Coastal Angler Magazine | Greater Jacksonville June 2026 Edition

Remembering Ben Martin

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rest easy, Ben. You will be deeply missed.

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REINING IN THE

By A. deGruchy

WFISHING IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

the next. Hooking one is not just shing. It is a fullbody workout.

Tarpon are notorious for their ght, and for good reason. As soon as it happens - things get crazy… line screams o the reel, the rod loads up, and then this sh launches into the air like it is trying to shake every bad decision its ever made. I’ve seen this dozens of times and it will seriously never get old.

For summer tarpon shing in the Keys, we NEED dependable gear that can handle heat, salt, and serious drag pressure. !e PENN Slammer IV paired with the PENN Carnage III rods is a strong setup for battling big sh. !e reel has the power and durability needed for long ghts, while the Carnage III rod gives you the backbone to stay connected when a tarpon starts digging deep. Savage Gear Pulse Tail Mullets can be extremely e ective (I’ve witness and can attest to the fact that Tarpon like these). !e right clothing matters too. Summer in the Keys is hot, bright, and salty, so sun protection is not optional. On top of the heat, reeling in a Tarpon will 100% have you sweating, I promise.

Note, Tarpon shing is NOT easy. !ere o%en is A LOT of downtime waiting for that bite. You might wait, cast, miss, jump one, lose one, and then nally connect with the sh you came for. However, that’s what makes it special. Every moment feels earned, every jump gets your heart going, and every release is a something you remember.

hen the summer tarpon run heats up, the Florida Keys become one of the best places to chase the Silver King. !ese sh

are built like silver freight trains. !ey roll through the channels, bridges, ats, and backcountry looking calm one second, then explode into the air

Ready to chase the Silver King in the Florida Keys? Book your tarpon trip at beansport shing.com and for more real-world shing action in the Florida Keys, follow Bean Sport shing on YouTube.

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THE PADDLETAIL ADVANTAGE FOR FLORIDA SNOOK

Snook !shing in Florida gets me hooked every time. ey !ght like crazy, pulling you toward every dock or root they can !nd right a er you set the hook. I’ve tried di erent methods over the years, but so plastic paddletails always pull me back in.

One thing I like about them is how they let you cover a lot of area without looking unnatural. In places like mangrove lines or around docks and passes, they just match what snook eat every day. Like mullet or those small shad, the way it swims seems right. I think that con!dence comes from knowing it mimics the bait so well.

A lot of people !sh them too quickly, ripping the lure back fast. Snook can be aggressive, sure, but I !nd better results when I slow it down. Let the thing hang in the zone longer with a twitch here and there. at steady pull with pauses beats the erratic stu most days. It feels like the !sh just need time to commit.

Current makes a big di erence, too. I always look for moving water if I can. It pushes the bait around and lines up the snook in spots like points or under bridges. ose dock corners turn into traps when the tide picks up. Positioning up current helps; let the lure dri in naturally. Snook handle that %ow easily and strike at stu coming their way.

My setup stays basic most times. Grab a three- to !ve-inch paddletail on a jig head. Lighter ones for shallow spots around mangroves, heavier for deeper passes with more pull. Colors, well, natural ones in clear water, I guess, brighter if it’s murky or dark out. Not sure why, but it seems to matter sometimes.

Early mornings along mangrove banks are my go-to. Cast long parallel

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

to the shore, hit every little pocket or drain. Strikes o en come right near the edge, so you have to be accurate. Around the docks, I try skipping under as far as possible. Big snook hang in the shade there, especially when it’s warmer.

at thump when they hit, you’d better be set. ey dive for structure right away, trying to wrap your line. Just keep pressure steady, don’t let up. Florida snook spots are top-notch, and paddletails work well in that role. Hard to go wrong with them for inshore stu

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor and owner of Knockin Tail Lures® — knockintaillures.com.

BIG LURES for Summer Fishing

CAPT. MIKE SMITH

Have you ever had one of those summer days when you catch tons of !sh but they are all small? is happens to the best of us. e best way to !x this dilemma is to use bigger lures. Bigger lures are your best bet for big !sh in the hot summer months.

Best Summer Lures

1. e best topwater lures are a large walk-the-dog lure like a Zara Super Spook, Rapala Skitter Walk or a MirrOlure Top Dog. ese lures are a great choice in low light and dirty water scenarios.

When !shed in water depths of 4 feet or less, you can expect monster snook, trout and red!sh to crush this lure type.

Pro Tip: Smush the barbs down so you injure yourself and the !sh as little as possible, and always pause the lure retrieve every 8 feet or so for a second or two.

2. My second favorite big topwater/ sub-surface lure for summer !shing is a 5.5-inch jerkbait (%uke). is lure is great for water depths of 4 feet or less but is a much better choice for skipping into structure.

Large snook and red!sh love to tuck

up under mangrove limbs and docks. A 5.5-inch jerkbait is the kryptonite to catch those super !sh lurking in heavy structure. You can rig it weedless or nose hook it with a 1/0 octopus hook or circle hook.

Pro Tip: e best retrieve for this lure type is a twitch-twitch-twitchpause where the lure falls a foot or so before beginning your retrieve again.

3. My third favorite summertime lure is the 4-inch paddletail. is is probably your best lure choice if you are new to !shing because it is easy to master.

Many days the best retrieve is a steady one. Just cast it out and reel it back in. When the !sh are more !nicky, then a twitch-twitch every few feet is a good addition to the retrieval cadence.

e great thing about this lure choice is your complete control of the depth you want to !sh. If you want to get it deeper, just use a bigger jig head. It is a good idea to have 1/8, 1/4, and 3/8 ounce jig heads to cover the water column e ectively.

ere are lots of large forage species around in the summer months so you should increase the size of the lures you are pitching to better “match the hatch.” You just might catch your personal best snook, tarpon, red!sh or speckled trout with those bigger lures.

Go get ’em.

Capt. Mike Smith, owner of Fish Your Ass O Charters, is an inshore shing guide who has been shing the inshore waters, oyster bars and grass ats of Florida for more than 40 years. Reach him at (561) 339-2317, email: contact@ shyourasso .com or visit shyourasso .com.

JACKSONVILLE YOUTH SETS NEW IGFA WORLD RECORD

On October 13, 2025, Emily Di Perna was !shing the St. Johns River in Jacksonville, Florida, when she landed this 20-pound red drum. With this !sh, Emily has set the IGFA Junior Women’s 10-kg (20 lb) Line Class World Record for the species. She was !shing with Capt. Don Dingman when this record drum struck a blue crab.

A er recording the weight on a certi!ed scale, Emily was able to release the !sh safely.

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Fishing Report & Forecast Mayport

By Capt. Kirk Waltz

Summer is upon us and I look forward to calm seas and the right amount of ocean swell. The month of May started out with a bang with a few crazy weather fronts. A lot of wind made for a few days of bumpy days on the big pond. I believe that our normal Bermuda High weather patterns will begin to dominate soon. Look for copious amounts of bait to push into the beach and bring bull reds, sharks, tarpon, kings ,bonita, sailfish, cuda’s, and cobia. Catch a live well full of these and pitch back into the pods. I try to find big swirling black or dark bait pods that have not had a net tossed on them. Big fish can be easily spooked and stealth will pay big dividends. Just toss a med heavy spinner like a Shimano Saragosa 6000 and a med heavy rod like a Bluewater Jigging rod rigged with a 2-3oz egg sinker and a 2 ft length of 60-80 shock leader with a 5/0 live bait hook back into the foray and hang on. If there is any fish in the pod they should whack it!

Look for the striking fish to hit these live baits trolled over the regular haunts both on the beach and the local party ground hot spots. Kings, cudas, sharks, Bonita, sails, and cobia will lurk around the hot spots and should readily take these frisky baits. A good trolling rod like a Shimano Torium 30 with 20-30lb line works best and a short piece of wire for slow trolling Rigs can be easily made or stop by Strike Zone or B&M and the boys will sell you premade rigs or how to make ‘em. The bottom fishing can be good this month for seabass, grouper, beeliners, triggers, and snapper. Check the regs for what you can and cannot keep as they vary.

The big rocks will hold redfish and trout with a small amount of action for Spanish on the higher tides. One of the cool things this last month were the huge bluefish cruising the rocks up to 36inches and just crushing live pogies freelined against the rocks. A Williamson Gomako Jig , Shimano Jig or Seahawk lure works well with a small

length of wire attached when trolling or tossing at the Spanish mackerel. As the heat builds these fish seek cooler water so try to keep that in mind when you check the rocks.

