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Ever see a commercial harbor full of Furuno Marine Electronics and wonder why the pros rely on us?


See why here











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.
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Reel in the Perfect Holiday Gifts for Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts!
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by showing the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life that you truly understand their passion? Finding the right gift can feel as tricky as reeling in a trophy fsh, but fear not! We’ve got some fantastic ideas that will have them casting their lines with glee.


As the holiday season rolls around, remember that the best gifts come from the heart. Whether it’s a high-tech fshing gadget, some fshing apparel or even a new boat or motor, these thoughtful presents are sure to delight the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life. So, cast your line into the sea of gift ideas...you’re bound to reel in something special!










Depending on where you live, December could be the last month for all grouper harvest. I think red and black grouper will still be available in Florida’s East Coast, while red and scamp grouper will be available in Georgia and the Carolinas. !is is when the bite is the best. I’ve always said that the week of Christmas is the apex of grouper shing and I’ll stand by that statement. !e month of November was on re here in the Carolinas. Even though we can’t keep gag, grouper and American red snapper have been plentiful. !e good news is the light line has been working well.
!e key to nding good bait is a tackle shop that keeps beautiful, frozen cigar minnows and sardines. !ese baits are the ticket to good bottom bites and the light line going o . Needless to say, live cigars and live sardines are extremely e ective on the light line and under the kite, but frozen ones work well also. Live menhaden and pin sh are always a smart play to have in the live well before heading o shore. If you nd live cigar minnows and live sardines, all the better, but if you don’t, at least you have those two for live baits on the bottom and for the light line.
A live sardine or a live cigar on the correct jig has a life expectancy of just a few seconds. !is is where it pays o to nd a shop that carries beautiful (frozen) bait. When you open up a box of frozen cigar minnows and see beautiful, clear eyes and yellow on the tails you’ve got a box of bites in your hands. If you have a frozen box of cloudy-eyed, mushy cigar minnows, then you might not nd what you’re looking for on the bottom or on the light line. If you nd large schools of cigars or sardines, it o en pays to spend a little bit of time to catch them. !is always results in bites, whereas the frozen minnows work most of the time.

!e Sabiki can be the most valuable player of all. Just like you use a dehooker to remove your grouper and snapper from the hook, use a dehooker to remove your cigar, minnows and sardines from the Sabiki hook. !is keeps those small needles and sharp hooks out of your hands and it’s better for the minnows and the live well not to handle them with your hands.
Don’t be surprised if you catch these sh in extremely shallow water this month. !e 66- to 68-degree temperature break can be magical this month for the light line. No telling what you’ll catch. Everything can be there, from kings to wahoo and everything in between.
I said all that to say this: Get out there with some pretty bait and go harvesting some good dinners!
See more from Tim Barefoot at www.barefootcatsandtackle.com and on YouTube @timbarefoot5698.


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NONE OF THE DEAD WEIGHT, ALL OF THE TORQUE.
Suzuki Marine USA’s DF6A revolutionizes portable outboards with unparalleled four-stroke performance and e ciency. Compact and lightweight, the DF6A is easy to transport and delivers surprising low- and mid- range torque for quick acceleration.
Random drawing to be held 12/19/25. Winner will be announced on Facebook. Winner will be notifed by email • Please allow up to 90 days for delivery. TO ENTER, SCAN THE CODE OR VISIT:

If you’ve ever dreamed of hauling in a barn door halibut or tangling with ferocious Paci!c cod in one of the most scenic places on earth, then May is your month to come !shing in Ketchikan, Alaska! e bottom !shing for halibut and cod in May is nothing short of incredible. Paci!c cod by the thousands swarm underwater sand ats and lurking halibut feed on massive bait balls of herring. It is truly is a wild undertaking below based on the amount of life ourishing. It’s primetime for steady actions, freezer!lling fun and unforgettable memories on the water.


One of the best parts about !shing in Ketchikan is just how easy it is to get to this !shing Mecca. Ketchikan services daily ights from all major cities. Just a quick layover in Seattle and your landing in Ketchikan’s international airport the very same day.
Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters makes your trip e ortless from start to !nish. eir multi-day allinclusive packages cover everything: lodging, airport transfer, meals, !shing and !sh processing. In turn, all you have to think about is setting the hook and enjoying the day.
Whether it’s your !rst time !shing Alaska or you’re a seasoned angler chasing your personal best halibut, May in Ketchikan delivers. Nothing beats bottom !shing in Alaska’s !rst city when the bite is on! Book now and join us this spring. is trip makes an amazing holiday gi they will cherish forever.
Visit ketchikan shingtrips.com to learn more.








