Coastal Angler Magazine | Treasure Coast | August 2026 Edition

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TREASURE COAST EDITION

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WRANGLING

THE REEF DONKEY

AFTER DARK OFFSHORE ACTION

LOCAL REPORTS & CATCH PHOTOS

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHELSEA MANN FB: @CHELS.ANA.4321 / IG: @CHELS_CHELS28 VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 377

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AUGUST 2026

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tina Georg e

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ishing for greater amberjack— By CAM Staff a!ectionately known as “reef donkeys” or “AJs”—is one of saltwater angling’s most grueling and rewarding challenges. These hard-fighting predators are famous for their sheer strength, blistering runs, and ability to test both angler and tackle to the absolute limit. Greater amberjack are structure-oriented predators that primarily inhabit o!shore waters. They congregate around deep wrecks, artificial reefs, oil rigs, and steep rocky ledges. Adult amberjacks can exceed 60 pounds, though common catches range from 20 to 40 pounds. Because they are competitive and aggressive, they often hunt in packs, making them highly receptive to fast-paced fishing tactics. Due to the amberjack’s habit of diving straight into sharp structure when hooked, you cannot use light tackle. Anglers typically rely on heavy-action conventional or spinning gear. Use a heavy 6-foot (or shorter) rod paired with a high-capacity reel. The shorter length gives you better leverage to turn the fish’s head away from the reef. Spool up with a minimum of 50 to 80 lb. braided line, connected to a heavy 80- to 100-lb. monofilament or fluorocarbon leader. Whether you are drifting over the deep wrecks of the Gulf of Mexico or fishing o! the Atlantic coast, the two most e!ective methods are live baiting and vertical jigging. Live bait is often the most productive method for targeting the largest amberjacks. Prized baits include blue runners, hardtails, pinfish

EDIT: Chris

TIPS FOR CATCHING GREATER AMBERJACK

PHOTO CR

Taming Reef Donkeys

and cigar minnows. Rig your bait using a heavy circle hook (7/0 to 10/0 depending on the bait size) and drop it down into the lower third of the water column just above the submerged structure. Pro anglers often clip the tail of a lively baitfish so it doesn’t swim away too quickly, making it an easy target. If you prefer an active fishing style, heavy metal jigs (4 to 10 ounces) are incredibly e!ective. Butterfly jigs and traditional diamond jigs mimic the frantic movement of injured baitfish. Drop the lure to the bottom and rapidly reel it upward using a jerking, pumping motion. Amberjacks react intensely to speed and competition, so a fast, erratic retrieve often triggers a violent reaction strike. Hooking an amberjack is only half the battle; bringing it to the surface is the real test! When hooked, the “reef donkey” will immediately bolt straight down toward the safety of the wreck or reef. If they reach the structure, your line will be sliced on sharp metal or rocks. You must apply heavy drag and use a “lift and reel” technique, steadily pumping the rod and winding quickly to force the fish upward. To protect greater amberjack from overfishing, they are strictly regulated. These rules depend entirely on whether you are fishing o! the Gulf Coast or the Atlantic Coast. The Gulf population is heavily managed due to low stock numbers. For 2026, recreational harvest in the Gulf opens for 43 days, running from September 1 through October 14, 2026. Fish must be a minimum of 34” fork length (measured from the tip of the jaw to the center fork of the tail). Anglers are strictly limited to 1 fish per person, per day. Captain and crew on charter boats have a bag limit of zero. The Atlantic coast o!ers longer open windows but a di!erent sizing scale. Harvest is open most of the year but features a mandatory spawning closure from April 1 through April 30.The minimum size drops to 28” fork length. The limit mirrors the Gulf at 1 fish per person, per day. Before heading out, check your state’s licensing requirements and rules for specific reef-fishing gear to improve fish survival rates after release such as non-stainless steel circle hooks, dehooking device and a rigged, readyto-use venting tool or descending device to safely handle fish experiencing barotrauma.

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AUGUST CUBERA FISHING

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hen the August full moon rolls around in the Florida Keys, it is prime time to target one of the hardest-pulling, meanest !sh on the reef: the Cubera snapper, aka “El Diablo.” These !sh are big, powerful, and known for absolutely wrecking tackle if you are not ready. In Key West, Captain Kody Michael is one of the guys to know when it comes to getting a#er them. His company, Reel Guides, helps connect anglers with solid, trusted captains throughout the Keys, making it easier to !nd the right guide for the trip you want to take. Whether someone is looking for a serious reef trip, a trophy !sh, or simply wants to !sh with a captain who knows the area, Reel Guides helps point anglers in the right direction. Cubera !shing is not your average snapper trip. One of the go-to baits is live lobster, which makes it some of the most expensive bait !shing you can do. But when a giant Cubera eats, it is worth every dollar. Around the full moon, these !sh get !red up, and the bite can be violent. This is not dropping down and hoping for a nibble. This is waiting for a freight train to eat a live lobster and try to take everything with it. •

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MILES, MEMORIES

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

M

y son and I tried something new this summer—we took a twoweek road trip, !shing our way through Louisiana and both coasts of Florida. We even squeezed in a World Cup game along the way. Louisiana kicked things off with sightcasting red!sh and catching trout on deep structure. It was Ethan’s !rst time seeing !sh before they were caught, and watching him learn the difference between a mullet wake and a cruising red!sh was pretty special. From there, we headed to St. Pete, where the scenery and crystal-clear water were a complete change. We !shed points and channels around the mangrove islands and, between everyone in the boat, landed a Florida Slam—red!sh, trout, #ounder and snook. Ethan’s favorite moment wasn’t even a !sh. A huge nurse shark swam up to inspect the trolling motor while he was !shing from the bow in just a few feet of clear water! Next came three days in the Everglades chasing giant snook. We found them too. Some made it to the boat, plenty didn’t, and every hookup was a battle. $e real challenge was landing them before the sharks found them. Unfortunately, the sharks won at least three times. One thing that stood out at every stop was that all of our !sh were caught on softplastic paddletails. I know many Florida anglers prefer live bait, but don’t overlook arti!cials—they’ll catch plenty of !sh when given the opportunity. Our next stop was the New Smyrna area on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. $is time, my buddy wanted to !sh with live bait. We worked docks, bridges and jetties for some of the biggest snook and red!sh I’ve ever seen. $e !sh de!nitely knew where to hide, and with all that structure, we probably lost as many as we landed. $e !nal stop was kayak !shing, Ethan’s !rst time !shing from his own kayak. When he was younger, we shared a tandem kayak while he learned boat control and how to land !sh from a rocking platform. About an hour into the trip, my buddy Will found some trout and waved us over. Ethan stopped short, made a cast off a grassy point, and I heard, “Dad, I have one.” As I paddled toward him, I could tell by the splash it was a good !sh. $en he yelled, “It’s big!” By the time I reached him, he already had it in the net. $e trout measured 28& inches and weighed 7.5 pounds. I couldn’t have been prouder, and seeing one of our Knockin Tail Lures in her mouth was the icing on the cake. On this trip, Ethan caught his biggest snook, red!sh, and speckled trout. $at’s a !shing trip we’ll never forget. A big thank you to all my friends who helped make this adventure one to remember.