The rip outside of the rocks will hold kings, cudas, sharks, cobia, and an occasional sailfish.

Slow troll this area on the bottom of the outgoing tide for best results.

The inshore Mayport basin both north and south from the little jetties will hold trout, reds, some drum, sheepshead, and flounder along with lots of jacks and ladyfish. The falling outgoing tide produces the best result. Try topwater plugs early like a Bomber-Long A or a white gulp swimming minnow for positive results. Remember as it gets hot these fish feed early and late in the back country. I also go to my old standby of mud minnows or shrimp on a 1/4oz jig to catch a few fish for the cooler.

To book a charter Capt. Kirk can be reached at 904.626.1128. online: www.Enterprisefishingcharters.com

Listen to the Outdoors Show on 1010am or 92.5 fm from 7-10am for weather, tips, and tides every Saturday morning

Fishing Report & Forecast Sisters Creek

By Capt. Tony Bozella

You hear me say it all the time in the hot months, June, July, & August, get out early or in the evening. However, I like the mornings, less wind, & cooler. When you start to feel like your skin is getting “microwaved” it’s time to go deep, head out to bait pods along the beach. Last year, North Florida waters hit the high 80’s, that’s hot!! if you do not have the perfect low tide early in the morning, looking for backing fish, Look for redfish to be on edges of flats or bars etc. close to deeper cool water. Often the sides of the intercostal water way, holds them, but, I have found areas of high boat traffic does slow the bite. Traditional methods, Bait and Jig, combos, popping corks, float, rigs, and lures will all take their fair share. If the tide is high in the early morning, low light conditions, I put my focus on Trout and often will catch other species, making the trip fun.

fluorocarbon leader can be a ticket to a hook up. Many times big jacks up to 30 lbs can be in the mix. Not good table fare, but, an exciting fight! Until next month, get out on the water.

Often this time of year if you get out late, there are plenty of fun fish around in the warm months such as Jacks, ladyfish, bluefish, mangrove, snappers, and sharks. All the fish not normally caught in the cool months. These Fish put up a great fight, take baits and lures readily. Talking about hot weather Fish, tarpon will be in the North Florida area. Tarpon take flys & lures, However, tarpon can be very finicky, A live Polkey or mullet free lined on a hook with a heavier

Finding the Right Boat

earching for a boat today can feel different than it did just a few years ago. With listings spread across multiple websites and platforms, it’s important to know where to look and how to compare your options.

Professional marine listing sites operated by licensed yacht brokers can be a helpful starting point, as they often provide detailed information and follow industry standards designed to support both buyers and sellers. Social media platforms and dealership websites can also offer additional opportunities to see what’s available.

If you’re beginning the search for your next boat and would like

guidance on where to start, you’re always welcome to reach out. I’m happy to help point you in the right direction and share insight about the current boating market.

12:07 AM 5.47 H

22 Mon 02:49 AM 4.47 H 09:03 AM -0.05 L 03:37 PM 4.82 H 09:48 PM 0.58 L

23 Tue 03:46 AM 4.19 H 09:53 AM 0.07 L 04:33 PM 4.88 H 10:45 PM 0.65 L

24 Wed 04:43 AM 3.99 H 10:41 AM 0.17 L 05:26 PM 4.92 H 11:39 PM 0.64 L 25 Thu 05:38 AM 3.88 H 11:30 AM 0.23 L 06:15 PM 4.95 H 26 Fri 12:30 AM 0.56 L 06:29 AM 3.84 H 12:19 PM 0.24 L 07:00

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Fishing Report & Forecast St. Augustine Inshore

By Capt. Tommy Derringer

Schools out for summer!.. Better get to the beach! This time of year, the pogy pods start to show up along the beaches along with some really big fish. All kinds of predators will be showing up to give chase to those giant pods of baitfish. Locate the pogy pods from a few hundred yards off the beach out to about 50 feet of water. Look for crashing on the surface, as there will be predatory fish in hot pursuit of the baitfish pushing them to the surface. Sharks, cobia, bull reds, spanish and king macs, giant jacks, bluefish, and one of my favorites the silver king, a.k.a. tarpon, will be crashing the pogy pods in an exciting free-for-all that you have to see to believe. A favorite way to fish the pods is to rig a live pogy on a medium to large circle hook (5/0-10/0). Use about 5 feet of 60-80lb fluorocarbon leader then add a split shot or two a few feet above the hook. This will keep your pogy slightly under the pod and make for an easy meal for lurking predators. Bring some heavy tackle because you never know what may lie

underneath.

