Coastal Angler Magazine | Treasure Coast | October 2026 Edition

FREE

TREASURE COAST EDITION

BEST LURES

@CAMTAMagazine

WORLD RECORD CATCHES

LOCAL REPORTS & CATCH PHOTOS PHOTO CREDIT: CHRIS M. IG: @MANGROVEMISFITS YT: @MANGROVEMISFITS

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 379 OCT 2026 F R A N C H I S E

O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

PUBLISH YOUR OWN FISHING MAG OCTOBER 2026

Find Out How Inside!

W O R L D W I D E

ADVERTISEMENT

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

1. Boat insurance isn’t just for accidents With comprehensive coverage, you’ll also be protected financially for theft, vandalism, and unexpected events like storms if you need repairs or replacements due to damage.

4. Most lenders require boat insurance If you financed 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.

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

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.

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.

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

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. and affiliates. Product features are subject to policy terms and conditions and may not be available in all states or for all vehicles and coverage selections. No. 1 rating based on boat market share data from Ratefilings.com. *

** Sign & Glide® is an optional coverage you can add to any Progressive Boat policy and costs $30/annually ($50/annually in Florida). Prices are subject to change.

Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes. Go to progressive.com to learn more.

One look at that bow and he was hooked for good. With up to $10,000 of optional fishing equipment coverage, Progressive made sure the rods and reels were protected—so they could keep the spark alive, tide after tide. 1-80 0 -PROGR E S SI V E

PROGR E S SI V E .COM

Get an online quote in as little as 4 minutes

Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. & affiliates. No. 1 rating based on 2023 filings with state departments of insurance. Fishing Equipment coverage is subject to policy terms. Prices vary based on how you buy.

The Magic Starts in October

T

his is the time of year I live for, especially for o!shore bottom fishing of numerous species. This year is going to be di!erent, however, thanks to regulations that have completely shut down our gag grouper fishing. October, November, December, and the first three weeks of January are the absolute apex of gag grouper fishing. In my opinion, flawed science and highly extrapolated data are the reasons we are now facing a zero creel limit for gag grouper for the rest of the year. The situation with the Atlantic’s American red snapper is just as bad. Divers report having to wait for the Americans to get out of the way before they can shoot other target fish, and hook-andline fishing is o! the chart. It’s common to catch and release 20 red snapper per trip, yet we are legally forbidden from keeping a single one, at least for the moment. Where did they get the data to justify shutting down and keeping the American red snapper fishery closed? I would love to take these decision makers out on the water, or show them the underwater video footage captured by my diving friends, because it completely contradicts

2 NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2026

TIM BAREFOOT

the flawed data they are using to make decisions. Despite the regulatory headaches, the beauty of October through January is the gags and snapper will be literally right up on the beach. Last year, some of our best trips were within eyesight of the beach and we caught a serious number of fish. The larger male gags are starting to congregate on the inshore edges now in anticipation of the females coming soon. They will gather enlarged numbers on traditional spawning grounds that typically have good bottom and schools of bait, like cigars and sardines, and the little known fact of it is the same places will hold squid. I always say, “Find the bait … find the fish!” Yes, it’s important to find pretty bottom with some type of structure. If nothing else, look for live bottom and vegetation, but the ultimate scenario is finding big stacks of bait right on top of it. Let’s face it. That’s where your fish are going to be. You wouldn’t hang around in a place with nothing to eat, and neither will they.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

It’s a simple recipe this time of year to catch everything on the bottom. I always make sure to grab two boxes of frozen cigar minnows and whatever live bait we happen to have in the traps at the marina. But one of the best things you could possibly do is put one person on the Sabiki when you get to where you’re going. In addition to the frozen cigars, catch some live snappers or live cigar minnows and/or sardines. A live sardine on the bottom has a life expectancy under five seconds. It’s easily one of the most e!ective baits, especially when attached to a Crab Decoy Jig. The beauty of the shallow water gag and American red snapper fishing in the fall is that almost none of the fish are injured with bladder inflation. You can release them at the side of the boat and they will take o! immediately back to the bottom healthy and unharmed. The biggest problem we have now is the sharks are on to us. Wherever we stop, they hear the trolling motor and the fish struggling, so they come to it. Chances are pretty good you’re going to get a gag bit in half. When that happens, you need to move right away, otherwise you’re just feeding the sharks. They start gathering in numbers - we’ve seen as many as six or eight full grown sharks under the boat at one time. Here’s your sign…it’s time to move. Above all, take your kids out on the water, let them experience these amazing resources, and teach them to be good stewards for the future. To learn more tips and techniques from Tim Barefoot, visit barefootcatsandtackle.com.

TZT16X | 22X | 24X

9"- 24" MFDs

Level Up

TZT9E | 13E

TZT10X | 13X

Your Helm

When helm space is at a premium, the 9" and 13" TZtouchE MFDs give you maximum screen area to view their eye-popping TZ MAPS charts and builtin TruEcho CHIRP™ Fish Finder with Side-Scan. Plus, TZtouchE is fully networkable with the TZtouchXL family of 10", 13", 16", 22", & 24" MFDs and a wide range of best-in-class sensors – legendary Furuno Radars, Sonars, Fish Finders, Autopilots, and more. Furuno... The reason to level up your helm!

Marine Electronics

AUTUMN IN APPALACHIAN BROOK TROUT COUNTRY

By Devin Davenport

W

hen people think of autumn in the Smoky Mountains, they think of crisp,cool mornings, bluebird skies, and the leaves changing into striking yellow, orange and red hues as they begin to fall. What many don’t realize, is that a spectacle just as remarkable is taking place under the surface as well. Southern Appalachian brook trout in autumn put on a show as they prepare for their coming spawn, which usually occurs in mid to late October. As the season approaches, larger brook trout begin to boast the most vibrant colors that they will have all year. Their fins and bellies turn bright orange. Fish also produce more pronounced red dots, blue halos—and aggressive attitudes. This is all in an attempt to attract a suitable mate. It is the best time of the year to catch one of the prettiest fish in North America. Brook trout are the only salmonid species native to the Southern Appalachian region, and a fish that has lost 70% or more of its historical native range. This is primarily due to logging in the 18th and early 19th centuries, as well as the introduction of non-native fish such as rainbow and brown trout. While they are not typically picky eaters, they can be di%cult to find, as they inhabit only the coldest, cleanest, and highest-elevation creeks in Appalachia. Over 99% of native Appalachian brook trout never reach 8 inches in length, so finding a truly large Appalachian brook trout is a real feat for most fly anglers in the Southeast. There are also some areas with stocked brook trout in the southeast, and even these fish in the fall can boast some very impressive colors, and o&en are greater in size. Appalachian brook trout are most o&en found in tributaries that exceed 3,000 feet in elevation. They inhabit creeks so thick with rhododendron that casting room is o&en very limited. They exist below this, but the best place to find them is above 3K as high water temperatures in the late summer months can play a huge role in their existence. In most areas brook trout are found, food sources can be scarce. Bug life is limited the higher