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IGFA Names Recipients of Inaugural Master Angler Award

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he International Game Fish Association (IGFA), proudly announced Dr. Martin “Marty” Arostegui and Roberta G. Arostegui as the !rst recipients of the IGFA Master Angler Award, the highest distinction available within the newly launched IGFA Master Angler Program. $e IGFA Master Angler Award is reserved for anglers who achieve Gold Tier status in !ve or more of the program’s seven categories, spanning IGFA World Records, Slams, and Trophy Fish Clubs. Marty and Roberta have each met that standard independently, earning the award on the strength of their individual lifetime angling achievement across the full breadth of IGFA angler recognition programs. As a couple, the two are bound by a shared passion for the sport that has driven decades of individual pursuit on the water. “Marty and Roberta Arostegui represent exactly the kind of anglers the Master Angler Program was built to recognize,” said IGFA President Jason Schratwieser. “$ey have not excelled in one corner of this sport; they have excelled across all of it, year after year, for decades. To be able to name them as the !rst recipients of this award, and to do it together, is an amazing event.” Both Marty and Roberta are inducted members of the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame—Marty in 2018, Roberta in 2023—and each has accumulated IGFA World Records, Slams, or Trophy Fish Clubs spanning more than four decades. Marty achieved Gold Tier status across !ve categories: All-Tackle World Records, All-Tackle Length World Records, Line Class World Records, Tippet Class World Records, and Trophy Fish Clubs. Over his career, he has set 438 IGFA World Records and completed nine IGFA Trophy Fish Clubs. Roberta achieved Gold Tier status across !ve categories: All-Tackle Length World Records, Line Class World Records, Tippet Class World Records, Trophy Fish Clubs, and Royal Slams. Over her career, she has set

297 IGFA World Records, completed nine IGFA Trophy Fish Clubs, and nine IGFA Royal Slams. Formal recognition of the Arosteguis as the !rst anglers recognized with the IGFA Master Angler Award recipients will take place at the 43rd IGFA International Auction on January 23, 2027 at the Ritz Carlton, Fort Lauderdale. $e IGFA Master Angler Program, launched in May 2026, introduces a tiered recognition framework spanning seven categories: All-Tackle World Records, Line Class World Records, Tippet Class World Records, All-Tackle Length World Records, Grand Slams, Royal Slams, and Trophy Fish Clubs with Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers within each. All prior eligible achievements count toward program standing. Additional Master Angler Award recipients will be announced in the coming months as qualifying anglers are con!rmed. For more information about the IGFA Master Angler Program, including full tier requirements and category details, visit: https://igfa.org/igfa-master-angler-program/.

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1920s Style for a 1920s Price

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t was a warm summer afternoon and my wife and I were mingling with the best of them. The occasion was a 1920s-themed party, and everyone was dressed to the nines. Parked on the manse’s circular driveway was a beautiful classic convertible. It was here that I got the idea for our new 1920s Retrograde Watch.

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Summer Bass Patterns By Bait Cave Customs Pro Angler Joey Bloom

A

s summer settles in and water temperatures rise across the country, bass anglers are faced with a changing !shery. $e shallowwater feeding frenzies of spring begin to fade, and largemouth bass transition into more predictable summer patterns. Understanding where bass position during the hottest months and selecting the right presentations can make all the difference between a slow day and a memorable one. I believe one of the biggest mistakes anglers make during the summer is failing to adjust to bass movement. As the water warms, bass become more structure-oriented. $ey’re in search for comfort, oxygen, and easy feeding opportunities. During the summer months, bass often position around offshore ledges, creek channel swings, brush piles, submerged vegetation, docks, and deeper points. Early in the morning and late in the evening, !sh may move shallow to feed, but as the sun climbs higher, many bass seek deeper water or heavy cover to escape the heat. One of my favorite ways to target these summertime bass is with Bait Cave Customs Cave Club #oating worms. $eir buoyant design creates a natural presentation that continues to attract strikes even when !sh become less aggressive. $e drop shot rig is one of the most productive techniques during summer. By rigging a Bait Cave Customs 4” Flat Worm above a weight, anglers can keep the bait suspended just off the bottom where

bass can easily see it. $is presentation excels around deep brush piles, offshore structure, and schools of !sh hiding in grass clumps. $e subtle action of this #oating bait often triggers bites from bass that ignore more aggressive presentations. When targeting deeper structure, I frequently reach for a Carolina rig. A Cave Hog #oating plastic trails behind the weight, gliding naturally above the bottom while covering large amounts of water. $is technique is especially effective on offshore points, shell beds, and channel edges where bass congregate during the heat of summer. For anglers !shing grass lines, docks, or scattered cover, a Texas-rigged remains a staple. $e weedless design allows !shermen to work through heavy cover while the bait’s buoyancy creates a more lifelike posture when paused. Many summertime bites occur when the bait is sitting still, making the #oating action a major advantage. Flipping and pitching heavy cover is another key summer pattern. Bass often bury themselves in thick vegetation, boat docks, and shaded cover to escape direct sunlight. I rely on a Cave Cricket when punching through mats or #ipping isolated targets because the bait maintains an enticing action even after reaching the bottom. Summer bass can get conditioned to seeing the same presentations day after day. $e #oating plastics from Bait Cave Customs give !sh a different look and allow the bait to stay in the strike zone

L longer. $at’s often the difference between getting a bite and getting ignored. By focusing on deeper structure, shaded cover, and offshore feeding areas while utilizing versatile #oating plastics through techniques like drop-shotting, Carolina rigging, Texas rigging, and #ipping, anglers can consistently catch more bass throughout the summer months. When the temperatures rise, understanding bass behavior and matching it with the right presentation is the formula for success. Follow Joey Bloom on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube at Joey Bloom Fishing.

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COASTAL ANGLER TREASURE COAST EDITION

~ SERVING OUTDOORS ENTHUSIASTS IN INDIAN RIVER, ST. LUCIE & MARTIN COUNTIES ~

It’s Hot, And Who Cares? By Jim Moir, Indian Riverkeeper Executive Director

T

he summer is here and we are seeing temperature records being broken around the world. This year might become the hottest on record. Certainly, ancient geological evidence exists that the earth has been much warmer, but that is on a time scale of hundreds of thousands of years, not centuries or generations or any timeframe that we can easily relate to. The heat is uncomfortable and creates dangerous risk for all organisms. Trapped greenhouse gasses will not only raise global temperatures, raise sea levels and dramatically increase the intensity of natural disasters, but the chemistry of our air and water are changing. Perhaps the most unique feature of this climatic shift is the rate at which the atmosphere is getting hotter and more CO2 enriched. These changes are not only going to be incredibly expensive, but they will change the way we and wildlife exist. Pretending that it’s a fiction or delaying implementation of effective mitigations will make our challenge much more difficult. Many communities have committed to beach renourishment as a primary tool of resiliency planning to combat rising sea level. Sadly, many of the foundational species that built Florida— the corals, worm rock polychaetes, coquina clams and other mollusks and invertebrates that created the nearshore reef and hardbottom that are the bulwark against high energy waves and erosion—

often get smothered or buried with sediment. Our coasts are dynamic and often composed of living or recently living things. These organisms and many others have a hard time evolving or adapting to the rapidly changing, engineered local conditions. The nearshore hardbottom reefs are in many ways as fragile and important as ecosystem nurseries as are the mangroves or seagrasses. Dredging inlets and moving sand to shore up condominiums that are encroaching on the coastal buffer zones have serious ecological impacts. A particularly troublesome effect of greenhouse gas accumulation is the fallout of carbonic acid leading to ocean acidification. As more carbonic acid rains into the sea, the pH drops and the available calcium carbonate is used to buffer and stabilize the hydrogen ions; this leaves less calcium carbonate for corals to build their skeletons, or shellfish to build their shells, or planktons—foraminifera, coccoliths, etc.—to build their “tests,” or sponges to build spicules. These are autotrophs, the base of the food web, and there are already indications that coccoliths are showing deformities. Another terrifying consequence of rapidly changing ocean chemistry is that temperature, pH and bioelectric fields are closely coupled in biological control systems. Temperature controls how molecules react (how much oxygen can be dissolved), pH determines the chemical charge,

and voltage determines how cells communicate and organize themselves. Blastomeres, the first cell division of an embryo, are sensitive to these coupled controls. Species with external fertilization (corals, oysters, fish, etc.) that are exposed to lower oceanic pH, may have reduced fertilization success, altered gene expression, slow cell division, poor intra cellular calcium transport, and disturbed bioelectric signals, which all contribute to developmental abnormalities and reduced larval survival. It is imperative that we reduce our reliance on fossil fuel. But it is hopeful that the wild places that have ecosystems predominated by photosynthetic communities, mangroves, seagrasses and healthy algae, that take up CO2 in daylight, can become chemical refuges where species with externally fertilized embryos can experience less acidic conditions during their early development. We can slow our roll toward a tragic tipping point. We must reduce our toxic emissions and create space for ecosystems to develop functional resilience with ecological integrity. Nature, given time and space, can adapt and recover and provide us life support. To learn about the benefits of supporting Indian Riverkeeper and its efforts, visit www.theindianriverkeeper.org or call (772) 341-4953.

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W

arm, clear water usually makes for some tough fishing. If we get a thermocline that pushes fish into our area from the deep and up from the south, such as mutton snapper on the beach reefs in 20-45 feet and amberjack on the 85- to 90-foot reefs, it will be something to look forward to. Kingfish, some in the 40- to 50-pound class, will be our only sure thing. Start looking around the bait pods that pop up from just outside the inlet. You’ll often catch the kings right where you’re catching your threadfins. You have to figure the reason the bait is on the surface is because there’s predators underneath. Also the artificial reefs will hold bait, cobia and mangroves. The trolling offshore is usually quiet in August so if you do go deep make sure you’re prepared to drop to the bottom to salvage your day. If there’s one thing to look

GRAPHIC ARTIST LAURA KELLY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Capt. Rocky Carbia Capt. Jonathan Earhart Capt. Scotty Gold Jim Moir Capt. Bo Samuel Capt. Trent Shapiro Capt. Paul Sperco Capt. Adam White Capt. Terry Wildey

A big summer cobia caught aboard the Big Easy. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Terry Wildey.

forward to in August it’s some calm water and sunny days. Throw a few extra bottles of water on the boat and stay hydrated. And watch out for those 3 p.m. storms! Always plan on going out and coming in early. The early bird catches the worm in August, but it’s the second mouse that gets the cheese. That means it’s a good time to try some night fishing, especially around the full moon.

Despite what some might say, we do have good fishing in August, with live bait being the key to a productive day. Stocking the bait well with herring or pilchards is a big part of my morning. Let’s all pray the hurricanes stay away and, as always, be kind to your fellow angler...you might need a tow one day. Fish On! Gotta Go...

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AUGUST 2026

TREASURE COAST 3

FISHING FORECASTS

FROM THE SURF & SHORE

Capt. Paul Sperco Capt’n Paul Rigs and Charters (609) 903-8243 facebook.com/captnpaul

DAY TIME HGHT 1SA

4:38 AM 11:13 AM 4:52 PM 11:33 PM 2SU 5:15 AM 11:56 AM 5:33 PM 3M 12:10 AM 5:56 AM 12:41 PM 6:17 PM 4TU 12:49 AM 6:42 AM 1:30 PM 7:08 PM 5W 1:34 AM 7:35 AM 2:25 PM 8:06 PM 6TH 2:25 AM 8:36 AM 3:28 PM 9:11 PM 7F 3:27 AM 9:42 AM 4:37 PM 10:20 PM 8SA 4:38 AM 10:50 AM 5:46 PM 11:26 PM 9SU 5:49 AM 11:54 AM 6:50 PM 10M 12:28 AM 6:56 AM 12:54 PM 7:47 PM 11TU 1:26 AM 7:56 AM 1:50 PM 8:38 PM

0.15 L 2.4 H 0.09 L 2.47 H 0.09 L 2.42 H 0.17 L 2.42 H 0.04 L 2.41 H 0.27 L 2.37 H 0.02 L 2.4 H 0.38 L 2.31 H 0.01 L 2.37 H 0.48 L 2.27 H 0.01 L 2.35 H 0.55 L 2.25 H -0.01 L 2.37 H 0.55 L 2.28 H -0.06 L 2.45 H 0.48 L 2.38 H -0.15 L 2.58 H 0.35 L 2.53 H -0.24 L 2.73 H 0.19 L 2.68 H -0.3 L 2.85 H

12W

2:19 AM 8:52 AM 2:42 PM 9:26 PM 13TH 3:10 AM 9:43 AM 3:32 PM 10:11 PM 14F 3:58 AM 10:32 AM 4:20 PM 10:54 PM 15SA 4:45 AM 11:19 AM 5:07 PM 11:36 PM 16SU 5:31 AM 12:05 PM 5:54 PM 17M 12:17 AM 6:17 AM 12:51 PM 6:41 PM 18TU 12:59 AM 7:04 AM 1:38 PM 7:31 PM 19W 1:42 AM 7:55 AM 2:28 PM 8:24 PM 20TH 2:29 AM 8:50 AM 3:23 PM 9:22 PM 21F 3:23 AM 9:48 AM 4:23 PM 10:22 PM

0.04 L 2.81 H -0.31 L 2.93 H -0.08 L 2.89 H -0.26 L 2.94 H -0.14 L 2.9 H -0.15 L 2.89 H -0.15 L 2.85 H 0.01 L 2.78 H -0.09 L 2.75 H 0.2 L 2.64 H 0.03 L 2.61 H 0.4 L 2.48 H 0.17 L 2.46 H 0.59 L 2.33 H 0.32 L 2.31 H 0.76 L 2.2 H 0.44 L 2.2 H 0.86 L 2.12 H 0.51 L 2.15 H 0.91 L

