART-TIME REQUIRED EXPERIENCE: FISHING & SALES

Coastal Angler Magazine, Boston, a company of Regan Communications Group, has an immediate opening for a Sales Representative for our Boston location.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Selling all advertising (both print and web)

• Directing content development (for print, website and social media)

• Procuring and editing copy from 5-8 writers monthly

• Managing the layout and collaborating on graphic design

• Creating concept and copy for print ads

• Delivering and managing the distribution of 10,000 copies monthly

• Maintaining all vendor/client relationships

REQUIREMENTS:

• A keen knowledge of the fishing industry.

• At least two years of sales experience.

• Candidate must be able to work effectively in a demanding and fast-paced environment.

Now Hiring Now Hiring

Plum Island Surfcasters

Club Meeting: Plum Island Surfcaster’s Proudly Presents Finn Hawley: Night Time Fishing on the North Shore. Tuesday, June 16th.

Salisbury Senior Center 43 Lafayette Rd, Salisbury, MA 01952

Check our website (www.plumislandsurfcasters.org) for more details on upcoming events.

Meetings at 6:45 pm | Fishing seminar at 8:00 pm Free for all club members. $5 admission for Non-members

NOAA ESTABLISHES LONGEST ATLANTIC RED SNAPPER SEASON IN DECADES

Anglers across the South Atlantic will enjoy a signi cantly longer red snapper season in 2026, thanks to a new management strategy approved by NOAA Fisheries. rough an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP), individual states are taking the lead on data collection and management, resulting in a dramatic increase in shing days compared to previous federal seasons. Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina will have more than two months (62 days) for recreational Atlantic red snapper shing, while Florida will have 39 days split into several windows.

Florida’s Extended 39-Day Opportunity

Florida recreational anglers will see the most substantial change, with a season split into summer and fall windows. is expansion aims to reduce regulatory discards— sh that are caught and released but do not survive—by allowing more sh to be kept.

• Summer Window: May 22 – June 20

• Fall Window: October 2–4, 9–11, and 16–18

• Regulations: e daily bag limit is one sh per person. Notably, there is no minimum size limit for Florida under this permit, a move designed to further reduce discard mortality.

Georgia and the Carolinas

North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia are also participating in the pilot program, o ering a continuous two-month season for their residents.

• Season Dates: July 1 – August 31, 2026

• Regulations: e bag limit remains one sh per person. Size limits vary by state: South Carolina maintains a 20-inch minimum, while Georgia and North Carolina have no minimum size for this speci c season.

Mandatory Reporting Requirements e success of this pilot program hinges

on accurate data. For the 2026 Atlantic red snapper season, mandatory reporting is a core requirement.

• Florida: Recreational anglers must have a valid saltwater shing license and a (free) State Reef Fish Angler designation. All red snapper landings must be reported via the FWC EFP Reporting app or website - https://app.myfwc.com/crossdoi/ redsnapperreporting/. While passengers may keep their limit on for-hire trips, captains and crew members are prohibited from retaining red snapper on charter or headboat trips.

• Georgia and the Carolinas: Private recreational anglers must use the VESL app or website (https://blue ndata.com/projects/ red-snapper-with-yamaha) to record their red snapper harvest and discard information to participate in the 2026 red snapper season. For-hire operations who qualify must have a current federal permit and record their harvest and discard information through their appropriate reporting program. is shi toward state-led management re ects a growing e ort to balance the health of the red snapper stock with the needs of the recreational shing community. By gathering more precise catch data through these state programs, o&cials hope to create more sustainable and predictable seasons in the years to come.

Red snapper are highly sought a er by anglers because they’re one of the best-tasting sh in the ocean. ese aggressive sh tend to concentrate around reefs, wrecks, and other deep-water structures, which makes for some fun and fast-paced catching when you can nd them.

2026 GULF RED SNAPPER SEASON

e 2026 Gulf red snapper recreational shing season features a record-breaking 140day harvest period in Florida state and federal waters. e season spans both summer and fall periods, extending all the way into January, with exact limits and dates varying depending on your location and shing permit.

Florida Private Recreational Gulf Season

Florida anglers enjoy the longest season in state history with a 140-day allowance. Bag limit is 2 sh per person, per day, and you must sign up for a no-cost State Reef Fish Survey.

• Summer Season: Open daily from May 22 through July 31.

