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FEBRUARY 11-15, 2026
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NEARSHORE GROCERY SHOPPING
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VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 370
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F R A N C H I S E
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A V A I L A B L E
JANUARY 2026
W O R L D W I D E
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Nearshore Grocery Shopping TIM BAREFOOT
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anuary marks a shi! in fishing targets, with a focus on species ideal for winter meals. This month traditionally finds anglers pursuing seabass and other nearshore fish, following a tradition passed down from my dad, who favored seabass and flounder for their taste and suitability for freezing. Seabass are not only delicious but also keep well in the freezer, providing a reliable food source throughout the colder months. Flounder, prized for its flavor, remains a favorite for many. While seeking black seabass close to shore, anglers o!en encounter gag grouper, grey trout, and flounder. However, many of these species have strict creel limits, with retention o!en prohibited in regions like North Carolina. To avoid catching undersized or barely legal seabass, using larger bait on a jig is recommended. Live pinfish—ideally the size of a tennis ball or baseball—make exceptional bait. If you have access to a marina’s fish cleaning table, pay attention to discarded scraps, as these can help attract
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JANUARY 2026
pinfish. Setting a pinfish trap or using finely cut scraps to chum and cast net for pinfish are effective methods for securing live bait. This technique is not only excellent for larger seabass but also irresistible to gag grouper. The same structures that attract seabass also hold baitfish such as cigar minnows, sardines, and small snapper. When anchored or spot-locked over structure, keeping a Sabiki rig ready can be invaluable. Keep one person in the boat constantly on the Sabiki providing live baits for the rest of the boat. This will certainly pay dividends. Be mindful of state and federal regulations of what you can and cannot keep, but this tactic catches everything on the reef without exception. The thing I like about pinfish is everything down there will give a live sardine and a live cigar minnow a fatal attack, but only the critters with a large enough mouth and a bold nature will go a!er pinfish or small snapper. The goal is not to catch a hundred fish, but to land a dozen high-quality bites—those worth taking home for dinner. Anywhere south and north of North Carolina, flounder is still on the menu for dinner, and a jig paired with a live cigar minnow is the ultimate flounder catching instrument. Don’t say I didn’t tell you so, but if you take light tackle to some of these nearshore seabass holes, you will lose fish to powerful gags. For nearshore flounder and grouper, opt for heavier tackle—a grouper stick equipped with a four-ounce jig and live cigar minnows or sardines. The other byproduct of this style fishing will be large drum, which tend to congregate on nearshore structure. Don’t be surprised to catch seabass, flounder, gags, and drum in the same spot. Also don’t hesitate to take chunks of crab or sand fleas for sheepshead. January is a winter wonderland, so make the most out of your nearshore grocery shopping by being prepared for all the possibilities. Learn more from Tim Barefoot at barefootcatsandtackle.com.
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AUTOPILOT JANUARY 2026
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he flat was silent. No birds. No bait popping. Only the crunch of frost under my boots and the faint ripple of tide against the shoreline. Every sensible voice in my PHO TO COURT ESY OF KN head said the fish wouldn’t OCKIN TA IL LURES® feed. Then the line jumped—just once— and everything changed. For those who chase speckled trout of larger proportions, one truth becomes painfully clear: big winter trout do not give themselves up easily. Cold water slows their metabolism, feeding windows shrink, and mistakes multiply. Most anglers default to the winter mantra—slow everything down. It’s solid advice… but it isn’t the whole story. Winter trophy trout live in a world of conserving energy. They don’t want to chase far, but they will react violently to the right movement at the right moment. That’s where two tools come together: erratic presentation and precise timing. Let’s start with timing. Like many anglers, I once dismissed solunar tables as folklore. As a kid, I’d scan the fish symbols on the calendar before every trip. More fish meant higher hopes. Fewer fish meant lower expectations. Over time, I saw no real correlation and abandoned the idea. But as I matured into a better saltwater angler—and began truly hunting trophy trout—I returned to solunar tables, this time paired with tides and conditions. The difference was undeniable. These tables aren’t magic. They won’t put fish where they don’t exist. But if you are on fish, they o!en reveal when those fish are most willing to feed. Many anglers assume the “major” bite is always better than the “minor.” Not true. The difference is duration, not intensity. The major typically lasts about two hours, the minor closer to ninety minutes. Either can be explosive. One rule I never break: don’t relocate during a feeding window. On a recent trip, I was grinding through a slow morning and nearly moved on. I checked the time—ten minutes before the bite. I stayed. What followed was an aggressive feed that turned a dead stretch into a trophy-class opportunity. Big trout don’t feed o!en. When they do, you’d better be ready. That brings us to presentation. In winter, I rely on suspending and slow-sinking lures with erratic, nervous action. When I say “slow,” I mean forward movement—not motion. With a so!, whippy rod, I shake the lure in place with almost no forward travel, then let it pause. Shake. Pause. Repeat. This technique works best with braided line, which transmits every movement without stretch. Winter trout may be cold—but when timing and motion align, they don’t just bite… they attack. The strike comes without warning. No tap. No thump. Just sudden, heavy weight and the slow, head-shaking surge of a true gator. In that moment, frozen fingers, long quiet hours, and doubt all vanish. There is only tension in the line and the knowledge that patience, timing, and the right dance delivered the fish you came for. And that’s why we brave the winter. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures,® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
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Pro Tips for Inshore Fishing This Winter
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paddle tails this time of year. Small bucktail jigs and ned rigs are also great choices this time of year. Pro Tip #3 - Slow down your retrieve. Cold fish can’t move as quickly as warm fish can. It’s really that simple. Whatever retrieve you like to use in the summer months, slow it by 50% and that will probably be just about right for winter. CAPT. MIKE SMITH Make sure to bounce your jigs, ned rigs and shrimp will most likely be the shrimp off of the bottom. Fish tend to stay near main forage for these fish in the coldest months. the bottom in winter months. Because fish are cold blooded it is harder Pro Tip #4 - Use longer leaders. Often, for them to digest food when they are cold. It is the water gets gin clear in the winter months. easier on their metabolism to digest a 2-inch fish Because you are retrieving your lures more than a 6-inch fish. slowly, the fish will get a better look at your lines and lures. %is is when a long fluorocarbon leader is the way to go. I like an 8 ft. leader married to a braided line with an FG knot. If you don’t know how to tie an FG knot, then learn. It is a must have part of your fishing arsenal. Why Fluorocarbon? %e benefits of fluoro over monofilament are no stretching and it sinks. Mono stretches and floats. Cold water can be a problem for inshore lure fishermen but it doesn’t have to be. Follow the pro tips above and you will catch more wintertime fish.
anuary and February are the coldest months for humans and for inshore game fish. Both species are moving a little slower and are looking for warmth. Fish have it worse because they are cold blooded. Pro Tip #1 - Find warmer water. Just a couple of degrees can make all the difference between catching and not catching fish during the cold months. Focus on the southern facing shorelines that receive the most hours of sunlight each day. Conversely, avoid fishing shady spots. Start fishing later in the day to allow the sun’s power to heat the water. An especially good time to fish is when low tide coincides with the middle of the day. Shallow water is easier to heat up and it concentrates the fish. If you are fishing during the higher parts of the tide, then you should look for shallow flats that are adjacent to deeper water (8 to 10 ft). Fish seek out shallow water to warm up after spending the night down deep where the water Capt. Bucky Goldman caught this black temperatures are more stable. drum sight casting a live shrimp. Pro Tip #2 - Fish with smaller baits. Most of the prey items available to snook, redfish, Use lures 3 inches or smaller this time of speckled trout, flounder and other predatory fish are small this time of year. Small minnows and year. I love to use 2.75-inch shrimp and 3-inch
Capt. Mike Smith, owner of Fish Your Ass Off Charters, is an inshore fishing guide who has been fishing the inshore waters, oyster bars and grass flats of Florida for more than 40 years. Reach him at (561) 339-2317, email: contact@ fishyourassoff.com or visit fishyourassoff.com.
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JANUARY 2026
FLORIDA 1
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intuitive, connected, and elevated experience for attendees and exhibitors. This evolution reflects extensive planning and thoughtful consideration of what visitors value most, resulting in a footprint that is easier to navigate and more closely aligned with the expectations of today’s marine consumer. A centerpiece of this redesign is the return of the Miami Beach Yacht Collection to Collins Avenue, restoring a signature element of the show that last appeared there in 2018. Yachts will once again line the waterfront along Indian Creek, a setting known for both its beauty and its deep-rooted connection to Miami Beach’s boating culture. The move has already attracted an impressive range of premium yacht brands, creating an environment that naturally supports serious buyers and provides stronger visibility for exhibitors. The Collins Avenue location is surrounded by some of Miami Beach’s most recognized hotels, offering an atmosphere that enhances the luxury of the in-water displays. The show’s new layout also introduces Sailor’s Cove at IGY Yacht Haven Grande Miami, a dedicated destination for the sailing community. This area will showcase sailboats, catamarans, gear, and lifestyle elements in a marina setting specifically designed for hands-on exploration. Upgraded docks, modern amenities, and on-site training from the Annapolis School of Seamanship bring additional depth to the experience. A convenient Park and Ride system will make it easier for visitors to move between Sailor’s Cove and the other primary locations of the show. Across its three main sites, the 2026 show emphasizes accessibility and a seamless flow. A single ticket grants entry to every location, allowing guests to explore everything from boats under 49 feet at the Miami Beach Convention Center and Pride Park to luxury motor yachts, superyachts, and the full sailing lifestyle across Miami Beach and downtown Miami. Complimentary shuttles, golf carts, and rideshare access support effortless movement between venues. As one of the largest boat shows in the world, the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show continues to strengthen the recreational boating industry and generate significant economic impact for the region. With renewed energy, enhanced connectivity, and an expanded range of he 2026 Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show is preparing experiences, the 2026 edition is positioned to deliver a world class showcase of to deliver one of its most transformative editions yet. Returning marine innovation and culture. February 11 to 15 over Presidents Day weekend, the show enters its For more details and ticket options, visit miamiboatshow.com. 85th year with a completely reimagined layout designed to create a more
THE ULTIMATE BOATER’S DESTINATION
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4 FLORIDA
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TAMPA BAY FISHING REPORT BY: CAPT. WADE OSBORNE
CRUSTACEANS FOR THE WIN!
I
always say, “Fish are Fickle.” That’s particularly true this time of year with the advent of a passing cold front every three to four days. One day, the fish are active, and the next day, they are lethargic. After a cold front, even when I take the time to catch scaled sardines before picking up my charter, the fish barely respond to them. Fortunately, I stopped on my way to the boat ramp and bought some live shrimp as a backup. Having those shrimp aboard usually saves the day, so I suggest that you have a backup plan this time of year, too.
Another thing to consider is that baitfish leave the grass flats once the water temperature drops to the mid-60s. This forces you to look for bait in deeper water. This can be a challenge right after a cold front, and the wind is howling out of the north or northwest. At times like these, turning to crustaceans such as shrimp or fiddler crabs can make all the difference in the world. These hardy baits are appealing to game fish even when bait fish become scarce, dramatically increasing your chances of a successful catch. Shrimp are known as the “Sara Lee” of baits. “Nobody doesn’t like a Sara Lee.” Snook, redfish, seatrout, sheepshead, and more love them. I could go on and on, but you get the picture. Not to sound like “Bubba” from the movie Forrest Gump, but you can catch fish with live shrimp, dead shrimp, frozen shrimp, or pieces of shrimp. “That’s, that’s about it!” Additionally, crustaceans like shrimp are not only versatile but also resilient in colder water conditions, which makes them a reliable choice when other baits fail. Their natural scent and movement attract a wide variety of species, ensuring that anglers have a dependable option throughout fluctuating water temperatures. If you like to fish with artificials or flies, shrimp imitations are the perfect Continued on page 6
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JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 1
BY: CAPT. JOSHUA TAYLOR
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Targeting Redfish on the Flats in Colder Months
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s the thermometer drops and the Gulf breeze cools the water, the game around the flats of Tampa Bay shifts, but that doesn’t mean the action slows. In fact, for passionate anglers chasing redfish (Red Drum), the colder months bring some of the most tactically rewarding opportunities. Thanks to steadier tides, clear shallow flats, and fish concentrating in predictable zones, your odds go up when you know how to rig, where to go, and what one experienced charter captain does to stay ahead. Here are the rigs, tips, spots, and how Capt. Joshua Taylor of Salty Scales works the winter redfish bite.
Rigging for Cold-Weather Redfish on the Flats
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JANUARY 2026
Fishing the flats for redfish during the colder months requires a more refined approach, and the right rigging can make all the difference. A 7’ to 7’6” medium-light or medium spinning rod, paired with 10–15 lb braid and a 15–20 lb fluorocarbon leader, is an ideal setup. This combination provides the perfect balance of strength and finesse, allowing you to handle powerful fish without overwhelming them in shallow water. As temperatures drop, redfish often become more selective and respond best to slow-moving or still presentations. Live shrimp under a popping cork is one of the most reliable winter baits, especially when fish are holding tight to the bottom and reluctant to chase. Cut pinfish or chunks of fresh bait can also be deadly when redfish are feeding passively. For anglers who prefer artificials, downsizing is the key. Three- to four-inch paddletails and subtle soft-plastic jerkbaits worked slowly across the flat can trigger strikes from fish that may ignore larger, flashier offerings. In the clear winter water of Tampa Bay, a quiet and natural presentation often outfishes everything else. Continued on page 7
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S S
SNOW BIRDING SHORE BIRDS By Capt. Wes Tallyn
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inter months bring great birds to Florida as they wait out the colder weather to the north over the winter. A couple of imperiled species that share our tourist beaches and sanctuaries are the Snowy Plover and the Piping Plover. Both of these species are Federally Threatened species and need our protection. Winter gives us good opportunities to observe both of these birds on the beaches of the West Coast. To the layperson, the two birds can be difficult to distinguish between the two but there are a couple of easy characteristics that can help identify them. First off, Snowy Plovers are overall much more white. They have a — Captain Wes Tallyn was darker spot behind the eye, dark legs, raised in Florida and is and sometimes a black collar. The easia fisherman, birder, avid est way to identify a Piping Plover is the outdoors-man, photographer, legs are more orange-ish colored. They and environmental scientist. also have much grayer wings, helping Wes has a focus on conserwith identification. vation and education in the community and is the January is the perfect time to get owner of Snook Jam Outdoors. You can find him out to places like Fort Desoto Park to get on Instagram @snookjam or call 727-410-5853. to know these two threatened species!
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JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 3
CAPT. SERGIO’S CORNER
Tampa Bay As I Knew It (Part I)
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rowing up in Tampa Bay in the 50’s and 60’s had so much to offer when it came to fishing. When we were not going to Boca Grande for the weekends, we spent a lot of time exploring new spots, and there were plenty of places to find. In the 50s and 60s, the mindset was to fish offshore, and very little attention was given to the inshore areas. While many of our friends concentrated on grouper and snapper, my family preferred to fish in the inshore waters of Tampa Bay. One of the things that we learned from fishing the area was that we could catch almost all the species that were available in the Gulf of Mexico, except for snapper and amberjack. Taking into consideration that in the 50s and 60s, we didn’t have highspeed fishing boats that we have today, it took a lot longer to get to the grouper spots. Although grouper could be caught within sight of land and in shallow waters, the advantage of fishing Tampa Bay was the abundance of species of fish that were available within 10 minutes of the shoreline and easily reachable in a small vessel. I remember well the boat my uncle had, which was an old wooden 16-foot hull with a 9.9 Wizard (had no neutral, started in forward gear) outboard motor. Although not as seaworthy as modern boats today, it did the job for us. The 22nd Street Bridge offered a lot, including redfish, speckled trout, and sheepshead from the bridge, down the shoreline leading to the old Seabreeze restaurant, which had a boat ramp next door, so it made it convenient to fish in the area. The Hillsborough River produced some nice quantities of snook and tarpon. I can remember catching tarpon from the Columbus Drive Bridge shoreline and large snook under the Hillsborough Avenue Bridge at night, and something I wouldn’t do today. The Platt Street Bridge was one of the
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JANUARY 2026
best fishing spots for large snook and speckled trout fishing in the winter, (TECO had a power plant next to the bridge on the river), as the hot water runoff attracted the big fish during cold spells. The old Tampa Bay area also had much to offer. Above Courtney Campbell Causeway was the Lopez hole area of a big dredge hole that held large trout all winter long (over the years, silt has filled it in). The last little bridge on the Clearwater side of the Courtney Campbell Causeway was a hotspot for speckled trout and redfish for waders during the winter months. Where the Howard Franklin 4th Street exit is today, there used to be an old crabber’s shack and next to it a deep dredge hole that held large trout all winter long, and to this day is still considered a hotspot for fishing. Although the hole is not as deep as it used to be, trout can still be found during the winter months when high-pressure systems move in, and the tides drop below normal levels. The Big Island sits in the same area and, to this day, holds a fair share of snook and redfish all year long. Gandy Bridge was the main fishing bridge for the Tampa natives, and I remember catching large speckled trout, black drum, and redfish at night. We would hang a Coleman lantern close to the water, attracting shrimp and with it plenty of fish. Boaters would fish the bar (a shallow water strip that extends south between the center span and the St. Pete side of the bridge), well known for the speckled trout and cobia action, and still to this day a hot spot, although not fished much by this generation of anglers.
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BY: CAPT. SERGIO ATANES Yes, Weedon Island did exist in the 50s and 60s, although very few anglers fished in the area. You must remember that snook was considered a soap fish, and not a very edible species. Redfish was also considered trash fish in that era; trout was the mainstay of Tampa Bay. Port Tampa was also a well-known spot in the 50s and 60s, and grouper could be caught off the rocks, along with common guests such as seabass, big Key West grunts, large redfish, and even tarpon. Anglers could average at least one Goliath grouper a month in the channel leading into Port Tampa, and I remember fishing from that little 16-foot wooden boat using 3/8 anchor line with a large hook, an old sash window weight, putting on one large mullet for bait and tying the anchor line to the stern of the boat and fishing for redfish and grouper while we waited for the Goliath to bite. Tampa Bay has over 26 wrecks that are listed on the old charts, and some of these wrecks were exposed along the shoreline and produced large quantities of redfish, snook, sheepshead, speckled trout, and mangrove snapper. The shallow water wrecks have been covered over the years with silt and sand from the storms, but the deep-water wrecks are still there. I fish for gag grouper, mangrove snapper, and grunts during the summer months. These wrecks are also home during the winter months for big sheepshead, flounder, and speckled trout. Next month, I will cover the south end of Tampa Bay with some stories and information that most residents and even the locals don’t know about. — Capt. Sergio Atanes is host of Florida West Coast Fishing Report on Facebook and YouTube. He also hosts Fishing Adventures Florida TV show airing on YouTube, Waypoint TV, Carbon TV, Outdoor Action, and Angling TV. Owner of Reelfishy.com Charter business covering the west coast of Florida with over 135 captains on staff. For information contact Capt. Sergio at (813) 973-7132 email: atanes@msn.com.
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JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 5
Continued from page 1 cold-weather bait. When making a presentation, the key to success is to work the fake bait slowly. I always remind people, “If you think you’re working it slow enough, slow it down even more.” Also, remember the fish you’re after are most likely in deep water, so let the bait sink before working it back to the boat. For you fly anglers, it’s best to use a sinking tip fly line to help keep the bait down in the water column. Although the sheepshead spawn doesn’t occur until late winter to early spring, primarily from February through April, they’re becoming more active. Cold water temperatures really turn sheepshead on, and they start to school up. As we move into the latter part of January, you’ll encounter more schools and larger specimens. Keep an eye out for rocky structures, bridge pilings, and docks where sheepshead tend to congregate during these colder months. Using shrimp or fiddler crabs around these areas can yield impressive results, especially as the fish grow more aggressive in anticipation of the spawning season. Patience and persistence are key, as sheepshead can be notorious bait stealers, but the payoff is well worth the effort. As for terminal tackle, the lighter the better. When fishing during colder periods, it’s also beneficial to downsize. Due to the lack of rain, the water clarity in most of Tampa Bay is excellent right now. For that reason, I’ll drop down to 20lb. fluorocarbon leader and a 1/0 hook, especially when targeting sheepshead. Lighter lines and smaller hooks can help present crustacean baits more naturally, leading to more strikes from wary fish. Adjust your approach based on water clarity and current conditions for the best results. When fishing structure where additional weight is needed, I’ll add just enough split shot to get the shrimp or fiddler crab down to the fish. Catching fiddler crabs during a low tide around the mangroves on the St. Petersburg side of the Gandy Bridge used to be a relatively easy task, but not any longer. It could be due to poor water quality or loss of habitat, but I’m not a marine biologist. The simplest way to obtain fiddler crabs nowadays is to buy them. The last time I purchased shrimp at Gandy Bait and Tackle, they had just
received an order of five thousand fiddler crabs. When I asked about where they came from, I was told Taylor County up in the Panhandle. More shipments should be arriving regularly throughout the winter. Most local bait shops typically carry fiddler crabs, but it’s wise to call ahead to check on availability. When storing live fiddler crabs, keeping them cool and moist by using a damp towel or seaweed can help maintain their fresh condition until you’re ready to fish. Making these small preparations ensures that your bait remains lively and attractive to sheepshead and other species. Afishionado, “Adventures in Fishing.” —Tampa Bay fishing guide Wade Osborne of “Afishionado Guide Services” has been plying the waters of Tampa Bay as a professional full-time captain, since 1997. Capt. Osborne offers inshore fishing charters on light tackle spin, fly or plug. He also offers eco-tours with an emphasis on photography. For more info., visit Afishionado.com or find Afishionado Guide Services on Facebook and Instagram. Email: wade@afishionado.com Call/Text 813-286-3474
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Continued from page 2 Tides and movement become especially important this time of year. The incoming tide and the first part of the outgoing tide tend to produce the best action, as water movement pushes bait across the flats and positions redfish around structure. Casting toward oyster bars, flat edges, sand potholes, or mangrove islands and letting the bait settle naturally gives you the best shot at hooking up.
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Prime Winter Flats Spots in Tampa Bay
When the water cools, redfish gravitate to predictably productive areas. Oyster bar edges, shell beds, and sandy potholes consistently hold fish, as these spots attract bait and warm quickly under the sun. Mangrove shorelines and creek mouths are also prime winter zones, especially late morning when the shallows begin to warm. Lower Tampa Bay’s flats, sandbars, and island edges are known for redfish movement during tide swings, with fish often cruising or tailing in just a couple feet of water.
How I Target Winter Redfish
Success this time of year comes down to stealth and strategy. Moving quietly, whether poling across a flat or easing along a mangrove edge, helps keep fish calm and within casting range. I often start the morning by scouting shallow zones with a push pole, looking for wakes, shadows, or tailing fish. If the water is clear and the fish are laid up, I’ll present a live shrimp or a subtle soft plastic well ahead of the fish’s path, allowing it to settle naturally. Slow, deliberate retrieves are essential in colder conditions. When a redfish commits, I encourage light drag and patience, allowing the fish to run and fight cleanly without tearing free. And while winter redfish can be fired up and cooperative, responsible harvest and proper handling remain a priority to ensure a strong fishery for years to come. Also, you don’t need an expensive boat to catch winter redfish. Sometimes, wading is the most productive method for catching.
Final Thoughts
Winter provides some of the most rewarding redfish fishing on the Tampa Bay flats. Clear water, concentrated fish, and mild weather create conditions perfectly suited for sight-fishing and technical angling. Approach the flats quietly, choose the right tides, scale down your lures or present live bait naturally, and you’ll discover just how productive cold-weather redfishing can be. With the right tactics and a mindful approach, the winter season delivers unforgettable days on the water, tight lines! — Capt. Joshua Taylor is a professional angler, apparel designer, and influencer whose passion for fishing and dedication to storytelling meet. With years of experience on the water and behind the pen, Joshua ensures each issue is packed with expert tips, local reports, and stories that resonate with the angling community. Connect with Capt. Joshua Taylor: joshua@saltyscales.com | www.saltyscales.com | Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/SaltyScales | YouTube: youtube.com/saltyscales | Instagram: instagram.com/saltyscales | TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@saltyscales
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JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 7
The Wonderful World of Mullet
!
By: Joshua Broer
W
hen we think of mullet, they usually fall into one or two categories. For many anglers, mullet is great cut bait. Just about everything that swims in the Gulf or Atlantic eats mullet. Also, it has been a West Central Gulf Coast tradition, dating back to the Calusa Indians, to smoke mullet. Whether it comes from a local restaurant or your backyard, smoked mullet is delicious. Last, Black/Striped Mullet, or Mugil cephalus Linnaeus, scientifically speaking, is also prized for it’s red roe sacks in the Asian and European seafood markets. One properly cured roe sack can bring in anywhere between $75 – 100. During my childhood, gill net boats harvested mullet both for their prized red roe and to sell to local seafood restaurants to be smoked. A citizen vote shut down gill net fishing in Florida in 1994. I spent many days in my adolescent years fishing with different mullet fishing families in the Anclote and Cotee Rivers before the ban. Mullet fishermen continued to harvest mullet but by other means, such as the use of seine nets or custom-made cast nets. It’s not uncommon to see old-school mullet fishermen running their skiffs around the grass flats or up and down saltwater residential canals, throwing massive cast nets in the fall and winter months. These nets must be no bigger than 14’ according to Florida law. 8 TAMPA
JANUARY 2026
There is another way to harvest mullet, a little slower, but fun, with a snatch hook. The snatch hook method is no secret and has been used by different cultures for centuries. Cutting my teeth on the seawall, I mostly used a cast net to catch mullet, but I also used a large metal treble hook (aka “snatch hook”). The mullet schools were so large and thick in our local bayous, you couldn’t miss them! It was quick and easy work to fill a 5-gallon bucket. If you’ve never snatched a large mullet, full of roe, they put up one heck of a fight. I like to use a stiff tarpon rod matched with a 6000-size reel, spooled with 65 lb. braid and 60 - 80 lb. monofilament leader. Some of the areas I target are filled with rocks and oysters, so a heavy leader is helpful. I still harvest mullet in the fall and winter months, mostly for the smoker, but many years ago, I met a gal with Caribbean roots who introduced me to frying mullet. In the West Indies and Caribbean islands, they mostly fry mullet, I learned. Growing up on delicious smoked mullet, I was a bit reluctant to fry them. As it turned out, although it may not be the healthiest way to cook them, it’s mouth-watering good! With a beer batter mix and some Old Bay spice, garlic salt, etc., you can’t go wrong. There’s no need to carefully fillet mullet. Just butterfly, skin and all, and drop them into a deep fryer or large pan. I usually keep them in the grease for about 4-5 minutes or until they start turning from light brown to dark brown. A little lime juice and hot sauce is nice but not necessary. I use my fingers to pick away at the meat until I’m all the way down to the skin. A side of grits and some sweet tea… it’s like heaven. And in the old southern tradition, whether we’re talking about frying chicken or pork or fish, I use a strainer to pour my grease into a container for the next big fry. I reckon most folks will argue that smoking mullet is the best way, and they may be right. But give the fry method a try, it’s delicious and takes less time and effort than breaking out the smoker. Smoked or fried – you be the judge. Mullet may not get the recognition they deserve, but for those who know, they’re pure gold.
— Joshua Broer, a Tarpon Springs native, is the Facility Manager for the College of Arts & Sciences at USF. His specialties include flats and bass fishing, fly fishing, and sea kayaking. Reach him at joshua.broer@gmail.com.
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JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 9
BY: CAPT. GEORGE HASTICK
Wintertime Fishing Success
W
ith January usually being one of the coldest months in Florida, you might have to adjust your fishing. During this month, you will have to adjust your fishing on a daily basis, depending on the temperature. This can be a variety of things from tactics, baits, presentation, locations, tackle, and species. Some days will be good for targeting snook and reds, while other days it would be better to go after trout and sheepshead when it is colder. Some of the things you will have to deal with in January in the Tampa Bay area that affect your fishing are the water temperatures, wind, water clarity (usually extremely clear), negative tides, and cold fronts.
One advantage during this month is that there will not be as many people on the water like the rest of the year when it’s nicer out. This means there is a good chance that some of your spots will not be bothered. The warm days between the cold fronts can have great action on the flats, since the shallow water with dark grass will warm up quicker than the surrounding deeper water. Days like this are when you can sight fish redfish, snook, and trout. You will have to be stealthier than usual due to the clear and shallow water. These conditions will make the fish very spooky, especially the redfish. If you are throwing artificials like Saltwater Assassin’s 4” Sea Shad on an unweighted Owner Twist lock hook. This will be a lighter presentation that will help not spook the fish when it lands in the water. When casting, do not cast too close to the fish, as this will usually spook them in this type of scenario. Cast near the fish and reel your presentation in a way that looks like a bait crossing the fish’s path, but trying to flee. Bait, do not attack fish lol. Some of the things you can do to up your odds of getting hits with the clearer water are to downsize your leader to a 25 or 20lb Seaguar fluorocarbon leader and use smaller hooks, like a 1-1/0 sized hook with like bait. Ares to look for are the shallow water flats near deeper water. These types Continued on page 12
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT By: Capt. George Hastick
For real high-quality fluorocarbon leader, which is virtually invisible under water, look no further than Seaguar. From finesse to heavy-duty battles, Seaguar has you covered from 2lb test all the way up to 400lbs with different types of leaders for all types of fishing. Some are a proprietary double structured leader combining two 100% fluorocarbon resins for specific needs. The quality of their leaders is second to none, and this is due to their quality control, since they are involved from making the resins all the way to the finished product. It doesn’t hurt either that they were the inventor of fluorocarbon fishing lines in 1971 and have kept improving since. This brings me to one of their newest products, the saltwater Inshore fluorocarbon leader, designed for the inshore fisher, hence the name. This single structure leader was designed to keep costs down while delivering everything you need to handle the inshore obstacles, like docks, mangrove roots, jetties, seawalls, and reefs, to name a few. It also has a very smooth, consistent diameter that is level wound onto the spool so as not to make marks and not to weaken the line, while having great impact and knot strength. When you purchase Seagual fluorocarbon leader, you are purchasing consistent quality that won’t let you down. 10 TAMPA
JANUARY 2026
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Continued from page 10 of areas will allow the fish to go into deeper water during the night to stay warm and then migrate onto the shallow flat as it becomes warmer during the day. Another area to look at is your power plant outflows, which will stay warmer as long as the outflow is flowing. On colder days, fish like trout and sheepshead do not mind the colder temperatures and will be more willing to bite. Trout can be found concentrated in potholes on those negative tide days. Sheepshead can be found on residential docks, rock piles, jetties, and bridge pilings. Sheepshead will eat shrimp, but crabs are their favorite. So, a fiddler crab on a small 1-1/0 circle hook with no weight or the lightest weight possible to keep you in the strike zone where the fish are is a great setup with 20-25lb fluorocarbon leader. — Capt. George Hastick of “Fish Hunter Fishing Charters” in St. Petersburg, Fl. is the co-host of Florida West Coast Fishing Report and co-hosts Fishing Adventures Florida which is on five streaming channels and You Tube. He has been fishing the waters of the Tampa Bay area for over 40 years and guiding over 20 years.
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St. Petersburg
www.stpetefishingoutfitters.com www.USHarbors.com
St. Petersburg, FL - Jan 2026 High
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www.USHarbors.com ezdocktampa.com
Old Port Tampa, FL - Jan 2026 High
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1:34
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6:11
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10:57
4:09
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5:20
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23
0.2
7:20
6:04
25
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0.4
7:20
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26
6:49
2.0
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2:06
7:14
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7:02
Sun
Mon
8:39
25
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7:19
6:06
27
9:11
0.8
7:29
2.1
2:35
-0.3
12:40
0.6
7:19
6:05
2.0
3:30
Mon
Tue
7:55
26
-0.4
7:19
6:07
28
8:20
2.2
4:07
-0.5
7:19
6:06
2.1
4:49
Tue
Wed
9:02
27
-0.7
7:18
6:08
29
Thu
10:12
2.2
5:57
-0.8
7:18
6:08
28
Wed
9:24
2.2
5:32
-0.7
7:18
6:07
30
Fri
11:18
2.2
6:52
-0.9
7:17
6:09
29
Thu
10:39
2.3
6:42
-0.9
7:18
6:08
31
Sat
3:47
1.1
7:39
-0.9
7:17
6:10
30
Fri
3:24
1.3
7:38
-1.0
5:43
1.2
7:17
6:09
31
Sat
3:42
1.3
8:25
-1.0
6:55
1.1
7:17
6:10
6:00
1.1
Moon
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Tarpon Springs, AncloteAnclote River River, FL - Jan 2026 High
Date
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bluepelicanmarina.com www.USHarbors.com
Rocky Creek,Beach, Little Pine Hernando FL - Island Jan 2026
Low
High
Date
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
12:58
2.3
7:19
-1.0
6:54
1.3
7:23
5:45
1:44
2.3
8:11
-1.2
7:49
1.2
7:23
5:46
2:25
2.4
8:58
-1.2
8:38
1.0
7:23
5:46
3.3
3:01
2.3
9:41
-1.1
9:24
0.8
7:23
5:47
1:48
3.2
3:35
2.3
10:22
-0.9
10:10
0.7
7:23
5:48
Tue
2:36
3.1
4:05
2.3
11:00
-0.6
10:57
0.5
7:24
5:49
7
Wed
3:25
2.8
4:34
2.4
11:35
-0.3
11:45
0.4
7:24
5:49
5:51
8
Thu
4:16
2.5
5:04
2.4
12:07
0.0
7:24
5:50
7:24
5:52
9
Fri
5:09
2.2
5:36
2.5
12:35
0.4
12:39
0.4
7:24
5:51
7:24
5:53
10
Sat
6:10
1.8
6:12
2.5
1:32
0.4
1:12
0.7
7:24
5:52
0.9
7:24
5:54
11
Sun
7:32
1.6
6:58
2.5
2:40
0.3
1:52
0.9
7:24
5:53
12:52
1.2
7:24
5:54
12
Mon
9:20
1.5
7:54
2.5
4:00
0.2
2:53
1.2
7:24
5:53
0.0
2:10
1.3
7:23
5:55
13
Tue
10:56
1.6
8:57
2.5
5:15
0.0
4:11
1.3
7:24
5:54
4:17
-0.2
3:22
1.4
7:23
5:56
14
Wed
12:02
1.8
6:18
-0.2
5:23
1.4
7:24
5:55
2.5
5:07
-0.4
4:24
1.3
7:23
5:57
15
Thu
12:45
2.0
7:08
-0.4
6:25
1.3
7:23
5:56
12:23
1.9
5:48
-0.6
5:16
1.2
7:23
5:58
16
Fri
1:19
2.1
7:49
-0.6
7:17
1.2
7:23
5:57
Sat
12:53
2.0
6:24
-0.7
6:00
1.1
7:23
5:58
17
Sat
1:49
2.2
8:25
-0.7
8:01
1.1
7:23
5:57
18
Sun
1:21
2.1
6:56
-0.7
6:39
0.9
7:23
5:59
18
Sun
12:19
2.9
2:17
2.2
8:57
-0.7
8:40
0.9
7:23
5:58
19
Mon
12:03
2.7
1:47
2.1
7:28
-0.7
7:17
0.8
7:23
6:00
19
Mon
12:59
2.9
2:43
2.3
9:29
-0.7
9:18
0.8
7:23
5:59
20
Tue
12:42
2.7
2:11
2.1
7:59
-0.7
7:55
0.6
7:22
6:01
20
Tue
1:38
2.9
3:07
2.3
10:00
-0.7
9:56
0.6
7:23
6:00
21
Wed
1:21
2.7
2:36
2.2
8:30
-0.6
8:34
0.4
7:22
6:02
21
Wed
2:17
2.9
3:32
2.4
10:31
-0.6
10:35
0.4
7:22
6:01
22
Thu
2:04
2.6
3:02
2.3
9:02
-0.4
9:17
0.3
7:22
6:03
22
Thu
3:00
2.8
3:58
2.5
11:03
-0.4
11:18
0.3
7:22
6:02
23
Fri
2:51
2.4
3:31
2.4
9:35
-0.2
10:05
0.2
7:22
6:03
23
Fri
3:47
2.6
4:27
2.6
11:36
-0.2
7:22
6:02
24
Sat
3:44
2.2
4:04
2.5
10:09
0.1
11:00
0.1
7:21
6:04
24
Sat
4:40
2.4
5:00
2.7
12:06
0.2
12:10
0.1
7:21
6:03
25
Sun
4:47
1.9
4:43
2.5
10:47
0.5
7:21
6:05
25
Sun
5:43
2.0
5:39
2.7
1:01
0.1
12:48
0.5
7:21
6:04
26
Mon
6:11
1.6
5:31
2.5
12:08
0.0
11:32
0.9
7:20
6:06
26
Mon
7:07
1.7
6:27
2.7
2:09
0.0
1:33
0.9
7:21
6:05
27
Tue
8:10
1.5
6:35
2.6
1:32
-0.2
12:39
1.2
7:20
6:07
27
Tue
9:06
1.6
7:31
2.8
3:33
-0.2
2:40
1.2
7:20
6:06
28
Wed
10:01
1.6
7:52
2.6
2:57
-0.4
2:11
1.4
7:20
6:07
28
Wed
10:57
1.7
8:48
2.8
4:58
-0.4
4:12
1.4
7:20
6:07
29
Thu
11:13
1.8
9:06
2.7
4:11
-0.7
3:32
1.4
7:19
6:08
29
Thu
12:09
1.9
6:12
-0.7
5:33
1.4
7:19
6:07
30
Fri
11:58
2.0
10:13
2.8
5:13
-0.9
4:42
1.2
7:19
6:09
30
Fri
12:54
2.1
7:14
-0.9
6:43
1.2
7:19
6:08
31
Sat
12:33
2.1
6:03
-1.0
5:39
0.9
7:18
6:10
31
Sat
1:29
2.2
8:04
-1.0
7:40
0.9
7:18
6:09
Moon
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Thu
12:02
2.1
5:18
-1.0
4:53
1.3
7:22
5:46
1
2
Fri
12:48
2.2
6:10
-1.2
5:48
1.2
7:23
5:47
2
Fri
3
Sat
1:29
2.2
6:57
-1.2
6:37
1.0
7:23
5:48
3
Sat
12:07
3.3
4
Sun
12:02
3.1
2:05
2.2
7:40
-1.1
7:23
0.8
7:23
5:48
4
Sun
12:58
5
Mon
12:52
3.0
2:39
2.2
8:21
-0.9
8:09
0.7
7:23
5:49
5
Mon
6
Tue
1:40
2.8
3:09
2.2
8:59
-0.6
8:56
0.5
7:23
5:50
6
7
Wed
2:29
2.6
3:38
2.2
9:34
-0.3
9:44
0.4
7:23
5:51
8
Thu
3:20
2.3
4:08
2.2
10:06
0.0
10:34
0.4
7:23
9
Fri
4:13
2.0
4:40
2.3
10:38
0.4
11:31
0.4
10
Sat
5:14
1.7
5:16
2.3
11:11
0.7
11
Sun
6:36
1.5
6:02
2.3
12:39
0.3
11:51
12
Mon
8:24
1.4
6:58
2.3
1:59
0.2
13
Tue
10:00
1.5
8:01
2.3
3:14
14
Wed
11:06
1.7
8:59
2.4
15
Thu
11:49
1.8
9:52
16
Fri
17
1
ft
AM
Low PM
AM
Thu
Moon
Sea W orthy
RECIPES Rusty Bucket Baithouse & Charters
GUACAMOLE
Everything you need to experience New Port Richey on the water!
Ingredients: • 5 mature avocados • ¼ of an onion • 5 cilantro leaves • Salt and pepper as desired • Siracha • Lime Juice
Mash the avocados in a large bowl until you have a thick paste. Chop the onion and cilantro into very small pieces and add them. Add salt, pepper and lime juice. Continue tasting it until it tastes to your liking. If you want to kick it up a notch and make it spicy, I usually add a tablespoon of Siracha. You can also add tomato to the mix as an option. Chop it very small. Thank you Fernando Sandoval for the Guacamole recipe
Live Bait Rods & Reels Fishing Charters Boat Excursions 727-645-6598 5418 Main Street New Port Richey, FL 34652 www.https://www.facebook.com/rustybucketbaithouse
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 15
C
THE LARGEST BOAT SHOW on Florida’s Gulf Coast
Returns to St. Petersburg January 15-18
S
T. PETERSBURG, Fla. – November 18, 2025 – The 48th Annual St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show, Presented by Progressive, returns to St. Pete January 15-18, 2026. The show transforms the St. Petersburg downtown waterfront to a boater’s paradise, located at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater – Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park, 400 1st Street S. St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show, Presented by Progressive showcases products from fishing boats to luxury yachts both on land and in the water and within a 40,000-square-foot tent housing all types of marine gear, accessories, equipment and nautical art. The show attracts boating enthusiasts from Florida as well as seasonal visitors to the popular St. Petersburg waterfront destination. Annapolis School of Seamanship will present an engaging lineup of complimentary seminars at the show, offering both technical and lifestyle sessions designed for boaters of all experience levels. Technical topics include how to obtain a captain’s license, docking, marine weather, and navigation, while lifestyle sessions cover everything from chartering in the Caribbean to cruising the Great Loop. “We’re thrilled to be leading the education program at this year’s show,” said Captain John Martino, founder of the Annapolis School of Seamanship. “Our mission is to help boaters deepen their knowledge, build confidence, and get even more enjoyment out of every experience on the water.” For children, a popular seminar called Hook the Future is presented by Captain Don Dingman. This free fishing clinic for families takes place at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, and Sunday, January 18, for children ages 4-16. All children in attendance receive a complimentary fishing pole. Captain Don has hosted kids fishing clinics at major boat shows and events across the Southeast, teaching thousands of families how to succeed in fishing while spending quality time outdoors with people you love. The St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show, Presented by Progressive was recently named among USA Today’s Top 10 in the country, and supports Tampa Bay Watch this year, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering a healthy Tampa Bay watershed through community-driven restoration projects, education programs, and outreach initiatives. Proceeds from boat show ticket sales will bring vital 16 TAMPA
JANUARY 2026
programs to life from handson living shoreline projects to marine science field trips. Not far from the boat show site, Tampa Bay Watch has a Discovery Center on the St. Pete Pier for visitors to explore the local ecosystem and discover the incredible restoration work of Tampa Bay Watch. Tickets must be purchased in advance online at Stpeteboatshow.com. An opportunity to donate to Tampa Bay Watch will be presented on the website. General admission is $24 for adults. Active military and veterans are eligible for complimentary one-day general admission. To avoid delays upon arrival, a complimentary military active duty or veteran ticket may be obtained in advance using this link: https://informamarkets.jotform.com/252513285345153. On-site, military ID will be required at the entrance before admission is granted. Friends and family are not eligible to redeem this offer. Children ages 15 and under are free. St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show, Presented by Progressive hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, January 15-17; and Sunday, January 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
C
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— Follow the St. Petersburg Sailboat and Power Boat Show, Presented by Progressive, on Facebook and Instagram @stpeteboatshow. Follow Informa on LinkedIn https://www. linkedin.com/company/inforPRESENTED BY ma-us-boat-shows/.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
Coastal Angler Ad_8.125x10.875.pdf
1
10/22/25
1:51 PM
PRESENTED BY
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JANUARY 15-18 stpeteboatshow.com
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 17
P
w
T w
M
Ahoy Mates!
Yo
It’s The Tampa Bay Boat Show Chart your course the Florida State Fairgrounds on March 6, 7, 8.
E
njoy walking around millions of dollars of inventory on hand from Tampa Bay’s leading boat dealers. The Tampa Bay Boat Show is a grand event showcasing area boat dealers/manufacturers, the latest in boating and fishing supplies.
Tampa Bay’s Largest Boating Sales Event!
The Tampa Bay Boat show offers a great way to see and compare all available makes and models in one location. Pontoons, Cruisers, Center Consoles, Jet Skis, exhibits and more. Plus, you don’t want to miss the Florida Fishing School Seminars Series each day. Take part in a series of presentations by the area’s top fishing guides and local experts…great tips, secrets, and fun! Learn how to catch the big one! There is something for Boaters of all ages waiting for you. After you have found your dreamboat explore the many exhibits of the clothing, sunglasses, boating and docking accessories and so much more. The event is open to the public, and admission is free so bring the family and make a day of it. You could be on the water before the weekend is over.
HOURS: Friday – Sunday 10am-5pm FREE ADMISSION Florida State Fairgrounds 4800 US-301, Tampa, FL 33610
Tampabayboatshows.com 18 TAMPA
JANUARY 2026
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
F
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Presented by
www.tampabayboatshows.com The Tampa Bay Boat Show will be overflowing with water craft and exhibits for the boating enthusiast. This is an event you don’t want to miss. Millions of dollars of inventory on display indoors! You could be on the water... before the weekend is over!
March 6, 7 & 8 Friday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION! Florida State Fairgrounds 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301, Tampa, FL 33610
FISHING SHOW Gulf & Bay Florida Fishing School Learn from the pros on Friday, Saturday & Sunday FREE seminars presented by the area’s top fishing experts & captains
New Boats • Watercraft • Exhibits & More! www.tampabayboatshows.com • 727-893-8523 PR105399
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 19
NEW PORT RICHEY REPORT BY: CAPT. BILL RUTHERFORD
COLD FRONT PATTERNS: Reds Popping, Hogs Dropping
I
don’t know why they have me writing a fishing report when I haven’t caught a single fish all year, but here goes. The cold fronts haven’t been particularly cold this season, but the water temps are staying just low enough to have all of the usual winter suspects tucked inland and some of the not-so-usual suspects chewing still as well. Winter fishing in our area usually centers around sheepshead, and rightly so, but while they ha-
New Arrivals EcoTrek 3-in-1 convertible water shoe
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leefishersports.com 20 TAMPA
JANUARY 2026
ven’t been quite as thick this season, there are loads of other fish that have hung around longer than they normally would. The redfish bite is typically hot and heavy in the cooler months with boatloads (literally) of aggressive juvenile fish on almost every cast. I’ve noticed an uptick in slot and even overslot fish hanging out with the little fellas lately, and providing quite the fun surprise bite. Deep holes, channels, and docks where we normally hook into rat reds by the dozen are loaded up with slot-sized fish that love to eat a shrimp. If you like to venture nearshore/ offshore, the hogfish bite has been absolutely crazy good for the last few months and shows no signs of slowing down. Fishing depths between 20 and 50 feet, which is manageable for most bay boats on calm days, is producing coolers full of these tasty water pigs. I run 25lb fluorocarbon leader with a size 2/0 hook and whatever weight is needed to get it to the bottom, depending on current. Hogballs are popular too and often out-fish the standard knocker rig. You may just find your hog wallers filled with spawning sheepshead too, which isn’t a bad way to fill a box! — Captain Bill is a Florida native who grew up fishing the Gulf Coast. Being a proud Army Vet himself, he founded a charity called VetCatch that takes disabled veterans on cost free fishing trips in the Tampa Bay area. He guides out of New Port Richey fishing a 24-foot Shoalwater tower boat as well as the custom 25-foot VetCatch pontoon if needed for elderly/disabled fisherman. www.rustybucket.fish.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
6 New Port Richey, Florida
6000 66th St. N • St. Petersburg, FL. 33709 (727) 546-8484 • AmericanDiscountMarine.com
lorida
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JANUARY 2026
TAMPA 21
CHAPTERS MEET-UP
Where Fishing Meets Fellowship: Don’t Miss it! Salt Strong Fishing Club Presents: On Saturday, February 21, 2026, the All Florida Salt Strong Chapters Meet Up will bring together anglers, captains, coaches, conservation partners, families, kids, and outdoor enthusiasts for a full day of hands-on learning, giveaways, raffles, seminars, and community celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned angler, a weekend warrior, or brand new to fishing, this event is built for you. If you love Florida’s waters, its fisheries, and the people who fish them — you don’t want to miss this.
Saturday, February 21, 2026 10am – 2pm Egypt Shrine Event Center 5017 E Washington St Tampa, FL 33619
THE BIG RAFFLES — WIN THE ULTIMATE PRIZES
This year’s Meet Up features the most exciting raffles ever offered through Salt Strong Alliance: -Custom Micro Draft Skiff WIN your dream boat, valued at over $90,000 MSRP At 22’ in length with a 97” beam, the Micro Draft Skiff 22 Extreme is built for versatility! -FluxJet Electric Jet Kayak: Winner of the ICAST 2025 Best of Show. The world’s first electric jet kayak — not yet available to the public. PLUS Thousands More in Prizes: • Charter trips with top captains • Tackle bundles • Rods, reels, apparel & fishing gear • Prize drawings all day long Online raffle winners do NOT need to be present. On-site Red Ticket winners must be present..
2165 - Drive for Clean Water Coastal Angler Magazine 2page ad.indd All Pages
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WHAT YOU WILL EXPERIENCE This event is packed with interactive, family-friendly activities designed to teach, inspire, and connect. Salt Strong Skill-Building Zone
Conservation Education & Hands-On Workshops
Led by Salt Strong Coaches, Chapters & founders Joe & Luke Simonds
Presented by Sea & Shoreline, LLC featuring: • Make a seagrass plug • Build a hanging oyster garden • Paint oyster shells • Cast a Mini Oyster Catcher Mat Workshop • Wave Attenuator Device Displays • Concrete mangrove planters Displays
Hands-on fishing instruction including: • Wade fishing techniques • Surf fishing strategies • How to find your own fishing spots • Bridge & pier fishing • Learn to throw a Cast Net Seminar • PLUS: Luke Simonds’ personal Micro Draft Skiff on display • Special Event sign up for Salt Strong membership perks for sale
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT SALTSTRONG ALLIANCE.COM! USE PROMO CODE SSA50 FOR 50% OFF.
THE CAPTAIN’S DECK — INSIDE THE 1918 CAFÉ Meet & mingle with Florida’s top guides and captains
KIDS FISHING & EDUCATION AREA
PRE-ORDER EVENT SHIRT — LIMITED EDITION Pre-registered attendees can purchase the exclusive 2026 Meet Up SPF Performance Fishing Shirt Only available with preregistration before Feb. 1. TICKETS & REGISTRATION General Admission: $20 Kids 2 & under are FREE Includes seminars, workshops, kids activities, raffle tickets, tote bag & more. Use Promo Code SSA50 before Feb. 20 for 50% off! Register Today: SaltStrongAlliance.com
WHY THIS EVENT MATTERS All raffle proceeds support Salt Strong Alliance, funding: • Habitat restoration (oysters, clams, seagrass, mangroves) • Youth fishing mentorship • Coastal cleanups • Water-quality monitoring • Environmental education programs Come learn, fish, connect — and help protect Florida’s waters for the next generation. BROUGHT TO YOU BY
12/12/25 2:11 PM
Why Are We Talking About Tarpon Season ...
in January?
By: Capt. Paul Duffey
T
arpon season 2026 is still months away. If we’re lucky, we’ll see the first scattered sightings in late April, but we won’t experience consistent numbers until water temperatures climb in May. So why bring up something that’s months out? Simple because it’s important and incredibly popular. The Tarpon migration is the biggest and most sought-after season on Florida’s Gulf Coast, and that means one thing for anglers. Plan or miss out. Trips will be in extremely high demand. During tarpon season, it can be difficult not impossible to book a quality trip. Most captains fill their calendars solidly well before April and often run multiple trips a day. Book your trip now. A deposit secures your date and guarantees you a spot during peak season. Do not wait until you’re here on vacation and expect premium availability. The best tides and time slots go early. Use this time to prepare. If you’ve never fished for tarpon before, there is a lot to learn, and you can start today! YouTube is your best friend. Watch as many tarpon-fishing videos as you can. The more mentally prepared you are, the better you’ll perform when there’s a 100+ pound fish on the line. Tarpon fishing is unlike anything you’ve done before. It’s not comparable to catching a “really big bass” or any other fishing experience. Tarpon fishing is a game of patience, precision, and discipline long before you ever hook one. And once you do that’s when the real work begins. I’m not trying to intimidate anyone out of the most exciting fishing trips of their life. A guide’s job is to
prepare clients for what to expect and to give them the best chance at success. Ask anyone who has landed a large tarpon, and they’ll tell you there is no experience like it. The entire process is a blend of excitement, anticipation, and an indescribable calm that you simply have to experience. The water is like glass as we run out before sunrise. The sky is glowing as the smoke burns off. That first tarpon rolling in the distance. The moment you finally see one up close for the first time, then, in an instant, the serenity fades, and the focus begins. Where should your cast land? What if the fish changes direction? What happens when we hook up? Tarpon season is coming, and now is the time to get ready.
— Captain Paul Duffy | Tightlines Fishing Charters, Tarpon Springs, Fl | Call 727-435-1886 | tightliescharter.com
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passagrillemarina.com
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Call for shipping! E-Mail: passagrillemarina@yahoo.com
24 TAMPA
JANUARY 2026
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6:00 am - 10:00 pm Mon - Sun
FEBRUARY 11-15 • MIAMIBOATSHOW.COM
Islamorada Women’s Sailfish Tournament Jan. 30-Feb. 1
Go for the Gold! Islamorada, FL Keys. Win trophies, a gold sailfish pendant and a crown! Meet the other anglers! Fish your own boat or reserve a charter slot when registering.
www.ladiesletsgofishing.com Register in advance online
S Time for the Southeast
SAILFISH
Tourney Season
W
inter in south Florida brings an awesome collision of ballyhoo and sailfish that makes for some of the best fishing of the year. It’s also the time of year for some of the richest and most fun tournaments. If you’re interested, right now is the time to register. Here’s a list of some good sailfish tournament events: JAN. 5-7, 2026 2026 Silver Sailfish Derby Sailfish Marina, Singer Island westpalmbeachfishingclub.org JAN. 9-10, 2026 Fish for Holly Sailfish Tournament Islamorada • fishforholly.com JAN. 14-18, 2026 Operation Sailfish
Leg One of the Quest for the Crest Sailfish Series
Sailfish Resort & Marina, Palm Beach www.bluewatermovements.com
JAN. 20-24, 2026 Buccaneer Cup Sailfish Release Tournament Buccaneer Marina Resort, Riviera Beach buccaneercup.com JAN. 23-25, 2026 Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament 2nd Event of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship
Cheeca Lodge, Islamorada www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com
JAN. 20-21, 2026 Islamorada Fishing Club Sailfish Tournament 3rd Event of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship
Whale Harbor, Islamorada www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com FEB. 18-22, 2026 Sailfish Challenge
Leg Two of the Quest for the Crest Sailfish Series
Three checkpoints: Miami, Pompano Beach, West Palm
www.bluewatermovements.com APR. 8-11, 2026 Final Sail
Leg Three of the Quest for the Crest Sailfish Series
Miami Beach • www.bluewatermovements.com
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uckily, I have never personally been seasick, but I can con!rm that when it gets someone, they look like they legitimately want death. Watching people board the boat in the morning full of personality, and quickly turning into a quiet, helpless version of themselves breaks my heart every time. It’s funny, I’ve taken people !ve miles out in flat calm seas and watched them turn green within an hour, while others can ride out a choppy twelvehour sword!sh trip without a single grimace. Seasickness, or motion sickness, isn’t about toughness. It’s about biology, and knowing how to outsmart it can mean the difference between the trip of a lifetime and one you’d rather forget. At its core, seasickness is your brain throwing a !t over mixed signals. Your inner ear, which controls balance, feels the constant motion of the boat. Your eyes, however, might be locked on the deck or a smartphone, telling your brain that you’re not moving. This mismatch can confuse the body enough to trigger nausea, cold sweats, dizziness, and that unmistakable “I need the rail” moment. The good news is that you can do a lot to keep it from happening, or at least keep it from ruining your day. Start the night before. One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is showing up tired, dehydrated, and with nothing in their stomach. Lack of sleep makes your body more sensitive to motion. Drink plenty of water the day before and have a balanced dinner, nothing too greasy or heavy. And go easy on alcohol, nothing gets people
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon faster than being hungover. Eat before you board. An empty stomach is not your friend at sea. Eat a light breakfast with complex carbs and protein; think a bagel with peanut butter or scrambled eggs with toast. Skip the spicy breakfast burrito...you’ll thank me later. Pick your spot wisely. The closer you are to the boat’s center, the less movement you’ll feel. On smaller boats, this often means staying near the console or midship. If you’re anchored or drifting, facing into the wind can help you get fresh air, and fresh air is one of your best allies. Whatever you do, don’t lay down and close your eyes, no matter how much you’d prefer to be in the fetal position, this is your enemy. Keep your eyes on the horizon. Your inner ear is telling your brain you’re moving, and your eyes need to con!rm it. Locking your gaze on the horizon gives your brain consistent information and can stop the mixed-signal meltdown before it starts. Avoid the downward spiral. Once seasickness takes hold, it can be hard to shake. If you feel that !rst wave of queasiness, act fast. Get to fresh air, keep your head up, and focus on a !xed point.
Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Sweet E’Nuf Charters out of Marathon, The Florida Keys. (504) 920-6342. www.captainquinlyn.com; IG: @captainquinlyn
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Know your aids. There are plenty of over-the-counter and prescription remedies, from Dramamine and Bonine to scopolamine patches, but timing matters! Take them before you step aboard, or even get them in your system the night prior to a trip. Ginger candies, wrist acupressure bands, and peppermint gum can also help. Respect your limits. If you know you’re prone to seasickness, tell your captain ahead of time. We’d much rather work with you to make your trip comfortable than see you suffer in silence. Lastly, if you do need to heave, please try to do it downwind of the captain. I dont care if its all over the boat, but truly, I have been puked on more times than I’d like to admit. To the client who got me right in the mouth from 10 feet away on a windy trip, 10/10 for accuracy, but I’d rather not be handing out those awards. Seasickness is nothing to be embarrassed about as even seasoned captains have had their moments. The key is to prepare, listen to your body, and take action early. The ocean is an incredible place, and a little planning can make sure you enjoy every second of it, without clinging to the rail.
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Adjusting to Post-Front Bass
water temperatures. Since Florida lakes, where I’m located, are shallow and cool down quickly PRO ANGLER JOEY BLOOM in the wind, I spend extra time searching for protected areas—canals, marinas, or creek arms—that retain warmth longer. Even a slight increase of a couple degrees can spark !sh activity. I’ve often seen a quiet stretch come hen a powerful cold front sweeps a shaky head or Texas rig along alive after the sun heats it up by midday. across your location, bass !shing grass lines, letting Bait Cave’s lifelike action do If you’re !shing grass-rich lakes, concentrate conditions can shift dramatically the work. That realistic movement and high- on dense vegetation near deeper water—look overnight. A reliable shallow bite can vanish by for hydrilla edges, reeds, or mats. These zones the following morning as water temperatures trap heat and provide bass a sense of safety. I plummet, skies clear, and previously gentle love flipping a Bait Cave Customs creature bait south winds turn into chilly gusts from the into that thick stuff with a heavy rod and braid, north, stripping warmth from the lakes. staying alert for subtle bites that follow a cold Consistency as a bass angler hinges on knowing front. how to adjust your approach after these fronts As the day warms and the barometric move through. pressure stabilizes, don’t rule out reaction baits. My !rst reminder after a cold front is A suspending jerkbait or lipless crankbait can simple: the !sh haven’t gone anywhere—they’ve entice suspended !sh that aren’t chasing much just changed their mood and location. Most else. largemouth bass dislike cold, high-pressure Cold fronts can be humbling, but they also weather, so they slide off the banks, tuck tighter teach adaptability. Every front is a learning into cover, or suspend near feeding areas. opportunity. Be patient, trust your instincts, Recognizing these subtle changes can turn a and use your con!dence baits—my favorites challenging day into a productive one. are Bait Cave Customs soft plastics and the Returning to productive spots after a front, gear I pick up from Copper State Tackle’s new I slow down and target slightly deeper water. Inverness, Fla. location. If you’re near there, If I had success with moving baits in two feet check out their shop—they have everything you of water before, I’ll now !sh four or !ve feet need to stay prepared for any conditions. deep with more subtle lures. This is when I rely on my con!dence baits—especially the Joey Bloom is a 2024-2025 National Professional soft plastics from Bait Cave Customs. Their quality construction make a big difference Fishing League Tournament Pro. Follow his stick baits and !nesse worms are essential for during tougher bites. fishing and fun on Instagram, Facebook, my cold-front strategy. I’ll drag one slowly on Another important tactic is seeking stable and YouTube at Joey Bloom Fishing.
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FISHING FOR A GREAT GETAWAY? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN USVI!
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hat you really need to cure those winter blues is a little sun and sand, beaches and rainforests, music and culture, food and fun. And no place delivers the rhythms of the Caribbean quite like St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. ST. THOMAS: St. Thomas’ location near an undersea canyon makes it one of the best places in the world to catch massive !sh—we’re talking up to 350 pounds or more! Inshore, offshore and deep-sea !shing charters like Offshore Adventures and Double Header Sportfishing offer half or full-day excursions into waters teeming with blue marlin, yellow!n tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi and more. Or if you’d rather combine a little work and play, Virgin Islands Sportfishing can customize a trip that includes plenty of !shing, plus a place to stop for cocktails to celebrate your big catch. For an adventure to remember, book a trip to Coral World Ocean Park, where you can scuba dive or swim with dolphins, sea lions and turtles. (Guides are provided and no certi!cations are required). The park’s 5 acres also include aquariums, outdoor pools, nature trails and other marine experiences. The littles on your list will never forget a trip to the hands-on Pirates Treasure Museum, where kids (and kids at heart) can steer a virtual pirate ship through a storm, learn all about submarines
and even search for pirate booty — before scoring their own pirate-themed merch in the museum gift shop, of course. ST. CROIX: The outdoors and history blend beautifully on St. Croix. Thrill-seekers can fuel their adrenaline rush with a ride on the Carambola Zip Line, which delivers a heart-pounding 200-foot vertical drop before racing 2,500 feet across a lush tropical valley. You can also explore some of the island’s more remote reaches on a two-hour Gecko’s Island Adventures guided ATV tour through trails and forests you simply can’t access by car. These treks require a sense of adventure combined with a little grit, but the stunning views that await are oh, so, worth it. Those wanting a more relaxing vacation will love exploring St. Croix’s historical towns, where you can wander among buildings that haven’t changed much in hundreds of years. All of the exploring will work up quite an appetite, so be sure to book a tasty food tour while you’re here! Companies like Virgin Islands Food Tours or Taste of Twin City Food Tour will help you eat and drink your way around town, while a Christiansted Sip & Savor Mixology Class teaches guests how to make three signature cocktails mixed with local Cruzan Rum and tropical ingredients. ST. JOHNS: Don’t be fooled by the smallest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands. St. John
absolutely delivers when it comes to uncrowded beaches, relaxation and unspoiled natural beauty. More forested and less developed than its sister islands, it offers the perfect escape for those looking for a true “check out from civilization” getaway. That seclusion and natural beauty make it one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations for romantic getaways. Book a luxury stay at The Westin St. John Resort Villas or Lovango Resort & Beach Club. Reserve a table at !ne restaurants like ZoZo’s at Caneel Bay or casual joints like Skinny Legs Bar & Grill. Book a Cruz Bay Watersports sunset sail or a Night Kayak glow tour. Another unique way to explore St. John’s pristine beaches is on horseback. Book a ride with Carolina Corral to take a guided trail ride along coral-strewn shorelines before making your way up a sloping hillside that leads to sweeping views of Coral Bay.
NEED MORE INSPIRATION? Check out www.VisitUSVI.com.
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