SEBASTIAN INLET

ST. LUCIE INLET

TIME OFFSET High Tide -48 min Low Tide -24 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide .93 feet Low Tide 1.0 foot

TIME OFFSET High Tide +55 Low Tide +1 hr; 42 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide 1 foot Low Tide .50 feet

VERO BEACH (OCEAN)

FORT PIERCE (SOUTH JETTY)

TIME OFFSET High Tide -55 min Low Tide -35 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide 1.45 feet Low Tide 1.36 feet

TIME OFFSET High Tide -31 min Low Tide -18 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide 1.14 feet Low Tide 1.50 feet

4 TREASURE COAST

AUGUST 2026

22SA 4:22 AM 10:47 AM 5:25 PM 11:20 PM 23SU 5:24 AM 11:41 AM 6:21 PM 24M 12:12 AM 6:22 AM 12:29 PM 7:10 PM 25TU 12:58 AM 7:14 AM 1:13 PM 7:53 PM 26W 1:40 AM 8:01 AM 1:54 PM 8:33 PM 27TH 2:18 AM 8:44 AM 2:32 PM 9:11 PM 28F 2:54 AM 9:26 AM 3:10 PM 9:48 PM 29SA 3:30 AM 10:08 AM 3:48 PM 10:25 PM 30SU 4:07 AM 10:50 AM 4:28 PM 11:02 PM 31M 4:46 AM 11:33 AM 5:10 PM 11:41 PM

2.09 H 0.53 L 2.17 H 0.9 L 2.12 H 0.49 L 2.26 H 0.82 L 2.21 H 0.43 L 2.38 H 0.72 L 2.32 H 0.35 L 2.51 H 0.59 L 2.45 H 0.28 L 2.62 H 0.46 L 2.58 H 0.24 L 2.71 H 0.33 L 2.69 H 0.22 L 2.76 H 0.22 L 2.78 H 0.23 L 2.77 H 0.14 L 2.83 H 0.28 L 2.74 H 0.09 L 2.83 H 0.37 L 2.69 H

JENSEN BEACH (INDIAN RIVER) TIME OFFSET High Tide +2 hrs; 17 min Low Tide +3 hrs; 4 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide .48 feet Low Tide .92 feet

JUPITER INLET TIME OFFSET High Tide -10 min Low Tide -9 min HEIGHT OFFSET High Tide 1.08 feet Low Tide 1.42 feet

H

1- or 2-ounce pyramid sinker is all you will need to use on your rigs. Remember to pitch your bait; do not cast it as the whiting, croaker, palometa and sand perch will all be located 5 to 15 yards from the edge of the surf. As I write this report the croaker have not yet shown up in the numbers that are normally present at this time of year, but as more bait, like pilchards and glass minnows, head our way they will. If you like to target snook during these summer months, a live-lined croaker fished in that first trough will be the ticket. I have friends that

ello all surf anglers on the Treasure Coast! I hope all of you are hitting the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon. August and September certainly bring the high Bryce and Brodie temperatures to all of our brought in a nice beaches, both air and water haul of whiting readings. and went home There are two major rules with lots of fillets. to fishing the beach during the summer here in Soth Florida: 1) Stay hydrated; and 2) When you see the first bolt of lightning or hear the first clap of thunder please pack up your gear and head to your vehicle. Late day thunderstorms are almost a daily occurrence and the whiting, croakers, catch-and-release snook and tarpon, jacks, palometa and sand perch will be there after the storm passes. The surf bite during the summer is what I call “fun fishing” because you can put PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Paul Sperco. away the 12- and 13-foot long rods that we have been using like to target the snook early and late since October chasing the most on artificials like NLBNs or various sought after surf species in Florida, swimbaits. The key to getting the the pompano. Spinning reels in bites is casting north and south—not 2500 and 3000 sizes paired up with east and west—as the the snook are a 7-foot light action spinning rod is in that first trough also chasing the small whiting and croaker. all you need. The calendar is certainly moving Our whiting run that started in late May and is continuing is the best along and I am sure by the end I have seen in the 14 years I have of the month the discussions will lived here. The fish have been bigger start about our fall mullet run, but and super plentiful in numbers that’s a discussion for next month’s all spring and summer. The key to edition. The whiting, croaker and catching these great eating fish is snook should be on your target fishing the nearshore trough on our list this month, and please take a local beaches around the high tide picture of your snook and quickly mark. An hour before to two hours get her back in the water. Some of after the high water mark is normally the beach accesses that have been the window to put a bunch in the producing, starting up by Ft. Pierce, cooler. I fish 12-lb. mono on my are Blue Heron, John Brooks and 2500 Quantum Strive spinning reels, Middle Cove. On the south end and use a standard hi-lo two hook of Hutchison Island, Normandy, whiting and croaker rig. The hot bait Waveland and Stuart Beach have also combination has been a small piece been productive. These whiting and of cut shrimp coupled with Fishbites croaker are some of the best table shrimp-scented E-Z Jingle Bites; the fare the Treasure Coast has to offer red and green color has been on fire and they can bend these light rods all season. The rigs that I tie each when you start catching them. Have a great month and catch ’em have a green and red bead on them that match the color of the bait. A up.

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FISHING FORECASTS

MARTIN COUNTY OFFSHORE

Capt. Trent Shapiro Catch of the Day Charters (772) 208-0171 CatchoftheDayCharters.com cotdcharters@gmail.com

O

ne thing that’s become clear over the past several weeks is just how much our fishing has been driven by bait, current and water temperature. Every trip starts long before we leave the dock, studying sea surface temperature and current charts to narrow down where the best conditions may be. Those tools don’t replace time on the water, but they help us put the pieces together before the search begins. Lately, those pieces have been falling into place surprisingly close to home. The majority of our action has taken place within six miles of the beach, with much of our best fishing concentrated in 55-60 feet out front or just north of the inlet. If these conditions remain consistent, I expect that pattern to continue

throughout much of August. Threadfin herring are starting to show up in big numbers, while sardines have remained abundant along our beaches and shallow wrecks. Those bait schools have become the center of the offshore fishery, attracting everything from sailfish and mahi to kingfish and plenty of other critters. Once the bait settles into an area, the predators are rarely far behind. Summer sailfish continue to surprise anglers who assume they’ll disappear until winter. We’ve enjoyed a steady bite by focusing on fresh live bait, with both kite fishing and slowbump trolling producing quality fish. Matching the hatch has been especially important, and presenting lively sardines naturally has made a noticeable difference on tougher days. Mahi fishing should remain productive anywhere there is clean water, current edges, scattered weeds or floating debris. Rather than searching for one specific sign, I prefer looking for areas where multiple conditions overlap. When clean water, healthy bait, bird activity and favorable current all come together, those are the places that deserve extra attention. One thing I’ve learned over the years is that the ocean is constantly

Lady angler with a fantastic catch and release of her first sailfish.

PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Trent Shapiro.

changing, but the fundamentals rarely do. Pay attention to the bait, watch what the current is doing, and don’t overlook subtle changes in water temperature. These subtle differences often explain why one stretch of ocean

is teeming with life while another, just a few miles away, appears to be completely uninhabitable. I hope everyone has a safe and productive August, and I’ll see you on the water.

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or Sna offsho summ Sev includ (gray) into t this m snappe expan reef sy water,

MARTIN COUNTY INSHORE NEARSHORE

Capt. Jonathan Earhart Chaos Fishing Charters (772) 341 – 2274 www.chaosfishingcharters.com jon@chaosfishingcharters.com

A

ugust is here and so is the heat of summer. This month fishing is usually best early morning and late afternoon if you can dodge the afternoon thunderstorms. Early morning snook and tarpon action has been great around local

MARTIN COUNTY DEEP SEA

Capt. Rocky Carbia

Shapiro.

Safari I Deep Sea Fishing Pirates Cove Resort and Marina 4307 SE Bayview St. Port Salerno Reservations: (772) 334-4411 www.safari1deepseafishing.com

F

or near coastal anglers, “Snapper Snaggin’” will be on top of the offshore to-do list during the hot summer days of August. Several local species of snapper— including lane, vermilion, mangrove (gray), and mutton—will be solidly into their yearly spawning period this month. These members of the snapper family will populate an expansive swath of Martin County’s reef system from 50- to 180-feet of water, allowing captains and anglers

inlets and channel edges. Artificials at first light will get plenty of bites. As the sun comes up switch over to live whitebaits and or mullet for good snook/tarpon action. Expect a few bruiser jack crevelles in the mix. Nearshore fishing has also been very good for snook, tarpon, jacks, cobia, snapper, kingfish, goliath grouper and sharks. Running the beach in 10- to 30-feet of water is a great way to search for schooling fish on the surface and sight fish Ashley and Dave with a large sight-fished cobia off the beach on a them on these calm August days. Quantum Strive 4K rod/reel combo with a JYG Pro SWYM Paddletail. Groupers, sharks, snapper, cobia and kingfish will be hanging PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Jonathan Earhart. around bottom structure looking success. Wire leaders are suggested yield plenty of action from a variety for schooling baitfish. Fish these for kingfish and sharks. Drifting live of species. areas and you will have good baitfish around baitfish schools will Tight lines. to dial in a daily fishing strategy that best suits individual tastes and abilities. Depths of 55 to 95 feet will be the focal point for most snapper fishing and will allow anglers to catch representatives from all four categories of snapper mentioned. Snapper “grand slams” will be a highly achievable feat during offshore bottom fishing outings this month, as these representatives of the snapper family coexist at similar reef sites and will fall prey to similar baits and tackle presentations. All varieties of cut bait, including squid, bonito, sardines and ballyhoo to name a few, will result in snapper catching success. Chicken rigs and singlehook straight leader rigs will suffice for bait delivery options to these tasty bottom dwellers. Large cut baits and live baits presented at the end of longer (20 to 70 feet) straight leaders will produce a snapper bite from larger representatives of the

mutton and mangrove species at these same reef locations. (For local GPS coordinates for Martin County’s artificial reef sites, visit martinreefs. com.) Besides a flavorful selection of snapper as fish targets, anglers will continue to be able to catch and keep some species of grouper this month—except gag grouper, which closes on August 2. Grouper will also be found right alongside schools of spawning snapper at these same reef outcroppings, making a bottom

Monday-Saturday TRIP 8:30AM-2:00PM TIMES Adults $80; Children $70

fishing strategy for a day’s outing a highly desirable option. August’s relatively calm summer seas (barring any tropical systems) will allow fishing crews to explore their near coastal fishing zone. As in all summer months, fishing teams must maintain a healthy concern for thunderstorm activity and shape their trips accordingly. So in August, stock the boat up with plenty of lead and cut bait and target the many species of snapper that inhabit the nearshore waters east of Martin County.

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AUGUST 2026

TREASURE COAST 7

FISHING FORECASTS

ST. LUCIE COUNTY OFFSHORE

Capt. Bo Samuel Pullin Drag Charters (772) 971-6661 facebook.com/Pullin-Drag-Charters catpainbofishing@gmail.com

W

arm waters, calm seas, sunny days and low-to-no winds are a great recipe for successful August fishing on our beautiful Treasure Coast waters. While some say area fishing can be a little slow this time of year, I say the right plan of action will keep you on the fish. Having a plan in place to target some of our most sought-after species greatly increases your chances of landing fish on deck and enjoying a table full of salty groceries later. Good preparation will help you take advantage of better weather windows and the bounty of our offshore waters. Snapper are still chewing on the area reef systems in 50 to 100 feet with daily limits and sizeable fish in the 8- to 10-plus pound range being reported. Bottom fishing for these aggressive feeders is best when using

Rob Farlow with a great bull and personal best mahi at 31 lbs. and 55 inches! PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Bo Samuel.

a chum bag and throwing some cut bait as well. Lanes, mangroves and mutton are well into their yearly spawning now and should be much easier to find, especially for novice and junior anglers who can enjoy a stellar snapper bite and then some fun bragging rights. Along with a tasty selection of snapper, anglers can expect potential grouper hookups since grouper are found mixed in with the spawning snapper. Check the current and use enough weigh to hold bottom. Red, black

and gag have been reported recently and are absolutely excellent on the table. Gags, however, are closed now and, as of this writing, there’s been no word on the status of the “temporary” injunction halting red snapper season, so it’s still a waitand-see situation. Offshore bites are going strong for kingfish, sailfish and mahi. Several recent charters have seen personal best mahis and very happy anglers. Look carefully around any bait pods as big kings and cobia

follow the bait. On some trips we find the kings will demolish anything we show them. Always be prepared for a good hit as kingfish are known to pull drag quickly and then the challenge is on! This month also reminds us that Fort Pierce is a very popular diving destination for the spiny lobster season, which opens on August 6. There will be significantly more boats on our waters as divers from across the state come to enjoy our spectacular inlet and lobster bounty. Area captains and other boaters should be extremely aware of dive flags on boats and personal buoys while navigating during this busy time of year. Many anglers are also good divers, but if you’re not a diver, just trade some scales for tails and enjoy the salty bounty of our fishing and diving paradise. If you’re looking for a ride out to fish the blue, then Pullin Drag has the saltiest boats for you. We look forward to helping anglers of all ages make salty memories on some of the prettiest waters you’ll ever see. Fishing rules, tackle and bait can be found at local shops like DeBrooks Fishing Corner and my homebase, the historic Little Jim Bait & Tackle. Just tell them Captain Bo sent ya! Here’s to scales and tails and a salty August Pullin Drag!