• Fall Season: Open daily from September 1 through October 4.

• Weekend Openings: Select weekends continue through the rest of the year:

» ree-day weekends in October (Oct. 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, 30-Nov. 1)

» Two-day weekends in November (Nov. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22)

» anksgiving weekend (Nov. 26-29)

» Two-day weekends in December (Dec. 5-6, 12-13, 19-20).

» Christmas weekend (Dec. 25-27) and New Year’s (Jan. 1-4).

Federal For-Hire Gulf Season

For federally-permitted charter/for-hire vessels, the federal waters season in the Gulf of America runs for 147 days and is open June 1 through October 26. Limit of 2 sh per person, per day.

Other Gulf States Regulations and dates vary outside of Florida:

• Louisiana: e season opened on May 1 for private anglers and for-hire charters (state waters), open 7 days a week until quotas are met. e bag limit is 4 sh.

• Alabama: e season opened on May 22, running 7 days a week until the quota is reached.

• Texas: State waters are open year-round.

Always check with your state’s shing and wildlife agency for the most up-to-date rules and regulations.

TA FISHING FATHERS’ CATCH A FISHING FATHERS’ CATCH

the sh bite, and sometimes they don’t. Learning to accept both outcomes gracefully is a lesson many adults still struggle to master.

ey also teach resilience. Every angler loses sh. Hooks snag. Weather changes. Boats break down. Yet shermen keep going. Children who grow up shing learn early that frustration is temporary and persistence o en pays o

By Chatwick G. Peterson III

here’s something timeless about a father teaching a child to sh. Long before the rst cast is made or the rst sh is landed, something deeper is already taking place on the shoreline, in the boat, or along the quiet bend of a creek. Fishing becomes more than a hobby—it becomes a bridge between generations.

For many fathers, shing is one of the rst ways they learn to teach patience, con dence, and respect for the outdoors. It starts with simple things: showing a child how to hold a rod, how to bait a hook, or why you move quietly near the water. ose lessons may seem small in the moment, but they o en become memories that last a lifetime.

A child rarely remembers every sh they catch. What they remember is who was standing beside them. ey remember early mornings wrapped in hoodies while the world was still waking up. ey remember snacks in the tackle box, tangled lines that somehow got xed, and the excitement in their father’s voice when a bobber nally disappeared beneath the surface. ey remember the encouragement a er losing a sh and the celebration a er catching even the smallest bluegill.

Fishing fathers teach far more than technique. ey teach patience in a world that moves too fast. Fishing forces children to slow down, observe, and appreciate the moment. ere are no instant rewards on the water. Sometimes

WHY BUY NEW WHEN YOU CAN RENEW?!?

Perhaps most importantly, fathers who sh with their children create space for conversation. Some of the best talks happen when there’s no pressure to talk at all. Sitting side by side in a boat or along a bank has a way of opening doors. Kids ask questions. Fathers share stories. Life slows down enough for real connection to happen naturally.

In today’s world, where screens compete for nearly every waking moment, teaching a child to sh may be more important than ever. Fishing pulls kids outdoors and reconnects them with nature. ey learn where food comes from, how ecosystems work, and why conservation matters. ey begin to understand that lakes, rivers, and oceans are not just places for recreation, but resources that deserve protection.

A father teaching a child to release a sh carefully may also be teaching stewardship without ever using the word.

Not every shing father is perfect. Some are patient teachers while others struggle to untangle knots without frustration. Some own expensive boats while others sh from muddy banks with secondhand rods. But none of that truly matters to a child. What matters is presence. Time is the real gi

Years later, long a er tackle boxes rust and rods are replaced, many sons and daughters discover that shing was never really about the sh at all. It was about learning who their father was. It was about shared silence, laughter, stories, and traditions passed down one cast at a time.

And eventually, something remarkable happens: the child grows up and begins teaching another child how to sh. e knot may be tied di erently. e tackle may change. e old family hotspots may even disappear. But the tradition continues. One generation passes something meaningful to the next—not just a skill, but a way of life.

Fishing fathers help shape patient, observant, and connected children. ey teach kids to appreciate nature, value time, and understand that some of life’s greatest moments happen far away from crowds and noti cations.

In the end, the greatest catch a father ever makes may not be the sh on the line, but the bond built beside the water.

