Coastal Angler Magazine | December 2025 Lake Okeechobee / Lake Istokpoga Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

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HOLIDAY FOR ANGLERS GIFTS

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!

LAST CHANCE FOR GROUPER ROMANCE

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.

Tim Barefoot

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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.

Welcome to the Happy Holidays

Seminole BRIGHTON BAY Hotel and Casino – Skull Hill Archery – Henderson’s Fish Camp – Lightsey Family Ranch – Fast Break Bait and Tackle – Jesse’s Auto Body – Fish Candy Bait and Tackle Shop – Okeechobee Tourism – Custom Prints – Heartland Tax and Accounting – Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce – The Print Shop of Sebring – Lampe & Keifer Hearing.

Throughout the year, we’ve had other advertisers who have supported us, making it possible to publish The Angler Magazine. Once again, we owe them our thanks, and we appreciate the local support. Doug Williams – Gator Guns – Get Fish Slapped – Knott Aluminum – Okeechobee Fish Company – Bernie's House Painting –The Caladium Festival and Auto Show – Refuse to Sink - Susan O'Rourke, Realtor A Special Thank you to our writers who have shared their knowledge and fishing forecasts. And last but not least, to the incredible talent of Tammy Kopp, our graphic artist, whose talent is seen in every issue of the magazine – from the incredible graphics in the ads to the creative artwork in every article. Merry Christmas, looking forward to an

and successful New Year in 2026!

WHERE TO FIND THE ANGLER MAGAZINE

and deliver 5000

AVON PARK

Avon Park Chamber of Commerce

Walmart

Wild Turkey Tavern

Bill Jarrett Auto

Huston Chevrolet

Huston Dodge/Jeep

SEBRING

Sebring Chamber of Commerce

Fish Candy

Food For Thought

Alan Jay Ford

Alan Jay Chevy/GM

Veterans Administration

McKibbons

McPhails Auto

Sebring Toyota

YMCA

Walmart

SPRING LAKE/LORIDA

Gator Shack

Spray and Pray

Sebring Resorts

Seven Hotel

LAKE PLACID

Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce

Lake Placid Western Wear

Boaters World

Lake Placid Marine

Lake Placid Historical Society

Bass Addict

LAKEPORT

Brighton Seminole Casino and Hotel

Big Water Bait and Tackle

Brighton Trading Post

Lakeport Quik Shop

OKEECHOBEE

Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce

Fast Break Bait and Tackle

Skull Hill Archery

Garrards Bait and Tackle

Lake and Trail USA

Eli’s Western Wear

Walmart

PALMDALE

Gatorama

Fisheating Creek Outpost

KOA Holiday RV Park

CLEWISTON

Clewiston Chamber of Commerce

Jolly Rogers Marina

Roland Martin Marina

Hampton Inn

Walmart

LABELLE

LaBelle Chamber of Commerce

Walmart

LaBelle Ranch Supplies

Red Rooster Restaurant

Bridgestreet Auto Parts

WAUCHULA

Wauchula Chamber of Commerce

Caloosa Outfitters

Thousand Trails

Alan Jay Ford

Alan Jay Jeep/Chrysler

Walmart

ARCADIA

Arcadia Chamber of Commerce

Gator Guns

Arcadia Golf Course

Walmart

Eli’s Western Wear

Capital Pawn

WBy Capt. Dave Stephens

Boca Granda Pass, Charlotte Harbor, and the Flats REPORT & FORECAST

ell, here we are in December. This month can be somewhat challenging. A lot depends on the weather. If we have a warmer month, we can go one way; if it's cooler, we go another.

So, let's start with a warmer month. If the weather continues to stay warm, with our water temperatures in the 70s, the snook bite will remain pretty consistent. Areas such as deeper creeks, residential canals, and deep cuts in the mangroves will be holding good numbers of fish. You can also expect to catch a few reds and trout.

If we are not so lucky and Mother Nature sends some cold fronts our way, dropping the water below 70 degrees? Well, for the most part, the snook bite will undoubtedly shut down till next spring. This is usually a sign to get the jig-heads out and start shrimp fishing. Fishing can be excellent at this time of year.

Fishing potholes and deep points can be very effective. Usually, the reds and trout move into these areas. If you can find some places with a limestone bottom, the sheep-head will also be around. The color of the jig is based on personal preference. I am a chartreuse guy. I like to use one just heavy enough to make contact with the bottom. So, I guess we have to sit back and see what Mother Nature has in store for us.

— Capt. Dave Stephens 941-916-5769 | www.backbayxtremes.com

FULL SERVICE PRO SHOP

Capt. Angie Douthit

Okeechobee REPORT & FORECAST

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 on 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 northwest side 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 Prairie, and on down towards Dyess Ditch. Outside areas around the 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. The lure bite is good, with options including throwing frogs, swim baits/jigs, worms, flipping/pitching, some topwater, and spinner baits.

Lure colors are: june bug; red shad; white; tilapia; bluegill patterns (shallow crank baits), and black/blue. Boaters are scattered as they fish; you’ll see some back in against rigid walls of vegetation, some out in the middle area, and others keeping to the outer edges. 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 now much more open, and some areas will appear different, with some sections having no vegetation and others having more than last year. Every year, the lake changes, so explore your old spots and check out new areas that look promising! I’m anticipating a very active but tricky bass and crappie spawn this year, which means that they could be in the regions that you couldn’t or didn’t find in the past.

To book you’re next fun-filled day fishing Okeechobee, call me at 863228-7263 or check out my updated website that contains a plethora of information 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 and offers a really nice-comfortable, roomy ride with tons of storage for you to bring your own tackle/lures if you choose to do so, but 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. I also have access to another guide boat, which can accommodate group trips and offer Military and One-person guided trips. For those of you who are traveling, I do offer fish cleaning for a nominal fee. I hope this information helps you to have a better, more productive day of fishing. Tight Lines !!

— To book you’re next fun day fishing, call 863-7263 or check out my website, where you’ll see up-to-date info, customer catches, hotel info, past reports, and more www.southfloridabassfishing.com. I can accommodate groups of people; I offer Veteran and one-person discounted trips. Inquire when calling to book.

A big thank you to my sponsors: Mercury Marine; Toho Marine (St. Cloud, Fl); Bullet Weights; G-Loomis; Lews; BnM Poles; Bobby Garland; Rapala; Gill; Gene Larew; Lurenet.com

SO, YOU WANNA FISH BASS TOURNAMENTS……….

By Don Norton

Fishing can be both fun and challenging. Bass fishing, in and of itself, can easily become a full-time career. Just ask any of the .0005% of anglers who actually make it to the professional level and earn a decent living.

But what about the average guy or gal? What’s it like for them to fish a bass tournament?

Well, for starters, you’re going to need some basic equipment: fishing rods, reels, line, and lures. If you don’t already have the basics, this will set you back hundreds of dollars. (Even if you have enough stuff to get started, purchasing more “stuff” will become a financial addiction for the rest of your life).

Then you’ll need a boat. And not just any boat. To be competitive, it should probably be a sleek and powerful bass boat. And, of course, it will need to be loaded with all the extras: power poles, depth finders, and forward-facing sonar. That can easily set you back $100,000.00 or more. Of course, you could start with a used rig, otherwise known as “somebody else's problem.”

Now that you have everything you need to fish a tournament, all you have to do is “sign up”. Depending on the type of tournament (and there are many types of tournaments), you may need to become a member to participate. It’s usually $50.00 or less to become a member, and then you pay the entry fee. This can range from as little as $100 to the thousands of dollars, but most local and regional bass tournaments

fall within the $75.00 to $200 range. (Oh, and don’t forget the Big Bass pot. That’s usually an additional fee.)

Obviously, the higher the entry fee, the higher the payout (always dependent on the number of participants, which translates into the number of competitors).

Now here comes the fun part.

Tournament day finally comes, and you’re so excited you can’t sleep the night before. Which is fine, since you need to get up by 3 am anyway. The bathroom challenge is the first thing you’ll need to address. Nobody wants to be out in the middle of the lake and realize they have to go to the bathroom. (And I’m not referring to Number One). If it’s not dealt with, it will come back to haunt you later in the day, I promise you.

Once on the road, you’re greeted with a long line of boats waiting to pick up their paperwork and launch their rigs. Sometimes this can run pretty smoothly, but just as often, there’s some new guy who’s never backed up a boat before, and with the added pressure of everyone yelling and cursing at him, he finally gets it into the water.