Academy Sports + Outdoors, East Colonial 11955 E. Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL • Academy Sports + Outdoors, Lee Vista 6640 Eagle Watch Drive Orlando, FL • Academy Sports + Outdoors, Millenia 3557 Gardens Ridge Way Orlando, FL • Academy Sports + Outdoors, Lake Mary 3641 Lake Emma Road Lake Mary FL Bagg’s Produce, Sanford, 2485 Sanford Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 • Boat Tree Marina, 4370 Carraway Place, Sanford, FL 32771,(407) 322-1610, boattreemarina.com • Noble’s Marine Leesburg,Highway 441& Palmetto,Leesburg, FL 34748, noblesmarine.com • Noble’s Marine Crystal River, 1931 NW Highway 19, Crystal River, FL 34428, noblesmarine.com • Mudhole Custom Tackle, 2133 Componet Loop St. 1001, Oviedo, FL 32765, mudhole.com, Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort, 488 W Highbanks Rd, DeBary, FL 32713, campresort.com • Thomas Lumber Company – Orlando, 231 West Gore Street, Orlando, FL 32806, thomaslumber. com • Orlando Outfitters, 2814 Corrine Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 • Bitters Bait & Tackle, Longwood, 165 N. US HWY. 17-92, Longwood, 32750 • Gibson’s Truck World, 3455 S. Orlando Dr., Sanford, Fl.32773 • Owens Fishing & Marine, 935 N. Bay St. Eustis, Fl. 32726 • Avalon Ace Hardware, 14807 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando Fl., 32826 • Richardson’s Fish Camp, Kissimmee, 1550 Scottys Rd, Kissimmee, FL 34744 • Wojo’s Bait & Tackle, St. Cloud, Oak Park Center, 4245 13th St, St Cloud, FL 34769 • West End Trading Co. 202 S. Sanford Ave., Sanford, FL 32771 • Lakeside Bait & Tackle, Tavares, 1000 W Burleigh Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778• Jolly Gator Fish Camp Bar & Grill, 4650 FL-46, Geneva, FL 32732
Looking for something special this Christmas Season? Check-out the services provided by MarineTec Systems in Winter Garden. The experienced staff at MarineTec Systems is ready to help with all your boating and outboard needs. Conveniently located near the Turnpike, SR 408,SR 429 expressways, just north of SR 50 and just 10 minutes from downtown Orlando. They recently moved to new location at 704 Hennis Road to better serve their growing list of happy clients. Now also servicing Mercury, Yamaha and Suzuki outboards. Tony Summers and his staff specialize in custom rigging, installation of electronics and brackets, re-wiring, sound systems, gauge replacement, installation of shallow water anchors, trolling motors, custom lighting solutions, battery systems and chargers, and now also installing Marine Mat custom flooring and decking for your vessel.
While some marine service centers just add you to the list of customers Tony and his staff are dedicated to making all of their clients feel like their friends. They will go out of their way to let you know what is best for budget needs to get your vessel repaired, up-graded or serviced. MarineTec can also assist you in the purchase of products, trolling motors, electronics, specialty brackets, wiring harnesses, switches, gauges, pumps, chargers and now selling Yamaha Outboards to re-power your existing boats.
Winter time is a great time for annual servicing of your boats and outboards while the weather is inclement and most shops are slower. 100 hour (or annual) service includes changing oil in lower unit or power-heads for four-stroke outboards, greasing or lubing all fittings, changing out all fuel filters, on-board filters, servicing or replacing water pumps, replacing spark-plugs and the list goes on. With the cost of new motors continuing to increase every year it just makes great sense to service your motor and vessel’s needs every season to keep cost down. They say BOAT stands for bust out another thousand, so to keep your boating cost low spend some bucks in advance to prevent failure. Give Tony at MarineTec a call at 321-363-6550 to schedule an appointment or to discuss your service needs. Tell him you read about them in Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando for a special discount.





































Preventative Maintenance • Complete Rebuilds All Trailer Types Serviced
Marine Grade Stainless Steel Parts Custom Axles • Accessories Large Parts Inventory For All Trailer Types.
We Have Aluminum Boat, Pontoon, PWC Trailers Available as well as Utility, Equipment, Dump And Enclosed Trailers.




The second tournament of the Seminole Junior Anglers 2025-2026 season took place at the Harris Chain of Lakes on October 18th and 19th in Leesburg. Overall, SJA did very well with the team of Grant Pergler and Kyler Utzman taking 11th place on the 1st day with a bag of 12.09lb and 6th place on the 2nd day with a bag of 16.41lb. Also, Wyatt Nowak and Lane Patterson placed 12th on the 2nd day with a bag of 11.17lbs., impressive as this was the first event the pair of Freshman have fished, they gave credit to their Captain Josh Wolf. We had several other teams close behind those leaders for a combined strong weekend performance. Thank you to Daniel Tillis and Florida BASS Nation for organizing a great event.
The next tournament will be on the St. John’s River, launching from the Palatka City Docks, on November 15th and 16th, where we are looking forward to have more teams move up in the ranks.
We will keep you updated throughout the season as to where we are fishing and how our teams are doing. As always feel free to reach out if you want to fish with us.
We couldn’t do it without our sponsors, so we want to give a big thanks to: Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando, Mudhole Custom Tackle, Southeast Shell, Oakley, Avid Gear, CST Fishing Apparel, Mid Florida Carts, Plan Hull Consulting, Grove Scientific & Engineering, Total Enviro Services, Acme Environmental Services, Progressive Plumbing, Precision Fire, HGA Construction, H.J. High Construction, Brockman Site Development, Batia Construction, Scorpio Construction, Outdoor Construction, Tri-County Screen, Dick Joyce Well Drilling, Jacob’s Land Solutions, The Other Side Landscape, All Seasons Pools, Dreamscape Pools, Pauls Pool Service, Bait and Tackle Me, Guardian Equipment, Sunstate Fleetworks and more!
Thanks again for all the support!



“Spreading Awareness and Acceptance to Au3sm through the Sport of Fishing” www.au%smanglers.org




Black crappie, sunshine bass, largemouth bass, and American shad will be on the holiday list for anglers in Central Florida in December. Both Largemouth and Sunshine bass will be found early mornings at the mouths of Lake Harney and Lake Monroe where the river enters and exits. Throw a shad imitation like a Rattle Trap with chrome sides or a Spook Jr. in bone color. Early bedding largemouths can be found in 1-4 feet of water, depending on water levels – look for areas of sandy bottom near eel grass. Birds diving on passing bait schools means there are fish predators feeding. Topwater bites can be ferocious. Waiting for the line to come tight before setting the hook is the trick to topwater hookups.

