Coastal Angler Magazine | November 2025 | Ft. Myers / Cape Coral / Charlotte Harbor Edition

GULF MECCA

TRUST BR AND MARINERS

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2. Accidents can happen to anyone

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3. Boat insurance can cover medical payments

Boat insurance offers a range of optional medical payments coverage limits, helping to cover medical expenses if you’re in an accident or someone is hurt on your boat, regardless of fault.

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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.

Re ecting the growing connection between coastal and outdoor lifestyles, Surf Expo’s Shoreline Outdoor area continues to expand— bringing together products designed for life on the water and adventures on land. is growing segment highlights essentials for outdoor adventure, from versatile apparel and gear to innovative accessories that move seamlessly from coast to camp.

Shoreline Outdoor features brands and products that bridge categories—boating, shing, paddling, hiking, and camping—meeting consumer demand for versatility and performance. Retailers will nd quality, functional, and sustainable products built for modern outdoor enthusiasts. ink waterproof bags, insulated coolers, portable re pits, backpacks, multifunctional jackets, and drinkware designed for any setting. is lifestyle focused area captures the spirit of adventure—friends gathered by a re pit a er a day on the water, paddleboards pulled up on the sand, or cozy campsites under starlit skies. It’s all about embracing the outdoors in every way.

What makes Surf Expo such an essential stop on the retail calendar? It’s the unmatched variety. Hardgoods, apparel and accessories that bridge the gap between beachwear and everyday wear, Surf Expo delivers products that de ne coastal and outdoor living. Whether your customers are anglers, surfers, paddleboarders, kayakers or simply love the water or the outdoors, you’ll nd fresh lines and innovations that resonate.

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Join them January 7–9, 2026 as they celebrate 50 years of Surf Expo— and experience rsthand why this show continues to be the heartbeat of the coastal and outdoor lifestyle industry.

Quali ed retail buyers register for free before 12/24 at surfexpo.com

Blue Water , Red Snapper ,

Golden Memories

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 patience, 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.

November Opportunities

By: Capt. Bart Marx

Thankfully, the weather and water temps are beginning to cool down and the fishing is starting to warm up. This is a good month to get offshore on the good weather days and target tripletail as they like to hang around crab trap buoys. There are rows and rows of trap buoys offshore, and to target them I like to use a medium rod with a 4000 size reel with 20 pound braid and a mono or floro leader as long as the rod is. Travel out into the Gulf of America along the buoy lines, but do not get to close driving by the buoys, so you don't spook a fish that may be there. Stay on plane so you can cover a lot of buoys in a short time. As you pass by a buoy, look to see if there are fish there just under the buoy. It looks like a plastic grocery bag on the line or a wad of seaweed. Drive past and slow down and return with rod in hand, and a single hook with a live shrimp is very productive or an artificial that looks real. Approach close enough to cast and reel the bait to the buoy and let it sink and watch the fish follow your bait. Do not set the hook until you feel the fish attack the bait. If you are setting the hook when you see them make a pass at it most of the time you pull the hook out of their mouth. Be patient and cast to the buoy again they usually will return to the line. Check the FWC regulations on Federal waters if you are out past 9 miles. Also, this month spanish and king mackerel are starting to migrate south for the winter. Search for big schools of bait with fish crashing them. Troll around the edges with spoons matching the size baits you see showering as they are being attacked. For spanish, you can use 50lb. mono leader if you get into the king mackerel you may need to put some wire about 12' long in front of your lure. You may use a planer to get the bait down deeper put wire in front and behind, a big king will hit the shiny planer. Most of this is running and gunning for the tripletail and mackerel. Stopping on some ledges there should be some mangrove and lane snapper and the occasional grouper. Use shrimp for any hogfish that may be in the 40'to 60' depths. Redfish inshore should be scattered all around the mangrove and flats where the can find food. Snook should be settled back into their perspective areas around docks and bridges. Sheepshead also hang around structures. f you would like to come along with Capt. Bart Marx and ketch some of these species give me a call 941-979-6517 or e-mail me captbart@alphaomegacharters.com

Fishing Seminars at the Ft. Myers Boat Show

By: Capt. Terry Fisher

The annual Ft. Myers Boat Show will be held at the Ft. Myers Convention Center and all of the grounds surrounding it November 13-16 this month. Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters will be on hand each day outside of the Convention Center at the Seminar Tent located close to the food trucks, dining tent, large bar and entertainment facilities from 11am-3pm to host 3 daily extensive talks with illustrations for catching inshore and offshore species native to Southwest Florida waters.

Seminar times are: 11am-Noon; 12:30pm-1:30pm; 2pm-3pm.

The outside areas as well as inside the Convention Center will feature virtually every marine product that is related to our ‘Floridian Lifestyle’. Each seminar will include inshore and offshore techniques, proper equipment recommendations and fishing locations. All fishing seminars are sponsored by Coastal Angler Magazine!

November is a transitional month for climate and water levels. This means whatever one was doing or where ever one was fishing will all begin to change. Fish will be in different locations from springtime, summer and fall months when water levels are high more often than not. Each of the above seminars will include how to fish the winter months with the same amount of success by focusing on the fish species that become more prominent in the waters.

For example, inshore fishing, including for redfish, will require working areas other than the spoil islands and back country as the lower tide levels will limit access. I suggest that when water levels are low, fish the beaches, passes and docks on either incoming or outgoing tides. Other species such as snook, mangrove snapper and sheepshead will be in those vicinities as well. Seatrout as always, will be found on the grass flats in 3-6ft. of water. My baits of choice are shrimps for the seatrouts, mangrove snapper and sheepshead. However, I prefer to use pilchards for snook. Blue crab, shrimp and cut pinfish for redfish. All of these species only require light tackle rods with small spinning reels with lines and leaders to match.

Stone crab season is open and there will now be buoys offshore that will hold and attract triple tail. They can be easy targets once you find them. However, scouting for them may prove to be frustrating and expensive due to the gas expense incurred by running and gunning for miles. Nonetheless, they are fun to catch and delicious to eat. They will be hanging around those buoys. When I locate one, I cast a light weighted Jig Head with a large shrimp next to the buoy and hope they take the presentation. They are easy to spook so use a lot of stealth when approaching them. The same size of light tackle is recommended for triple tail.

Offshore: kingfish, spanish mackerel, cobia and other Pelagic species will be arriving in our area. Reef species, including groupers,

snappers, tilefish are in healthy supply but most success up until now has been 40 to 60 miles offshore due to warm water temperatures. This should change up in this month as surface and water temperatures cool down.

Equ ipment depends on current speeds and fishing depths which vary throughout the day.

Baits of choice for reef species will vary but include the standard baits such as, shrimps, squid, Sardines and Threadfins. The equipment such as rods and reels need to be heavier than those for inshore fishing, but not by too much.

Recommended equipment for inshore and offshore such as; rods, reels, line, leader strengths, hook sizes, types of baits and rigging will all be covered in detail at the 2025 Ft. Myers Boat Show during each fishing seminar.

November might be one’s last chance this year to score a redfish of a Lifetime!

1) Fish the top half of the incoming or outgoing tides.

2) When possible, fish with wind directions out of the south, southeast or southwest as the water levels will tend to be higher with the wind pushing the water in from offshore providing access to remote, less pressured areas around uninhabited Mangrove Islands. Higher water levels provide Redfish with more protection as they scourer the oyster beds and mangrove roots for food.

3) Make bait presentations as close to the mangroves and oyster beds as possible.

4) A presentation of more than 6 feet from where they are holding most likely will prevent a strike, so make several casts along the mangrove and oyster bed lines before moving to a different location.

All of this and more will be presented and discussed in detail at the 2025 Ft. Myers Boat Show Seminar Events. Hope to see you there.

This is Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters wishing everyone good November fishing results. Call me at 239-357-6829 or email me at fishfacecharters@yahoo.com to book a charter on my vessel or yours. I am available as ‘Captain for Hire’ (by the hour) for inshore and offshore instructions providing safety, navigational instructions, techniques and fishing locations to make your every trip a success. Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters.com.

NEED SOME SAND & SURF

By: Joe Sheaffer

Sometimes I just need a beach fix. I enjoy walking along the beach, looking for a fishy area or fish activity along the shore. One Saturday, I had a window during the morning that I could go fishing for a few hours. I headed to Manasota Key to fish along the beach. The weather has been beautiful and there are many beaches in Southwest Florida that have easy access for anglers. I love fishing the trough along the surf as I walk the beaches. I didn’t have any expectations on this day, I just needed to be on the beach fishing the surf. Spending time fishing the beaches doesn’t require a bunch of equipment. Usually, I have a spinning outfit and a small backpack with tackle, lures, water and sunblock. I had a limited amount of time, no need to haul a ton of equipment for this type of fishing. I typically start with a jig and paddletail, and depending on the conditions, I will make changes. I like to have a selection of jigs ⅛

oz to ½ oz which usually will help me to adjust depending on the tides and surf conditions. Fishing along the beach is really not much different than other types of fishing. I’m looking for points, blowouts, bait pods, structures that can hold fish along the surf. Whether I catch fish or not, spending a beautiful morning along our beaches is a blessing, one of the many reasons I moved to this area after I retired. Luckily this fishing day was successful, I was hoping to run into a few snook but instead I caught a few flounder, and a nice black drum, sheepshead and ladyfish. There were big schools of bait and the fish were hanging around the bait pods. It took a while to figure out how to get a bite, but I love that challenge. The morning along the surf was exactly what I needed. Hopefully many of you will find a morning or day to get your fix, good luck and keep casting!

3

19

By: Mike Hammond

Afew minutes before I started writing this article, I filed a float plan for the following day. Two coworkers know when and where I’ll be launching, paddling and when I plan to return. I’m only paddling across Estero Bay from Lover’s Key to replace a few Calusa Blueway marker signs. What could go wrong?

It is a loaded question and one that any experienced paddler can answer. In fact, the more experience we gain, the more bizarre cautionary tales we can tell. Filing a float plan is just one of the many ways we can mitigate risk while doing what we love, and it is heartbreaking to read about tragedies that could have been avoided with simple precautions like wearing a PFD, filing a float plan or checking the weather. Too often, it is inexperienced paddlers who simply don’t know any better. While experience can be a great teacher, there is a way to learn about weather, tides, safety equipment, trip planning and gear without putting yourself or others at risk. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary member and American Canoe Association instructor Don Rice will be offering a two-part paddle sports safety class.

The first part will take place in a relaxed classroom setting from 6

Calusa Blueway

to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, at the Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center. I frequently encourage everyone to watch paddling safety videos, but there really isn’t anything better than learning from an experienced instructor face-to-face who is familiar with our unique environment. This free two-hour class will offer plenty of time for questions and Southwest Florida-specific discussion. No registration required. Visit www.leeparks.org for the recreation center address and a map/directions.

The second part will be held on the water from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, at Bunche Beach. Participants will be able to practice self-rescue techniques. You can bring your own vessel or rent one from Kayak Excursions on site. Contact me, Mike Hammond, at mhammond@leegov.com to register.

Additional classes will be scheduled. If you miss this one, stay tuned. Please consider attending this free training and invite others, especially those new to paddling or new to our area. They don’t know what they don’t know, and they may learn something that could save their life.

Kayak Fishing

by: Dan Carns

This November should be a month to remember but you will have to spend a bunch of time fishing to take advantage of it. Southwest Florida has had a long run of mild winters that’s allowed the snook population a chance to really mature. We have a huge population of juvenile snook that are the result of a big population of breeding adults. This month they will have made their transition from the outer beaches and beyond

back to their inshore “winter” haunts. Many will take up residence in the hundreds of canal systems but also in the backwater mangrove Islands and channels. Strategically positioned to take advantage of sunny, warm periods where they can travel out and about the islands but close enough to move back into sheltered canals and holes during cooler weather. While some shallow water boats will follow these fish into the backcountry, kayakers are going to have a huge advantage as we can get in very skinny and confined waters. We can also take advantage of our negative winter tides to access areas that are completely off limits to boats. Long casts and stealthy approaches will be required as these fish are super keyed into any danger in shallow water.

Redfish populations have also really increased and not just due to calmer weather but from a proactive stocking plan and a strict catch and release regulation. This past year we saw a tremendous number of redfish caught all summer long including a ton of “rat reds” indicative of a large, local breeding stock. This is all to say that this fall should be a stellar year for redfish. These are my favorite fish to target and luckily redfish love to hunt in very shallow water. So once again we’ll be in the same locations as when we target winter snook using almost all the same lures and baits. Redfish and snook will readily take early morning top water plugs in very shallow water. Almost any “walk the dog” style plug worked relatively slow will get their attention. Bone is a very effective color but certainly not the only option. Use what works for you. I personally love the Badonk-a-donk series from Bomber in redfish color with the tail spot and rattles. This lure takes some time to master and is not nearly as simple to use as the Heddon Super Spook and Super Spook Jr. which is my second favorite top water plug. Small paddle tail and shad tail rubber baits on a light jig head (I preferred red color jigs) or lightly weighted twist-lock hooks worked slowly through dips, potholes or super close to the mangrove over hangs should result in a strike. Take note of the enormous selection of artificial shrimp on the market but especially check out Wyze Guyz Tackle. According to Fishin-dips (Elon Hertzfeld) the new Kickin Skrimp, Ned-Rigged is the most effective artificial shrimp on the market! Remember to use long casts and stealthy approaches as the fish are even more wary of anything unnatural in shallow water.

It’s A wild World-Get Out there!

@paddlinandfishin

Transition Month

By: Capt. Dave Stephens

November on Charlotte Harbor can be a crazy month, as this is a month I like to refer to as a transition month. This is the time of year that a lot of fish are in transition from the flats to deeper water. As the water temps begin to drop most of the game fish begin to move to areas in deeper water, or areas closer to deeper water. The main species I am referring to is snook. During the winter months, snook spend most of their time in or very close to deep water. Lucky for us we have endless miles of residential canals, creeks and two main rivers that flow into Charlotte Harbor. Locating fish in these areas is the same in about any other situation. First you need a food source, bait such

as shrimp, small crabs and minnows work well. Then you will need to locate a structure to hide in for cover, and finally you will need a good current flow. If you can find areas that have these benefits, you will find fish! Not only will you find snook, you will find juvenile reds and trout. Also, if you would rather toss some artificial baits, this is a great time of year to do so as the water cools the bait becomes harder to locate. If your usual fishing holes don't seem to be producing as they usually do, try looking at some deeper water areas. Don't be afraid to get outside that comfort zone and give it a try!

Barbara Brock from Port Charlotte AkA Barb the Beachcomber C&R this nice snook on Boca Grande.

Richard Conage caught this 37” snook at Blind Pass 15 Spider Wire w/ a 30# leader and pinfish for bait.

Alexis Cummings w/ a red snapper caught aboard the “chuck wagon” out of Dunedin w/ Capt. Mike Skinner at “By Request Charters.”

Capt. Billy Norris definitely puts his clients on some screaming drags!

My son Brooks (6) catching a 27” snook with Capt. Peter Smith with Double Bounty Charters.

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.

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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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