Then you get to sit in your boat and wait. This is one of the hardest things you’ll do all day. Waiting for take-off, fighting off mosquitoes, rain, wind, or a cold front that just came through can be nerve-racking as you wait for the sun to come up, or for the tournament director to call out the starting time.

Finally, you’re on the water. As you race off to your chosen first stop, you realize someone else beat you to it. The same thing happens when you go to your second spot. But eventually you find somewhere to fish, and the day gets started.

For the next 8-10 hours, regardless of the weather conditions and your aching body, you manage to catch a few fish, and you head in for the weigh-in. This is often a cluster $%!&! Just imagine, dozens of boats, all anxious to weigh in their fish and go home, and you’re right in the middle of it all.

Eventually, you weigh your fish, load up your boat, and once again, wait to see if you caught enough to at least pay for the privilege of fishing the tournament.

Check or no check, after 12 hours of sleep deprivation, you experience constipation, an aching back, shoulder, and wrist, and a sunburn because you forgot to apply sunscreen, a wildlife game and fish officer taps you on the shoulder and asks to see your fishing license.

For the first time today, real panic sets in. You forgot to buy one!

Capt. Robin Clegg

Okeechobee

REPORT & FORECAST

With the cold of December also comes the season of crappie and bass spawning in Florida. This can be the perfect opportunity for anglers to fill their freezer with specs and to catch a bass of a lifetime.

For bass, keep it simple. A new bait that has emerged is the Hoyt Cater and Hoyt Double Buzzer. These baits are incredible, to say the least. They’ve been on the bass circuit for the last couple of years, and many of the anglers have had great success. Watch my YouTube episode on the Hoytcater and the success I’ve had on Lake Okeechobee.

Crappie (spec) can be caught from a boat or along the bank of the Kissimmee River. If you’re bank fishing, you can go under the bridge by Scott Driver Marina and the Okee Tante Marina on Rt 78 just south of the city. Okee Tante Marina is also a great place to fish from the bank. Use a slip bobber with split shot and a hook. You can also use an adjustable pole. I prefer a 10-foot pole.

You can purchase all your crappie and bass fishing gear at the Garrard Tackle Store, located at 4375 US 441, or call them at 863-763-3416. They can also provide information on when and where to have a successful day on the water.

I will be offering a boat for rent this fall. You’ll need an FWC safe boating license, which can be obtained online. I post weekly updates on my YouTube channel about how the fishing is going. If you’re looking to book a trip on Lake Okeechobee, please call me at 304-398-5215. I supply rods, reels, and tackle.

Located on 2,000 acres of Florida bays, pines, palmettos, and oaks, outside the small town of Lake Placid, the Lightsey Family Ranch is perfect for the avid hunter and outdoorsman. Owner and lifelong hunter, Lee Lightsey, offers you to a one-of-a-kind hunting experience, including wild hog, quail, pheasant, turkey, deer, and alligator hunts. During your hunt you are welcome to stay at our lodge which features room for up to 28 guests, a large lobby with a true old Florida feel, and a full time Chef ready to prepare your meals.

"... In recent years I have tried to tell stories with my work. To present a visual story that begins a conversation with the viewer –– an idea that starts with something I find interesting and ends with what the viewer adds from their own experiences. It is a silent conversation. So instead of someone interrupting my story while itching to get their story heard, we are sharing the story. It becomes both our stories. I start and they finish. That makes us both happy. ..."

—Larry Felder - June 2025

MPaintings of Local Artist Larry Felder

By Don Norton

y wife and I recently visited the Museum of the Arts (MOTA) in Sebring, Florida, and I was so impressed with the paintings of local artist Larry Felder that I was eager to learn more about him and his artwork.

Larry was born in San Antonio, Texas, and began his career in architecture, focusing on drafting, woodwork, and mechanical drawing. But he soon realized that was not the career for him. In the late 1960s, he moved to California for a short time, then returned home, got married, and went back to school to study Studio Art.

He became an art director, a teaching professor, and a creative director for advertising design. He helped start up an educational publishing company for people with learning disabilities. They made products that helped people. He stayed with the company for 12 years, and by the time he left, they were making over 500 products.

By 2004, he began doing fine art. He started a gallery in Rockport, Texas, a well-known art community, representing approximately 25 artists. His wife ran the gallery.

Eventually, his son took over the gallery and he and his wife began traveling and fishing, eventually moving to Costa Rico. Then, four years later, in 2014, they moved back to Bradenton, Florida, to be near their daughter, who had recently given birth.