Central Florida Shad and Crappie Derby is in full swing. The shad should show up around

Christmas. Until then, you can find crappies all throughout the St. Johns. Drifting a minnow under a cork is the most popular way to catch these tasty black crappies. Anglers often use a jig under the same cork with their favorite colored plastic curly tail. Professional anglers always tip their jigs with a minnow – longline trolling, spider rigging, dipping lily pads, shooting docks – they always tip with live minnows.
Holiday gift ideas? Academy Sports and Outdoors will bring cheer and warmth with their new Magellan Outdoors Pro by Jacob Wheeler with three new performance-driven pieces designed, assessed, and approved by Jacob Wheeler himself. Abu Garcia unleashes the new ‘BEAST’ built for anglers pursuing big fish salt or fresh. Both these gift ideas have been assessed by this author and rated as approved gear for the season!
Shad and Crappie Derby Entries go here: https://coastalanglermag. com/orlando/shad-crappie-derby It Only Takes One Fish to Win…


Strong winds and higher water level all over the chain of lakes has been making it for tough days of fishing of late. The fronts are coming every 7 to 10 days, so get out there between them, 1 to 3 days after they pass. Largemouth bass are feeding heavy on shad, golden shiners and panfish all throughout the Harris Chain of lakes getting fat and happy for the upcoming annual spawn. The bass are moving into transition areas close to spawning areas near the mouths of canals, backwater coves with some deeper water very close by. Lilly pad fields have been producing good numbers of bites and are excellent location to fish around. Best lures to use are lipless crankbaits, bladed-jigs, soft plastic flukes, swim-baits and topwater walking baits. Fish the outeredges of the lilly-pads especially the smaller isolated groups. The bigger females will still back away to eat a larger meal than the smaller highly aggressive males. If you can find the hydrilla patches clumps and mats in Big Lk. Harris in the deeper water they are also holding large groups of bass, find the hard edges and fish a bladed-jig or chatter-bait or 4 to 5 inch
swim-bait along these edges making as long as cast as possible. Let the bait go to the bottom and reel them back slowly or until you start getting bites. This is a great time of the year to catch a true trophy bass. You may want to float a largewild shiner under a cork boober dragged behind the boat as you fish those areas. Best times for big females will be during or close to New or Full moon phases all the way through next April especially after a cold-front moves through.
The big Crappie have started to heat up in last days of November, the bigger females will also be heading to the shallow where the males are getting ready for their annual spawn. Shallow water cover, Kissimmee grass, lilly-pads and wood structure are the places to find them using brightly colored jigs tipped with a live minnow. Bright colors for sunny days, darker colors for cloudy and windy days. Adjust the depth of your baits until you find a group and start getting bites, usually once you get a bite or two there are more around so slow down and catch them up!! Make sure to visit a sign-up location for the 17th Annual Shad & Crappie Derby and get registered, you never know when you may catch a monster, it is FREE to enter. Owen’s Fishing in Eustis, Lake Side Bait & Tackle in Tavares and Nobles Marine in Leesburg are all close to the chain and are Official Sign-up locations! Happy Holidays to all our loyal readers.
1 - Astor Marine (352) 759-3655 24535 FL-40, Astor, FL 32102 www.astormarine.com
Astor Marine (352) 759-3655
24535 FL-40, Astor FL www.astormarine.com
Sea Tow of Central Florida Lakes (877) 800-1492
6 - Sea Tow of Central Florida Lakes (877) 800-1492 12307 Wedgefield Drive , Grand Island, FL 32735
12307 Wedgefield Dr., Grand Island, FL
AT Trailer (407) 892-1100
CJS Aluminum Inc.
31 - Pyramid Cabinets (407) 947-8499
31 - Pyramid Cabinets (407) 947-8499
451 Fairvilla Road, Orlando, FL 32808 www.codepyramid.com
451 Fairvilla Road, Orlando, FL 32808 www.codepyramid.com
210 N. Goldenrod Rd., Orlando, FL CF (407) 281-9210 Spacecoast (321) 345-2011 www.cjsaluminum.com
34 - Thomas Lumber Company (407) 841-1250
34 - Thomas Lumber Company (407) 841-1250
2 - Nobles Marine (352) 787-5792 437 N Palmetto St, Leesburg, FL 34748 or 1931 N. Hwy 19, Crystal River www.noblesmarine.com
Nobles Marine (352) 787-5792
437 N Palmetto St., Leesburg, FL 1931 N. Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL www.noblesmarine.com
3 - Craig Catamaran (407) 290-8778 4333 Silver Star Rd. #100 Orlando, FL 32808
Craig Catamaran (407) 290-8778
4333 Silver Star Rd. $100 Orlando, FL
4 - Triangle Marine (352) 343-6146 11415 US-441, Tavares, FL 32778 www.trianglemarinecenter.biz
Triangle Marine (352) 343-6146 11415 US-441, Tavares, FL www.trianglemarinecenter.biz
30 - Aamco East Orlando (407) 277-3311 6304 E. Colonial Dr. Orlando FL 32807 Full Service Mechanics
Aamco East Orlando (407) 277-3311
6304 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL Full Service Mechanics
25 - Central Florida Marine (407) 647-6262 1021 N Orlando Ave, Maitland, FL 32751 www.centralfloridamarine.com
Central Florida Marine (407) 647-6262 1021 N. Orlando Ave., Maitland, FL www.centralfloridamarine.com
38 - Orlando Boat Sales (407) 253-7111 3165 N John Young Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32804 www.orlandoboatsales.com
Orlando Boat Sales (407) 253-7111
3165 B. John Young Pkwy., Orlando, FL www.orlandoboatsales.com