4 NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2026

up you go, and the fish are opportunistic when a fly or lure is presented in a natural manner. The purest way to target a brook trout is with a dry fly, such as an Elk Hair Caddis or Parachute Adams. These flies have withstood the test of time and are a staple when it comes to rising brook trout. It’s a beautiful sight seeing a large, orange brook trout rise from the depths to crush a fly on the surface. Flies such as pheasant tails and prince nymphs are also very productive. One of the best ways to target larger brook trout is with a small streamer or spinner, as they will attack smaller fish that come within range. They are a remarkable fish and we are lucky they still have some strongholds in the Appalachians. Devin Davenport, (@appalachian.trout on Instagram) grew up fly fishing in the Southern Appalachian mountains. He primarily fishes for wild trout, smallmouth bass, musky, and other fish found in western North Carolina and East Tennessee. While he lived in South Florida for several years and loves saltwater fishing, he now resides back in the mountains of East Tennessee.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

PRO FISHING TECHNIQUES

Specks of the Smokies

O

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

GAME PLAN

PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES®

AN OCTOBER

ctober is one of my favorite months to !sh the coast. Cooler weather makes a day on the water more comfortable, boat traffic begins to thin out, and the bays and marshes come alive. Trout, red!sh, and flounder are feeding on shrimp and !n!sh, and it is not uncommon to !nd all three in the same area. My October game plan starts before I launch the boat. Satellite imagery is a great tool for locating shallow coves connected to drains, bayous, or small cuts. I look for areas with shell, grass, subtle depth changes, and a drain that is still open rather than sanded in. Once I arrive, I slow down and look for bait. A promising shoreline without bait usually does not hold my attention for long. Outgoing tides are my !rst choice because moving water concentrates bait and !sh. Mouths of drains are obvious places to start, but do not overlook bends, narrow sections of a bayou, points extending into a bay, or cuts through a reef. Anything that increases current or funnels bait can create a feeding area. I will occasionally start with a topwater, but most of the time I have a durable paddle tail tied on. A smaller paddle tail helps match the young bait common in the marsh, while a 4-inch version is a dependable choice on open flats. I rig it weedless around grass and other cover or use a jig head in cleaner or deeper water. A paddle tail lets me cover water quickly, and its vibration helps !sh locate it. Add a built-in rattle and the lure gives !sh another reason to investigate. Before changing colors or lures, I change my retrieve. Red!sh often respond to a steady retrieve. Trout may prefer an erratic twitch-twitch action. For flounder, I keep the lure close to the bottom with the rod tip down or to the side and use !rm twitches that make the lure dart forward without jumping too high. Around a drain, I concentrate casts along the edges, bends, and small washouts where flounder can wait in ambush. Fish do not read !shing articles, so none of these rules are absolute. Let the bait, current, structure, and strikes tell you what to do next. Enjoy the cooler weather, try a different approach when the bite slows, and take a kid !shing. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor and owner of Knockin Tail Lures® — knockintaillures.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2026

FLORIDA 1

THE ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING A NEW BOAT

F

W

S p T b d C N t A b p

Performance Bulletin Available 60 YEARS OF REPOWER EXPERIENCE! Mastry Engine Center has received the Suzuki Marine Super Service Award and has been ranked #1 in Suzuki Marine US Sales!

Stationed strategically around the East Coast, all Suzuki RePower Centers have achieved the highest level of Suzuki certifications 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

RePower Packages designed to best fit your needs and not stretch your budget. Financing available.

• Mastry Suzuki RePower’s exclusive Owner’s Edge Program* • Mastry Suzuki RePower Centers use authentic Suzuki OEM parts and have factory certified technicians

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

Request a quote | suzukirepower.com | 1-800-545-4574

FROM THE BAY OF FUNDY TO THE FLORIDA KEYS

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.

st, the and

g,

*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 identification card that provides them with important information about their Suzuki outboard motor as well as a passport to additional benefits during ownership. Members enjoy a detailed engine maintenance schedule, Mastry Suzuki RePower Trade Program and special pricing from Mastry Suzuki Partners.

By A. deGruchy ctober is a great month to chase black!n tuna in the Florida Keys. The weather starts to change a little, the bait gets moving, and the offshore bite can get really good. Black!n are one of those !sh that can turn a slow morning into chaos pretty quickly. Once you !nd them, it is usually fast action, hard runs, and a lot going on at once. Around the Keys, we usually start looking around deeper wrecks, offshore structure, current edges, and anywhere bait is getting pushed around. There are plenty of deeper wrecks and arti!cial reefs scattered off Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon and the Lower Keys that can hold black!n. You do not always have to be right on top of the wreck either. A lot of times the !sh will be moving around the area, especially if there is good current and bait nearby. Birds are always worth watching too. If you see birds dipping, bait getting pushed up, bonito going crazy or flying !sh getting chased, there is a good chance something is feeding underneath them. Trolling is one of the easiest ways to cover water and !nd !sh. Small feathers, skirts, diving plugs, and other smaller tuna-style baits all work well. Black!n are fast !sh, so you can keep the boat moving and still get plenty of bites. We like to spread the baits out behind the boat and work around an area instead of just trolling in a straight line all day. Once you get a bite, circle back through that same area because where there is one black!n, there are usually more. If birds are working, try not to run straight through the middle of them. Work the edge, keep the baits in 4 FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2026

clean water, and let the !sh come to you. Vertical jigging is probably one of the most fun ways to catch black!n. If the !sh are holding deeper around a wreck, drop a jig down and work it back up fast. Sometimes they will eat it deep, and other times they will follow it halfway back to the boat before crushing it. Savage Gear jigs are a great choice for this style of !shing because they drop fast, have a good pro!le, and are easy to work through the water column. Current plays a big role in what size jig we use. If it is ripping, go heavier. If the current is lighter, you can !sh something smaller and get a little more action out of the jig. The biggest thing is keeping it moving because black!n usually want something fast. For this kind of !shing, we like a PENN Authority spinning reel matched with a Carnage III rod. It is a solid setup for jigging, casting, or throwing a bait at !sh that suddenly pop up on the surface. The Authority has plenty of drag for a hard-running tuna, and the Carnage III has enough backbone to put real pressure on the !sh. That matters a lot in the Keys because getting the tuna to the boat is only half the battle. The sharks have been bad, especially around some of the deeper wrecks. You can hook a perfectly good black!n, !ght it halfway up, and then suddenly everything changes. Sometimes you get the head, sometimes you get half a tuna, and sometimes you get absolutely nothing back. It is frustrating, but it is part of !shing these areas right now. The best thing you can do is put pressure on the !sh and get it to the boat as quickly as possible. This is not really the time to play a tuna

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

for 20 minutes if you can help it. Once the sharks !gure out what is going on, they can make !shing the same spot pretty tough, so if you start losing multiple !sh, sometimes the best move is to leave the area and !nd another school instead of feeding the sharks all afternoon. Having a heavier setup like the PENN Authority and Carnage III really helps because you can pull harder and shorten the !ght. One of the best parts about !shing black!n in October is that you do not have to stick with one method. Start trolling and cover some water. If you !nd !sh around a wreck, drop Savage Gear jigs. If they suddenly start blowing up on bait, grab a spinning rod and start casting. Things can change quickly, so having a few rods rigged and ready makes a big difference. October can be a really fun month offshore in the Florida Keys. The black!n are fast, they !ght hard, and when you get into a good school, the action can be nonstop. Just make sure you get them to the boat before the sharks do. Follow all of deGruchy’s adventures at @bean_sportfishing on Instagram and YouTube.