Summertime Fishing Patterns

TIM BAREFOOT

June will begin the widespread warm water, instead of just pockets like in spring. Starting now you can catch tuna, wahoo and dolphin anywhere in that 70+ degree water. From now through October, I would put an emphasis on securing big, hardy live baits for the light line. If nothing else, jig up some small snappers wherever you are bottom shing and keep one underneath a oat or under the kite, along with one without a oat that can get some depth. Of course, I like to nd bait to sh around, not just bait on the surface. Don’t hesitate to get these light line baits deeper in the water column. at 75- to 100-foot depth is notorious for wahoo, as well as yellow n tuna during the middle of the day when the sun is high.

I would suggest spending some time posted up on top of a big stack of bait and dedicating at least one person to jigging up dozens of live cigs and sardines. is is the ultimate bait for either the light line or on the bottom. If you put a lot of cigar minnows or sardines on the decoy jig, its life expectancy is under ve seconds on the bottom, but just getting it to the bottom sometimes can be a challenge. We never leave the dock without a couple boxes of frozen cigar minnows and live pin sh this time of year, but nothing, in my humble opinion, is any better than a live cigar or sardine on the jig.

later.

e summer solstice will be June 20—the longest day of the year. It will be daylight right a er 5 a.m. and sh are just like us. ey like to eat breakfast and dinner, so go early. Be there for the daylight bite or stay late and, if you feel froggy, spend the night. ere is nothing like that night bite under the lights. It is a “National Geographic moment” at night under the lights. You see everything. Be sure to dip up some squid for the daylight bite or put them back down at night. Squid will de nitely come to the lights and are easy to catch, but beware—they will bite you and spew very black ink. is is a great time of year to take the kids. You could have big, high-pressure cells that will keep the seas at for days and they will be amazed to see all the life under the lights at night. But dress your kids properly and teach him how to harvest sh and take care of the sh you want to release. Take plenty of videos because they will never want to forget these trips.

Calm seas and tight lines, Ben Martin. We’ll sh together again someday...

Visit barefootcatsandtackle.com for more tips and techniques.

GOING DEEP WITH COPPER STATE TACKLE PRO JOEY BLOOM

When the water starts warming and o shore schools of bass begin grouping up on ledges, hard spots, and deep structure, few techniques can trigger giant bites like a deep-diving crankbait. For Joey Bloom, deep cranking is one of the best ways to locate aggressive sh and force reaction strikes from bass that might ignore slower presentations.

“Deep cranking is all about triggering sh,” Bloom explained. “You’re covering water fast, crashing the bait into structure or bottom, and forcing those big bass to react.”

One reason the technique is so productive is the amount of water it covers. Deep-diving crankbaits allow anglers to e&ciently sh o shore structure in the 10- to 25-foot range while maintaining constant bottom contact. Bass o en position around underwater points, shell beds, creek channel bends, submerged roadbeds, rock piles, and ledges where bait sh collect. By making long casts and grinding a crankbait through those highpercentage areas, anglers can quickly locate active schools.

According to Bloom, some of the best locations to target are hardbottom transitions where so bottom changes to hard, rock changes to clay or gravel, o shore humps near creek channels, and isolated structure that sits away from heavy shing pressure.

“Anytime you nd current, bait, and hard structure together, you’ve got the ingredients for giant bass,” Bloom said. “ e biggest thing is making repeated casts from di erent angles until you contact the sweet spot.”

A deep crankbait becomes even more e ective when it continuously de ects o cover. e sudden change in direction mimics injured bait sh and o en causes bass to strike out of instinct. Many anglers believe those violent reaction bites are what separates deep cranking from nesse shing.

Having the proper gear is critical for shing oversized crankbaits all day. Bloom prefers a longer rod in the 7-foot-6 to 7-foot-9 range with a moderate action. e so er parabolic bend helps absorb the surge of big bass while keeping treble hooks pinned during long ghts. Longer rods also increase casting distance, which helps the bait reach maximum depth and stay in the strike zone longer.

When it comes to reels, Bloom relies on slower gear ratios in the 5:1 or 6:3:1 range. Deep-diving crankbaits create tremendous resistance in the water, and lower gear ratio reels provide the torque needed to grind those baits e&ciently without exhausting the angler.

Pairing that setup with 10- to 12-pound uorocarbon line helps maximize diving depth while maintaining sensitivity. Bloom believes the combination of the right rod, reel, and line can be the di erence between occasionally catching sh and consistently landing giant o shore bass.