24 - Boat Max USA (321) 866-0306 9700 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando FL 32817 www.boatmaxusa.com
Boat Max USA (321) 866-0306
9700 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL www.boatmaxusa.com
46 - Gibson Truck World (407) 321-0660 3455 S. Orlando Dr. Sanford, FL 32773 www.gibsontruckworld.com
Gibson Truck World (407) 321-0660
3455 S. Orlando Dr., Sanford, FL www.gibsontruckworld.com
14 - Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 4370 Carraway Pl, Sanford, FL 32771 www.boattree.com
Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 4370Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL
60 - Next Level Inc.“Florida Marine Customs” (407) 704-5676 • 87 W. Michigan St. Orlando, FL 32806 info@floridamarinecustoms.com
Next Level Inc. “Florida Marine Customs” (407) 704-5676
87 W. Michigan St., Orlando FL info@floridamarinecustoms.com
Boat improvement / Service & Repair Centers / Replacement Parts
36 - All American Marine (407) 855-9988 7024 S Orange Ave, Orlando FL 32809 www.allamericanmarineorlando.com
Boat Improvement / Service & Repair Centers / Replacement Parts
All America Marine (407) 855-9988
35 - All Star Marine (407) 423-9953 28 W Jersey St, Orlando, FL 32806 www.manta.com
7024 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL www.allamericanmarineorlando.net
Advanced Marine Services (407) 498-5142
1322 Carolina Ave., St. Cloud, FL advancedmarine.co
29 - Lake Fairview Marina (407) 295-0117 4503 N Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32804 www. Lakefairviewmarina.com
Lake Fairview Marina (407) 295-0117
32 - Portside Marine (407) 249-1124 2730 Forsyth Rd, Orlando, FL 32792 www.portsideorlando.com
4503 N. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL www.lakefairviewmarina.com
Portside Marina (407) 249-1124
2730 Forsyth Rd., Orlando, FL www.portsidemarina.com
23 - Talon Marine Services (407) 542-7600 439 Aulin Ave, Oviedo, FL 32765 www.talonmarineservices.com
Talon Marine Services (407) 542-7600 439 Aulin Ave., Orlando, FL www.talonmarineservices.com
20 - Team Marine Services (407) 260-8326 1350 28th Street, Orlando FL 32805 www.teammarineservices.com
Team Marine Services (407) 260-8236 1350 28th St., Orlando, FL www.teammarineservices.com
19 - Ahoy Marine (407) 323-8373 511 E 25th St, Sanford, FL 32771 www.superpages.com
Ahoy Marine (407) 323-8373
9 - Instant Insurance Agency (352) 735-5560 25833 State Road 46, Sorrento, FL 32776 www.instantinsuranceagency.com
4820 E. Irlo Brunson Memorial Hwy., St Cloud FL www.attrailercenter.com
231 W Gore St, Orlando, FL 32806, www.thomaslumber.com
231 W Gore St, Orlando, FL 32806, www.thomaslumber.com
A&H Storage (407) 678-0507
2500 N. Forsyth Rd., Orlando, FL www.AHStorage.co
Marinetec Systems (321) 363-6550 1061 TidenVille School Rd., Winter Garden FL www.marinetecsystems.com
15 - American Tackle Co. (800) 516-1750 2133 Component Loop, Suite 1031, Oveido, 32765 www.americantackle.us
Bait & Tackle Shops / Outfitters / Apparel
5 - Lakeside Bait & Tackle (352) 742-3336 1000 W Burleigh Blvd, Tavares, FL 32778
American Tackle Co. (800) 516-1750 2133 Component Loop, Suite 1031, Oviedo, FL www.americantackle.us
7 - Owens Fishing & Marine (352) 357-3030 935 N Bay St, Eustis, FL 32726
Lakeside Bait & Tackle (352) 742-3336 1000 W. Burleigh Blvd., Taveres, FL
11 - Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort (386) 668-4491
488 W Highbanks Rd, DeBary, FL 32713 www.campresort.com
Owens Fishing & Marine (352) 357-3030 935 N. Bay St., Eustis, FL
14 - Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 4370 Carraway Pl, Sanford, FL 32771 www.boattree.com
Highlands Marina & Camp Resort (336) 668-4491
488 W. Highbanks Rd., DeBary, FL www.campresort.com
21 - Bitters Bait & Tackle (407) 699-6619 65 N US Hwy 17 92, Longwood, FL 32750 www.bittersbaitandtackle.com
Boat Tree Marina (407) 322-1610 3370 Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL www.boattree.com
43 - Academy Sports + Outdoors East Colonial 11955 E. Colonial Dr Orlando, FL
Bitters Bait & Tackle (407) 699-6619
65 N. US Hwy 17-92, Longwood, FL www.bittersbaitandtackle.com
Lee Vista 6640 Eagle Watch Drive Orlando, FL Millenia 3557 Gardens Ridge Way Orlando, FL Lake Mary 3641 Lake Emaa Road Lake Mary FL
Academy Sports & Outdoors
49 - Martin Tree Service, Inc. (407) 359-1119 1215 Bob White Trail, Chuluota, FL 32766 www.martintreeserviceinc.com
49 - Martin Tree Service, Inc. (407) 359-1119 1215 Bob White Trail, Chuluota, FL 32766 www.martintreeserviceinc.com
Thomas Lumber Company (407) 841-1250
231 W. Gore St., Orlando, FL www.thomaslumber.com
50 - Campbell Renovations Inc. (407) 947-0016 285 Campbell Ranch Run, Geneva, FL 32732 www.campbellrenovationsinc.com
50 - Campbell Renovations Inc. (407) 947-0016 285 Campbell Ranch Run, Geneva, FL 32732 www.campbellrenovationsinc.com
51 - Vapor and Company (407) 878-7397 3621 S. Orlando Dr., Sanford, FL 32773 SR 436 Altamonte Springs East SR 50 Orlando www.vaporandco.com
51 - Vapor and Company (407) 878-7397
Martin Tree Service, Inc. (407) 359-1119 1215 Bob White Trail, Chuluota, FL www.martintreeservice.com
3621 S. Orlando Dr., Sanford, FL 32773 SR 436 Altamonte Springs East SR 50 Orlando www.vaporandco.com
Areas Best Picks for Restaurants
Campbell Renovations Inc. (407) 947-0015 285 Campbell Ranch Run, Geneva, FL www.campbellrenovationsinc.com
Areas Best Picks for Restaurants
47 - Jolly Gator Fish Camp Bar & Grill (407) 349-5554
47 - Jolly Gator Fish Camp Bar & Grill (407) 349-5554
Vapor and Company (407) 878-7397
4650 E State Rd 46, Geneva, FL 32732 www.thejollygator.com
4650 E State Rd 46, Geneva, FL 32732 www.thejollygator.com
3621 S. orlando Dr., Sanford, FL SR 436, Altamonte Springs, FL East SR 50, Orlando, FL www.vaporandco.com