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ug pr for in Pierce Coast. at its evenin afterno to pro to targ tarpon Lagoo Sno throug still fin around and n

ST. LUCIE COUNTY INSHORE

Capt. Adam White St. Lucie Flats Fishing Charters (609) 820-6257 www.stlucieflatsfishing.com

A

ugust is one of the most productive months of the year for inshore anglers along the Fort Pierce section of Florida’s Treasure Coast. While the summer heat is at its peak, early mornings, late evenings and periods surrounding afternoon thunderstorms continue to provide excellent opportunities to target snook, spotted seatrout and tarpon throughout the Indian River Lagoon and nearby beaches. Snook remain the headline species throughout August. Many fish are still finishing up their spawning cycle around the Fort Pierce Inlet, bridges and nearby docks before gradually

filtering back into the lagoon. As the month progresses, anglers should notice increasing numbers of quality fish moving back into the river. Lowlight periods consistently produce the best action, especially when tides create moving water around structure. Live pilchards, pinfish, mullet and well-presented artificial lures worked close to cover are all excellent choices for targeting larger fish. The trout fishing has been excellent throughout the whole summer. Early mornings offer the most consistent bite before the sun gets high, with trout actively feeding over healthy seagrass (it makes me very happy to say that again) in three to five feet of water. Small topwater plugs can produce exciting surface strikes at daybreak before anglers switch to soft plastic paddletails or shrimp imitations as the sun rises. Focusing on areas with clean water, scattered potholes and good tidal flow will significantly improve

success throughout the month. Tarpon fishing will remain outstanding during the month of August, particularly along the beaches and around the Fort Pierce Inlet. Schools of migrating fish continue

traveling the coastline during calm mornings, providing exciting sightfishing opportunities for anglers scanning the surf. Inside the inlet and surrounding channels, rolling tarpon often stage around deep edges, channel markers and bridges where tidal current concentrates bait. Live mullet, threadfin herring and large swimbaits all remain productive presentations when fish are actively feeding. Overall, August rewards anglers willing to fish around the heat. By concentrating efforts during the cooler hours of the day, paying close attention to tide movement, and following the abundant baitfish throughout the Fort Pierce area, fishermen can expect excellent opportunities to catch quality snook, seatrout and tarpon before summer gradually begins transitioning toward the outstanding fall fishing season.

the seasonal grind. We’ll continue to sail on our all-day, every day limited load schedule departing at 7 a.m. with never any crowding and no fighting for your spot. Make a reservation take your seat on the boat.

Also, the Miss Fort Pierce is available for all your private charter needs, fishing and cruising, including burial at sea day or night. Go to www.fortpiercefishing.com to make your reservation.

Yours truly with a solid trout that crushed a Heddon Super Spook Jr. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Adam White.

ST. LUCIE COUNTY DEEP SEA

Capt. Scotty Gold Miss Fort Pierce Fishing (772) 766-0191 www.fortpiercefishing.com

A

ugust is upon us, and so is the general weather pattern of coastal storms and wind, but it’s the time of year that things start to really come into play. We start to see the fall migration of lane snappers and triggerfish back filling in onto the reefs of rough bottom, and the mutton snappers become active. The mangrove snappers will continue to move around after their spawn, and muttons will be feeding heavily as well. Fishing generally will take place in 65- to 85-feet of water on the rough bottom on the reefs wrecks and rocks and the sand immediately adjacent to it. Muttons

PHOTO CREDIT: Miss Fort Pierce Fishing.

and mangroves will be the mainstay. The Miss Fort Pierce will continue to fish daily until the middle of September, when she will go to the yard for a short stay. More improvements are coming—more power and more speed to our new engines will make her the fastest multi-passenger fishing boat on the Treasure Coast, giving us the ability to fish more bottom with shorter riding times. Then a short vacation towards the end of October before back to

Novice & Experienced Anglers Of All Ages Welcome

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SAILING DAILY AT 7AM Located at Causeway Cove Marina, 601 Seaway Dr., Fort Pierce

For Reservations, Call (772) 766-0191 or Visit: FortPierceFishing.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

AUGUST 2026

TREASURE COAST 9

AUGUST FISHING CONDITIONS

POOR day

basically means the fish will either steal all your bait or will not even touch your line.

AUG 1

BEST

Evening

AUG 17

POOR

Evening

AUG 2

BEST

Evening

AUG 18

GOOD

Evening

AUG 3

POOR

Evening

AUG 19

GOOD

Morning

AUG 4

POOR

Evening

AUG 20

POOR

Morning

AUG 5

FAIR

Morning

AUG 21

POOR

Morning

that you July catch one or two fish but you will have to work hard to do so.

AUG 6

FAIR

Morning

AUG 22

POOR

Morning

AUG 7

POOR

Morning

AUG 23

FAIR

Morning

AUG 8

POOR

Morning

AUG 24

FAIR

Morning

GOOD day

AUG 9

BEST

Morning

AUG 25

BEST

Morning

means that you will catch enough fish to feel gratified.

AUG 10

GOOD

Morning

AUG 26

BEST

Morning

AUG 11

POOR

Morning

AUG 27

BEST

Morning

BEST day means that you will catch something almost every time you cast your line in the water.

AUG 12

POOR

Evening

AUG 28

BEST

Evening

AUG 13

POOR

Evening

AUG 29

BEST

Evening

AUG 14

FAIR

Evening

AUG 30

FAIR

Evening

AUG 15

FAIR

Evening

AUG 31

FAIR

Evening

AUG 16

POOR

Evening

FAIR day means

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Bonefish caught in the Intracoastal.

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Carson, Nicholas, LJ and James got on the mahi-mahi bite out of St. Lucie Inlet during this summer’s Stuart Fishing Academy.

Ricky hooked this massive snook using a live croaker.

Jessica Ross with a healthy snook she caught on live bait in the St. Lucie Inlet.

this Jayda Cantwell landed ach be e th f 43-inch snook of get ar et in Stuart using a Liv artificial Mullet lure. Loree Hughes snagged this hefty Indian River re dfish mid morning while free lining a live mullet off her dock.

Kelvin Jr. and Jackson caught this 48-inch tarpon on an NLBN lure. It was safely released.