Just like last month inshore, some of the best redfish and trout catches will come at daybreak and at sunset. A top-water plug like the Berkley J-Walker 120 will be the lure of choice when worked around mullet schools. If the fish seem to be short striking try to vary your retrieval rate. Sometimes they like it fast and sometimes a little slower. If they just don’t seem to want to inhale the top-water, switch to a sub-surface lure like a Berkley Stick Shad or a soft plastic Gulp jerk bait. These lures perfectly imitate a wounded mullet or small pogy and will stay just under the surface when worked correctly. It can be just the right look for those fish that seem to be “sniffing” your top-waters. During the heat of the day, switch up your presentation. Again, locate the mullet schools and jig a little deeper with soft plastic paddle tail like a Saltwater Assassin Lil Boss paired with a 1/8-1/4 ounce jighead. A live mud minnow or shrimp on a jighead will also be a great all-around setup for our summertime fish (trout, jacks, ladyfish, flounder, and reds, just to name a few). These will all be hiding around the schools of mullet and pogys waiting for one of the baitfish, or better yet your presentation, to get out of line for an easy snack.

With the water getting murky and turning that summer “yoohoo” color, using baits that have some good scent, or “stink” in this case, are a good bet. I like to use a cut mullet or ladyfish for redfish around oyster bars and in creek holes. These baits give off a strong scent and make it easy for the fish to find them in murky water. Another way to attract fish in murky water is to use a gold spoon… tossed along grass edges and oyster bars during the higher tide stages is sure to get the attention of a few reds and flounder. Tight Lines!

Capt. Tommy Derringer 904-377-3734 • www.InshoreAdventures.net

Jacksonville Offshore Fishing Club

By Darrin “Doc” Willingham

So many thanks again to Governor DeSantis, Congressman Rutherford, Jessica McCawley (FWC Director of Fisheries Management) and President Trump’s Washington D. C. team for working so hard to provide us the FWC EFP (Exempted Fishing Permit) 39 (total days) 2026 Atlantic Red Snapper season. Hopefully you have already found an opportunity to grab a few Red Snapper for the family to enjoy. Don’t forget to take this opportunity to provide accurate/ clean data to our FWC colleagues via their reporting app and the surveys that they will be mailing out to our “Reef Fish” anglers. The 2026 data will be vitally important to shaping the 2027 Red Snapper season. Please don’t provide information that “you think they want to hear”; please provide honest and accurate observations. We’ve had decades of flawed data torturing our South Atlantic Red Snapper fishery, let’s work with FWC to be the best solution for our Atlantic Red Snapper Management.

On Thursday, June 4, 2026, we will be celebrating our “Past Presidents” while they share their fondest memories of the JOSFC. The meeting will start at 7:00 PM with the JOSFC Foundation, Inc. providing a “Fried Fish and Grits” dinner.

At our June 18th meeting, we will have our “Annual JOSFC Swap Shop.”

Members and friends will be bringing all of the stuff that they don’t need any more (or that they are told to get out of the garage) for the rest of us to get some really great deals.

Our “Harm’s Ledge” area Artificial Reef deployment will hopefully be happening in July or August. We are standing by as the JOSFC, FWC and the City of Jacksonville continue our offshore and near-shore reef development efforts.

As a reminder, we meet the first and third Thursday of each month, doors open at 6:00 PM, Dinner at approximately 6:50 PM, Educational/ Guest Speakers at approximately 7:30, a little Club business and then we close each meeting with a great Raffle. Guests are always welcome. Come check out our fishing club. We would love to meet you. We would love for you to become a member.

Please come join us at the William “Bill” Gulliford, Jr. -Mayport Community Center, 4875 Ocean Street, Jacksonville Florida 32211 (across the street from the Mayport Boat Ramp).

Darrin “Doc” Willingham JOSFC President “Living the Dream”

Fishing Report & Forecast Pier and Surf

By Noel Kuhn

Summer is finally here! From now through August the most productive time in the surf is the first three hours of daylight. That means toes in the sand by 5:45AM with the first cast at 6AM. The reason for this early start is that the bite shuts down between nine and ten AM.