With their last move to Lake Blue in the city of Lake Placid, he became involved with the Art Museum in Sebring, eventually serving as its president. In addition to painting, he teaches fine art classes.

He is an incredible artist, as his work speaks for itself. For more information on Larry and to view many of his paintings, visit the Highlands Art League and Larry Felder – About the Artist.

COLLECTING LURE

By Doug Williams

Bob Ousley was a Sears technician originally from Tennessee who relocated to Homestead, Florida, as part of his job. His diverse hobbies included stock car racing, motorcycles, spearfishing, and collecting tropical fish, which honed his hands-on skills and sparked his interest in lure-making. After moving to Florida, Ousley became fascinated with snook fishing—a species common in estuaries, inland tributaries, coastal ponds, and island networks from Georgia and Florida down through the Gulf to Brazil. This passion led him to experiment with custom fishing lures tailored specifically for snook.

In 1965, Ousley crafted his first prototype of the Snook Minnow lure, a wooden bait designed with smooth, flowing lines to mimic the snook's natural prey. The lure was engineered to run true at 3-5 inches underwater, making it effective for targeting snook in their preferred habitats. He developed it in three sizes (ranging from 2¾ inches to 4⅜ inches) to correlate with the varying prey sizes that different snook consume, reflecting his deep understanding of the fish's behavior.

Demand quickly grew among friends and local anglers, exceeding Ousley's initial plans for small-scale personal use. He filed for a design patent in 1967, which was granted in 1968. The lure was first marketed as the Bob Ousley Snook Minnow, produced under his own Bob-OTackle Company.

By 1969, Ousley partnered with George Turner, expanding production and rebranding the lure as the Bob-O-Tackle Magician (also simply called the Magician). After retiring from Sears, he relocated to Fort Myers, Florida, where manufacturing and sales continued under the BobO-Tackle name. The lures were handcrafted in about half a dozen colors, with options for glass eyes, carved eyes, or painted eyes. Hardware variations included cup hardware, screw-eye setups, and wire-through designs for durability.

Packaging featured plastic-top cardboard boxes with printed in-

Bob Ousley’s Snook Minnow

terior information about the lure's use. While t he Snook Minnow/Magician gained a loyal following among Florida anglers, it never re ached the high-volume production of larger makers like Jim Pfeffer, Don Robinson, or Bob Eger. Ousley also expanded his line to include chugger-style baits, such as the Super Chug in three sizes, but the Snook Minnow remained his signature creation.

The Snook Minnow is celebrated in Florida's angling history as a specialized, artisanal lure emblematic of the state's custom bait scene. It has been documented in collector resources, including Bill Stuart's book Florida Lures and Their Makers. In 2010, the Florida Antique Lure Collectors (FATC) honored it with a commemorative patch, underscoring its status among vintage lure collectors. Today, original examples are prized by collectors for their craftsmanship and ties to mid-20th-century Florida fishing culture.

— If you would like to learn more about contemporary or vintage fishing tackle, feel free to contact me via text or telephone @ 305-926-7526. I often help readers value their collectables for no fee.

Creekside Live Bait and Tackle

By Tangie Neff - (Imma Poga Gal)

Creekside Live Bait and Tackle is now open at Neiberts Fish Camp, just off State Route 98, alongside Arbuckle Creek.

You may recall that the location was once Fred’s Bar, which has since closed; however, for many people, the airboat rides were the main attraction. Well, Fred’s Bar is gone, but the airboat trips are still available, in addition to the new fishing tackle store.

If you’re planning a trip to Lake Istokpoga, launching your boat at Istokpoga Park, or Cowhouse Road in Lorida, Creekside Live Bait and Tackle couldn’t be more convenient. Located just before the boat ramp road, it’s a quick stop for live bait and last-minute necessities.

The new store will feature a wide range of live bait, including minnows, domestic shiners, redworms, nightcrawlers, and catfish bait, with grass shrimp to be added soon. Crickets will be available in season.

In addition, the store will offer light fishing tackle, soft drinks, and snacks. Souvenirs will also be available.

In addition to live bait, light tackle, snacks, and souvenirs, customers will also be able to book crappie and bluegill trips with Tangie Neff, also known as “Imma Poga Gal”. And for those interested in bass fishing, trips with Capt. Corky Neff can also be scheduled. — Stop in and say hi.