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ote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is continuing to advance its fisheries enhancement efforts in 2026 through a series of juvenile snook releases taking place throughout the summer across strategic estuarine habitats in Southwest Florida. This year, Mote scientists will release approximately 22,000 juvenile snook as part of Mote’s long-standing, researchdriven marine stock enhancement program. “These releases reflect the continued growth and refinement of Mote’s fisheries enhancement capabilities,” said Dr. Ryan Schloesser, Manager of Mote’s Fisheries Ecology & Enhancement Program. “Our focus remains on producing healthy fish, releasing them strategically, and collecting the scientific data needed to better understand how stock enhancement can support resilient wild populations.” Release locations are strategically selected based on environmental conditions and habitat characteristics that provide favorable environmental conditions and complex structure essential for juvenile snook survival and growth. Examples of favorable release habitats include tidal creeks, mangrovelined shorelines, and sheltered coves that provide abundant food resources, protection, and complex habitat structure. Mote’s stock enhancement program is guided by research objectives that examine post-release survival, movement patterns, habitat use, and the overall contribution of stocked fish to wild populations. Findings from these studies help inform adaptive release strategies, including optimal release timing, fish size, site selection, rearing conditions, and release methods. Prior to release, the fish undergo comprehensive health assessments to ensure they are wellsuited for release. Snook remain one of Florida’s most sought-after recreational sportfish and contribute significantly to Florida’s coastal economy. However, the species remains vulnerable to environmental stressors, including severe cold events, habitat degradation, and harmful algal blooms. These advancements in genetic tagging and long-term monitoring provide valuable tools for evaluating the success of enhancement efforts and understanding the role hatchery-reared fish play in supporting wild populations. In addition to ongoing enhancement efforts, Mote is expanding its response capacity throughout neighboring coastal regions. Following significant coldstun-related fish mortality observed across portions of Southwest Florida during recent winter events, Mote scientists are increasing their presence and strengthening partnerships in adjacent counties and waterways. Expanding this regional reach will help researchers better understand how to respond when environmental stressors affect fish populations across a broader geographic area and improve preparedness for future cold events or red tide blooms that impact snook. Mote aims to develop a more comprehensive understanding of how adaptive management strategies can help fish populations respond to extreme environmental conditions. This expanded effort will enhance Mote’s ability to rapidly assess impacts, coordinate response activities, and inform future fisheries management and recovery strategies throughout the region.

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Fleur de Lis Wins 2026 Florida Panhandle Billfish Series

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n a tight contest, Fleur de Lis came out on top to win the 3rd annual Florida Panhandle Bill!sh Series. #e Hatteras 63 GT, based in nearby Orange Beach, Alabama, !shed all three events of the Emerald Coast series, developed to highlight the big-game !shing opportunities off Florida’s Panhandle. #e competition includes three prestigious tournaments which started with the 55th Annual Pensacola International Bill!sh Tournament; the 24th Annual Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic (ECBC) at Sandestin was the second leg, and the series concluded with the 4th Annual Bay Point Bill!sh Open in Panama City Beach. Fleur de Lis released a blue marlin in Pensacola, followed by a slam in the ECBC (blue and white marlin, plus sail!sh). #e series trophy was secured with another blue, two whites and one sail!sh released in the Bay Point Open. Contestants earn extra points for slams (three or more bill!sh species released during the event) and for competing in all three tournaments. Owned by Jim Painter, Fleur de Lis team members included Conner Pellerin, Nate Dennis, Matt Cosci, Payton Berry, Grey Smith and Parker Smith, with Capt. Jacob Provo and mates Landen Tindal, Griffen Slaughter, Nick Knoep$ein and Burke Day. “Due to the unique scoring system for the Series, Fleur de Lis was able to maximize points

and achieve the win,” says FPBS Executive Director Bert Merritt. “#ey had the right !sh at the right time and put in the extra effort to !sh all three events. Promoting all three tournaments and encouraging participation is the main goal of the series and that difference put Fleur de Lis over the top.” #e team won a perpetual custom trophy, a $10,000 cash award and Miller Lite Beer for a year for its efforts. It Just Takes Time owner Nick Pratt and his family team were a close second overall. #e boat skipped the Pensacola International but tallied seven blue marlin, three whites and one sail!sh at the ECBC, good for second-place release team overall. #e next week at the Bay Point Open, the team took top release honors by scoring six blue marlin, two whites and sails apiece. Capt. Myles Colley runs the 74 Viking, also based in Orange Beach. Briar Patch was third overall in the series standings. #e team won the Bay Point Open with a weighed 582.5-pound blue marlin (angler Brantley Adams) and also recorded three blue marlin and one white releases to augment three blues released during the ECBC. #e Destin-based 74 Viking is run by Capt. Corey Hurst. To learn more about the Florida Panhandle Billfish Series, visit www.fishfpbs.com.

FWC LAUNCHES RED SNAPPER www.VisitDixie.com TAGGING STUDY IN PENSACOLA BAY Where the

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nglers !shing for red snapper in Pensacola Bay are asked to be on the lookout for dart-tagged !sh. FWC biologists have initiated a pilot study to observe movement patterns for red snapper that are captured within Pensacola Bay. Biologists are interested in determining if these !sh remain inshore or are actively migrating between inshore and nearshore habitats. Fish have been tagged with an external dart tag as well as an acoustic transmitter surgically implanted into the red snapper’s abdomen. Acoustic transmitters are a small, sound-emitting device that acts like an underwater beacon, transmitting unique acoustic signals for up to six years. Acoustic receivers (or listening stations) have been placed underwater throughout the bay and near the pass to track movements of tagged !sh. If you catch a !sh with a dart tag: • Take a photo of the !sh and a closeup&photo of the tag so the unique tag&number can be read. • Return the !sh to the water. • Call 850-564-2430 or 800-367-4461& to report the tag number, where you&caught the !sh (e.g. inside the bay or&offshore), and receive instructions on&how to submit your photos. If you choose to harvest the !sh, please call the number on the tag to return the acoustic transmitter to the biologists.&

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FLORIDA 15

PRO FISHING TECHNIQUES

Sheepshead Fishing 101

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heepshead are one of those !sh that seem like they are everywhere in Florida. #at is because they actually are everywhere in Florida. You can catch them 30 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico when they are spawning. You can catch them in the grass $ats; around mangrove roots; around oyster bars; around dock and bridge pilings; off the beach; around inlets and seawalls; and even in freshwater rivers that empty into saltwater. Sheepsheads were the !sh that got me hooked on saltwater !shing when I was 5 years old. My father would take me to the mangrove mud $ats to catch !ddler crabs. Once we had a bucket of crabs we would use our cane poles to catch a stringer full of sheepshead around the mangrove roots and oyster clumps. #e point of this story is that anyone can catch a sheepshead, even a 5-year old. PRO TIP: #eir favorite food is a !ddler crab, but !ddlers are not readily available to most people. Get some if you can. If you don’t hace access to !ddlers, the easiest way to catch sheepshead is to target them wherever they are with a #2 sized J hook and a small piece of shrimp. You will want to use an extremely light 8 to 10 pound $uorocarbon leader because they have excellent vision and can be spooky. Why do we use such a small hook for a big sheepshead? #e reason to use such a small hook is because they are the best bait stealers

never feel them stealing your bait. I like to reel the line in very slowly to make them commit to a more aggressive bite. Make sure to set the hook hard. CAPT. MIKE SMITH Why do we like to catch sheepshead? in the sea. #ey use their We like to catch sheepshead because they are human-like teeth to nip little excellent !ghters and have a very light and nonbites of your bait until only !shy tasting meat. a bare hook is left. A small hook will increase A sheepshead is very difficult to clean your hook up ratio. because they are extremely bony. But it is worth You also have to keep a tight line or you will the extra work because of their delicious meat. #ey are an excellent candidate to !llet and release into the grease. Where is the best place to find sheepshead? #e best place to look for sheepshead is dock and bridge pilings. #ey are always around those pilings using their super hard teeth to crush barnacles, oysters and mussels that are living on the pilings. All in all, sheepshead are a fun !sh for the whole family to catch. You only need some frozen shrimp and a cane pole to have a blast and !ll a stringer full of delicious !sh. Florida allows a generous 8 !sh per person limit at the time of this article. Make sure to check your regulations in your area to stay out of trouble. Go get ‘em. Capt. Mike Smith, owner of Fish Your Ass Off Charters, is an inshore fishing guide who has been fishing the inshore waters, oyster bars and grass flats of Florida for more than 40 years. Reach him at (561) 339-2317, email: contact fishyourassoff.com or visit fishyourassoff.com.

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STAY ON TOP By Britt Stoudenmire

FOR SUMMERTIME

RIVER SMALLIES

T

he late-summer months are an overlooked window to catch big smallmouth bass that have been lazily lying in the middle of the river a!er a long spawning season. The insect hatches and emergences that occur throughout the day including mayflies, damsel flies and my favorite, the cicada, spur feeding frenzies and create an excellent opportunity to throw topwater lures and flies. One of my favorite lures to target topwater smallies during this period

is the Pop-R. I make long casts with a 6-foot to 6-foot, 6-inch G.Loomis medium-action rod with a Shimano Stradic 2500 C4+ reel spooled with 20/6 Power Pro braided line. On entry into the water, I let the bait dead dri! for about five seconds before working it erratically back to the boat. I target current seams, eddies, corner pockets and any type of structure or current break in the middle of fast water. It is important to continue working the bait with the same cadence, even if a fish is crashing behind it. Once you feel the rod load, reel into the fish and swing the rod back. Once hooked up, keep the rod—and fish—down in the water. Many big fish are lost while trying to pull the fish up to get a look at it. Another one of my favorite topwater presentations is the buzzbait. I will target the same areas as above using a slightly stouter medium-heavy setup to drive the hook home. The key to the buzzbait is to get the bait up on the surface as soon as it hits the water. I favor a straight, steady retrieve, reeling just fast enough to keep the bait on the surface. When a fish eats it, allow him to load the rod before setting into him with a hard hook set. I favor longer sha!ed buzzbaits for better hook-ups, as I don’t use trailer hooks because of the damage they can do to smallies. If you have a blow up on your buzzbait and do not touch him with the hook, a quick follow up with a so! plastic will o!en garner an immediate bite from the same fish. If you like to fly fish, summer’s slower, less-busy water o!en presents the perfect scenario to fly fish for big smallmouth. My favorite presentation for smallies on the fly is dead-dri!ing cicada bugs. Big smallies are addicted to these “dog days” dying cicada bugs and the easy meal they present, and we sight cast to these fish that o!en eclipse 20” or more. This technique has produced some of my clients’ and my personal best fly-rod fish. When dead dri!ing cicada bugs aren’t working, several other presentations can produce explosive strikes. Any popper in the size 4 to 6 range can attract smallies. When they strike, remember to strip up the slack line and into them before raising the rod tip hard to drive home the hook. If fish aren’t responding to the popper, another option is a slider-style fly. When stripped, the fly will dive slightly beneath the surface giving a darting and diving action. The Sneaky Pete is a good example, and this type of presentation can be deadly. Britt Stoudenmire owns and operates New River Outdoor Co. who guides on the New River in Southwest Virginia. www.newriveroutdoorco.com.

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RHINO SPINNING COMBO WINS ICAST 2026 BEST OF SHOW

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n an industry increasingly dominated by high-tech fish finders, forwardfacing sonar, and motorized watercra!, the biggest story of ICAST 2026 came down to a refreshing return to roots. Rather Outdoors and its iconic Zebco brand shocked the fishing world at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., by winning the overall Best of Show award for the newly engineered Rhino 30 6’6’’ 2-piece Medium Spinning Combo. The victory marks a monumental comeback for the legacy Rhino name, a brand built entirely on bulletproof reliability for the everyday angler. “Zebco has been the first chapter in so many people’s fishing stories, and the Rhino relaunch is helping make sure that first experience is one that lasts,” said Chris Littau, Vice President of Zebco, following the historic win. Before capturing the industry’s ultimate prize, the Rhino setup first secured its foothold by winning the competitive Rod & Reel Combo category in the ICAST 2026 New Product Showcase, where industry heavyweights and innovative newcomers competed for 39 different Best of Category awards, selected by credentialed buyers and media who voted during the trade show.

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remember the dog days of August as almost unbearable for myself and clients during the daylight hours. Some days on commercial trips we would put the fan on us and rest during the heat of the day and fish in the late a!ernoon and at night for a number of fish, including snappers and mackerel. The yellowfin and wahoo bite could sometimes be a pleasant surprise while king mackerel fishing under the lights. The first wahoo I ever caught from an anchored up boat was at night. It literally swam right to the boat and I was able to almost hand feed him. That was a game-changing experience for me. This is where I learned how to catch live squid in numbers under the lights with a long-handled dip net and on the Sabiki. Cigar minnows and sardines would gather in huge swarms under the lights and, therefore, it would attract all the predators, not to mention the bite on the bottom and in the mid depth of the water column. The full moon of August is traditionally the best beeliner fishing of the year. A lot of the snappers spawn during the full moon of July and August; the mackerel too. A lot of the snappers and triggers are not on the bottom, but will suspend in the water column, so I would recommend a level wind reel when fishing the water column to locate the depth of the largest snappers. Descend your baits, slowly letting your thumb off the spool to release more line, one rod-length strip at a time. I like to use a double tackle with small pieces of squid and small circle hooks for this style of fishing. When you feel the first bite, click the reel in gear and barely come tight to it...sometimes you’ll have two at a time. This is the perfect time to put a small snapper on the bottom, a snapper Packed out... 2-4 lb. beeliners during large enough to eliminate first half of the night on the full moon. all the trash bites and attract only the largest grouper. The largest gag I ever caught was in August (at night) on a small pink snapper. Gutted it weighed 51 pounds and we estimated that it was probably 54 pounds. August has a lot of opportunities. We just have to change tactics to take advantage of it, and the night shi! is a great way to avoid the searing daytime temperatures and fill the box with organic groceries. This is also a good time to keep at least one person on the Sabiki, catching cigar minnows and sardines for future trips. Considering the cost of a five-pound box of frozen cigars, it makes it worthwhile to jig up 15 or 20 pounds of cigs, sardines, squid and/or tinker macs. Keep them all in the live well until you’re ready to leave in the morning and chill the remainder of the livewell all at one time for the ride home. Fish through the night and during the first couple of hours of daylight on the productive bottom and come home with a box full of fish! This is how to get the most out of an August trip. Load the box with plenty of ice when you get home, go inside, take a good nap and get up in the a!ernoon to clean and freeze the catch. Learn more from Tim Barefoot at barefootcatsandtackle.com and on his YouTube channel: @timbarefoot5698.

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