39 - Fish on Fire (407) 812-6881 7937 Daetwyler Dr, Orlando, FL 32812 www.fishonfireorlando.com
39 - Fish on Fire (407) 812-6881 7937 Daetwyler Dr, Orlando, FL 32812 www.fishonfireorlando.com
Area Best Picks for Restaurants
Jolly Gator Fish Camp Bar & Grill (407) 349-5554
40 - High Tide Harry’s (407) 273-4422 4645 S Semoran Blvd, Orlando, FL 32822 www.hightideharrys.com
40 - High Tide Harry’s (407) 273-4422 4645 S Semoran Blvd, Orlando, FL 32822 www.hightideharrys.com
4650 S. State Rd. 46, Geneva, FL www.thejollygator.com
Fish on Fire (407) 812-6881 7937Daetwyler Dr., Orlando, FL www.fishonfireorlando.com
33 - Boston’s Fish House (407) 678-2107 Aloma Square Shopping Center, 6860 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792 www.bostonsfishhouse.com
33 - Boston’s Fish House (407) 678-2107 Aloma Square Shopping Center, 6860 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792 www.bostonsfishhouse.com
45 - Wojo’s Bait & Tackle (407) 891-1003 Oak Park Center, 4245 13th St, St Cloud, FL 34769
East Colonial 11955 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando Lee Vista 6640 Eagle Watch Dr., Orlando Millenia 3557 Gardens Ridge Way, Orlando Lake Mary 3641 Lake Emma Road, Lake Mary
48 - Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Inc. (407) 447-7637 2133 Componet Loop Suite 1001, Oveido, FL 32765 www.mudhole.com
Wojo’s Bait & Tackle (407) 891-1003 Oak Park Center, 4245 13th St., St. Cloud, FL
56 - Orlando Outfitters (407) 896-8220 2814 Corrine Dr., Orlando, FL 32803 www.orlandooutfitters.com
Mud Hole Custom Tackle, Inc. (407) 447-7637 2133 Component Loop Suite 1001, Oviedo, FL www.mudhole.com
High Tide Harry’s (407) 273-4422
17 - St. Johns River Steak & Seafood (407) 878-0980
17 - St. Johns River Steak & Seafood (407) 878-0980
4645 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL www.hightideharrys.com
550 N Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771
550 N Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771
37 - The Steer (407) 286-6802 8015 S. Orange Ave., Orlando FL
37 - The Steer (407) 286-6802 8015 S. Orange Ave., Orlando FL
Boston’s Fish House (407) 678-2107 Aloma Square Shopping Center 6860 Aloma Ave., Winter Park, FL www.bostonsfishhouse.com
22 - Huey Magoo’s (407) 706-6004 www.hueymagoos.com
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10 Locations – See our ad on Restaurant Page
St. Johns River Steak & Seafood (407) 878-0980
Home Improvement Contractors & Service Providers
Orlando Outfitters (407) 896-8220 2814 Corrine Dr., Orlando, FL www.orlandooutfitters.com
26 - DWR Plumbing LLC. (407) 293-3717 6344 All American Blvd, Orlando, FL 32810
27 - Orlando Painting Service (407) 896-0839
65 Harold Ave, suite B, Winter Park, FL 32789 www.orlandopaintingservice.com
28 - Millennium Electric (407) 420-2001 4340 Edgewater Dr, Orlando, FL 32804 www.millennium-electric.com
Captain Troy Perez (321) 607-2033 capt.troyperez@gmail.com Mosquito Lagoon - Indian River - Port Canaveral Home Improvement Contractors & Service Providers
DWR Plumbing LLC. (407) 293-3717 6344 All American Blvd., Orlando, FL
41 - Water Works Pressure Cleaning & Sealing (407) 376-9526
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Orlando Painting Service (407) 896-0839 65 Harold Ave., Suite B, Winter Park, FL www.orlandopaintingservice.com
13 - Camp House Restaurant (407) 915-5401 100 S White Cedar Rd, Sanford, FL 32771 www.camphousebarandgrill.com
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550 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL
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Huey Magoo’s (407) 706-6802 www.hueysmagoos.com
52 - The Deli (407) 332-8800 4360 Carraway Pl, Sanford, FL 32771
52 - The Deli (407) 332-8800 4360 Carraway Pl, Sanford, FL 32771
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Camp House Restaurant (407) 915-5401
100 S. White Cedar Rd., Sanford, FL www.camphousebarandgrill.com
53 - T J’s Seafood Shack (407) 365-3365
53 - T J’s Seafood Shack (407) 365-3365 197 E Mitchell Hammock Rd, Oviedo, FL 32765 12231 E Colonial Dr. #230, Orlando(407) 250-4191 www.tjsseafoodshack.com
197 E Mitchell Hammock Rd, Oviedo, FL 32765 12231 E Colonial Dr. #230, Orlando(407) 250-4191 www.tjsseafoodshack.com
The Deli (407) 332-8800 4360 Carraway Pl., Sanford, FL
54 - Oasis On The River (407) 636-6300 4380 Carraway Place, Sanford, FL 32771
TJ’s Seafood Shack (407) 365-3365
54 - Oasis On The River (407) 636-6300 4380 Carraway Place, Sanford, FL 32771
56 - Celery City Craft (407) 915-5541 114 S. Palmetto Ave., Sanford FL 32771 celerycitycraft.com
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197 E. Mitchell Hammock Rd., Oviedo, FL 12231 E. Colonial Dr. #230, Orlando, FL www.tjsseafoodshack.com
Sanford Marina (407) 322-2910
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55 -West End Trading Co. (407) 322-7475 202 Sanford Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 www.drinkatwestend.com
55 -West End Trading Co. (407) 322-7475 202 Sanford Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 www.drinkatwestend.com
Celery City Craft (407) 915-5541
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West End Trading Co. (407) 322-7475
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Locations: Ocala, Coleman, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Mount Dora, Leesburg, Orlando
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Campbell Renovations Inc.
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Electronic Cigarettes and E-Liquid Experts in Smoking Cessation
Orlando Coastal Angler Magazine Approved! Altamonte Springs, Orlando East SR 50