As life becomes busier, the importance of protecting our peace becomes even more vital. That truth found me not in a quiet moment of meditation, but in the splash of saltwater and the startled laughter that followed.

We had just bought a 21-foot Hewes Light Tackle flats boat—a shift from our previous vessels, a 23-foot Pro-Line and a vintage 1955 Chris Craft. The change felt symbolic: a new chapter, a lighter footprint, a different rhythm. But transitions, even joyful ones, take adjustment.

Not long after, we took my daughter and her towering 6'4" husband out fishing. I’ve always been the kind of woman who celebrates every catch, no matter the size. So, when I reeled in a two-foot Black Tip shark, my heart raced with childlike wonder. My son-in-law offered to release it, and I gratefully handed off the task.

As I swung the shark toward the bow, he stepped forward. I stepped back— instinctively, casually—and walked straight off the stern. Into the ocean. Into the very water that had just hosted my shark.

profound: balance isn’t just a metaphor. It’s a muscle. It’s the grace to laugh when you fall, the instinct to reach for what steadies you, and the courage to keep fishing even when the water gets wild.

I learned two things that day: I can move like lightning when I need to—and life, in all its unpredictability, is best lived with joy, humility, and a good ladder nearby.

— Peggy Choquette - Fish Candy Bait and Tackle

It’s the grace to laugh when you fall, the instinct to reach for what steadies you, and the courage to keep fishing even when the water gets wild.

In the chaos of laughter, sputtering, and adrenaline, I managed to shout two things at once: “Don’t release the shark!” and “I need the ladder!” I scrambled up that Gilligan’s Island rope ladder like my life depended on it—clutching my rod, my soul, and yes, my pearls. That moment, ridiculous and raw, reminded me of something

Credit cards accepted

702 N Ridgewood Dr. Sebring, FL 33870

863-658-1686

Summer Hours: Monday - Friday 7am-5:30pm Saturday 7am-3pm Closed on Sunday

Jesse A. Choquette Owner-Operator

Come Outside & Play!

ASK RED

By Don Norton

Why are bluegills called bluegills when they’re not actually blue?

Experience world-class bass fishing in the heart of Okeechobee, FL, where every cast is an opportunity for an unforgettable catch.

hat’s a great question. For many years, I wondered the same thing. But like many anglers, I began looking more closely at some of the true bluegills that I caught, and at times, I could see a blueish or even purple color, particularly around the gills, often depending on how I held them to the light.

But to better understand why bluegills are called bluegills, I “googled” the question, and despite not actually being blue, you might

ame "bluegill" refers to the blue coloration on the gill covers of lue hue is more prominent in males, especially during breeding erm "gill" in the name highlights the anatomical feature rather uegills can exhibit various colors, including green and yellow, depending on their environment.

• Common names often reflect specific traits rather than the overall appearance of the species.

• The name has been used historically and is widely recognized among anglers and fish enthusiasts.

I love to fish for bluegill, particularly with a small popper during breeding season, but I spend most of my time fishing for largemouth bass. I remember when I moved to Florida, over 30 years ago. On one of my first trips to Lake Istokpoga, I asked a guide what the best color plastic worm was. I’ll never forget his reply.

“You can use any color you want, as long as it’s blue/black.” Obviously, largemouth bass can “see” the blue in a bluegill since they are one of their primary food sources.

4967 San Ignacio Drive Sebring, FL 33872 FOR SALE

4967 San Ignacio Drive Sebring, FL 33872

Scan for details!

Beautiful home located in Sun N Lakes. 2021 CBS home. 3 bd, 2 ba, 1698 sf

Granite countertops, white shaker cabinets, SS appliances, tile flooring, walk in pantry, coffered ceilings, stone accent wall with fireplace, security system, fully fenced, screened and tiled patio, private back yard, great storage, large lot, , No HOA, upgraded lighting

Susan O’Rourke

REALTOR® | eXp Realty (843) 499-0025 https://www.susanorourke.exprealty.com

Specializing in golf and lakefront living in Highlands County, Florida

Start the New Year with Peace and Opportunity in Highlands County

While you enjoy the last month of the year — the holidays, the laughter, and the moments shared with family and friends — it’s natural to think about what the New Year may bring. December has a way of slowing us down just enough to imagine new possibilities, new priorities, and new places to call home.

