Coastal Angler Magazine | September 2025 | Volusia County Edition

BIG SNAPPER GO LIGHT FOR BACKWATERS FISHING ON A SUP

You want new charts?

You got new charts! Explore the ocean with vibrant terrain & depth shading, using all-new TZ MAPS. Don’t just take our word for it. See for yourself. Scan here, and we’ll show you!

fve things you should know about boat insurance

Are you ready to embark on your next on-water adventure? Before you set sail, here are fve things to know about boat insurance.

1. Boat insurance isn’t just for accidents

With comprehensive coverage, you’ll also be protected fnancially for theft, vandalism, and unexpected events like storms if you need repairs or replacements due to damage.

2. Accidents can happen to anyone

When accidents happen, boat insurance offers liability coverage for damages or injuries you cause while boating, up to specifed limits. It can also cover lawsuit costs if you’re sued.

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.

4. Most lenders require boat insurance

If you fnanced your boat, you’ll likely need boat insurance since most lenders require boat insurance to protect their investment. Additionally, some marinas or municipalities require proof of insurance for docking.

5. Progressive offers specialized boat coverages

Ever worry about getting stuck on the water?

Progressive’s Sign & Glide® On-Water Towing coverage** can help. It’s an additional coverage that steps in if your boat is disabled or breaks down on the water, paying for on-water towing, jump starts, soft ungroundings, and fuel delivery. Fuel cost isn’t included.

Don’t let unforeseen circumstances disrupt your voyage. Cruise with confdence thanks to Progressive Boat insurance. Because when it comes to your boat, peace of mind is the ultimate luxury.

Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes.

to learn more.

A Quiet Revolution on the Water PADDLEBOARD FISHING THE BACKWATERS

By Skye Burkhardt

In recent years, paddleboard !shing has quietly emerged as one of the most immersive and rewarding ways to !sh, particularly in the backwaters where nature whispers and big !sh lurk in shallow, untouched waters. Combining the stealth of a kayak with the freedom and perspective of stand-up paddling, paddleboard !shing o ers a unique experience that connects anglers to their environment in a deeply personal way. You become part of the environment—just another element in a quiet, dynamic system. Every ripple matters, every shadow could be a !sh. It’s !shing stripped to its essentials: a board, a rod, and your wits.

WHY THE BACKWATERS?

Backwaters—those slow-moving or stagnant tributaries and tidal creeks separated from larger bodies of water—are havens for !sh and wildlife. ey’re o en shallow, weedy, and di cult to access with motorboats, making them ideal for paddleboards. ese secluded waterways harbor species like red!sh, snook, bass, tarpon, and trout, depending on your region. e calm water allows for sight !shing and careful stalking, while the surrounding vegetation provides natural structure and cover for !sh. For anglers seeking peace, solitude, and the thrill of spotting and targeting !sh in crystal-clear shallows, backwaters are unmatched.

THE PADDLEBOARD ADVANTAGE

Paddleboards o er several distinct advantages in the backwaters:

• Maneuverability: ey can access shallow and narrow areas where boats can’t go.

• Stealth: Paddleboards glide silently, allowing

you to approach !sh without disturbing them.

• Sight Fishing: Standing gives anglers a better vantage point to see !sh and structure below the surface.

• Portability: Easy to transport and launch, paddleboards can be carried to remote areas with little e ort.

• Minimal Impact: Paddleboards have a low environmental footprint, making them a great choice for conservation-minded anglers.

GEAR ESSENTIALS

Fishing from a paddleboard requires packing smart. Space is limited, so prioritize:

• Rod and Reel: A medium-action spinning setup is versatile for most species.

• Tackle Box: A compact, waterproof tackle box with your go-to lures, so plastics, hooks and leaders.

• Anchor or Stakeout Pole: To hold position in wind or current.

• Cooler: Dual-purpose for storage and seating.

• PFD (Personal Flotation Device): Required by law and essential for safety.

• Dry Bag: Keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables safe.

• Sun Protection: Hat, polarized sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

1. Practice Paddle Control: Master basic paddling and balance techniques before trying to !sh while standing.

2. Stay Organized: Use carabiners and bungee cords to keep gear secure and accessible.

3. Scout the Water: Stand and scan for tailing

!sh, bait activity, or subtle ripples.

4. Be Patient: Quietly dri or pole through likely spots, and avoid sudden movements.

5. Time Your Trip: Early morning and late evening o er cooler temps, calmer water, and more active !sh.

CONCLUSION

Paddleboard !shing in the backwaters is more than a hobby—it’s a return to simplicity and intimacy with nature. It’s a growing movement that emphasizes low-impact adventure, selfreliance, and a deep appreciation for wild, o en overlooked places. Whether you’re targeting snook in a mangrove tunnel, bass in a hidden freshwater creek, or red!sh on a mud at, the experience of !shing from a paddleboard is less about the catch and more about the connection— to the water, the !sh, and yourself. For anglers ready to trade noise and crowds for silence and solitude, the backwaters await.

If you’re interested in paddleboard !shing, but don’t have the equipment or gear, be sure to enter my “Ultimate Halloween Paddleboard Fishing Package” giveaway presented by Coastal Angler Magazine, where you could score a “Tricked Out” Live Watersports paddleboard equipped with an ePropulsion eLite electric motor, paddleboard !shing gear and accessories, apparel and more! Scan the code in the ad on the next page or visit coastalanglermag.com/CAM-giveaway for more details and to enter.

Find Skye Burkhardt on Facebook at “Inshore Adventures With Skye,” and on Instagram: @brassyangler87.

LITHIUM BATTERY POWER WINS BEST ENERGY AWARD AT ICAST 2025 FOR GAME-CHANGING POWERBOX SYSTEM

Lithium Battery Power (LBP), a leading innovator in advanced battery solutions, has taken top honors in the Energy category at the 2025 International Convention of Allied Sport!shing Trades (ICAST). e company’s groundbreaking Powerbox 2.5 kW / Solar Panel Lithium Battery Charging System was awarded the Best of Category: Energy, signaling a major leap forward in sustainable, high-performance energy technology for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Held annually in Orlando, ICAST is recognized as the world’s largest sport!shing trade show and a hub for innovation within the industry. Each year, hundreds of new products are submitted for consideration across multiple categories, but only the most impressive make it to the winner’s circle. LBP’s Powerbox system stood out for its combination of portability, power, and green energy integration. e award-winning Powerbox 2.5 kW system delivers robust, reliable energy storage and output

in a compact, rugged form factor. It’s designed to meet the demanding needs of outdoor enthusiasts who rely on consistent power in o -grid environments. Integrated with a high-e ciency solar charging panel, the system ensures power sustainability even during extended trips, reducing the need for fuel-powered generators or frequent dock visits.

outages, hurricanes and critical jobsite power along with the heavy 12 volt demands in marine environments got their attention over all others in the Energy category.

“We are honored to receive this recognition at ICAST,” said Don Mitchell, Sales Director for Lithium Battery Power. “Our goal has always been to push the boundaries of battery technology while supporting eco-conscious outdoor recreation. e Powerbox system is a direct response to what today’s anglers need— power that lasts, in a package that’s smart, clean, and easy to use.”

e judges at ICAST praised the Powerbox for its innovative design, versatility, and emphasis on clean energy. Weekend power

is win marks a signi!cant milestone for Lithium Battery Power, reinforcing its position as a leader in the renewable energy sector within recreational vehicle and marine markets.

As the industry shi s toward more sustainable and e cient energy solutions, Lithium Battery Power’s win at ICAST 2025 signals that the future of on-the-water power is not just electric - it’s solar, smart, and built for adventure.

By Will Schmidt

GO LIGHT FOR BIG SNAPPER

If you have spent any time bottom !shing you know that occasionally on the heaviest of tackle you can outsmart a big snapper and end up with a solid !sh. Other days you can struggle to get even shorts. If you really want to up your game, it is time to lighten up.

When I say light, I mean straight 20 or 30lb mono and light wire 3/0 hooks. You may get broken o at times, but it is worth it for a box full of stud mangos and ARS. My go to big snapper setups is G Loomis IMX Pro Blues 843 casting rod with Shimano Trinadad TN20. is out!t is light, sensitive, and deadly on snapper. Some might like a bit lighter action rod but I have found that even with straight 20lb test you can really put a lot of pressure on these !sh and the backbone is nice to get them o the bottom as quickly as you can. A bit heaver is also nice when that grouper inevitably grabs the bait.

Here is a pro tip. One of the key elements for success to get big snapper, especially mangos, is the ability to react fast. Snapper get their name because they will o en quickly snap at a bait and then release it. With these sensitive rods and a gear ration of 6.2 to 1 you can pick up 46 inches of line in a single turn. A sensitive rod and a fast

reel means when you feel that tap, you can come tight instantly even in deep water. Remember you must use circle hooks so reeling vs setting the hook is the way to connect to these A fast reel might be the most important tool when snapper !shing.

My go to bait is a live pin!sh because, everything eats a pin!sh. I like having a livewell full of nice hand size pins. I do also use thread!ns both live and dead. read are great baits, but a good stout live 7 inch thread is remarkably strong and can be tough to get to the bottom as they swim o with your lead. at means dead threads can be easier to get to the strike zone. Cut the heads and tails o and make a thread “plug.” read “plugs” are awesome for snapper bait especially when live bait is not available. If hook ups are tough, I will double up my hooks, snelling 2 circle hooks close together and getting both hidden inside the plug to increase my hookup ratio. Regardless, I use 3 to 4 feet of mono leader then a swivel and a 3 ounce lead to hold the rig right on the bottom.

light and you will likely !nd the results are worth it.

Whether you really want to target big snapper or the bite is just really tough, try going

in the Keys Tuna Time Tuna Time

By A. deGruchy

Late summer in the Florida Keys means steady black!n tuna action. Look for them around o shore humps like Marathon and Islamorada, especially early in the morning, and over wrecks in 200 to 600 feet of water.

Troll small feathers, ballyhoo, or bonito strips when the !sh are feeding near the surface. If they’re holding deeper, vertical jigging is the way to go. Savage Gear jigs in the 100 to 200 gram range work great. Drop them straight down and work them quickly to trigger bites.

For gear, the new Penn Spin!sher VII combo in the 4500 to 6500 size is a solid choice. Spool it with 30 to 50 pound braid and 30 pound uoro. It’s a strong and smooth setup that handles tuna with ease.

Watch for bird activity like frigates and terns diving. at usually means tuna are pushing bait to the surface. And always !sh with respect. Don’t troll behind another boat or crowd or someone who is already on a school. Give space and enjoy the bite.

Black!n tuna grade is better than blue!n in my opinion; you can eat it raw, do poke bowls, sushi rolls or sear it with sesame seeds!

Be sure to follow deGruchy’s adventures on YouTube (Bean Sport shing TV) and @bean_sport shing on Instagram.

RePower Packages designed to best ft your needs and not stretch your

Financing

Rest assured, all Mastry Suzuki RePowers are backed by Suzuki’s industry leading 5-year factory

Stationed strategically around the East Coast, all Suzuki RePower Centers have achieved the highest level of Suzuki certifcations to meet and exceed your repower needs.

Stationed strategically around the East Coast, all Suzuki RePower Centers have achieved the highest level of Suzuki certifcations to meet and exceed your repower needs.

When Considering A Repower, Consider These Factors:

•Every Authorized Mastry Suzuki RePower Center has decades of repower experience providing proper rigging, controls, propeller matching and in water testing

•With a Mastry Suzuki RePower, owners gain improved performance, less noise and greater reliability

•Mastry Suzuki RePower’s exclusive Owner’s Edge Program*

•Mastry Suzuki RePower Centers use authentic Suzuki OEM parts and have factory certifed technicians

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!

Since 2014, Mastry Engine Center, has been building the premiere Suzuki Outboard repower network in Florida. Today, Authorized Mastry Suzuki Outboard Centers have been exceeding expectaions in the Southeast for over two decades. Recently Suzuki Marine requested Mastry Engine Center to expand the network throughout the Northeast. Now boat owners from Maine to Florida can be assured of the best support for their Suzuki outboard repower project. All Authorized Mastry Suzuki RePower Centers provide the best options, information and package pricing for excellent performance in repower.

NETWORK

*Get with the Program!

When you purchase a new Suzuki outboard from an authorized Mastry RePower Center you qualify to become a member of the Mastry Suzuki Owner’s Edge. Owners receive an identifcation card that provides them with important information about their Suzuki outboard motor as well as a passport to additional benefts during ownership. Members enjoy a detailed engine maintenance schedule, Mastry Suzuki RePower Trade Program and special pricing from Mastry Suzuki Partners

Quiet Water, Violent Strikes: TEXAS STYLE SURF FISHING

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

Chasing Giants on the Gulf Coast

When the end of summer is near and the tides align, there’s no place I’d rather be than Southwest Florida—with a rod in hand and visions of giant snook dancing in my head. !is year, my buddies and I made the pilgrimage with a simple mission: land a personal best. Big sh only. No compromises.

Hard Twitch Baits: Strike First, Strike Hard

If I had to pick just one, hard twitch baits take the top spot. !ere’s something about that sharp, erratic dart through the water that drives trout wild — and the strikes are violent. Like “wake-up-your-neighbors”, violent. Twitch it, pause it, twitch again — boom! Bonus: many of these lures rattle, which adds an extra layer of appeal in the slightly stained surf water.

Topwaters: The Surface Showdown

When I want a front-row seat to the chaos, I tie on a topwater. Watching a speckled trout explode on a surface lure in the calm surf is pure adrenaline. If it misses, keep working it. Trout in the surf are red up and aggressive — they’ll o en come back for seconds (or thirds). Like the twitch baits, these lures rattle too, which helps draw sh in from a distance.

Old School Silver Spoon: Timeless and Deadly

!e silver spoon has earned its place in Texas shing history, and for good

reason — it still at-out works. I prefer a steady retrieve style spoon for consistent action over a jigging one, but that’s just personal taste. And hey, I’m a paddle-tail guy at heart, so a steady retrieve comes naturally.

Soft Plastics: PaddleTails & Shrimp with a Twist

So plastics shine in the surf, but go for durability. !ese sh aren’t sitting around like they do in the bay — they’re moving, and fast. !e last thing you want is to waste time swapping lures er every catch.

I use paddle tails with built-in tail rattles and super-loud rattling shrimp. Yes, rattling shrimp exist — and when trout are keyed in on shrimp, nothing else will do. !e realism and noise can turn a slow day into a urry of action.

Live Bait: Sometimes, You Just Gotta Go Natural

Live shrimp under a rattling popping cork? !at’s trout candy. It’s simple, e ective, and deadly on calm days.

But if the bite gets nicky, break out the big guns: live croaker. Controversial? Sure. E ective? Absolutely. When the water’s crystal clear and the trout are being picky, croaker can be a day-saver.

Bonus Round: Redfsh in the Mix

Don’t be surprised if a slot red — or even an oversized bruiser — crashes the party. Every lure and bait on this list will get crushed by reds in the surf. Be ready. !e surf might be calm, but your drag won’t be.

Bring the Kids – And Leave the Southwest Wind Behind

Calm surf days are perfect for family shing. Easy wading, plenty of action, and good-sized sh make it a blast for kids and adults alike.

One nal tip: if there’s any southwest wind at all, do what the surfers do on at days — stay in bed. It’ll save you some frustration.

So check that forecast, grab your favorite rattling lure, and remember: always take a kid shing.

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

Suzuki Marine Wins 2025 Boating Industry Top Products Award For Re-Launched V6 200Hp Outboard

Suzuki Marine USA has announced that its re-launched V6 200HP 4-stroke outboard motor has earned a 2025 Top Products Award from Boating Industry Magazine Boating Industry unveiled its 2025 Award Winners to the world’s recreational boating industry in May and will feature all the winning products in an upcoming issue of the popular magazine.

“On behalf of Suzuki Marine USA and the Suzuki factory in Japan, we are grateful for this recognition from Boating Industry,” said Brandon Cerka, Vice President Sales and Marketing for Suzuki Marine USA. “We have always focused on listening to our customers, dealers and boatbuilder partners, and it was clear from our conversations there was a need for V6 200 to be o ered alongside our popular inline 4-cylinder 200HP. With both these motors in our 2025 line-up, boaters can now choose the 200 that best suits their type of vessel and boating lifestyle,” Cerka added.

Suzuki’s V6 200HP is an ideal t for boaters and anglers who want the torque, powerful hole shot, and strong acceleration of Suzuki’s 3.6-liter, 24-valve V6 powerhead for single and multiple engine installations. is 2025 model is a great choice for today’s heavy center consoles, large pontoon boats, and other popular vessels that can bene from a little extra “kick in the rear.” Suzuki’s 2025 V6 200 is packed with proven Suzuki technology, along with some new features not previously found on earlier V6 models. Among these new-to-the-class features are easy integration with Suzuki’s new CANbus system for easier and more reliable rigging, Suzuki’s easy start system, automatic trim, keyless starting and

troll mode.

“ is is Suzuki’s 60th Anniversary in the outboard motor business, something we are very proud of,” said Cerka. “A big part of our success over these many years has been keeping our nger on the pulse of the market and coming out with the right products at the right time. Receiving this recognition from a publication like Boating Industry demonstrates that we are on the right track.”

If you are looking for a 5-star inshore family friendly fishing experience, you’ll want to connect with Captain Marty Goldys of Reel Harmony Fishing Charters.

Growing up fishing and crabbing on the Chesapeake Bay, Marty always knew he’d pursue a career on the water.

After graduating from college, Daytona Beach, Florida became the ideal place to call home once he discovered the huge array of saltwater species available to target in this region, not to mention the ideal surfing conditions in this area. Fishing Ponce Inlet, Spruce Creek, and the Halifax River have been the practice since moving to Florida in 2003.

Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, Black-drum, Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead, Snapper, Mackerel, Cobia, Tripletail, and Permit are among the most common inshore/nearshore species Captain Marty targets. While inshore/nearshore fishing are his specialty, don’t be surprised if you see this captain offshore targeting pelagic species as he is experienced in all types of fishing.

If you want your money’s worth on a local charter, you want to book with Reel Harmony Fishing Charters as this Captain runs a very organized, effective operation that ensures everyone on board catches fish!

If it’s a personable captain you’re in search of,

look no further. This local guide will provide tactical tutorials and knowledge about the areas, fish, and birds you encounter from the moment he greets you, all the way through the conclusion of your fishing charter. Captain Marty is a knowledgeable, very patient individual who enjoys hosting junior anglers and their families, making this the perfect family outing for locals and visitors alike. Taking this hands-on approach to guiding has families returning to fish with Captain Marty year after year.

A trip with Captain Marty takes place on a Pathfinder 2200v equipped with the latest technology and safety features. Trolling motors, power poles, electronics (Chartplotter/Fishfinder), and innovative fishing tackle that ensures you have the advantage over others.

Licensed and insured, Captain Marty prides himself on safety on the water while educating his customers on the surrounding environment, the fish being targeted, and the equipment being used.

to mention EPIC sunset photos of you and your party.

Reel Harmony Fishing Charters strives to make your family friendly fishing experience a memorable one, so he provides high quality photos of your trophy catches, fish cleaning services, and the occasional stop at Disappearing Island for a quick dip on the hottest of days.

Eco-tours and sunset excursions are also an option if you’d like to get out on the water with family or friends and leave the fishing poles behind. This is a great way to gain exposure to some amazing Florida wildlife like exotic birds, and beautiful native marine life that share our waterways and surrounding environment. Not

Captain Marty would encourage you to visit his social media platforms to see what he has been catching lately, hear how recent customers enjoyed their charter adventures, and to view current rates and special offers.

UNCOMPROMISING OFFSHORE

Captain’s DireCtory

CAPTAIN DANIEL LEVESQUE

386-295-4581

Rare Breed Charters rarebreedcharters.com

Offshore/ Nearshore

Target Species: Grouper, Red Snapper, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, African Pompano, Alligator, Deer, Hog, Elk, & Wild Turkey

CAPTAIN NICK SICILIANO

386-405-7786

Beast Coast Fishing Charters beastcoastfishingcharters.com

Inshore/ Offshore

Target Species: Redfish, Snook, Tarpon, Sheepshead, Snapper, Grouper, Sharks, Cobia, Grouper, Pompano, Mahi, Triggerfish, Tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish

SRC Adventures srcadventures.com

Nearshore/Offshore

Target Species: Wahoo, Mahi, Tuna, Cobia, Sailfish, Kingfish, Tuna, Amberjack, Pompano, Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish

CAPTAIN MARTY GOLDYS 386-679-0317

Reel Harmony Fishing Charters reelharmonyfishing.com Inshore/Nearshore

Target Species: Tarpon, Snook, Redfish, Trout, Flounder, Sheepshead, Cobia, Tripletail & Shark

Sheephead, Snapper, Grouper, Triggerfish, Cobia,Amberjack, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Tuna, Sailfish, Shark, Golden Tilefish

Captain Daddy’s Fishing Charters captaindaddysfishing.com

Inshore/Offshore

Target Species: Redfish, Flounder, Snook, Tarpon, Cobia, Grouper, Wahoo, Snapper, Seabass, Kingfish, Mahi, Sailfish Captain Sean 386-318-1036Smith

CAPTAIN EVAN SANDERS

407-796-2088

SOL FISHING www.solfishing.com

Inshore, Nearshore, Offshore

Target Species: Redfish, Snook, Trout, Cobia, Tarpon, Snapper, Triggerfish, Mahi, Kingfish, & Wahoo.

CAPTAIN MARSHALL WALLOT

386-214-9595

New Legacy Fishing Charters newlegacyfishing.com

Inshore/Nearshore

Target Species: Redfish, Snook, Trout, Flounder, Black Drum, Tarpon, Sheepshead, Tripletail, Snapper, & Weakfish

EDGEWATER BACKCOUNTRY FORECAST

The first day of fall is a favorite time for local inshore fishermen. Autumn arrives in September after Florida’s long summer, and the first sign is the mullet run. Most baitfish stay along the beach and near inlets, but some enter the Intracoastal Waterway, heading south and drawing in migratory game fish. Cast-net mullet for bait—larger ones for Bull Redfish, Tarpon, Sharks, and big Snook; smaller finger mullet for Jack Crevalle, Bluefish, Ladyfish, Spanish Mackerel, Flounder, Trout, Mangrove Snapper, and slot Reds and Snook. Free-line baits on the surface or use a small weight to fish deeper under bait schools. Mullet can be used live, fresh dead, or cut.

Lure and fly anglers do well with topwater or subsurface lures that imitate mullet. Snook season opens September 1, with a bag limit of one per person in the 28”–32” slot. A snook permit is required to keep one.

Top local snook spots include Intracoastal bridges and docks, Ponce Inlet channel and jetties, Spruce Creek, the Tomoka area, Haulover Canal, and the Edgewater Backcountry. In these areas, target mangrove and oyster shorelines, dropoffs, and moving current. Use large baits like live mullet, pinfish, pigfish, croakers, or shrimp. For artificials, try swimming plugs or jigs.

Fall brings peak action to Ponce Inlet, especially for big spawning Redfish, along with Snook, Sharks, and Tarpon. Drift the inlet channel and west entrance with whole or half blue crabs, or live pinfish, pigfish, or mullet. Outgoing tide is usually best. Use heavy tackle to land big Reds quickly, reducing stress from long fights. When photographing trophy Reds, support them horizontally and avoid hanging them vertically. Release them promptly. To estimate weight: Length × (Girth2) ÷ 800.

Late summer patterns will linger in Mosquito Lagoon. For Seatrout, try topwater lures or soft plastics early, then switch to live pigfish or croakers over drop-offs and near mullet schools. For Redfish, stay shallow and use soft plastics, shrimp, live finger mullet, or cut bait.

Night dock light fishing will remain productive. Fall migrants feed on baitfish and shrimp

attracted to lights. Snook, Trout, Jacks, Bluefish, and Ladyfish can be thick around the right lights. Fish the moving tide—especially outgoing—for best results. Remember:: Redfish are catch-andrelease only in Edgewater Backcountry and Mosquito Lagoon.

Under NEW Ownership by Cody Moore, Third Generation Fisherman

NSB Outfitters specializes in offshore bait and tackle, as well as inshore, flats, and fly fishing gear, with extensive options in apparel and accessories. New Smyrna Outfitters has the knowledge and experience to guide through whatever type of fishing you’re looking to do.

New Smyrna Outfitters specializes in offshore bait and tackle as well as inshore, flats, and fly fishing gear. Along with carrying all of the equipment you need, NSO offers services like rod/ reel repair, line spooling, splicing, rigging, outrigger setup, and much more. If you are not looking for fishing tackle, that’s ok, NSO also offers the best in apparel, eyewear, drinkware, and more. Some of the quality brands include but aren’t limited to Costa, Bajio, Olukai, Free Fly, Marshwear, Aftco, Anetik, Yeti, Stanley, Hemlock, Salty Crew. New Smyrna Outfitters strives to carry the best brands and offer the best customer service.

223a Canal St. | NewSmyrnaOutfitters.com (386) 402-8853 Mon-Sat 9am-6pm | Sunday Closed

CAPTAIN & THE KIDS SOL FISHING

Captain & The Kids strives to always promote youth anglers both at the local level as well as nationally through our “Youth Angler Program.” If it was not for passing down techniques, traditions, and the love for the water, it would slowly fade away. It is our mission to always instill conservation and ethical fishing to our youth!

Capt. Evan started the Youth Angler Program after finding out how many kids in the New Smyrna Beach area had never been fishing, never been on a boat, and was born and raised in the area. Since that day Capt. Evan strives to getting more and more youth anglers on the water each and every year! Sol Fishing will do everything possible to make every young man or ladies fishing dreams come true. It does not matter if the kids want to go offshore or inshore, Sol Fishing will target whichever species they want to catch. Some of the most recent species that the youth anglers have been wanting to target are red snapper, lane snapper, cobia, amberjack, sharks, barracuda, redfish, and snook.

Captain & The Kids program is made possible by all of our retailers who stock Sol Fishing gear such as our hats, decals, shirts, and other apparel. Stop by New Smyrna Beach Outfitters, Outriggers, Donald's Bait & Tackle, 38 Live Bait, E & J Bait & Tackle, Sunglass Cabana, Shades of New Smyrna Beach, Boaters Exchange, and Pedego of NSB to get your Sol Fishing gear to help support Captain & The Kids! Sol Fishing's amazing sponsors Penn, Fenwick, Plano, Fin Nor, Daiichi Hooks, Powerpole, Seadek Marine, Brighter Days Marine, and Castaway Customs also play a huge roll in the program!

PONCE INLET & BACKWATERS FORECAST

September marks the start of my favorite time of year to fish this area.

The mullet run kicks off, snook season opens, summer crowds thin out— and those are just a few reasons why I love fall fishing. While the weather is still hot, the trick to success is fishing early mornings or late afternoons and planning your trips around tide swings.

I like to start the month targeting big redfish in the inlet. To do this, you’ll need healthy live mullet, especially early in the season. If you’re marking fish but they won’t bite, try cutting the mullet into chunks. Later in the month, if the mullet run is thick and they start ignoring them, switch to halved blue crabs for better results.

For daytime snook, I focus on tide changes— especially the high to outgoing tide. I like to rotate through different baits to see what they’re keyed in on that day. Mullet, pinfish, and croakers are all solid options and usually get the job done. One of my favorite fall tactics is dock light fishing during outgoing tides. Free-lined shrimp are my go-to bait for this style of fishing. Just remember to dress

for the bugs—mosquitoes can be thick—but it’s worth a few bites to land a slot or trophy line-sider.

Lastly, let’s talk tarpon. In September, they’ll be stacked in the inlet and along the beaches, blowing up on mullet schools. I love throwing big live mullet into the frenzy, but lately I’ve also been using large paddle tails with great success.

If you’ve never fished in September, I highly recommend it. Want to experience the action? Give me a call—and as always, if you see us out on the water, don’t hesitate to say hello!

3

1 Mon

7:38

9 Tue 10:10 3.7 10:31 3.4 3:47 -0.3 4:18 -0.2 7:04 7:37 10 Wed 10:57 3.8 11:17 3.2 4:29 -0.3 5:10 -0.1 7:05 7:35

t’s hot, and I don’t mean the bite. It’s been very off and on. I’ve been going out to the beach with my surf fishing rods very early in the morning, avoiding the hot sun. The tide is very good early these days, from mid-tide to low tide, when it’s a little cooler as the sun‘s coming up. Just as I thought, the fish like it also.

What a beautiful sunrise! I know I’m on my way to a good day. I’m using sand fleas and cutting up some crab knuckles. I’m setting up four poles and right now I’m watching a little nibbling going on. A big bend, then it’s on! It’s a little different bite this time. I’ll have to see what it is.

Reeling in as fast as I can. Jumping onto the beach is a nice sheepshead. My other rod is going off also! Sometimes sheepshead come in pairs and it’s no different this time. A twin to the first one I brought in. Sheepshead are definitely great eating fish. All they eat is crab, shrimp, clams, and sand fleas, and they taste that good , with hard to fillet white meat. They have real teeth and like to come up real stealthy-like, and steal your bait. But once they bite, you’ll know it.

They’re also known as convict fish because they have black and white stripes known as sea brine. They also like to hang around structures like piers, and like to eat scraped barnacles, sand fleas, shrimp, clams. Fiddler crabs, too, which are the best for bait. They happen to be my wife’s favorite fish.

My charters have sort of come to an end, I won’t take people out when we can’t catch fish. So it goes. All of a sudden, out of the blue, just when I’m about to pack up, another rod starts to shudder. Moving at my quickest speed, which is pretty pathetic. I grab a rod and start to reel in, and it moves. Just like a pompano, going back-and-forth along the coastline. I see it now, such a beautiful fish. It’s famous flop on the beach.

The day is winding down. Now I switch up a little from reggae and I’m listening to Morris Day and the Time. Such fun: smooth sounds. Everybody’s hungry, including my dog, Ula, so it’s time for me and these pompano and sheepsheads to head to the smoker.

KAYAKING BLAKE ABBEY

September is here and the mullet are making their way to our local beaches and our inlet. This is my favorite time of year to throw the cast net off the side of the kayak and fill the live well with one throw. The beaches and jetty rocks will allow opportunity for Giant Tarpon and Bull Redfish from the kayak. There are two locations to launch a kayak inside Jetty Park located at 5000 South Atlantic Av. Ponce Inlet, Florida. As you head out to the inlet, you can start fishing the floating docks, mangroves and rock walls. This area has literally everything to offer for a kayaker. If the conditions don’t allow you to get out of the inlet, a great place to check out on the yak would be Braddock Creek. This area is protected from the wind and holds Trout, Flounder, Reds, and Snook. When the conditions allow it, I’m always aiming to get my kayak out to the

tip of the jetty because that’s where I’ve landed the Bull Reds in the 30lb class. This area can be dangerous, so I highly recommend using the tide to your advantage. Try to time your trip where you are going out with the outgoing tide and in with the incoming tide. I like to keep my gear simple. I usually take one or two rods spooled with 20-40lb braid and I run a 30lb- Florocarbon liter. A strong circle hook and a live mullet is the deal this time of year for me. If I’m targeting tarpon, I’m just free-lining behind the kayak, and if I’m targeting Snook and Reds, I’m putting it on the bottom. This time of year is epic fishing when the mullet come in, so get in a kayak and go have some fun!

BLAKE ABBEY

Kayak King Charters (916) 476-1403

@kayakkingcharters

FISHING REPORT

As a charter captain and avid angler, the most exciting time to hit the water is during Florida’s mullet run. Peaking midSeptember through October in Central Florida. Theres no question why this happens to be my busy season for booking fishing charters. Everyone wants to catch their personal best Snook, Redfish, Tarpon, Jacks, or Shark during this very active season.

The key to success during the mullet run is by using live bait and even lures that imitate mullet. Any avid angler will tell you that fishing the edges of bait schools near inlets, jetties, bridge fenders, and piers is highly effective. Swimbaits and topwater lures work well, but nothing beats casting a live mullet into a huge school of busting bait. Be

FISHING THE MULLET RUN IN FLORIDA

sure to use circle hooks when using live mullet as bait for easier, faster, and safer hook-up on targeted species. Here are my top tips for fishing the mullet run:

•Catch live mullet with a cast net or snag rig

•Consider using lead weights and circle hooks to control bait depth

•Let bait sit on bottom to attract attention from ambush predators

• Hook mullet under the anal fin or through the nostrils for natural movement

• Use lures that cover the full water column

•Fish during tide changes to increase action

• Use drones to spot bait schools, making it easier to locate prime fishing spots

•Dawn patrol and just before sunset can be prime time for mullet run action

•If mullet schools disappear, don't be afraid to relocate

If you're looking for a fast-paced, action-packed charter, book with Reel Harmony Fishing Charters. I’ve spent 20 years fishing the mullet run in Central Florida—and there’s nothing I love more than helping others land trophy fish during this epic season. Call for mullet run charter availability before slots fill up.

Free Towing for Members

Flagship Towing provides 24/7 on-water assistance, delivering fast, reliable boat towing, fuel delivery, jump starts, ungroundings, salvages, recoveries, and emergency support— anytime, anywhere you need us. From calm coves to rough seas, we’re your trusted partner on the water. Sign up on our website.

COASTAL ANGLER

DUSTIN CZYS

KEN MCKNIGHT (Reel Harmony Fishing Charters)

CHRIS MORRIS

(Ferg’s Guide Service)

KINGSTON

(Rare Breed Charters)

ALEX MORRIS (Ferg's Guide Service)

Scan the QR code to submit your photo for a chance to be showcased on our Brag Board! Your submission automatically enters you into our monthly random drawing for a $50 Gift Card!

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.

Durable boat lifts expertly designed with Florida in mind.

ShoreStation hydraulic boat lifts are a reliable choice for coastal residents and boating enthusiasts alike. Their strong construction, made with corrosion-resistant materials, allows them to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including sun, storms, and saltwater damage. ShoreStation provides a steadfast solution for protecting waterfront investments, o ering peace of mind to owners in the Sunshine State.

REVOLUTION™ Series Canopy Cover

Equipped with exceptional weather resistant fabric and breathable SunTex 80 woven mesh ends for maximum protection and durability,

Quickly Secures Boat

Made from the highest quality materials, our innovative hydraulic boat lift is one of the fastest and safest lifts on the market today. When you have a hydraulic lift, there’s no need to worry about wind and waves getting in your way. This lift will give you con dence to safely land and secure your boat in less-than-ideal conditions.

Solar Battery Charging System

Never miss another moment on the water. Power your lift with clean, free solar power. Our speedy 20 watt charger features solar regulator drainage protection, saving your battery from permanent damage caused by overcharging.

MISSOURI ANGLER REELS IN MASSIVE 86.8-POUND BLUE CAT

An angler from the Midwest recently had a !shing experience to remember along the banks of the Missouri River near St. Louis.

Wally Klein hooked an enormous 86.8-pound blue cat!sh—an incredible catch that tested both his !shing technique and physical strength.

Using gizzard shad as bait and a standard rod-and-reel setup, Klein fought the powerful !sh before !nally bringing it ashore near Washington, Missouri, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC).

A er snapping a quick photo to commemorate his achievement, Klein released the massive cat!sh back into the river unharmed.

Klein told MDC o cials it was the largest !sh he’s ever caught. e department congratulated him on the impressive feat, saying, “Congrats on this impressive !sh.”

e Missouri River is a well-known destination for trophy cat!sh, particularly blue cat!sh, which are prized for their size and their spirited !ghts—making them a favorite and true challenge among seasoned anglers.

Klein’s cat!sh was a monster, but it didn’t quite break the state record — which was also set in the Missouri River. Back in 2010, Greg Bernal landed a 130-pound blue cat!sh, a catch that was a world record at the time.

Want to learn more about cat shing Missouri’s big rivers?

Visit: https://mdc.mo.gov/ shing/species/cat sh/big-river-cat shing.

SNOOK FISHING WITH ARTIFICIAL SHRIMP

Capt. Mike Smith

The common snook, a.k.a. linesider, a.k.a. robalo, is one of the most sought a er game!sh in Florida waters. Sportsmen and women from all over the world come to Florida to catch these hard !ghting, jumping, head shaking, drag pulling !sh.

Snook will de!nitely eat top water lures, jigs, jerkbaits, wake baits, suspending hard baits, spoons, and ies but they love arti!cial shrimp.

Arti!cial shrimp will catch snook all year long; day or night; salt or fresh water; in every ecosystem, anywhere that snook live.

One of the best ways to catch snook with arti!cial shrimp is skipping them under and around structures like mangrove branches, docks, sea walls, sand bars and oyster bars. Pitch the shrimp to the structure and let it sink. en give it a twitch, twitch and let it sink again, then twitch, twitch and repeat the process until your arms get tired of reeling in linesiders..

Snook like a slower retrieve in the cooler months. Make sure to slow it down when the water temperatures approach the 70 degree level or less. A faster retrieve works better when water temperatures are between 75 and 85 degrees. Snook o en stop biting when water temperatures get above 90 degrees.

Another great characteristic of the arti!cial shrimp is that it skips like a dream. e 3 inch shrimp is the go to arti!cial shrimp lure for most hardcore snook !shermen. However, there are days when the snook are more discerning and a 2.75 inch or a larger 4 inch shrimp is the better size and pro!le choice.

e best color choices for shrimp lures are transparent, natural colors with gold or silver glitter in them for sunny days and clear water scenarios. More opaque and darker colors work better in dirty water and on cloudy days.

Many !shermen struggle when !shing arti!cial lures into tight cover scenarios. Sometimes, it takes about 50 casts and the loss of a half dozen shrimp lures to perfect the technique. But it is de!nitely a skill that any serious snook !sherman needs to master.

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

Unlocking Fall Panfish Patterns

Whether for sport or for the table, pan!sh—especially slab crappies and hand-sized bull bluegills—are a favorite target among anglers. And when the air cools and leaves start to fall, pan!sh !shing heats up. Autumn can be one of the best times to catch these !sh, but it comes with a unique set of challenges. Changing vegetation, dropping water temperatures, lake turnover, and bait!sh migrations can make !nding pan!sh feel like solving a seasonal puzzle.

Fortunately, by learning to read these fall cues you’ll consistently !nd success on the water.

As lake temperatures cool and turnover occurs, bait!sh begin shi ing toward shallower cover where they can !nd safety and warmth. is movement sets o a chain reaction. Pan!sh follow the food, o en stacking up around cover like submerged wood or rocky structure. ese areas become prime real estate for fall !shing.

Weather plays a major role, too. On cold, blustery fall days, pan!sh o en slide deeper, becoming more predictable and easier to !nd with electronics. Deep basin areas in 20 to 25 feet of water can light up with schools of crappies—and sometimes bluegills—suspended and ready to bite. ese deeper !sh are o en aggressive, making for a rewarding but ethically sensitive bite. When !shing at those depths, barotrauma becomes a real issue. Released !sh o en don’t survive, even if they swim o , so it’s important to harvest what you catch, regardless of size.

On the ip side, when the weather is mild and

the sun is out, pan!sh can be found shallower, relating to weedlines, cribs, and brush piles. Healthy, vertical weeds are a magnet for fall pan!sh and can hold !sh all the way into !rst ice. In fact, some of the best fall bluegill bites happen in just !ve to eight feet of water, especially in lakes where dense, green weedbeds persist.

Lake size also in uences fall behavior. On smaller lakes—200 acres or less—dropping water temps and decaying weeds tend to concentrate !sh even more. As long as green weeds remain, pan!sh will hold tight to them. But as those weeds die o , the !sh begin to push toward deeper structure or out into the basins in preparation for winter.

Crappies in particular become more predictable in the fall, o en schooling up tighter and acting more aggressively than during other seasons. ey’re easier to pattern as they transition from summer haunts to winter basins, o en stopping along the way at deep weedlines or submerged timber. In lakes with ample wood or crib structure, these can be hotspots that hold large schools well into late fall.

Bluegills, while more opportunistic and scattered, still relate strongly to weed edges and shallow cover when the conditions are right. eir adaptability means they can be caught both shallow and deep, but they may take more searching to !nd than their crappie counterparts.

Despite the variables, the recipe for fall pan!sh

success remains relatively consistent: follow the forage, !nd healthy weeds or cover, and adjust based on the weather. Whether you’re chasing aggressive schools of crappies in deep water or hunting bluegills in shallow weed patches, fall o ers a window of opportunity that savvy anglers won’t want to miss.

THE UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS: Naturally in Rhythm—No

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the US Virgin Islands embody a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and laid-back serenity. ese islands are more than just a picturesque getaway; they are a living testament to nature’s rhythm and resilience, e ortlessly in tune with the world around them.

With no passport required for U.S. citizens, from the moment you arrive, the islands’ natural rhythm is palpable. e gentle sway of palm trees, the soothing sound of surf crashing against sandy shores, and the vibrant melodies of local music all echo the heartbeat of this tropical paradise. e islands’ lush landscapes, with their verdant hills and crystal-clear waters, mirror the steady pulse of life that sustains the local ecosystems and communities alike.

e US Virgin Islands’ environment is a symphony of biodiversity with world class !shing and diving. ese natural elements are not static; they dance in harmony, in uenced by the tides, wind, and seasonal changes— further emphasizing the islands’ intrinsic rhythm. is delicate balance underscores the importance of conservation e orts, ensuring that future generations continue to

experience the islands’ natural cadence.

Culturally, the US Virgin Islands are equally in tune. e music, dance and festivals re ect a vibrant heritage rooted in African, European and Caribbean traditions. e spirited calypso beats and reggae rhythms are expressions of life's ongoing dance—celebrating resilience, community and joy. ese cultural expressions are an extension of the islands’ natural rhythm, showcasing how human life here moves seamlessly

with nature’s ow.

In a world o en dictated by chaos and rapid change, the US Virgin Islands serve as a reminder of the beauty of being in sync with nature’s tempo. eir natural, cultural and ecological rhythms o er a blueprint for sustainable living and harmony. As travelers and residents alike continue to embrace this rhythm, they uphold a legacy of balance—one that celebrates life’s natural ow and the enduring spirit of these remarkable islands. In the US Virgin Islands, being in rhythm isn’t just an ideal; it’s a way of life.

Learn more at www.VisitUSVI.com.

Buy One, Get One Free

Valued at over $90,000 MSRP, only 3000 tickets will be sold

CHANGE IS ON THE WAY

Tim Barefoot

September is a peculiar month. Some of the hottest days of the year, hurricane season is in full swing and the !rst northeast winds and cold fronts are about to occur. is is the time of year when wahoo and yellow!n can be caught right up against the beach on big schools of cigar minnows and sardines, or out in the deeper water. ere is no rhyme or reason to it this time of year; these !sh simply follow the bait schools

is is also the time of year when scamp grouper are very vulnerable. If you have the ability to keep a pin!sh trap in the water, it’s a good idea to take live pin!sh with you o shore for a number of reasons. One, pin!sh are very hearty and will live until the end of the day in the live well. Two, they are very sought a er by scamps because scamps view them as egg eaters and will kill them (eat them) so they don’t eat their eggs. And three, they are readily available at all !sh cleaning stations, at most marinas. Yes, I strongly suggest taking two or three boxes of frozen cigar minnows for bait, but live pin!sh are a ringer for scamps and other grouper/ snapper species in the deeper water.

with a cigar minnow. Proof is in the pudding...and here’s your proof. I’ve always said if you !nd the bait you !nd the !sh, and if you !nd big marks of bait (cigs, sardines, tinks, beeliners etc…) you’ll !nd the !sh. It’s always a good thing to have a “spotlight trolling motor” option to be able to sit on the bait or at least slow your dri in currents, but !sh under the bait on or near the bottom for grouper and snappers and keep the light line out for all the pelagics.

Designate one person in the crew to keep multiple light-line baits tended. Do not let this person get complacent and start bottom !shing. e same person should stay focused on the baits and working the Sabiki for whatever bait is below the boat. I’ve always said “Don’t walk in a Chinese restaurant and order a pizza,” meaning whatever is there is what they’re eating! A couple obvious execptions to this is pin!sh on the bottom and greenies/sardines; these baits are universal. We can’t keep gag grouper this time of year or American red snapper, but you can de!nitely !ll the box with other species.

September is when you will see all the tropical species in places you don’t normally see them. All the tropical snappers are everywhere now. Frozen cigar minnows on the Squid Decoy Jig are a wonderful option, but live cigs and sardines are a “whole nother story.” As shown in the photo, the all-time IGFA world record scamp was caught on the 12 ounce

Be ready for that big bite on the light line by choosing your tackle wisely as well. Yes, you need to keep the leader ( oro and wire) size small to get the bites, but use the correct size hooks, reel and line capacity to handle bigger !sh. Like I mentioned earlier, this is the time of year when wahoo are everywhere...and nowhere. You could catch a giant wahoo or tuna inshore, or in the deep water, just be prepared for it and be ready to chase it down if need be. e kite is always a great option if you have the team that can y the kite and bottom !sh simultaneously as it can be a challenge with wind speed, direction and current.

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