A revolution in topside paint

Our next generation, premium topside system with professional level results in an easy to use one part finish. Toplac Plus provides a best in class high gloss finish with longer lasting UV protection that is easy to apply with exceptional roller application, without the need for tipping, available in a full range of vibrant colors. Apply over Pre Kote Plus, our improved one part undercoat and topside primer all in one, with substrate protection, an extra smooth finish, and lower VOCs. An amazing finish has never been so easy. Experience a revolution in topside paints, from Interlux®.

Relentless performance for every yacht, everywhere, every time. interlux.com

® Registered trademark of AkzoNobel in one or more countries. © 2026 AkzoNobel N.V

SPEND LESS TIME ON TASKS

g n i h s e Fi

m i T e r Mo

T

90’s sl behavi of the monst

bigges deeper they c we mo begin availab

bait th ability the Makin is desi giving grass, throug on ba somet while s !nd a my fav for qu

is payi

It’s no fish 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. EvergladesFarmEquipment.com

g

Chasing the Fall Feed T he days may still be hot now, but the nights will begin to cool as fall moves closer. Water temperatures that have been in the 80’s and 90’s slowly drop, and bass start changing their behavior. This seasonal transition can create some of the best opportunities of the year to catch a true monster. During the summer months, many of the biggest bass spend a lot of their time around deeper structure, offshore cover and areas where they can !nd cooler, more comfortable water. As we move toward fall, bait!sh become the key. Shad begin moving, and bass know that an easy meal is available. When I see that transition starting, I want a bait that can imitate those shad and give me the ability to cover water. That’s one reason I developed the Bloom Shad with Bait Cave Customs. Making its debut at ICAST 2026, the Bloom Shad is designed to imitate a natural shad pro!le while giving me plenty of versatility. I can !sh it around grass, brush, docks and other cover, or work it through areas where bass are actively feeding on bait!sh. When the bass are roaming, I want something I can cast, retrieve and cover water with while still having the ability to slow it down when I !nd a productive area. It has quickly become one of my favorite soft plastics to utilize when I’m looking for quality !sh. One of the biggest keys during this transition is paying attention to the bait. If I !nd shad around

By Bait Cave Customs Pro Joey Bloom

points, creek channels, grass lines or the mouths of pockets, I know there’s a good chance bass won’t be far away. I also pay close attention to changing water conditions. Fall rains can raise lake levels, push fresh water into the system and move bait!sh into newly flooded cover. When that happens, some of the biggest bass in the lake will take advantage of the opportunity to feed up. I like to start shallow when conditions tell me the bait is there, but I’m always prepared to move deeper if the bass haven’t followed the bait!sh yet. The transition isn’t always predictable, and sometimes the best !sh can be caught by checking

several different depths until you !gure out where the bass are positioned. For me, the biggest lesson is to follow the food. Bass don’t have a calendar telling them it’s fall— they respond to water temperature, weather and, most importantly, the movement of their prey. When those !rst signs of fall begin showing up, I’ll have a Bloom Shad tied on and I’m going to be looking for that one area where the bait and the big bass come together. That’s when the summerto-fall transition can turn into some of the most exciting !shing of the entire year. Follow Joey Bloom on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube at Joey Bloom Fishing. The Bloom Shad will soon be available at batcavecustoms.com.

captains license Compare before you sign with any other school

$675 COAST GUARD APPROVED COURSE & EXAM

Includes: TEST, BOOK and Use of ALL EQUIP “NO TESTING WITH THE COAST GUARD!” “NO HIDDEN CHARGES”

O.U.P.V. / N.C. (6-PAK)

MASTER UPGRADE 100 TON

Lake Mary/Sanford Oct 12 Crystal River - Oct 29 (8-Day Class) Bradenton - Nov 9 New Smyrna Bch Dec 7 Crystal River - Jan 4

Bradenton -

www.adamsmarine.com To Reserve a Spot Call: 352-447-1950 Email: info@adamsmarine.com

Nov 21 Crystal River Jan 21

Call for dates on: Radar Observer Radar Re-certification Meteorology

16 INCH HEAVY DUTY BEACH WHEELS

WE SHIP ANYWHERE!

• Has a Leak-Free Car Tire Valve Stem • 1/4 in. Thick & Extremely Difficult to Puncture • Stainless Steel & Sealed Needle Roller Bearings • Extra Thick, Heavy Duty Blue Hub (requires 20mm axle)

WE SELL 2 WHEEL AND 4 WHEEL PACKAGE DEALS WITH AXLES AND MOUNTING BRACKETS COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2026

FLORIDA 7

The Fall Kingfish Migration is Coming! A s summer fades and cooler water begins pushing south along the East Coast, one of the most exciting migrations of the year is about to get underway. King mackerel are on the move, and October can be prime time for chasing them. Known as king!sh or “smokers” to anglers, king mackerel are built for speed. They are powerful predators that spend much of their time chasing bait!sh along the coast, and their seasonal movements are closely tied to water temperature and food availability. NOAA Fisheries says kings prefer water warmer than about 68 degrees and migrate north during the summer before heading south for the winter. For East Coast anglers, that southbound migration is what makes fall so special. North Carolina’s Division of Marine Fisheries notes that king mackerel move inshore along beaches and near the mouths of inlets and rivers during the summer and fall. The !sh follow concentrations of bait such as menhaden, mullet, thread!n herring and sardines, and feeding kings can sometimes be spotted skyrocketing through schools of bait on the surface. That makes October a great month to start watching the water. From North Carolina and South Carolina

By CAM Staff

through Georgia and Florida, king!sh can show up anywhere from nearshore structure and arti!cial reefs to the edges of bait schools farther offshore. A moving body of bait is often a better clue than simply !shing a particular piece of bottom structure. Trolling remains one of the most popular ways to target them. Live bait such as menhaden, cigar minnows and other locally available bait!sh can be deadly, while dead ribbon!sh and arti!cial lures also have their place in the fall king!sh arsenal. And when a big king decides to eat, things can get exciting in a hurry. The fall migration also brings tournament anglers out in force. King mackerel support a substantial recreational !shery and are a favorite target in tournaments throughout the Southeast. For anglers planning October trips, the key is to follow the bait and watch the water temperature. Kings migrate south as conditions change, so the !sh that are showing up off one area early in the month may be considerably farther south later in the season. The good news is that the migration stretches along a huge portion of the Atlantic coast. And somewhere between the beaches of the Carolinas and the waters of Florida, the next big smoker is already on the move.

SAVE BIG! Self-Contained Marine HVAC & Chiller Systems

VE $A USANDS!

THO

CHOOSE WEBASTO

for all the bells and whistles and legendary German engineering!

HHHHHHHHHH CHOOSE FLAGSHIP MARINE FOR EXTREME DUTY COMMERCIAL - MILITARY QUALITY!

TOP QUALITY MARINE HVAC UNITS, PARTS, PUMPS & MORE!

WE BEAT THE BIG BOX STORES!

WE CAN’T POST OUR PRICES BECAUSE THEY ARE SO LOW!

I

Pr

g

CALL US TOLL-FREE FOR THE LOWEST PRICES! 3211 SE Gran Park Way, Stuart, FL 34997

1-800-316-6426

772-283-1609 • sales@flagshipmarine.com

www.FLAGSHIPMARINE.com 8 FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2026

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

C

COASTAL ANGLER TREASURE COAST EDITION

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

CAPTURING

By Robert Webb

I

Timing

n May the Stuart Sailfish Club hosts a KDW tournament. King mackerel, dolphin and wahoo. There’s no placement for a sailfish. That’s a different tournament. We fished it in 2025 on the DayMaker with Capt. Nick Cremasco. Jason and Barbra and I had the rods while Nick ran the boat, which is the harder job. Nick put us on the kings early. He rigged and found the fish, and the rest of us reeled. Almost as fast as we could bait hooks, we had three large kings in the boat. Barbra caught a mahi that wasn’t big enough to place, but certainly big enough to

eat. The biggest king was Jason’s at just under 27 pounds, and it would turn out to be the heaviest fish anybody weighed that day. Then the morning went quiet, the way it does. It was a beautiful day to be out there. Just east of Stuart, flat calm, and better light than I had any right to expect. Quiet is not what you want in a tournament. Eventually I got a bite on a flatline with a live bait. Our one and only sail of the day. Nobody out there was fishing for sailfish. This one failed to read the rules. I fought it a couple of minutes and it jumped twice while I had the rod, and I thought well of myself for both. Then Nick said somebody needed pictures to record the release. I handed the rod to Jason, who was on my left, knowing Barbra didn’t want to catch a sailfish on a spinning reel. Then I went the long way around the captain’s seat to get to the camera, which sits on top of the console where it stays dry. Nick wasn’t at the wheel, so nothing was in my way. I came back up the starboard side and stood next to Jason. It was less than a minute since I’d let go of the rod, and I was hoping the show wasn’t over. The fish was still on. That was all anybody knew. It could have thrown the hook, or gone down and stayed down, and a sailfish that has

already jumped twice owes you nothing. It came up one more time. Pure adrenaline. The sail all the way open and the whole fish lit up by its own energy, blue and green down the flank. Twelve exposures. The first at 9:59:21.100, the last at 9:59:21.880. Seven hundred and eighty milliseconds. Barely three quarters of a second. We were out there all day and that’s how long the camera was of any use. Some of the pictures below I would not normally show you. The fish is half out of the frame in one. In two of them it is gone and there is water and spray and nothing else. Sometimes this is all I am given to work with. Sometimes not even that. The fifth frame, a little over a quarter of a second in, has the whole fish in the air with the sail open. One frame freezes the fish. But in sequence it moves. Jason had it to the boat a few minutes later, and Nick took the leader and let it go. We came in that afternoon and the club wrote the day on a whiteboard. Top mahi. Top king. Wahoo, which nobody caught. Aggregate, which was ours. And a line in the middle that read, “Sailfish: Scratch,” with a four in parentheses. Four sailfish came up across the whole fleet

SEE CHAOS ..........................................................PAGE 3 PHOTOS CREDIT: ROBERT WEBB PHOTOGRAPHY ROBERTWEBBPHOTOS.COM

Florida Fish and Wildlife

FWC

news updates

WHERE ART MEETS THE WATER:

FLORIDA FISH ART CONTEST NOW OPEN

Y

Did you know you can help our oceans and estuaries? By purchasing one of these Specialty License Plates, you can directly support critical scientific research, outreach and education in Florida! Buy your plate today at your local tax collector’s office or online at: hboifoundation.org Benefiting programs at:

3545 Ocean Drive | Suite 201 | Vero Beach | Florida | 32963 772-466-9876 | hboifoundation.org Follow us on Facebook! B 2 TREASURE COAST

OCTOBER 2026

oung artists across the Sunshine State are invited to put their creativity on display as the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in partnership with Wildlife Forever, opens the 2026–2027 Florida Fish Art Contest to kids in kindergarten through 12th grade. This annual contest combines art, science and conservation by encouraging participants to learn about Florida’s native freshwater and saltwater fish species while creating original artwork inspired by them. Through research and creativity, students gain a deeper appreciation for Florida’s diverse aquatic ecosystems and the importance of conserving them for future generations. Students may enter one of five grade divisions: • Kindergarten • 1st–3rd grade • 4th–6th grade • 7th–9th grade • 10th–12th grade Awards will be presented to first-place winners and runners-up in both the freshwater and saltwater categories within each grade division.

How to Participate: Step 1. Choose a Florida native fish species from the list on FWC’s website to research, focusing on its habitat, behavior, and conservation needs. Step 2. Create an original, handmade creation of the chosen fish. All physical 2D mediums are welcome; no digital artwork. Step 3. Write a one-page creative writing piece that reflects what you have learned about your chosen species (4th grade and above). Step 4. Submit your entry online through the Fish Art Contest entry form page. All first-place winners and runners-up will receive a variety of prizing and recognition from the FWC for their artwork. Details on prizing can be found on FWC’s website. The FWC thanks partners Wildlife Forever, Guy Harvey Foundation, GoOutdoorsFlorida, The Florida Nomad, and Tsunami Fishing. The 2026-2027 contest is open for submissions until February 28th, 2027. Participants can find more information, educational resources, and submission guidelines at MyFWC.com/FishArt.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

PHOTO CREDIT: ROBERT WEBB PHOTOGRAPHY ROBERTWEBBPHOTOS.COM

TREASURE COAST

COASTAL ANGLER C0-PUBLISHERS GRANT & KIM SIMPSON grant@coastalanglermagazine.com kim@coastalanglermagazine.com

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 Robert Webb Capt. Adam White

PHOTO COURTESY of FWC.

CHAOS ..............................FROM PAGE 1 with it. The club counted what it and Barbra and Nick, a handful of

said it would count. The board is pictures—and one spectacular shot. that day and were released. Not one an accurate record of that day. The of them scored, and none of them only mark that sailfish left on it is the Robert Webb specializes in offshore difference between a three and a four. was ever going to. sportfishing action photography, The prize money is spent and DayMaker took the first and shot from moving boats. Local to second heaviest kingfish and the the tournament is a memory. What’s Stuart. See more of his work aggregate, and two checks came left is a day on the water with Jason at robertwebbphotos.com.

For advertising or other inquiries, call

(772) 631-7443

or email Grant@ CoastalAngler Magazine.com

GET SCUBA CERTIFIED.

DIVE INTO ADVENTURE WITH STUART SCUBA’S

OPEN WATER SCUBA CERTIFICATION CLASSES

Sales, Service, Training & Charters Your One Stop Scuba Shop on the Treasure Coast!

NOW YOUR OFFICIAL DEALER

Enhanced Open Water Small Groups and Elite Private Open Water Classes with Nitrox Available!

READY TO LEVEL UP YOUR DIVING? Take our Advanced Adventure Diver Course!

3317 SE FEDERAL HWY. STUART, FL 34997 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1-772-600-8288 STUARTSCUBA.COM OCTOBER 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 1TH

12:06 AM 6:00 AM 12:57 PM 6:34 PM 2F 1:01 AM 7:01 AM 1:57 PM 7:38 PM 3SA 2:05 AM 8:09 AM 3:03 PM 8:51 PM 4SU 3:16 AM 9:23 AM 4:12 PM 10:03 PM 5M 4:30 AM 10:33 AM 5:17 PM 11:08 PM 6TU 5:39 AM 11:35 AM 6:14 PM 7W 12:04 AM 6:39 AM 12:30 PM 7:05 PM 8TH 12:54 AM 7:32 AM 1:20 PM 7:51 PM 9F 1:40 AM 8:20 AM 2:06 PM 8:33 PM 10SA 2:23 AM 9:04 AM 2:48 PM 9:13 PM

2.86 H 0.24 L 2.98 H 0.8 L 2.77 H 0.36 L 2.86 H 0.9 L 2.7 H 0.47 L 2.79 H 0.93 L 2.68 H 0.53 L 2.79 H 0.86 L 2.73 H 0.53 L 2.85 H 0.72 L 2.85 H 0.49 L 2.94 H 0.54 L 3 H 0.45 L 3.03 H 0.37 L 3.13 H 0.42 L 3.08 H 0.24 L 3.22 H 0.42 L 3.1 H 0.17 L 3.25 H 0.46 L 3.06 H

11SU 3:03 AM 9:45 AM 3:29 PM 9:51 PM 12M 3:43 AM 10:24 AM 4:09 PM 10:28 PM 13TU 4:22 AM 11:03 AM 4:48 PM 11:06 PM 14W 5:01 AM 11:43 AM 5:28 PM 11:44 PM 15TH 5:42 AM 12:24 PM 6:10 PM 16F 12:25 AM 6:27 AM 1:09 PM 6:58 PM 17SA 1:11 AM 7:18 AM 2:00 PM 7:56 PM 18SU 2:06 AM 8:17 AM 2:56 PM 9:00 PM 19M 3:08 AM 9:21 AM 3:54 PM 10:02 PM 20TU 4:13 AM 10:21 AM 4:50 PM 10:55 PM

0.17 L 3.23 H 0.53 L 3 H 0.22 L 3.15 H 0.63 L 2.9 H 0.33 L 3.03 H 0.76 L 2.79 H 0.46 L 2.88 H 0.9 L 2.67 H 0.61 L 2.74 H 1.03 L 2.56 H 0.76 L 2.61 H 1.15 L 2.45 H 0.88 L 2.51 H 1.22 L 2.37 H 0.97 L 2.46 H 1.22 L 2.35 H 0.99 L 2.47 H 1.14 L 2.4 H 0.96 L 2.54 H 1 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

OCTOBER 2026

21W

5:14 AM 11:15 AM 5:41 PM 11:41 PM 22TH 6:09 AM 12:03 PM 6:29 PM 23F 12:24 AM 7:00 AM 12:48 PM 7:13 PM 24SA 1:05 AM 7:47 AM 1:32 PM 7:56 PM 25SU 1:46 AM 8:33 AM 2:15 PM 8:40 PM 26M 2:29 AM 9:19 AM 2:59 PM 9:24 PM 27TU 3:14 AM 10:07 AM 3:45 PM 10:11 PM 28W 4:01 AM 10:56 AM 4:33 PM 11:00 PM 29TH 4:52 AM 11:48 AM 5:26 PM 11:54 PM 30F 5:48 AM 12:44 PM 6:24 PM 31SA 12:53 AM 6:50 AM 1:43 PM 7:31 PM

2.52 H 0.88 L 2.63 H 0.81 L 2.69 H 0.78 L 2.74 H 0.59 L 2.88 H 0.67 L 2.84 H 0.38 L 3.06 H 0.58 L 2.93 H 0.2 L 3.2 H 0.51 L 3 H 0.06 L 3.29 H 0.48 L 3.04 H -0.02 L 3.31 H 0.49 L 3.03 H -0.02 L 3.26 H 0.55 L 2.99 H 0.05 L 3.17 H 0.64 L 2.92 H 0.17 L 3.05 H 0.72 L 2.83 H 0.33 L 2.94 H 0.78 L

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

O

spool allows perfect “line lay” due to the slower oscillation design; less friction with these features equals longer distance. Timing is the key when you put all of these factors into the Fishbites rod, and my biggest tip is to let the rod do the work. Fishbites EZ Flea in the Electric Chicken and the orange and white standard EZ Flea have been catching my early-season pompano. As far as equipment and bait selection for all of you “trophy hunters,” a live-lined mullet on a 5/0 circle hook is the obvious choice. Swim your bait on the edges of the mullet schools because those big predators will be looking for

ctober has always been the month that officially kicks off our surf fishing season, and things are looking good. The mullet and pilchards are showing, and along with them the snook, tarpon and jacks have been making their presence known. An added bonus has been the light winds, and on the beaches where the pilchards are heading south, the Spanish mackerel have been caught in some decent numbers. The weather, bait and conditions we’ve been seeing are all pointing to a fantastic October on the sand. I have been targeting earlyseason pompano and have put some nice fish in the cooler that have weighed up to three pounds. If you want to target them as well, tactics and techniques are the same ones that we use during the fall and Fishbites for the early pompano win! winter. Get out the long rods, and casts from 70 to 100 yards PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Paul Sperco. will produce the bites. The snook, tarpon, big jacks and a bait that appears hurt. The tendency mackerel contingency will be zeroing for a lot of folks is to cast into the in on the nearshore bait schools as middle of a bait pod, but there they they move down the beach, and there are just another mullet. If you are casting artificials have been times recently where the mullet were only 20 to 30 yards from there are lots of companies and the edge of the surf. The pompano manufacturers producing baits that will move with the bait pods, but will get your rod to bend; NLBN has stay in deeper water as they continue been one of the most popular. Make south. Blacktip, bull and spinner sure to match your bait to the size of sharks will be on the bait as well, so the mullet that are showing. Right now the pompano will try to keep their the finger mullet are here, so a 5-inch distance and not become a snack for length will work. Finger mullet are these guys. I have been using Fishbites actually juvenile striped mullet and and 13-foot Okuma surf rods paired are the first to show. The larger silver, with Quantum Cabo 8000 spinning or “black mullet” as some anglers call reels. My reels are filled with 15 them, usually arrive in October. Yopound test hi-vis monofilament with Zuri Crystal Minnows have always 10- to 12-foot 30 pound flurocarbon been a popular lure during the mullet shock leaders. The small diameter run also. I like the silver color with mono will allow you to get your rigs the black back. One more suggestion out to the area where the pompano is the old school silver spoon. I have will frequent. These rods are light caught snook, jacks, ladyfish, big and really load up when you attach a bluefish—and watched a couple of 4-ounce pyramid and your pompano tarpon grab this lure and spit it back at rig. (They are available locally at The me! I recommend 3/4 ounce to 1-1/2 Snook Nook on Indian River Dr. in ounce sizes; 5000-6000 spinning Jensen Beach.) The reason for using reels on 7.6- to 8-foot spinning rods the larger Quantum spinning reels is that the surface area of the larger SEE SURF & SHORE ................... PAGE 10

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Wh M

AGE 10

Family Owned and Operated The Most Trusted Name In Optical and Hearing

48 Years In Martin County

Skill Deserves Support. Anglers Choose Schmidt’s for Performance-Driven Vision and Hearing.

Largest Sunwear Brand Selection - In Stock 1 Hour Service Includes Specialty Lenses and Polarization Performance Ready RX and Non RX Frame and Lenses For Hassle Free Clarity and Wear

Free Quality Service On All Hearing Evaluations Hearing Aid Brands Pay y h W re? Personal Professional Service! Ask A Friend! Mo (772) 283-2622 Optical (772) 286-4327 Hearing 2341 SE Federal Hwy Stuart, FL 34994 In Front of TJMAXX and HomeGoods

FISHING FORECASTS

MARTIN COUNTY OFFSHORE

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

O

ctober is here, and one fish worth putting some time into this month is the blackfin tuna. We’ve already started seeing some nice blackfins showing up off Stuart, and we should continue to have opportunities for them as we move farther into fall. If you’re specifically looking for blackfins, an early start can make all the difference. Try to get out around Push Button Hill just before sunup and have your spread fishing as that first light starts coming over the horizon. Pay attention to the water, current, bait and birds—any signs of life can help you narrow down where the fish are holding. For our trolling spread, we like to keep things fairly small. Small feathers and peewee J-hook rigged

Great blackfin bite with a few mahi and a sail release! PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Trent Shapiro.

ballyhoo, fished naked or with a small skirt, are proven blackfin producers. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your trolling speed. Speed up, slow down and change things around until you get that first bite. Once you do, pay attention to your speed, direction and where that bait was in the spread.

Replicate it on the next pass and you can often turn one bite into several. Blackfin tuna are also extremely versatile on the table. Whether you prefer them raw, seared or cooked through, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the catch after a successful morning offshore.

October also means trolling season is officially here. We’ll be pulling daisy chains, dredges and Bait Masters ballyhoo, and there’s nothing like seeing a sailfish fired up on a squid chain and getting it switched over for an epic bite. While trolling is our main attraction in the fall, if you want to specifically target sails, check with the local bait boats to see if you can get a few live baits for kite fishing or bump trolling. Live bait can be hard to come by this time of year, but having some in the well when you find an area holding fish can really help you put up some numbers. Keep a sharp eye out for birds and flying fish—there’s a good chance you’ll find some dorado underneath them. Don’t forget about the wahoo either. The days surrounding the full moons are always worth paying attention to. Keeping a planer bait down deep with a bonito strip, splittail mullet or ballyhoo gives you a shot at one while covering water and should produce some kingfish as well. October brings plenty of opportunities off Stuart. Get an early start, find some good water and bait, and keep adjusting until the fish tell you what they want.

Offshore Performance Marine 772-466-0100 • www.OffshorePerformanceMarine.com

BOATS TAKEN SERIOUSLY.™

Perfect Hull Fit Cradles!

©

AUTHORIZED AMERA TRAIL DEALER Knowledge • Experience • Integrity 2135 N. OLD DIXIE HWY • FT. PIERCE 6 TREASURE COAST

OCTOBER 2026

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

MARTIN COUNTY INSHORE NEARSHORE

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

O

ctober is always a great month on the Treasure Coast for inshore fishing. This month is well known for our annual mullet migration, also known as the mullet run! Fishing live finger mullet or larger live mullet is a great way to catch larger snook and tarpon this time of year. Expect some big jack crevalle, goliath groupers,

MARTIN COUNTY DEEP SEA

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

T

he seasonal dynamics of October will energize our ocean, as the forces of nature will combine this month in the form of substantial masses of bait fish migrating to and through our nearshore waters. Pelagic and resident fish species will tow behind the these large pods of bait and track them to our offshore doorstep. Provided that an offshore weather window is user friendly,

snapper, redfish, and seatrout mixed in. Fishing points, seawalls, docks and channel edges will yield the bites. Pin a finger mullet to the bottom around structure and a sandy bottom for redfish, flounder and snapper. Nearshore action is awesome this month. Local beaches all along the Treasure Coast are great places to target snook and big tarpon, with the occasional shark, while walking the beach and casting artificial baits. What more can an avid angler ask for?! Again, find large bait schools of mullet around sunrise and sunset Early bird gets the worm! Dan with a nice 31-inch snook caught on for best action and work the outside a live finger mullet using a Quantum Merit 5000 combo. edges of those bait schools. Cast, PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Jonathan Earhart. catch, release, repeat! Also this month can be a good time to start mackerel to show up along local beaches. Cast a shiny lure reel in at a looking for the first waves of Spanish nearshore reefs just offshore of the fast retrieve, and hold on! the anglers of Martin County will be able to intersect a wide variety of saltwater species throughout the water column. King and Spanish mackerel along with other top water species can be found in better numbers this month as they circle up schools of live bait along current edges, temperature contours, and over top of reef structures. Solid populations of snapper will populate the deeper footprint of these reef areas as several species will continue their spawning sessions this month. Mutton snapper will congregate in increased numbers over the weeks, along reef lines from 50 to 90 feet. Muttons must be 18 inches in overall length to be a “keeper.” (Check state and federal regulations by downloading the FishRules

App at fishrulesapp.com for your mobile device.) Other members of the snapper family will be found alongside their mutton cousins. Lane, vermilion and mangrove snapper will inhabit similar reef zones and help to color the fish boxes of October. Cobia sightings will not be uncommon this month and will be seen swimming along with turtles, manta rays and sharks. Be jig-ready for spontaneous interactions with hungry cobes. Large red grouper will

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

also avail themselves during these days as they sit on their bottomdwelling thrones and challenge athletically inclined anglers to extract them from their underwater kingdoms. Also, the potential for tropical weather systems will be a wildcard game changer for overall fishing this month, as these low pressure systems interact with our offshore playing field. With this in mind, keep your fingers crossed, knots tied tight, and pray for red skies at night.

Sunday 7:00AM-3:00PM

Adults $125; Children $115

Safari 1 anglers will once again be targeting snapper and mahi during the days of October.

PHOTO CREDIT: Safari 1.

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

For Reservations Call (772) 334-4411 Located at Pirates Cove Resort and Marina Find Us! 4307 SE Bayview St. Port Salerno/Stuart, FL

WWW.SAFARI1DEEPSEAFISHING.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2026

TREASURE COAST 7

FISHING FORECASTS

We’re Really Social ...

ST. LUCIE COUNTY OFFSHORE

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

H

COASTAL ANGLER TREASURE COAST

appy Fall and Happy Fall Fishing! While August and September brought plenty of stormy afternoons, we expect a calmer October with cooler waters and weather. The annual mullet run is in place and the bait is plentiful so it’s time to take advantage of hungry aggressive fish and amazing bite action. Snook, tarpon, redfish, cobia, jack crevalle, and even sharks will be abundant around large schools of migrating mullet. While it’s easy to fill the livewell now, we will be seizing every opportunity to target some of the highly-prized trophy fish in our Fort Pierce waters. Bottom fishing is still a top go-to strategy, with snapper and grouper high on the salty grocery list. We’ll target them at the 50- to 100-foot reefs using a chum bag and throwing some cut bait behind the boat to

tempt big, energetic feeders. Lanes, mangroves, and mutton are being reported regularly. Mangroves bite fast so be ready to set your hook and reel fast, always using enough weight to keep your bait on bottom. With plenty of sharks in the area, it can be challenging to land fish on deck, so stay alert and work hard. Sharks like to eat fish, too, especially after you do all the work! Sharks have been around for millions of years, but there appears to be more now with the Treasure Coast being home to several species, including bull, nurse, lemon, sharpnose and sandbar sharks. If sharks show up, we don’t let up— we move to another spot and finish catching dinner. Snook and tarpon will be relying on easy mullet meals as they move across our area. These top game fish can be fun for a personal best, and both are excellent, acrobatic fighters. The snook bite has been strong since the opening on September 1, with plenty of slots heading home for the dinner table. Remember to use good catch-and-release techniques for those over and under slots. We also keep an eye out for the fall mahi migration which can produce some big fish as they start heading south to warmer waters. I recommend trolling live or dead mullet for mahi, but naked or skirted

O

Jumping on the snook! PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Bo Samuel.

ballyhoo generally produces bites too. Mahi are really exciting to hook for their famous intense jumps, runs and tail-walking. Since it’s October, we wish everyone a great month catching wicked monster fish! Also, it’s a perfect time to enjoy our favorite local haunts like DeBrooks Fishing Corner and my home base, the historic and scary good Little Jim Bait & Tackle. Take a kid fishing…it’s nothing but treats when they’re Pullin Drag!

• Boat & Hurricane Storage • Full-Service Concierge • Waterfront Restaurant • Service Department • Ship Store

oday! T e s a e L pen! O w o N s p ry Sli D w e N 0 14

Come Experience What Sets Our VIP Marina Apart from the Rest! 8 TREASURE COAST

OCTOBER 2026

1400 SW Chapman Way Palm City, FL 34990 PHONE/TEXT: 772-221-8198 Email: info@meridianmarina.com

MeridianMarina.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

ct m along morni real t the in plentif River Trout, provid month as Oc run s month throug Tro focus

ST. LUCIE COUNTY INSHORE

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

O

Samuel.

es too. ok for ns and

wish tching it’s a e local Corner ic and Tackle. ng but

ctober is a great transition month for our inshore fishery along the Treasure Coast. Cooler mornings, shorter days and the first real taste of fall begin to change the inshore bite, while bait remains plentiful throughout the Indian River Lagoon and along the beaches. Trout, snook and tarpon should all provide excellent opportunities this month, with conditions improving as October progresses. The mullet run should be in full swing this month providing excellent action all through our region. Trout should become a major focus in the lagoon as water

temperatures gradually fall. Look for trout around shallow grass flats during the early morning, particularly where clean water, moving current and concentrations of mullet or other baitfish come together. Topwater plugs can produce some explosive strikes during low-light periods, while soft plastics and suspending plugs become increasingly effective as the sun gets higher. Deeper edges and potholes can also produce quality fish later in the morning. Snook should be another major focus around Fort Pierce. October is an excellent month to target fish around docks, mangrove shorelines, bridges and deeper areas where snook seek current and ambush opportunities. As temperatures cool, larger snook will increasingly position themselves around structure and deeper water.

December 14, with a 28–32inch slot and one-fish daily limit. Tarpon should remain available throughout October, particularly around the Fort Pierce Inlet, bridges, deeper channels and along the beach when the mullet schools are present. Smaller resident tarpon can provide consistent action on light tackle, while larger fish may still be found around schools of mullet and other migrating bait. Early mornings and periods of moving water will generally Bob with a solid overslot snook offer the best opportunities. that ate a well-placed live croaker. Overall, October should PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Adam White. offer some of the best allLive bait such as mullet and croakers around inshore fishing of the fall. can be deadly, while artificial anglers As the month progresses and cooler should have plenty of success with weather becomes more consistent, swimbaits, jerkbaits and topwater expect trout and snook activity to plugs. The Indian River Lagoon continue improving while tarpon snook harvest season is currently provide an exciting bonus for anglers open from September 1 through willing to chase them.

mahi and several nice kingfish to spice up the action. These fish tend to migrate back offshore and school up again, and we’re seeing them in

way swivel with a bank sinker or an inline egg sinker—your choice. Cigar minnows, sardines, threadfins and grunt plugs are all good bait choices. As we get into our annual maintenance time of the year, the Miss Fort Pierce will be heading into the boatyard for a few more changes and improvements. We’ll try to maintain our fall schedule as best we can, sailing daily at 7 a.m. for our all-day trips. The boat is also available for private fishing and cruising excursions, as well as ash scatterings at sea. There’s never a dull moment around here, and we have some big announcements coming! If you’d like to join us, please visit fortpiercefishing.com to make PHOTO CREDIT: Miss Fort Pierce Fishing. your reservation or call the office. We look forward to having you the 75- to 120-foot depth range. Continue fishing with a 12- to aboard. Tight lines, respect the weather, 20-foot leader on 40-pound-test fluorocarbon, using either a three- and be safe out there!

ST. LUCIE COUNTY DEEP SEA

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

O

ctober is here, and at the time of writing this article, it was still unclear whether we were going to have a red snapper season during the month of October. Traditionally, October is a windy and more “nautical” month. Fishing between weather systems can sometimes be a challenge, often leaving us with only a handful of really good fishing days throughout the month. Mutton and mangrove snapper fishing continues to be productive, and we’re starting to see more lane snapper as we move further into fall. We’re also seeing some mahi-

Novice & Experienced Anglers Of All Ages Welcome

All Bait, Rods and Tackle Included! No License Required!

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

OCTOBER 2026

TREASURE COAST 9

RETURNING TO FLORIDA FOR THE SEASON?

that protects the boat while you’re away. Bilge pumps and float switches should be tested, batteries and shore power checked, and electrical systems inspected for corrosion or loose connections. Finally, check your trailer, safety equipment, navigation lights and electronics. A short, local test run is also a much better place to discover a problem than several miles offshore. After months away, a proper inspection can be the difference between starting the South Florida boating season on the water or starting it waiting for a tow. Before you make that first trip, Before your first trip, start with make sure your boat is as ready for checking the batteries and charging the season as you are. system. Batteries should be tested under load, terminals and cables inspected for corrosion, and the charging system checked to make sure they’re being replenished Your First Service correctly. Next, look at the fuel and engine Discount applies to labor rates only. systems. Check fuel condition, Please mention this coupon when filters, hoses and connections, along scheduling your appointment with engine oil, cooling systems, and present it at check-in. impellers and other routine service items. Boats returning from storage should also have steering and controls checked before heading out. Don’t overlook the equipment

Is Your Boat Ready?

A

s seasonal residents begin returning to South Florida, many are also getting ready to put their boats back into regular use. But if your boat has been sitting for several months, turning the key and heading straight offshore isn’t always the best way to start the season. Florida’s heat, humidity and salt air don’t stop working on a boat just because you’re not using it. Batteries can lose capacity, electrical connections can corrode, fuel can deteriorate, and components that worked perfectly when you left may not be quite as reliable when you return.

25% OFF

SURF & SHORE ............... FROM PAGE 4

are perfect for targeting all of these predators. Be sure to bring your cast net for catching some mullet and a couple of sabiki rigs to put a few pilchards in your bait buckets. The Spanish mackerel will be on the pilchards and you can fish those small silver baits dead or alive on a float or just live lined. The best tip I can give you is to look at the beach before unloading all your gear from your car or truck. You can sit on your beach and hope some schools come your way, but there are so many beach accesses from Jupiter and Hobe Sound to Vero Beach that you can check—the mullet will be on one of them. I like to be proactive and have them in front of me. It is a great time to be a surf angler here on the southeast coast of Florida as the fall mullet run is an event that, if you hit the right beach, you will be talking all year about the “National Geograhic” bait blow ups that you witnessed. Low light periods, dawn and dusk are obviously the prime time periods of the day and, when coupled with a high tide cycle, the action can be incredible. Good luck this month and catch ’em up.

Complete with a 5,000 sq ft purpose-built facility capable of supporting large center consoles, and offshore boats, DRIFT Marine delivers high-quality marine electrical, rigging, fabrication, and full system rebuilds, all under one roof. From clean installations to advanced electronics integration, every project is built to be reliable, serviceable, and built to last.

We wa As wo com our

Rea Ap

Thin Wa Cal valu HO

Need support dockside? DRIFT Marine also offers convenient mobile marine service for larger boats and yachts throughout the Treasure Coast and surrounding areas. Backed by decades of hands-on experience across marine and offshore operations, their team is committed to delivering clean, reliable workmanship, professional service, and dependable solutions for every client, every time.

Marine electrical & vessel rewires Hurricane storage & haul-out programs Marine electronics integration Solar, inverter & lithium battery upgrades AC/DC electrical & shore power systems Fuel tanks & fuel system upgrades Trolling motors, jack plates & Power-Poles Custom lighting & switch panel systems Outboard servicing & dockside support by service boat Trailer repairs, wiring & brake service Based in Palm City, FL, DRIFT Marine proudly serves boaters across the Treasure Coast and surrounding areas.

(772) 298-7135 ~ support@drift-marine.com ~ drift-marine.com 10 TREASURE COAST

OCTOBER 2026

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

pat@ Patr

PAGE 4

f these

net for couple chards panish chards silver or just

u is to oading truck. d hope ay, but ccesses nd to k—the . I like em in

a surf coast run is right ll year c” bait d. Low sk are eriods d with can be

We help buyers and sellers navigate the waterfront lifestyle from boat to backyard. As local real estate experts who live and work on the Treasure Coast, we know the community, the market, and what makes our coastal area so special. Real advice. Local knowledge. A passion for the coast.

Just S!d

ANOTHER JENSEN BEACH HOME

d catch

Thinking of selling your home? Want it featured in Coastal Angler? Call Pat & Amy TODAY to find out the value of your HOME!

PAT DOLAN

REALTOR® 772.834.9890 pat@flanneryteam.com PatrickDolan.ipre.com

AMY HAYDEN

$568,000

East of US1, close to marinas, boat ramps and beaches. This home gives you all the perks to fish and enjoy the boating lifestyle with the convenience of turnkey living. HOA fee is only $359 per month and it includes lawn care, cable, Internet and monitoring for your in home security system. You also get to enjoy 3 pools, tennis courts, pickleball, and public golf course with a restaurant and bar. This community has it all with an amazing location.

Seas The Day!

REALTOR® 772.486.8105 amyhaydencf@gmail.com AmyHayden.ipre.com

WATERFRONT & COASTAL LIFESTYLE EXPERTS Treasure Coast

Call Today

to see if your address qualifies for savings up to

20%

PREMIUM ROOFING SYSTEMS

BUILT FOR SOUTH FLORIDA HOMES

With over 15 years of experience, Fortress Roofing Systems installs durable, energy-efficient roofing systems designed to protect homes and buildings from Florida’s intense sun, extreme heat, heavy rains, and hurricane-force winds. From inspections to full roof replacements, we provide professional roofing services tailored to your property and budget.

772-207-3627

SCAN THE CODE Get Your Online Estimate Today!

FORTRESSROOF.COM

H

A

human from e review that h enviro We ar is not clean a and re health The issued and m explici protec zone areas,

ODE ine day!

M

Human Health and Safety By Jim Moir, Indian Riverkeeper Executive Director

A

s we seek to develop more of our natural resources’ potential, can we separate human health and safety protections from environmental laws and impact review? There is abundant evidence that human health and a healthy environment are inextricably linked. We are fundamentally biological. It is not enough to declare, “We want clean air and water.” We must legislate and regulate appropriately to assure healthy water and atmosphere. The current administration has issued hundreds of executive orders, and more than 20% that have explicitly degraded environmental protections for clean water, coastal zone protections, marine protected areas, endangered species, natural

and wildlands, marine mammals and historic preservations. