Coastal Angler Magazine | November 2025 | Florida Keys Edition

THE GULF MECCA

TRUST BR AND MARINERS

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PULLEY RIDGE: e O shore Fisherman’s

There’s remote, and then there’s Pulley Ridge. Sitting over 100 miles o! the coast of Florida, this underwater plateau is where the Gulf of Mexico drops into the deep blue, and it’s earned a legendary reputation as one of the most productive, and challenging, shing destinations in the U.S.

By Astrid deGruchy

If you’re heading out there, you’ll need a serious o!shore machine. ink a 47’ Freeman or a Viking, something that can handle the long run and unpredictable Gulf conditions. is isn’t a trip for small center consoles or light tackle. Last time we were out there, we loaded up with PENN Fathom electrics paired with PENN Ally Electric rods & PENN International 50 VISX ready to drop into depths that test both your gear and your patience.

Using chicken rigs, we hauled in vermillion and yellow snappers in over 500 . of water that lled the box, but Pulley Ridge has a wild side where giant groupers and the occasional “what-the-heck-is-that” monsters lurk in the dark.

Pulley Ridge isn’t just another shing trip, it’s a rite of passage. e distance, the depth, the unknown, it all adds up to one of those bucket-list adventures every angler should do once in their life, especially with a crew of buddies who live for the chase. While you’re out there, you can even make a stop at the Dry Tortugas, another incredible o!shore destination rich in history and beauty.

Check out the full Pulley Ridge expedition on YouTube, only on Bean Sport shing TV.

TWO SIDES OF THE CHEROKEE

Trout Fishing the Wild Waters of East Tennessee

By Julie Graham

The Cherokee National Forest o!ers some of the best freestone trout shing in the Southeast. Spanning 650,000 acres across the Southern Appalachians, it’s the largest block of public land in Tennessee and it’s divided neatly in two by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

On the north side, mountain streams tumble through hemlock hollows toward Cosby. To the south, the waters of Citico Creek cut deep through wilderness ridges near the Unicoi Mountains. Together, they showcase the Cherokee’s range. From roadside creeks to backcountry runs, the forest o!ers anglers a taste of freestone Tennessee trout water.

Cosby Creek: Northern Solitude

Below the Great Smoky Mountains National Park boundary, Cosby Creek winds through the community of Cosby, Tennessee, o!ering accessible trout

water without the added park permit. ese lower stretches are regularly stocked by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) and can provide productive shing throughout spring and fall. While access is somewhat limited, anglers will nd several bridges and pull-o!s along Highway 32 where they can wade in. e streambed is rocky and slick, with plenty of boulder pockets and undercut banks—good traction and careful footing are essential. Expect stocked rainbows with the occasional brown trout.

Inside the Park, the Cosby Campground section is ideal for bank shing and light wading, especially for those who prefer easy access close to trails and picnic areas. Brook trout dominate the upper reaches, while rainbows hold in the deeper pools below.

Citico Creek: Wilderness Water

To the south, Citico Creek drains more than 20,000 acres of rugged country on the western edge of the Cherokee. Fed by the north and south forks rising in the Unicoi Mountains, Citico o!ers a blend of stocked and wild trout water—ideal for anglers who like a mix of easy access and adventure.

e TWRA regularly stocks Citico from Little Citico Creek to the Citico Creek Wilderness boundary, while the upper forks hold self-sustaining populations of wild rainbows and browns.

e Cherohala Skyway marks the southern edge of the Citico Creek watershed, and just driving it is worth the trip—sweeping vistas, ery fall colors, and the sound of water around every bend.

Fall Fishing Tips

Autumn is prime time on both sides of the Cherokee National Forest. Water temperatures drop, trout feed hard before winter, and the hardwood ridges turn to ame.

• Match the Hatch: Early fall favors terrestrials; in November, go small with blue-winged olives, midges, and caddis emergers.

• Go Light: Clear, low ows call for 6X or 7X tippet and longer casts.

• Mind the Leaves: Dri leaves can snag a line—look for deeper pools below ri&es where trout hold under cover.

• Start Late: Cooler nights mean shing o en improves mid-morning as the water warms slightly.

For more information, including licensing regulations, visit the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency at https://www.tn.gov/twra.html.

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

FLOUNDER, FLOCKS & FEEDING TIMES Fall Fishing Fever

There’s just something magical about fall shing. e air cools, the bait thins out, and everything that swims gets a little hungrier. For me, it’s the holy trinity of the season— ounder migrations, trout and reds chasing shrimp under screaming gulls, and the early whispers of trophy trout time.