popping bug. I have thoroughly enjoyed hearing the popping bug get hit. Daytime anglers are catching good numbers fishing the shallow bedding areas. Bait of choice is crickets fished under a float.Another good area to fish is canals when the water is flowing, trolling will only trigger more bites. Crappie - Anglers are fishing open water for crappie using jigs tipped Anglers trolling jigs are catching good limits of crappie. The key is to find them
East Lake Toho - Bass fishing on East Lake has been good using artificial baits early morning. The best place to fish will be at the edges of the cattails. Then move to open water as the morning progresses. Most anglers are flipping open water pepper grass matts with good success. Fish the deeper edges of the grasswatermelon seed, Junebug, and

Panfish - Fish open water shell beds with red wigglers. If you are looking to fill the cooler for dinner, the open water shell beds are

bass trips which are typical for this time of year. The month of September is when to start thinking of booking your bass fishing trip, as the females start to feed up while they make their way into the shallows for the early spawn time. It’s also the time to book your fall crappie trip too. Good fishing areas: parts of the shoal; Dupree Bar; Dyess ditch and Horse Island and Indian Prairie. Tin house has been solid throughout the season for crappie, bass and bream, work your way up towards 3rd and 2nd point where you’ll find some bass feeding on the bedding bream. A few areas on Kings Bar have been good and
To book you’re next fun-filled, productive and educational fishing trip call me at 863-228-7263 or log onto my website to check out the customers and their catches; hotel recommendations; guide rates and etc. Capt Angie’s sponsors are: Caymas boats and Toho Marine; South Tackle; Maui Jim; Gill; Bullet Weights; Road Runner; Real Magic; Tru Turn hooks; Mega Strike; Gene Larew; Pradco Brands and BUFF


I hope you all enjoyed Thanksgiving and looking forward to Christmas! If you haven’t been out there lately you need to! Fishing has been awesome as it usually is this time of year. Bunker pods have been steady and should continue to stay around a little while longer. Work the pods close to shore for giant red drum and other species feeding on them. We still have not seen any Black Drum yet but usually in Jan they trickle in. Use a 50lb mono leader with a 1-2 oz weight and a 7/0 circle hook. You can Knocker rig it or fish finder rig it.
Take the bunker offshore for some great kingfish action in all the normal areas. This time of year all the commercial guys are out there trying to support their families. Please do not get in their way, its already hard enough with all the


Troy Perez
321-607-2033
capt.troyperez@gmail.com
December is a great time of year to fish. The cooler weather and more frequent cold snaps help clean up the water, so it makes sight-fishing is very good, especially after the fronts with clear skies and no clouds. The grass should thin out to help see the fish better and generally the fish are not as spooky, especially the redfish. If we have a hard cold snap in the low 30s, the redfish and blackdrum fishing will be excellent. You can usually find them in deeper water but near a flat that they use to feed on as the day warms up. They generally stack together in the deeper areas. Typically, I use more lures this time of year on nice sunny days for sight fishing. Use a 1/8 oz. Mission Fishing jig head with Wyze Guyz pearl color paddle tails or Gulp Shrimp for trout and redfish. For cleaner water, I will use 20# fluorocarbon leader with 8-10# braid. On windier days, I still fish points of land and deeper areas
rules and regulations imposed on them/us. (you have no idea how hard they are making it for us)
When you see them out there doing circles just give them the space they need to fish. There’s plenty of ocean out there.
Mahi fishing has also been picking up. This is the time of year they migrate south, well who actually knows. It’s not as good as the spring run but can definitely pay off! Use all the typical dolphin rigs. Ballyhoo and strip baits work just fine. Smaller chuggers are great.
Every trip we are catching a few Cobia. So keep a jig handy.
Hope you all have an awesome holiday and enjoy your families.

and use cut bait like mullet, ladyfish and pin fish. Shrimp in the winter are a little bigger and work well dead or alive. You have a better chance of catching black drum with a 1/8 oz. jig head and piece of shrimp attached. With the water being lower and cleaner, finding schools of black drum are more common. Once you locate a school cast in front of the school and don’t move the bait, let them pick it up. Big black drum in the 20-40 lb. class will show up in the lagoon and Indian River usually in deeper water around 5-7’ deep in huge schools. I use ½ a crab on 5/8 to 1 oz. jig head or a piece of shrimp works well also. I use 30# fluorocarbon leader and 15# braid to catch bigger black drum. In the nearshore ocean, tripletail fishing will pick up on the calm days using live shrimp on 30-40# fluorocarbon leader tied to 30# braid and fish around the buoys with a small split shot. Normally, you need a couple of southeast winds a few days after cold snaps to be more productive.
Tip of the month: In the winter time, you can sleep in and fish in the afternoon when the water warms and it is calm. It can be just as good as the mornings.
For generations, builders across Central Florida have trusted two familiar names at the yard: RoMac Building Supply and Thomas Lumber. Today, those legacies come together under one roof as RoMac Building Supply acquires Thomas Lumber, creating a stronger partner for Orlando’s building community while honoring what made Thomas special for the last 100 years.
Both RoMac and Thomas grew up the same way, as family owned companies built on personal relationships and follow through. Thomas Lumber has been serving Metro Orlando builders since 1925, while RoMac has spent more than 80 years helping Central Florida grow from its home base in Leesburg. That shared history matters. It means decisions are still made locally and customers are known by name, not by account number. Both companies know that every load of lumber delivered represents a family, a paycheck, and a future taking shape.
RoMac’s mission is simple and clear: Supply Communities and Building Up People. Bringing Thomas Lumber into the RoMac family is a natural extension of that promise. Orlando gains access to RoMac’s wider capabilities in custom doors, windows, trusses, millwork, and installation services, while Thomas customers keep the trusted team, location, and commitment to service they have relied on for decades. Different name, same service.