“When that crankbait starts digging and bouncing o the bottom, you know it’s any moment that a giant bass is going to eat it,” Bloom said. “ at next cast could be the biggest bass of your life.”

You can !nd all your tackle needs at Copper State Tackle and use BLOOM10 for your checkout discount!

www.copperstatetackle.com

SUZUKI MARINE PARTNERS WITH FUEL 1, PAVING THE WAY TO MAKING ETHANOL-FREE MARINE FUEL AVAILABLE THROUGH SUZUKI MARINE DEALERS

Suzuki Marine has partnered with Fuel 1 to provide an opportunity for its dealer network to o er certi ed Sustainable Marine Fuels to its customers right from their facilities. By teaming up with Fuel 1 — a national retailer of advanced fuel delivery and portable fueling systems — Suzuki Marine is helping its dealers better serve their communities by meeting an important consumer need, maximizing the performance and reliability of their customer’s boats, and supporting sustainability goals important to Suzuki Marine and the entire recreational boating industry.

Working with Fuel 1 provides Suzuki Marine dealers with important advantages, such as the ability to deploy a fully supported fueling ecosystem with zero capital investment. Fuel 1 will provide free Micro-Station Deployment; fully branded portable fueling stations installed at participating dealer locations. In addition to direct fueling solutions, portable distribution systems including 20-gallon exchange pods and tote programs make it easy for customers to fuel their boats with PurFuels’ 93-octane, ethanol-free fuel that has been developed speci cally for marine operating conditions.

“Making sustainable marine fuels more accessible in di erent areas of the country is a great win for our dealers and customers alike,” said Brandon Cerka, Suzuki Marine Vice President Sales & Marketing. “ is partnership is also a major step in Suzuki Marine’s ongoing e ort to reduce the environmental footprint of boating. We have long supported the industry’s e orts to educate the boating public about these cleaner burning, more sustainable fuels. Now, we are stepping up to the plate to help get this fuel to more boaters, using their trusted Suzuki Marine dealers as the source,” added Cerka.

e program also makes strong business sense for dealers. A revenue sharing model will provide dealers with solid pro ts and recurring income. Fuel 1 will manage all compliance, liability, inventory, refueling and pointof-sale systems, making it easy for dealers to provide this valuable service to both loyal and new customers. Fuel 1 provides unmatched business and marketing support, including national marketing campaigns to drive customers to the dealership, dealer spotlighting across Fuel 1 Direct and partner platforms, invitations to participate in Fuel 1’s national sponsorships and marine events, and customer aggregation tools to help position dealerships as a preferred destination for premium marine fuel.

“We have used these fuels exclusively at our Suzuki Marine U.S. Technical Center during engine testing, durability trials, and performance benchmarking. Over years of testing, we have proven that these fuels help Suzuki Marine’s products run at peak performance, e&ciency, and durability in real-world conditions. We have every con dence in these fuels and are pleased to be o ering them to our customers,” added Cerka.

To learn more about the key bene!ts of PurFuels sustainable marine fuel, visit www.fuel1direct.com

Here’s a memorable beach moment: You’re basking in the warm sun, toes in the sand, letting the gentle turn of the foam-capped waves lull you into a state of complete relaxation. As your eyes scan the endless horizon of blue on blue, you’re rewarded with the site of a school of dolphins making their way across the sea. There’s no denying their signature shape as they leap from the water. If you don’t see anything else extraordinary the rest of the day, you can take solace knowing you’ve witnessed some of nature’s most playful and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat.

Why not recreate that special toes-in-the-sand moment with our DiamondAura® Dolphin Pendant? The beloved sea mammal has been captured mid-jump in a rhodium-finished setting. And tucked into its fins are a full two carats of shimmering blue DiamondAura.

Nothing captures the shimmering color of the ocean in the midday sun like blue DiamondAura. With its sparkling clear blue color and high refractive index, DiamondAura is one of our top sellers. And with our special price, you have quite the catch. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Enjoy the DiamondAura Dolphin Pendant for 30 days. If it doesn’t pass the test swimmingly, send it back for a full refund of the item price.

Limited Reserves. A full 2 2/5 total carats of DiamondAura in a rhodium finished setting for this price is as rare as a dolphin sighting. We cannot guarantee availability for long. Call today!

Limited to the first 1900