The Fall Flounder Run

Ah, yes, the famous fall ounder migration. is is more prevalent in some areas, but they can be caught all along the Gulf Coast. ese at ambushers stack up near the passes as they make their way to spawn in the

Gulf, gorging on bait along the way. When I’m targeting ounder, I switch things up. My go-to is a scented so plastic, preferably the Titan Series from Knockin Tail Lures. Not only are they scented, but they also have a rattling tail. Working this along the bottom will entice violent strikes. Since ounder love to bury themselves and wait in ambush, I keep that lure tapping bottom, twitching my rod sideways, whether I’m wading or boating. It’s a nesse game—part patience, part persistence—and when that telltale “thump” hits, it’s pure satisfaction.

Birds, Bait, and Mayhem

en there’s the chaos of gulls dive-bombing over shrimp and schooling sh—a sight that’ll make any angler’s pulse jump. Fall o en brings bigger trout into the mix, turning every cast into a thrill. I prefer to use a heavier jighead (1/4 to 3/8 ounce) to achieve the desired action without spooking the birds or the sh. Durable so plastics help keep me in the ght longer, and I mash the barbs down for quick releases and faster re-casts. When the schools settle and the birds thin out, a topwater lure can coax the bruisers to rise— and few things beat watching a big trout explode on the surface.

Solunar Science and Timing the Bite

As fall rolls on, my focus shi s toward trophy trout—and timing becomes everything. I’ve followed solunar shing tables since childhood, back when my grandparents’ calendars marked “good” and “poor” shing days with little sh icons. Over the years, I’ve been both a believer and a skeptic, but I’ve noticed a pattern: my best bites o en align with solunar peaks. Now, I plan my day around them. Instead of running and gunning, I’ll anchor in a promising area during a predicted feeding window and wait it out.

On a recent trip with my boys, we missed the morning bite but stuck it out for the next solunar cycle. We anchored near a grass edge meeting a sandy at and, right on cue, rods bent. For seventy glorious minutes red sh hit every few casts, and sometimes we doubled up. My sons were smiling, the drag was screaming, and the solunar chart earned another believer that day.

So as the air cools and the sh feed up, grab a rod, bring a kid, and let the tides—and maybe the moon—guide your next adventure.

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures,® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

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Surf Expo Marks 50 Years as Premier Marketplace for Coastal and Outdoor Lifestyle

In the world of watersports and outdoor lifestyle, staying connected to what’s next isn’t optional—it’s essential. For 50 years, Surf Expo has been where the industry comes together to discover new products, make connections, and set the tone for the season ahead.

Returning to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, January 7–9, 2026, Surf Expo celebrates its 50th anniversary with an event that honors ve decades of driving the business of the waterman lifestyle forward. e show draws thousands of quali ed retail buyers, brands, and industry professionals from across the U.S. and around the world.

Surf Expo has long been the industry’s launchpad for what’s next. It’s where new brands make their debut and where trusted names unveil their latest collections. On the show oor, sustainability, functionality, and style continue to drive the next wave of coastal and outdoor retail—trends that shape what ends up in your store and, ultimately, in the hands of your customers.

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As we transition into winter in the Florida Keys, the fishing scene is heating up, both in the Backcountry and offshore. The cooling temperatures bring in a bounty of opportunities, and I’m excited to share what anglers can look forward to this month, both in the Backcountry and on the oceanside. November is a remarkable time to be in the Backcountry. Snook and redfish are very active, particularly on calm days when we can find them tailing up in the shallows. It’s always a thrill to see those big reds busting bait and sticking their tails out of the water. On windier days, the protected shorelines will be where I will be hiding, especially if it’s out of the north. I fish for snook primarily, and this time of year can be outstanding, especially for the guys willing to fish artificials and work the jig or plastics on the shorelines, or better yet, under them! Big shout out to Rylan Solis, 12 years old, fishing with Capt. Louie Cortez, who won the 25th Take Stock for Children Backcountry Tournament as these guys crushed it!

Florida Keys TRANSITION TIME

By: Capt. Greg Poland

There are still a few tarpon lingering around the channels and bridges, but their time is coming to an end, so get out there when the conditions are right while they are still biting. While the large migratory schools are no longer here, the resident tarpon are still aggressive and offer some thrilling opportunities, particularly for fly fishermen. I recommend using patterns

like the Black Death or EP Tarpon Bunny for the best success. The local flats and channel edges have been active with bonefish and permit. I find the cooler water helps reduce their wariness, and you can find them around the flats feeding on crabs and shrimp. I spoke with Capt. Tim Klein yesterday, and he has been having good success with the bonefish lately, both on flyrod as well as live shrimp. Moving offshore, November marks the peak of our pelagic season. Sailfish, kingfish, and blackfin tuna are migrating through our waters, and the excitement is palpable. Expect action-packed days targeting these species, with mahi-mahi and wahoo also making their appearance.

Spanish mackerel are schooling around bait balls while I am catching pilchards, they are always fun to fish for. This transition period brings in typically favorable weather and lighter boat traffic, making for a fantastic experience on the water. I’m looking forward to another great month of fishing, so give me a call, grab your gear, and let’s make some memories out there!

— Contact Capt. Greg at 305.393.3327 or email gregpoland@icloud.com | Instagram: gregpoland Facebook: Fishing in the Florida Keys with Capt. Greg Poland

IMPORTANCE OF MANGROVES

By: Capt. Angelia Swanson

Mangroves are a big part of our landscape and ecosystem. We see them everywhere all the time, but do people actually understand their importance? They should!

Our mangroves serve many purposes vital to our island chain. There are several species of mangroves; white, black, and red. In the keys most of our mangroves are the red variety which grow magnificent prop roots. These roots come down from the branches above and make for a beautiful sight. They serve to not only anchor horizontally growing branches to the seabed below, but they also provide oxygen to the mangroves submerged root system. Another amazing sight are the big seeds called propagules. They look like giant green beans.

These seeds will drop into the water and float along until they start to grow roots. Eventually they will settle in the muddy bottom or on the edge of existing mangroves and start new life in the mangrove forest. The root systems of the mangroves serve so many purposes as well. They are dense and protect our shore lines from erosion and by absorbing a lot of water they protect us from storm surge.

These complex root systems also serve as our fish nurseries. They provide shelter from larger predatory fish and the rich ecosystem has an abundant amount of food sources for these young fish. This great amount of protection and sustenance allows these young fish to grow larger before they move into adult fish habitats such as the coral reef. This supports the life cycles of so many commercial and recreational species.

Mangroves also help to improve the air quality by absorbing a number of pollutants from the air and trapping these pollutants in their roots and soil be-

neath. Their immense canopies also help trap airborne particles, while microorganisms within this incredible ecosystem break down and detoxify pollutants. This all means that mangroves are amazing air purifiers and contribute to overall air purity, something we should all be grateful for! I am particularly fond of our mangrove forests and have done a great deal of exploring them on kayak, paddle board, and snorkeling. Yes,snorkeling! I have encountered so much sea life while observing the underwater habitats of the mangroves. I have seen everything from juvenile fish, jellyfish, marsh snakes and crabs, baby green sea turtles, small crocodiles, and even seahorses attached so delicately to the mangrove roots! The wider, deeper areas of the mangroves will hold a great number of manatees during the winter months, and they are always a sight to see. Any visitor experiencing these gentle giants swimming curiously around their kayaks are in for a thrill. As intimidating as their size may seem, the manatee’s only natural predators are humans, sadly to say, so please observe them quietly and do not touch or disturb them.

Our mangrove forests are threatened, but protected. You can trim them, but with strict guidelines put in place by the Mangrove Trimming and Preservation Act. I also follow The Mangrove Action Project, which is a worldwide nonprofit organization promoting mangrove restoration and conservation through education. So next time you look at that big clump of green trees, you know that an incredible and extremely diverse ecosystem is living within them and they are cleaning our air and water for us in their own unique way!

November in the upper Florida Keys, is when the fishing truly comes alive. As the weather cools and the first cold fronts begin pushing down, the change ignites incredible action both offshore and on the reef. For anglers, it’s the kickoff to one of the most exciting times of year.

On the reef, baitfish like ballyhoo begin gathering in huge schools, often right up on the shallow patch reefs. This sets the stage for a sight that makes every angler’s heart race: sailfish chasing bait showers. From a distance, you’ll see frigate birds circling and diving, and then suddenly thousands of ballyhoo erupting from the water, spraying in every direction. It sounds just like someone just turned on a shower, with splashes echoing across the reef.

This is when we’ll race in with the boat, scanning the commotion for the sailfish themselves. Sleek, fast, and lit up like a black ghost with flasher of

color, they slash through the bait schools, sometimes right on the surface in water less than 20 feet deep. When everything comes together, spotting the fish, casting into the frenzy, and watching a sailfish eat your bait right in front of you, it’s truly an amazing sight. Challenging, yes. But also, one of the most exciting fishing experiences you’ll ever have in the Florida Keys.

The reef itself also comes alive in November. Mutton snapper are on the move, offering a challenging fight and some great eating. Yellow jacks, yellowtail snapper, and grouper also join the mix, creating a steady stream of rod-bending action. One cast might bring up a beautiful snapper, the next a big jack, it’s never the same twice, and that’s part of what makes it so much fun.

Offshore, the pelagic bite builds as well. November is prime time for kite fishing with live baits, an exciting and effective method we use to target sailfish, blackfin tuna, king mackerel, wahoo, and even some late-season mahi. Watching a kite bait on the surface, only to get crushed by a speeding sailfish or a skyrocketing king, is an unforgettable experience that keeps anglers coming back year after year.

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing sailfish showering ballyhoo across the reef or battling a hard-pulling snapper in the shallows, this is the time to be out here fishing. The Upper Keys are at their best in November, and the action is waiting. Come join me aboard The Captain Easy and experience the thrill for yourself. November in the Keys isn’t just another fishing trip, it’s a memory you’ll carry for a lifetime! — www.captaineasycharters.com | You can reach Captain Bruce Andersen at Capt. Easy Charters, MM 85, call 305.360.2120 or email at: captbrucekey@comcast.net

FISHIN’ HOLES Capt.

By: Capt. Joel Brandenburg

The first time you see a black grouper in person, you are stunned by its beauty, muscular structure, and giant jaws. Black grouper is one of the most sought-after game fish in the Florida Keys and can be a challenge to find, hook and L and. We mostly bottom fish for black grouper in the Florida Keys with live bait fish, however, sometimes we troll with stretch 20s, 30s or 40s and sometimes we catch them while vertical jigging. As the water temperature cools down the black grouper move closer.

We typically target black grouper anywhere from 10 feet deep to as deep as 250 ft. deep and sometimes catch them in even deeper water than that. When we anchor on a spot for black grouper, we like to chum a lot, especially when the tide is slack so chum drops straight down under the boat. When we can keep our lines straight up and down, it seems to make for a better presentation to the grouper and definitely makes it easier to pull the grouper out of the rocks. As soon as the grouper realizes it has a hook stuck in its mouth and it’s being pulled upwards it immediately to the reef and knows its best chance to get away is to bury itself under the sharp rocks.

Many times, while bottom fishing we like to lock down the drag pump the rod up slowly and roll down quickly until we get the grouper out of the rocks. Once you get the grouper out of the rocks the fight becomes a lot easier, but until then, we seem to maintain about a 50-50 chance of being able to land the grouper.

For live bait we prefer pinfish, grunts, pilchers, ballyhoo, google eyes, and blue runners. We like to use at least 50-pound test leader and at least 40-pound test mainline. Some people swear by braided line for grouper because it’s less abrasive on the rocks, but I’m convinced that braid unless you have a long leader spooks the very smart black grouper. I also find that if you miss the first grouper, it’s hard to get a hit from the second grouper. It’s almost like when you miss the first grouper, a memo goes out look out for the live bait fish with a hook in them.

Black grouper get educated very quickly and are spooky fish to catch since they are a very slow growing fish. You can only keep one per day and it must be over 24 inches from the tip of the bottom lip to the tip of the pinched tail down the lateral line of the fish. Black grouper season closes in January and reopens again in April.

This time of year, we love to fish for snapper on the reef flatlining with a couple people on either side of the boat, dropping to the bottom for grouper. This time of year, it’s not uncommon for us to come in with a limit of snapper and grouper. I never find worms in black grouper like I do occasionally in red grouper or gag grouper.

Black grouper have been known to exceed 100 pounds and it’s not unusual for us to catch a 15 or 20 pounder. It is uncommon to catch a black grouper in the 30 or 40 pound range, but every once in a while we do catch a lunker. As the water cools down the black grouper bite heats up! This is a great time of the year to come to the Florida Keys and get your share!

— For a charter with Captain Joel Brandenburg of Ana Banana Fishing Company Marathon Florida Keys call 305– 395–4212 office# or 813–267–4401 Cell #. Or visit us in person at ponchos fuel dock a half block away from Cast Away restaurant at 1280 Oceanview Ave. Marathon Florida Keys.

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BLUE WATER, RED

By: Jessica Hendrie

Every summer along Florida’s Gulf and Atlantic waters, red snapper season marks more than just an open window for anglers, it’s a time when friendships are rekindled, boats are prepped, and saltwater becomes the stage for memories that last long after the cooler’s been cleaned out.

The first lines get cast early, usually before sunrise, when the horizon blushes pink and the hum of outboard motors echoes across glassy seas. For many, it’s not just about the catch, it’s about who’s standing beside you, the friends who share your bait, your laughter, and your silence. Red snapper trips have a way of grounding us, reminding us that the ocean rewards tience, teamwork, and a shared sense of adventure.

There’s a rhythm to the day that seasoned crews know well. Someone drops the anchor, another rigs bait, and the first “fish on!” sets the tone. The rush of hauling up a 15-pound snapper, scales flashing crimson in the sun, is electric but the high-fives that follow are the real catch.

These moments stitch people together in a way few things on land can. Friendship at sea feels different. It’s raw, simple, and built on trust. When the bite slows, that’s when the best conversations happen, stories surface, old jokes resurface, and quiet moments fill the gaps between waves. Everyone watches the rods, waiting for that next deep bend that signals something worth bragging about.