Most importantly, the people who made Thomas Lumber a fixture in Orlando are still here. Under the leadership of Deanna Perez, the longtime team members you know and trust will continue to serve builders and remodelers from the Gore Street location. RoMac is investing in them so they can invest in you, with the tools, products, and support needed to keep jobs moving, projects on schedule, and neighborhoods growing stronger with every completed home.
As Central Florida continues to grow, the region needs suppliers who understand both the pace of the market and the pride that goes into every project. With RoMac and Thomas together, customers gain the scale and resources of one of Florida’s largest independent building material dealers backed by a century of local knowledge in Orlando. Different Name, Same Service is more than a slogan. It is a promise we intend to keep.











Unit #101, Longwood, FL 32750 www.respitecmedical.com • 407-834-2266 and 1-800-945-6685
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SEBASTIAN (IRL)

Lake Okeechobee’s water level has been hovering around the 14 ft. mark which makes for a somewhat safer boating experience but please still use caution, come off plane then idle in/out as parts of the lake do have a rock bottom. While out on the lake exploring and with guide trips, I’m noticing some really nice eel grass and hydrilla starting to come back especially in/around the Tin house area which is located on the NW sided of the lake. I’m also seeing some mixtures of Kissimmee grass with reeds. Areas on the lake that are producing bass are: Kings Bar; Buckhead Ridge area(s); Tin House; some spots around Indian Praire and on down towards Dyess Ditch. Outside areas around Dupree bar; some parts of the Monkey box and areas on the Shoal as you make your way South. On the East side, Nub and Slough and around Hendry Creek
are holding bass and crappie. Live-bait for bass is catching numbers along with bigger female bass that are spawning and the lure bite is really good throwing frogs; swim baits/jigs; worms; flipping/pitching; some top water and spinner baits. Lure colors are: june bug; red shad; white; tilapia; bluegill patterns (shallow crank baits) and black/blue. Limits of crappie are being caught both trolling with lures/minnows and the jig bite in/around vegetation is coming on strong. The lake is much more opennow and some areas will look different, with some areas with no vegetation and other areas with a more vegetation than last year. Every year, the lake does change so explore your old spots and check out new areas that look fishy! To book you’re next fun-filled day fishing Okeechobee, call me at 863-228-7263 or check out my updated website at www. southfloridabassfishing.com I can accommodate 4 people on my new 21.5 foot Caymas bass boat that is rigged with forward-facing sonar. I do supply top of the line rods/reel, supply all terminal tackle for artificial trips for both bass and crappie; bottles of water; ice; sunscreen and light rain gear. Tight Lines & Happy Holidays !!

Winter is here - all the migrating birds have arrived as the coldfronts are coming every 7-10 days. The Alligator Chain of Lakes for crappie fishing is turning on! Fish the flow at the mouth of the canals. Also, groups of crappies are still in open water and will remain there until the end of December. Your best method for catching crappies this time of year will be trolling multiple rods with jig heads tipped with minnows at different depths. If you cannot find the crappie in open water, move to the outside edge of the Kissimmee grass or groups of lilly pads. Stop in at Wojo’s Bait and Tackle and register for this season’s 17th Annual Shad & Crappie Derby, it is “FREE” to enter, lots of great prizes up for grabs!
On the Kissimmee Chain, bass fishing is turning on too. They are going into spawn mode and feeding heavily to gain weight; the best place to fish will be in the Kissimmee grass, edges of boat trails, reed patches and edges of hydrillia. The males have been moving into shallow, sandy areas to compete for spawning ground. The bait of choice will be plastic baits, flukes, trick worms and speed worms. The best colors to use are watermelon seed, watermelon red and June bug. Another suitable location for catching big bass will be in open water near the hydrilla patches. The bait of choice will be rattle traps, chrome with blue back. Another spot to catch fish is Goblets Cove. There is hydrilla to navigate through with a boat but the hydrilla should hold some really big fish. Go fishing a few days after the cold fronts pass or just as the are moving in for best results. Best time of year on the chain for catching a trophy bass of your life time!













Crowd






The Sea Eagle® Stealth Stalker™ 10 is now available with a lightweight, super portable, high pressure drop stitch oor. With this new in atable oor, the total weight of the boat is 13 pounds less than the traditional wooden oorboard. The oor rolls up with the boat making transporting and storing a breeze. The seats attach with 4 double d-ring straps for quick & easy set up. Use the STS10 with 1 or 2 anglers in bays, lakes, rivers, salt marshes - wherever the sh are.
STS10 Pro Lite Package includes everything you see below plus a storage bag for the boat, pump and repair kit. Add an electric or gas




If you’re searching for an ideal holiday gi! for a woman who enjoys spending time on the water, consider Costa Del Mar’s Luna Nueva polarized sunglasses. ese women’s shades use color-enhancing 580 lens technology to reduce haze and boost contrast and clarity. Choose between glass (580G) lenses for outstanding sharpness and scratch resistance, or lightweight polycarbonate (580P) for impact protection—either option o ers a high-de nition viewing experience.
Designed with simplicity in mind, Luna Nueva makes a great companion for anglers, featuring an elegant butter y-shaped frame cra!ed from ultra-thin material. is results in one of the slimmest pro les in Costa’s collection, delivering a sophisticated and distinctive appearance. Adjustable nose pads allow custom t ensuring maximum comfort and retention. costadelmar.com/en-us/sunglasses/6S9127-198537009143



























s the holidays roll around, anglers everywhere are dreaming of that perfect new piece of gear to add to their arsenal. If you are looking for a compact, fun, and travel-friendly rod this holiday season, check out micro rods from Bean Pole. e Bean Pole takes the micro rod concept to the next level. It’s compact, durable, and designed for real anglers who appreciate simplicity with performance. It’s easy to store, fun to use, and rugged enough to handle both saltwater and freshwater adventures. Perfect for impromptu casts or for those who like to keep a rod handy wherever life (or travel) takes them. ey also have a vibrant fun color!
is Holiday season, skip the ordinary gi!s and give something unforgettable, a Bean Pole. Compact, exciting, and travel-ready, it’s more than just a micro rod, it’s an invitation to adventure!
Order at www.beansport shing.com while supplies last.