For many, that next chapter begins right here in Sebring. With more than 100 shimmering lakes, winding nature trails, and a welcoming community, Highlands County offers a lifestyle that blends peace, recreation, and yearround beauty. Even during the festive holiday rush, the lakes stay calm and steady — a gentle reminder that life can be both simple and deeply fulfilling.

eace, recreation, and yearround beauty. Even during the festive holiday rush, the lakes stay calm and steady — a gentle reminder that life can be both simple and deeply fulfilling.

Imagine starting your mornings on a lakefront porch, watching the sunrise reflect across still water. Picture weekends spent fishing, boating, or enjoying local golf courses under bright blue skies. From charming cottages to spacious modern homes, Sebring provides options for every season of life — whether you’re seeking a full-time residence, a winter getaway, or a future investment.

As the year comes to a close, many people begin searching for more balance, more nature, and more meaning in their surroundings. Highlands County delivers all of that and more. Here, community matters, outdoor living thrives, and the pace of life reminds you to breathe deeply and enjoy each day.

Let Sebring inspire your next chapter. Because in Highlands County, peace and opportunity aren’t resolutions — they’re a way of life.

Susan O’Rourke

Custom Made Noffo Knives

By Don Norton

I’m a knife collector. Along with some old stamps, a few old coins, and an extensive assortment of old fishing tackle, I started collecting old pocketknives as a young boy, and I’m always on the lookout to add a new knife to my growing collection.

So, when Doug Williams, a friend of mine who also collects knives, told me about meeting Mike Noffo at the recent annual Spring Lake Flea Market, I had to meet him for myself and maybe interview him for The Angler Magazine.

I gave Mike a call, and he invited me to his home and workshop on the east side of Lake Istokpoga in Lorida, Florida.

Mike was born and raised in Miami, Florida, where he attended the University of Miami before entering the construction field.

My immediate reaction to his workshop was shock and awe. The amount of equipment and the organization of all the parts required for knife construction were impressive. It was probably the cleanest and most organized workshop I’ve ever seen.

Mike spent a generous amount of time walking me through the laborious stages of making a knife, and I couldn’t help but wonder how he ever got started in knife-making to begin with.

As he walked me through the process of making a knife, he explained that he had spent over 40 years in the construction field, at the highest level, retiring in 2022. As an avid hunter and fisherman all his life, he had always collected knives and decided to learn how to make them himself. Like many people attempting to learn a new vocation or hobby, he turned to YouTube videos. Through watching the videos and his own trial and error, he developed a flawless system that creates functional and oneof-a-kind, beautiful knives. Mike is not interested in mass-producing his knives; he prefers to build only a limited number each year. “This is something I enjoy doing,” he said as he continued walking me through the final stages of one of his classic knives.

It would take more space than I have to walk you through the entire process of making a single knife, but suffice it to say, it’s a long process.

Mike has learned his craft well. And surprisingly, for a handcrafted knife, Noffo Knives are reasonably priced. I bought one of his filet knives, although I may never use it to filet a fish.

Contact Mike if you're interested in the fine craftsmanship of custom-made knives. You can reach him at 786-376-4291. I guarantee you’ll be impressed.

Between Maple and Mangroves: Finding Home in Florida

By Don Norton

Leaving Canada in December was like stepping out of winter’s embrace into a world that felt almost unreal. The first weeks in Florida were disorienting—no snow crunching underfoot, no breath hanging in the air. Instead, the air was thick with salt and sun, warm enough to cling to my skin. I missed the sharp scent of pine, the hush of snowfall, the way cold air bit at my cheeks.

But staying indoors only deepened the ache. So I began to explore. The coastline was my first revelation—a sweep of turquoise water meeting endless sky. The sand was soft and warm, grains slipping between my fingers like powdered sugar. Standing there, the Atlantic breeze carried the tang of salt and the cry of gulls, tugging at my thoughts and loosening the grip of homesickness. Each sunrise spilled molten gold across the horizon, painting the waves in colors I’d never seen back home.

Then came the lakes, scattered like hidden jewels across the state. Cypress trees rose from still waters, their roots twisting like sculptures. The air smelled of earth and moss, and dragonflies skimmed the surface like living sparks. I learned their names, their moods, and in doing so, I learned something about myself: adaptation isn’t about forgetting where you came from; it’s about finding beauty where you are.

Fishing became my anchor. In Canada, it was a winter ritual; here, it was a bridge. The rod felt familiar in my hands, but the water shimmered under a subtropical sun. Waiting for the line to twitch, I heard the soft lap of waves

and the distant hum of cicadas. Each catch was a small victory, a reminder that life could feel whole again.

Florida didn’t erase Canada—it added to it. Between the salt air and the inland lakes, between mangroves and maple memories, I discovered a different kind of peace. What began as a reluctant move became a journey of rediscovery. And somewhere along the coast, with the scent of salt and the sound of gulls overhead, I realized: I wasn’t just adjusting—I was becoming.

"There will be a point in time where "one last cast" actually will be...

...Enjoy every cast you get" let that sink in... — Doug Chapin Fishing

Imma’ Poga Gal

By Don Norton

It’s crappie season, and for many folks in Highlands County, that means catching the scrappy, slab-sized panfish known as crappies in Lake Istokpoga. Also referred to as papermouths, strawberry bass, speckled bass or specks, speckled perch, white perch, crappie bass, and calico bass, they can be feisty challenges on the end of a long fishing rod.

Every year, anglers look forward to crappie fishing, not only for the thrill of catching them but also for their excellent fillets.

Tangie Neff and her husband, Corky, have been fishing guides on Lake Istokpoga for several years; Corky as a bass fishing guide and Tangie providing crappie and bluegill guide trips. Over time, Tangie adopted the nickname "Poga Gal."

The crappie action starts as early as December, she mentioned when we spoke recently, but it really gets going in January and February. I think the best month is probably February. At least that’s when my guide calen-

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Her 18-foot Sun Tracker Bass Buggy, equipped with a sun canopy and power pole, easily accommodates as many as four adults. Her 5-hour trips usually begin around 5:30 am and conclude around 12:30 pm. She cleans the fish, often with the help of her clients.

My rods are 10’ and 11’ Edgar Rods, Florida Speck Specials, designed explicitly for dipping for crappie in vegetation.

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I use a slip bobber stopper, split shot, and a gold hook with 6-pound test line, along with minnows. Sometimes I’ll rig up with jigs, but live minnows always seem to do better. Bullrushes and spatterdock are typically the best spots.

Immediately following crappie season, usually in early spring, she changes gears and begins guiding for copper nose bluegills, redear, and shellcrackers through the end of June. Similar light tackle is used, but instead of minnows, live crickets are the key.

The Poga Gal provides everything you need for a successful trip. You will need a fishing license, and it's also a good idea to bring a small cooler with drinks and snacks. So, if you’re thinking of giving her a call at 937-217-8076, do it today. Her calendar fills up pretty quickly, and you don’t want to miss out on some great fishing action.

Lightweight, Ultra-Portable Roll-Up Fishing Boat

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

LUNA NUEVA BY COSTA DEL MAR

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

MICRO RODS MAKE

A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT

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.

STOCKING STUFFERS FOR BASS ANGLERS WHO HAVE EVERYTHING

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.

IGFA 2025 WORLD RECORDS RECAP

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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AN EPIC TRIP TO FISH AND ATTEND THE CRUCIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL IN THE USVI

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.

SPEND LE TIME ON TASKS More Time Fishing

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.

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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

LUNA NUEVA BY COSTA DEL MAR

MICRO RODS MAKE

A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT

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.

STOCKING STUFFERS FOR BASS ANGLERS WHO HAVE EVERYTHING

CAPT. TYLER WOOLCOTT

Shopping for a bass sherman isn’t easy.

Happy Holidays, Y’all!

IGFA 2025 WORLD RECORDS RECAP

Will you be among these elite anglers in 2026?

For a complete database of 2025 record holders, visit igfa.org.

(1)

Durable boat lifts expertly designed with Florida in mind.

Under Deck Boat Lift

Four Piling Boat Lift

Deck Over Boat Lift

REVOLUTION™ Series Canopy Cover

Equipped with exceptional weather resistant fabric and breathable SunTex 80 woven mesh ends for maximum protection and durability, the REVOLUTION™ Series Canopy is the most innovative canopy

Quickly Secures Boat

Solar Battery Charging System

On Our Wish List...

AN EPIC TRIP TO FISH AND ATTEND THE CRUCIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL IN THE USVI

SPEND LE TIME ON TASKS More Time Fishing

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.