Back at the dock, the day isn’t over. There’s cleaning to do, photos to take, and a grill waiting somewhere nearby. A fillet of snapper with lemon and butter turns into a meal that tastes like hard work and sunshine. It’s more than dinner, it’s a celebration of good company and the timeless pull of the sea.

Red snapper season reminds us that life’s best days often start before dawn and end with tired smiles and salt-streaked faces. The fish may draw us out there, but it’s the people beside us, the ones who know how to tie a leader, tell a good story, and laugh when the big one gets away, who make it all worth it. Because in the end, it’s never just about catching fish. It’s about catching moments, the kind that keep us coming back, season after season. Happy Fishing.

By Caitlyn Gatrell

Rainy days fishing are more fun and productive than one may think! Whether you’re fishing in the back waters, along the mangrove or shore lines, or off the nearshore points, there’s action everywhere. The rain really brings out the feistiness in some of these creatures, especially when other factors are already good too.

Rainy fishing days can have their moments of course. Sometimes the rain comes down hard and it hurts, especially when you’re driving. If you don’t have the right gear you can get soaked and cold. And honestly, sometimes the mosquitoes still attack you even in the pouring rain, so that combo can get a little overwhelming. But don’t let that stop you from trying it out. Because when you’re out there and the adrenaline arises from the conditions and active fish you’ll feel more inclined.

Battles Under the Rain

Always keep an eye out for lighting and seek shelter or head out if needed. But if it’s safe to go, you can set up an umbrella or take shelter underneath your T-top and let your bait sit out. My favorite is letting a live mullet sit in a flowing current or drop off. I take some shelter, enjoying the sound of the drops on the water’s surface, and wait for my line to take off. Hooking fish on artifi-

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JustSaltandDirt

cial islands is also fun. I like to use topwaters in the rain, often hooking up to feisty tarpon.

As a matter of fact, tarpon are the main species I target when I’m on a rainy trip. Especially in the back waters, we seem them rolling all around with bait squirming near the surface. I think big rain drops also can get them fired up, including any debris that may fall due to the wind. Sometimes we even seem them lunge out of the water, so it’s pretty exciting to watch them chase and strike on our bait. Even if I’m soaked head to toe, cold, and miserable, I always get that awesome feeling when I hook up to one.

Tarpon aren’t the only species to catch out there during the rain. We commonly catch various grouper species, jack, and more. The grouper are fun to catch as they are tough fighters and like to dig and hide. But when you’re in tougher conditions and the rain is pouring down and the currents flowing hard, it’s even more of a challenge. One that I accept and enjoy!

Overall fishing in the rain isn’t everyone’s cup of tea and that’s okay. But as long as you practice safety and skill, you’ll be okay. And once you hook up to some monsters during the storm, you’ll really be okay! It’s a challenge but it’s one that can produce some great results.

Tight lines to all!

THE KEYS EVENTS

By: Capt. Rob Modys

Event season is on it’s way to the Florida Keys, along with excellent fishing conditions. November brings shorter days, cooler weather and also the end of hurricane season, finally.

The Race World Offshore Key West Championships from November 2nd through the 9th kicks off the winter season fun. This annual event takes place on and off the waters right in front of Mallory Square, Sunset Key and the Truman Annex. There are special viewing areas along with shops, parties and even a parade of the boats down the full length of Duval Street.

November 29th be sure to visit Big Pine Key for the Island Art Festival held on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce. I attended

this last year and it was certainly worth the visit. There’s live music, tons of vendors with all kinds of wares, including holiday gifts and ornaments made by local artists.

On that same day, in the early evening, in Key West, the burning of the hurricane flats ceremony is held at Truman Waterfront Park. I also attended this last year and it’s not to be missed. Perfectly good rum is poured on the flags and then set ablaze to celebrate the official end of hurricane season.

The Florida Keys Celtic Festival is held each January in Marathon. The organizers bring in entertainment from Scotland and Ireland for some of the best authentic music including the bagpipes. There are lots of vendors with all things Scottish and Irish along with food and drink. Held on the grounds at Marathon Community Park on January 10th and 11th, this festival is not to be missed.

Islamorada’s Founders Park is the site of the Gigantic Nautical Market held February 21st and 22nd. I can’t begin to describe this amazing event, but if you’re nautically inclined, don’t miss it. There are hundreds of vendors with just about anything you can imagine related to fishing, boating and outdoor living. Get there early for parking. Here’s a tip. There’s a free shuttle that runs from Coral Shores High School to the event. Tip number two. Go early Sunday. All the vendors are still there and the crowds are a bit lighter.

Also, in Islamorada the Morada Way Art Walk is held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Local artists are featured along with food trucks, live music and locally brewed craft beer. Not a beer lover? There are also bar trucks on site. This is an event that my wife and I attend every month and we enjoy meeting up with the local artists that make Islamorada a special place.

Light Up Key Largo kicks off the holiday season just before Thanksgiving. Held on the grounds of the Murray Nelson Government Center, it includes a lighting of “Holly”, the 45-foot tall Christmas tree along with kids train rides, vendors, cookie decorating, Santa and Mrs. Clause, and it even snows.

And, yes Virginia, the fishing is truly fantastic in the month of November and beyond.

FloridaKeys

AFTER THE CHILL HOW COLD FRONTS SHIFT THE FALL BASS BITE

By Joey Bloom, Copper State Tackle Tournament Pro

There’s nothing quite like the rst real cold front of fall in the Southeast. One week you’re wearing a short-sleeve shirt and chasing schooling sh under bluebird skies, and the next, you’re bundled up, watching your breath in the morning fog, wondering where those sh disappeared to. When the water temps take that rst noticeable drop— usually sliding from the mid-70s into the 60s—it marks a big turning point in fall shing. e bass feel it too, and their behavior changes almost overnight.

A er a strong cold front, the rst thing I notice is how much tighter sh get to cover. ose aggressive, roaming schools that were chasing bait across shallow ats will suddenly scatter. e sudden high pressure that follows a front can make sh sulk and suspend, and the feeding windows get short. It’s not that they stop feeding entirely—they just reposition and get more selective. For me, this is when slowing down and thinking about the why behind each cast becomes crucial. Bass are still following the bait—usually shad— but their movements tighten up. I’ll start by checking shallow areas near deep water access, like secondary points, creek channel bends, or riprap banks near the mouths of pockets. ese are transition zones where bass can adjust depth easily as the temperature and pressure uctuate.

Baits That Shine After the Front

When those water temps dip, I turn to con dence baits that match the conditions and the mood of the sh. A lipless crankbait is one of my rst picks—it gives o a rattle and tight wobble that’s perfect for cooler water. I’ll run something like “Bill Lewis” 1/2 oz trap in a natural shad colors along

shell bars, grass patches, or around isolated wood. e key is to sh it methodically—make contact with cover and pop it o en. If the lipless bite feels o , I downshi into nesse mode. A 1/2-ounce jig with a Bait Cave Customs Cave Cricket Craw trailer is deadly around docks, brush, or isolated laydowns. I’ll pitch it on lighter line and really soak each piece of cover. e colder the water gets, the longer I’ll let that bait sit.

Another underrated player this time of year is a suspending Rapala jerkbait. When bass suspend er a front, that slow, twitch-pause-twitch cadence can trigger bites from sh that otherwise wouldn’t move far. On high-pressure bluebird days, I might make a cast, let the bait sit ten seconds, and only then give it a twitch. It’s all about patience and timing.

Patterns to Check

e best post-front patterns o en come down to consistency. Look for areas with a stable food source—places where bait sh stack up despite changing conditions. In reservoirs across the Southeast, that might mean a windblown main-lake point one day and a calm pocket the next. Keep an eye on your electronics, follow the bait, and don’t be afraid to adjust your depth until you see life.

Cold fronts separate the patient from the impatient. It’s a time to slow down, sh smart, and make every cast count. e bass might be moody, but they’re still there—and with the right mindset and a few Copper State Tackle baits on your line, you can turn those tough post-front days into opportunities.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, start with a lipless crankbait to cover water and locate active sh. Once you nd them, pick up a jig or shakey head with a Bait Cave Customs ick Stick worm to milk the area for those extra bites. You can grab both at Copper State Tackle—the gear I trust when every ounce matters. Follow all of Joey Bloom’s shing and fun on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube at Joey Bloom Fishing.

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Sail On...

By Will Schmidt

Sail!sh are known as the fastest !sh on the planet, but they o er more than blazing speed to those who chase them o Florida’s east coast, such as I did on a recent !shing excursion. Spectacular surface bites and astonishing acrobatics make these !sh a coveted catch for even the most experienced anglers. For !rst timers, it’s an adrenaline !led !ght that will stick with you long a er the !sh swims back into the cobalt blue Atlantic. is trip was special for a few reasons. First, we had rising country star Ben Gallaher (IG: @Ben_Gallaher) with us. Ben is an avid outdoorsman and bass !sherman, but he had never caught a saltwater !sh. I was also excited to !sh with some new friends, Capt. Geoge Gozdz of “Unfathomed” (IG: @captgeorgegozdz) and Chris Bishop, VP of marketing at Yo-Zuri (iG: @Yozuri_Lures).

A er just a short run o Port St Lucie, we set our spread, and I could sense any strikes would likely be dramatic. e water was crystal clear and glass at giving us a great view of any action. e !rst !sh in, came crashing into the spread chasing and slashing at a bait with its bill. Unfortunately, as aggressively as it came in, it turned and retreated without eating.

As we reset the spread anticipation grew to !nd Ben’s !rst saltwater adversary. Fortunately, another sail came in a smashed the right rigger. However, it ran right at us, and we were never able to get tight. Undaunted, we set up again. Soon all the baits were nervously darting on the surface. e le atline erupted as the sail slashed, splashed and devoured the bait. Ben was on, and this !sh leapt and twirled with all the acrobatics of a Cirque du Soleil show. ere was still another to eat and moments later we doubled up. Both !sh cooperated with plenty of arial antics and a er a good !ght we had both !sh to the boat. To say Ben was pumped to land his !rst bill!sh is an understatement. Amped up with adrenaline and ready for more he could only beam with an ear-to-ear grin and say “let’s go!”

CatchMoreFish

Fall !shing o of Port St Lucie o ers warm water and a hot bite without having to battle high winds and cold temperatures o en associated with winter sail!sh !shing in Florida.. Moreover, it’s not di&cult at all. We were simply bump trolling large, bridled thread!ns. Bridling helps the bait last longer and doesn’t allow for the hook to turn into the thread!n causing a missed strike. Our tackle was medium Penn Carnage rods with Authority reels lined with Yo-Zuri Super Braid topped with Yo-Zuri’s Disappearing Pink Fluorocarbon leader. ese setups gave us the sensitivity to feel the “eat” and the stealthiness to fool even the most cautious of !sh in these clear conditions. On your next trip don’t rush past these exciting sails, stop for some fun acrobatic action.

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

SPEND LE TIME ON TASKS More Time Fishing

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

FISH THE AMAZING U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Anglers from around the world come to the U.S. Virgin Islands to !sh our incredible turquoise waters for trophy blue marlin, black!n tuna, wahoo and mahi-mahi. And with no passport required for U.S. citizens, it’s easy to plan your next !shing trip. Whether you want to set o on a crewed charter complete with a professional captain or prefer to simply cast a line from one of our scenic white-sand beaches, get ready to reel in the big one. Plus, many out!tters can customize your trip to include thrilling underwater activities like snorkeling.

O the island of St. Croix choose your own adventure, whether you’re looking to !sh o shore for mahi-mahi, wahoo, king!sh, tuna and blue marlin, or nearshore for tarpon, snapper, mackerel, rainbow runner and jacks. Seasoned crews who have been !shing the waters of USVI for decades will take you on customizable charters in search of catching your trophy !sh of a lifetime. Some out!tters o er complimentary !sh cleaning services, so all you have to do is throw your coveted catch on the grill or in the pan!

From St. John, troll for big game !sh—blue marlin, sail!sh, tuna, mahi-mahi and wahoo—on an o shore charter. Opt for a nearshore charter to catch bonito, barracuda, rainbow runner, snapper and

sharks. Or join an inshore bottom !shing trip to cruise the USVI’s deep-water reefs. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice needing some guidance, you’ll !nd an out!tter equipped with all the top-of-the-line !shing gear you’ll need for a successful day at sea.

About 20 miles north of St. omas is the North Drop, an area unparalleled for its big game !sh. Book a deep-sea !shing charter and sail over to this corner of the Caribbean that boasts more blue marlin bites per boat than any other place in the world. Half-day to 10-hour o shore bait !shing charters are ideal for adventurous anglers eager to experience the island’s famous North and South Drops. A mix of trolling and live baiting makes for mega catches, with yellow!n tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi and blue marlin the most common catches of the day.

Surrounded by pristine blue waters, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is a delicious part of nature’s bounty in USVI. You’ll !nd plenty of seafood-focused restaurants, from elegant !ne dining to laid-back waterfront eateries. Some out!tters even o er a stop at a seaside restaurant as part of their !shing excursions.

A PRO TOP FIVE LURES FOR FALL BASS— AND WHEN TO THROW ’EM

When the leaves start to turn and the water temps dip, bass anglers know what time it is—the fall feed. Bass are chasing bait like crazy, and it’s one of the best times of year to put big !sh in the boat. e trick is knowing what to throw as the season shi s. Here are !ve proven fall baits that will help you stay on the bite no matter what the lake throws at you.

Spinnerbait: Few baits scream “fall” like a spinnerbait. When the wind picks up and shad push shallow, it’s hard to beat a double willow blade ashing through the chop. e ash and thump imitate a school of eeing bait!sh, and hungry bass can’t resist. Target windy points, creek mouths, and shallow ats anywhere the bait’s getting pushed around.

Lipless Crankbait: is one’s all about covering water. Fall bass are constantly on the move, and a lipless crank lets you !nd ’em fast. Burn it over grass, rip it free when it hangs up, and hold on! at reaction bite is what fall !shing’s all about. Red or chrome patterns are money this time of year, especially when bass are chasing shad.

TECHNIQUES

Jerkbait: Once the water clears and the temps drop into the 60s, it’s jerkbait season. Work it with a twitch-twitch-pause cadence, and you’ll mimic dying bait!sh to perfection. is lure shines around suspended bass that hang

o points or creek channels.

THE BEST RED LURES

RJust be patient. Sometimes the bite comes right when you least expect it, on that long pause. Squarebill Crankbait & Swimbait: To round out your fall lineup, keep a squarebill and a swimbait on deck. A squarebill is your go-to for shallow cover stumps, rocks, laydowns, anywhere bass are ambushing bait in the backs of creeks. Meanwhile, a so or hard-bodied swimbait is ideal when you’re around big !sh feeding on larger forage. Slow-roll it through bait schools or along creek channels for some of the biggest bass of the year.

Fall is all about !nding the bait, and these !ve lures all mimic shad in their own way. Whether you’re slow-rolling a spinnerbait through wind-blown banks or ripping a lipless crank across a at, the !sh are feeding and it’s your job to get in on the action. Grab a few of these baits, follow the shad, and enjoy one of bass !shing’s most exciting seasons!

Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcott shing.com.

ed!sh are one of the most sought a er game !sh by inshore !shermen from Texas to the Carolinas. ey are great !ghters; they are great tasting; and they are perfect for sight !shing because they love super shallow water. Red!sh are part of the drum family and have four nostrils. is tells us that scent is their chosen sense while searching for food in dark and murky water.

e best red!sh lure that I have ever used is the 3-inch Berkeley Gulp! Shrimp. Berkeley Gulp! products are the smelliest baits that I have ever smelled and red!sh love them. ere are probably other stinky baits that work, but I haven’t found one that is comparable to Gulp! products. e best colors are anything with brown and gold glitter. Rootbeer and new penny are the best choices. e second best lure for catching red!sh is the gold or copper weedless spoon. ese are great search baits when you cannot see the red!sh. A slow retrieve with almost constant contact with the bottom is the way to !sh these lures. ese lures are exceptional for casting. ey cast a mile and let you cover a lot of water as you search for the schools of red!sh in the shallows.

e third best lure for red!sh are 3- and 4-inch paddletails rigged weedless. is is another great search bait for covering large areas of water. You will want to retrieve your paddletail in a similar way to your spoons. Make sure to bounce it o the bottom as you slowly retrieve it.

Contact Capt. Mike Smith, owner of Fish Your Ass O Charters, at (561) 339-2317, contact@ shyourasso .com or shyourasso .com.

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ovember is almost a completely unique month of the year. We’ll start getting the !rst real cold fronts, and this will pile the bait on temp breaks. Structure on the bottom will certainly hold the grouper and snapper on the bottom, but pay attention to the recorder and the marks in the mid water column. ese marks can be a number of the targets we’re looking for. Black!n are a given during the month of November, but it’s “go time” for wahoo and yellow!n. e bait can stand colder water than the pelagics. is is one of their biggest defensive strategies, and why you should have a (realistic) jig ready that can !sh 75-150 feet deep around the bait balls because the surface water will likely be as much as a few degrees warmer that the surface water due to the cold wind blowing overhead. Keep live baits out on circle hooks and ourocarbon and try to get some lower in the water column. ese live baits are black!n bombs ready to go o , but I am always drawn to the bottom in search for the grouper and snapper. Some of these same live baits or frozen cigs and sardines on the correct jigs (hint, hint) are irresistible to the !sh I’m really looking for. I want the big grouper and snapper bite. When you !sh the correct baits using the correct presentation, you’re not asking them to eat it, you’re MAKING them eat it! BAM! is is also African pompano candy. e jig in the mid to lower part of the water column is deadly, but if there’s no bites !shing it deeper and deeper all the way to the bottom, bring it up to the surface and repeat the process.

A trolling motor will really help in this controlled dri , keeping the bow forward into the wind and/or current. is will keep the light line out back and the baits on or near the bottom slightly back depending on the current. is is the bottom line: bag the trolling crap, post up on stacks of bait with dedicated crew for the light line and/or jig and dedicated crew on the bottom to generate groceries in the cooler. is is my kind grocery shopping.

Learn the drill of how to !sh the entire water column nice and quiet with beautiful baits and tactics for results. Dress with proper !tting foul weather gear and take plenty of photos and videos you can enjoy for years to come.

Learn more from Tim Barefoot on his YouTube channel and at barefootcatsandtackle.com.

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