CAPT. TYLER WOOLCOTT
Shopping for a bass sherman isn’t easy.

Most of us already have enough rods and tackle boxes to ll a garage, and we’re picky about every lure we throw. But that’s what makes stocking stu ers the ideal gi!s: they are small, useful gi!s that actually get used on the water.
An absolute can’t miss item is shing line. A spool of Su x line is my recommendation, whether it’s 832 braid or Advance uorocarbon. is is one of those gi!s that every bass sherman truly appreciates. It’s the kind of thing we always need but hate spending money, making it a perfect stocking surprise.
If you want to add some color and action, grab a few packs of CrushCity so! plastics. eir Bronco Bugs, Cleanup Craws, and Freeloader minnows at out catch sh, and you can’t go wrong with their proven colors. Toss a couple of those in a stocking and you will win Christmas morning.

For the gear junkies, think about tools and tackle organization. A pair of Rapala pliers, some hook removers, or one of their waterproof tackle boxes are small but mighty gi!s that make a big di erence on the water. Every angler loves having their gear dialed in, and Rapala makes stu that actually holds up. Don’t forget about gi!ing some comfort on those long, sunny days. Chums makes a ton of great accessories like sunglass retainers, oating keychains, and waterproof phone pouches. es are perfect little add-ons that make life on the boat a little easier and can save a few pair of sunglasses from sinking.
At the end of the day, the best gi!s for a bass sherman aren’t necessarily the biggest or ashiest. Instead, they’re the thoughtful, practical items that make time on the water smoother, easier, and just a little more fun. By throwing a few of these suggestions in a stocking – and maybe adding a gas station co ee card for good measure- you’re sure to have any bass angler smiling wider than a ve-pounder at weigh-in.
Happy Holidays, Y’all!
Capt. Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler, as well as owner/operator of Florida Big Fish Adventures, providing bass and saltwater guided shing trips. Reach him at (386) 235-7388 and check out his website: www. oridabig shadventures.com.

































As 2025 winds down, let’s take a minute to honor a few amazing anglers who set IGFA records this year. e International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has recognized several new 2025 world records, including a black n snapper caught by Michael McFadden o the coast of Florida, a cobia by Koby Duncan in Australia, and an Arctic char and common carp length records set by Jay Siemens and Rowan Lytle, respectively in Canada and Connecticut.

Many new U.S. records for freshwater species are also included, such as the landlocked striped bass by Pamela Moss in Georgia and the Alabama bass, also by Moss in Georgia. Some 2025 IGFA US Saltwater Records include a 27 lb. red grouper by Zachary Daniel Murray o Florida, a 31 lb. 3 oz. greater amberjack by Julia Berstein out of Key West, and a 55.9 in. great barracuda by Nick LaBadie on y tackle o Key West. ese were all certi ed and submitted to the IGFA, with the grouper and amberjack being o cial weights and the barracuda being an all-tackle length record. e IGFA is publishing its 2025 World Record Book and has also added two new species—barred sand bass and spotted sand bass—to its catch-and-release All-Tackle Length World Record Category.
Will you be among these elite anglers in 2026?
For a complete database of 2025 record holders, visit igfa.org.


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Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the US Virgin Islands embody a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and laid-back serenity. ese islands are more than just a picturesque getaway; they are a living testament to nature’s rhythm and resilience, e ortlessly in tune with the world around them.
With no passport required for U.S. citizens, from the moment you arrive, the islands’ natural rhythm is palpable. e gentle sway of palm trees, the soothing sound of surf crashing against sandy shores, and the vibrant melodies of local music all echo the heartbeat of this tropical paradise. e islands’ lush landscapes, with their verdant hills and crystal-clear waters, mirror the steady pulse of life that sustains the local ecosystems and communities alike.
e US Virgin Islands’ environment is a symphony of biodiversity with world class shing and diving. ese natural elements are not static; they dance in harmony, in uenced by the tides, wind, and seasonal changes— further emphasizing the islands’ intrinsic rhythm. is delicate balance underscores the importance of conservation e orts, ensuring that future generations continue to experience the islands’ natural cadence.


Culturally, the US Virgin Islands are equally in tune. e music, dance and festivals re ect a vibrant heritage rooted in African, European and Caribbean traditions. e spirited calypso beats and reggae rhythms are expressions of life's ongoing dance—celebrating resilience, community and joy. ese cultural expressions are an extension of the islands’ natural rhythm, showcasing how human life here moves seamlessly with nature’s ow.
In a world o!en dictated by chaos and rapid change, the US Virgin Islands serve as a reminder of the beauty of being in sync with nature’s tempo. eir natural, cultural and ecological rhythms o er a blueprint for sustainable living and harmony. As travelers and residents alike continue to embrace this rhythm, they uphold a legacy of balance—one that celebrates life’s natural ow and the enduring spirit of these remarkable islands. In the US Virgin Islands, being in rhythm isn’t just an ideal; it’s a way of life.














It’s no fsh tale when you run with a John Deere. You can get everything done faster and easier, so you get more time on the water. Plus, our special offers make them the catch of the day.