One of my favorite things to do on calm mornings is to throw lures for Seatrout, Redfish, Bluefish and Spanish. Since you are casting in shallow water, my favorite lues are top water or suspending hard baits. On cloudless mornings, a real shinny bait puts off a lot of reflection. The YO-ZURI 3D

Inshore with 3D prism finish is like a mirror. On overcast mornings, you need a solid color so that it creates more of a silhouette. At this time, I am going with a YO-ZURI MAG MINNOW Super Long Cast.

Because you will be casting and retrieving continuously, go light. An eight to ten foot lightweight rod paired with a 2000 size reel. Spool it up with ten pound braid then tipped with two foot of 30 pound fluorocarbon. Where to cast you ask? Trout come up into knee deep water chasing small Pompano and Whiting. So on calm mornings I start in knee deep water and cast straight down the beach. Remember to cast with the wind for more distance. My next two casts will be at 22 degrees then at 45 degrees. Then walk 30 feet with the wind and make three casts again. Keep a firm grip because Seatrout slam those lures!

If you want to target Flounder slooooow down your retrieve. A light jig head tipped with a Fishbites Dirty Boxer Curly Tail works really good. I keep my rod tip up high and do four cranks and pause. Repeat until you feel that wonderful THUMP!

Surf fishing guide and long distance casting coach. 904-945-0660

www.TheSurfAngler.com

Fishing Report & Forecast Ponte Vedra Inshore

By Dominic Anderson

The transition into June in St. Augustine, Florida, signifies the definitive arrival of summer patterns within the estuary and inshore systems. As water temperatures consistently climb toward the mid-80s, the dynamics of the Tolomato River, Matanzas River, and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) shift toward early-morning and late-evening peaks. Anglers who adapt to these rising temperatures by adjusting their timing and tactical approach will find June to be one of the most rewarding months for species diversity and consistent action across the marsh. June is a premier month for targeting slot-sized Redfish (18” to 27”) as they fully settle into their summer foraging habits. During the high flood tides, often associated with the full and new moon phases, Redfish push deep into the spartina grass flats to forage for fiddler crabs and shrimp. This is the essential time for “tailing” redfish; look for the distinct tip of a tail or a dorsal fin breaking the surface in as little as six inches of water. For technical anglers, sight fishing with weedless spoons or soft plastic shrimp imitations is the most effective way to approach these wary fish without snagging the thick vegetation (Z-man artificials and Fishbites work well). When the tide recedes, the fish transition back to the shell-lined banks of the ICW and deeper creek bends. In these areas, a live shrimp or mud minnow suspended under a

popping cork remains a staple, as the sound of the cork mimics surface activity and draws fish out from the heavy cover. Flounder fishing enters a peak phase in June, with “doormat” sized specimens establishing themselves in prime ambush locations. These flatfish rely heavily on tidal movement to funnel baitfish directly to them. Key areas to focus your efforts include the sandy edges of the ICW, inlet mouths, and the downstream side of sandbars where the current creates a pronounced drop-off. The most effective method for June flounder is a live mud minnow or finger mullet fished slowly along the bottom. A Carolina rig or a small jig head tipped with bait works well; the key is a slow, deliberate retrieval that keeps the bait in the strike zone. Bridges and pier pilings, such as the Matanzas Inlet Bridge or the Vilano Beach Pier, are also high-percentage spots for flounder seeking shade and structure during the heat of the day. Success in June requires a “stealth and slow” philosophy. With the water clarity typical of early summer, fish are easily spooked by engine noise or heavy foot traffic on a boat deck. Utilizing a quiet approach, such as drifting with the current or using an electric trolling motor, is essential. For gear, a 7-foot medium-action spinning rod paired with a 2500 or 3000 Florida fishing products series reel is the standard for St. Augustine inshore fishing. Spooling with 10-15 lb braided line and a 20-30 lb fluorocarbon leader provides the necessary sensitivity to feel subtle bites and the strength to pull a big redfish out of the oyster bars. June in St. Augustine offers a superior combination of action and species diversity. Whether you are hunting tailing reds in the backwaters or searching for trophy trout along the ICW, the keys to success are early departures and a focus on tide flow. See you out on the pond or in the ditch!

Capt. Dominic (904)-962-6184

Instagram:staugustine_fishing https://www.saintaugustinefishingcharters.com/

FWC’s 2026 TrophyCatch Program In Full Swing

TrophyCatch Season 14 is still going strong as Florida’s annual spawning season winds down. Multiple double-digit and Hall of Fame bass were submitted in the last quarter, including the lucky catch below. !e latest totals for the TrophyCatch program are::

• 13,349 Lunker Club (8-9.9 lbs.) bass

• 3,372 Trophy Club (10-12.9 lbs.)

• 176 Hall of Fame (13+ lbs.)

• 16,897 Total approved bass submissions to date If you’ve participated in TrophyCatch, your data is included here!

TrophyCatch Season 14 launched on October 1st, 2025 and allows anglers until September 30th, 2026 to pursue and land an 8+ lbs. bass. !is unique program unites anglers who document their bass, conservation partners who award prizes and your catch data which helps sheries managers understand where, when and how the

biggest bass are being caught in Florida. It takes all three groups collaborating for this program to be successful.

And for Putnam County anglers, there’s an exciting opportunity to win an awesome shing trip prize package when you submit and have catches approved for TrophyCatch that are from Putnam County!

!e TrophyCatch program is brought to you by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation

Commission (FWC), and their conservation partners. !e FWC mission is “Managing sh and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the bene t of people.” !ese programs collect valuable data through citizen-science, encourage shing and conservation and bring enjoyment to Florida anglers.

Register for TrophyCatch or view approved angler catches at TrophyCatch.com.

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Boating

SUMMER SAFETY

By Will Schmidt

There’s been a troubling trend that I’m hearing while out on my boat. The Coast Guard broadcasting an unmanned vessel alert. This potentially deadly scenario seems to be happening now on a regular basis, and a few precautions can take this from a life-or-death situation to an easily survivable event. With the summer boating season soon to be underway, now is a great time to revisit some basic safety protocols. Perhaps the two biggest safety items on a boat are often the most overlooked

and underused pieces of equipment. First, life jackets. Gone are the days of the bulky bright orange life jackets that are uncomfortable and impeding. The new self-inflating styles are both comfortable and unencumbering. These are far more user friendly and yet many resist. The truth is the self-inflating vest or hip pack versions are comfortable and don’t restrict you in any way. Should you fall overboard they can truly be life savers.

The second most underused item is your kill switch. Even though they are mandated on vessels 26 feet or less while on a plane, most people still don’t use them. The biggest complaint with these is that they tether you to the helm. However, as your boats have gotten smarter, so has the kill switch. There are products like the Fell Marine 1st Mate system which wirelessly protect the users. This genius devise uses geo fencing to define your boat’s area and activates the system should the small wearable fob cross the boundary. By allowing movement around the boat untethered there is no excuse at all for not utilizing the kill switch, even while not on plane. Should the captain fall overboard the engine(s) stop and if the system is not reset in a definable amount of time it will send messages for help. This is great for solo fishing where an errant wave can be disastrous. As a bonus it can also be set up as an anti-theft device.

Another lesser used device is your fire extinguisher. One of the most terrifying events that can happen on a boat is fire. If that should occur, every second counts. Having your fire extinguisher close at hand is a must, and finding an out-of-the-way spot to mount this gear is essential. There are many mounts available, and being prepared for this type of emergency is the smart thing to do.

Clearly there are many other required pieces of equipment as well as suggested items. From flares to first aid kits, no one wants to use them, but when they are needed, they are crucial. Before heading out, make sure everyone knows where all these items are stored. Time can be of the essence in an emergency and having the crew waste valuable time searching for safety items could make all the difference in the world.

Will Schmidt is a seasoned tournament angler who has been writing about fishing from more than two decades. Follow Will on Instagram @saltynstrong.

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CRUISE TO THE ULTIMATE ALASKAN FISHING EXCURSION

By Capt. Lukas Brickweg

Ketchikan, Alaska isn’t just another cruise ship port; it’s widely recognized as one of the top shing locations in Alaska—and for good reason. For cruise ship guests looking to experience an authentic Alaska shing in a limited window of time, the quality and diversity of shing found here is unmatched anywhere else on the Inside Cruise Passage.

Why book a shing excursion in Ketchikan? Due to the sheer productivity and diversity of nearby waters, combined with a variety of species types and trip times, this is revered as a must do cruise excursion. It o%ers a chance to

get out of the bustling downtown, reel in massive catches and have your catch shipped home. In addition, these waterways always provide areas for calm, scenic waters abundant with wildlife sightings.

Depending on the season, guests can hook into all ve types of wild paci c salmon, with each o%ering a unique ght and experience. Add to that the opportunity to drop lines for Paci c halibut, and you have a shery that delivers both action and assortment. Ketchikan’s waters are also home to an impressive range of additional species including lingcod, rock sh, and Paci c cod, giving guests a true Alaska shing experience. !is diversity keeps the day exciting, especially for rst-time anglers and families, and ensures there’s always something happening on the rod.

For cruise ship guests on a tight schedule, quality and convenience matter! Ketchikan consistently produces an opportunity to catch trophy sh! !e size and strength of the sh they hook astonishes guests. !is reputation for quality shing is why experienced anglers and rst-timers alike rank Ketchikan as the best shing port on an Alaska cruise.

At Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters, we focus on putting guests in the right place at the right time. Our captains know these waters intimately and adjust techniques based on tides, seasons, and conditions to maximize success. !e result is a shing experience that consistently exceeds expectations, which is re ected in our top rated reviews and repeat guests year a er year.

Another major advantage for cruise ship excursions is the downtown cruise ship harbor location. Being located steps from where cruise ships dock means less time commuting and more time shing. Guests appreciate the simplicity; walk o% the ship, step aboard, and start shing.

If you’re cruising to Alaska and want the best possible shing excursion, Ketchikan delivers unmatched diversity, dependable action, and true trophy potential, combined with convenient harbor access and one of the highestreviewed charter operations in town. Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters o%ers cruise ship guests an authentic Alaska shing experience, rich sheries, wildlife abound and unforgettable moments for the entire family. Step o% your cruise ship and straight into some of the best shing Alaska has to o%er.

To book your Alaskan shing adventure with Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters, visit ketchikan shingtrips.com, call (907) 617-4717 or email ketchikan shingtrips@gmail.com.

Ayoung angler from South Florida recently reached out to the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute’s freshwater sheries team with a truly remarkable catch. While our biologists occasionally encounter very dark gar and other species in the Everglades and throughout South Florida, this sh stood out as something special. It is believed to be a rare melanistic Florida gar.

Melanism is a condition marked by an unusually dark appearance caused by excessive melanin in the skin, scales, fur, or feathers. It is relatively uncommon in wildlife and is not something biologists see very o en, making this catch especially unique.

Dive in Without Taking a Plunge

Themarket’s swimming with overpriced dive watches. We’re here to tell you those guys are all wet. At Stauer our philosophy is everyone deserves the best without having to dig deep into their pockets. We’ve been in the watch industry for decades and know more than a thing or two about getting the ultimate bang for our buck— which means we can pass the fruits of our know-how onto our clients.

Case in point: The Explorer Dive Watch. This tough-as-nails sophisticate would cost you in the thousands if you got it from a high-end retailer that’s really in the business of selling a big name more than a quality watch. We keep the big names out of the equation so we can price this top-notch timepiece for just $99 ––a price that let’s you dive in and have enough left over for an excursion or two...or three.

You’re getting a lot for your money with this watch. The Explorer is the perfect companion in any locale–– whether you’re exploring coral reefs or investigating the rum options at a beachside bar. With a case, band and crown of stainless steel, this watch is built to last, and its water resistance rating of 20 ATM means it can handle most of your aquatic adventures to a depth of 678 feet. The striking metallic blue face reflects the

deep waters it was designed to explore and it’s sporty screw-down crown can take the pressure in stride.

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you are not completely convinced you got excellence for less, simply return the Explorer Dive Watch within 30 days for a refund of the item price. At Stauer, we never leave our customers high and dry. Limited Edition. Sure you could give your hard-earned money to those other guys, but why would you? We’ve got the thinking man’s timepiece right here. This watch takes six months to engineer and it’s already making waves, so we can’t guarantee it will be around for long. Call today, and experience how good it feels to get true luxury for less.

SPECIES SPOTLIGHT: JAGUAR GUAPOTE

The Jaguar Guapote is a large, non-native freshwater cichlid now established in southeastern Florida’s coastal canal systems, with records as far north as the West Palm Beach area.

It has a robust, semi-elongated body with a large oblique mouth and prominent canine teeth, and is easily recognized by its broken lateral line and striking black-spot and blotch pattern along a pale body — reminiscent of a jaguar’s spots.

!is species is an aggressive predator, feeding mainly on small sh and aquatic insects, but also consuming snails, worms, and other prey.

In Florida, jaguar guapote tolerate poor water quality and warm temperatures, thriving in canals and sluggish waters. !ey spawn on hard surfaces, with both parents guarding eggs and young.

!ough valued by some anglers and considered good to eat, this nonnative predator can impact native sh communities due to its voracious feeding habits.

captains license

Lake Mary/Sanford - Jun 1

Crystal River - Jun 15

Tarpon Springs - Jun 15

New Smyrna Bch - Jul 6

Palm Bay/Melb - Jul 20

Bradenton - Aug 10

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To Reserve a Spot Call: 352-447-1950 Email: info@adamsmarine.com

NO LE HACE TAKES TOP PRIZE AT 6TH ANNUAL CHUB CAY INVITATIONAL

WPalm Bay/Melb - Aug 1

Bradenton - Aug 22

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dates on:

eather played a big factor in the 6th Annual Chub Cay Invitational Tournament that just concluded in the Bahamas. A strong low pressure system with high winds forced multiple boats to sit out, but the remaining eet didn’t let that damper spirits. By the time the frontal boundary had passed, the sh turned on and No Le Hace, a 57 Spencer led by Capt. Freddy “Potatoes” Vicens and team, had captured rst place. No Le Hace released three sail sh and one blue marlin and all were caught by Denise McMahan, who was also named Top Lady Angler for the event.

On the rst day of shing two blue marlin, one white and four sail sh were tallied. Blues successfully released count for 500 points, whites are 200 and sails score 100.

No Le Hace made its charge on the second day. Invicta, a 44-foot Contender center console run by Michael Buxton, released a blue the rst day, followed by the rst sh of Day Two, a white marlin. !at earned the team second-place honors. Sempre Dura, a 68 Ricky Scarborough with owner Chris Stavola at the helm, locked up third place with a sail sh in the morning and a blue marlin a er lunch.

!e radio and dock was buzzing with Waterline’s (Capt. Jake Gri th/58 Viking) epic ght on light tackle. Rob McCall fought a big yellow n tuna for ve hours, 20 minutes on a Tallica 25 with 40-pound main line, 60-pound leader and a 7/0 circle hook. !e sh ate a ballyhoo on the right long outrigger line and was nally boated at 5:04. !e boat made it back to the scales within the two-hour deadline, with everyone cheering on. When the sh was nally weighed, it registered 140 pounds, easily winning the heaviest meat sh for the Invitational. !at catch also was the largest game sh in Chub Cay Resort’s tournament history. Waterline also weighed a 38-pound dolphin to sweep the game sh categories.

“ !e Invitational is a members-only event following the Chub Cay Classic and Chub Cay Open, which are open to the public,” says Tournament Director Robert “Fly” Navarro. “ !e weather was a factor early, but we still had some outstanding shing overall, including Waterline’s epic catch.”

!e dates for next year’s tournaments are set. !e Chub Cay Classic kicks o% on March 11-13, 2027. !e Cub Cay Open will be held April 1-3, followed by the Chub Cay Invitational on April 15-17, 2027.

For more information about the tournaments, the resort and its amenities, visit www.chubcay.com.

NOAA ESTABLISHES LONGEST ATLANTIC RED SNAPPER SEASON IN DECADES

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

Florida’s Extended 39-Day Opportunity

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

• Summer Window: May 22 – June 20

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

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

Georgia and the Carolinas

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

• Season Dates: July 1 – August 31, 2026

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

Mandatory Reporting Requirements e success of this pilot program hinges

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

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

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

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

2026 GULF RED SNAPPER SEASON

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

Florida Private Recreational Gulf Season

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

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

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

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

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

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

» anksgiving weekend (Nov. 26-29)

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

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

Federal For-Hire Gulf Season

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

Other Gulf States Regulations and dates vary outside of Florida:

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

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

• Texas: State waters are open year-round.

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

TA FISHING FATHERS’ CATCH A FISHING FATHERS’ CATCH

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

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

By Chatwick G. Peterson III

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

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

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

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

WHY BUY NEW WHEN YOU CAN RENEW?!?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summertime Fishing Patterns

TIM BAREFOOT

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

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

later.

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

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

Visit barefootcatsandtackle.com for more tips and techniques.

GOING DEEP WITH COPPER STATE TACKLE PRO JOEY BLOOM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Limited to the first 1900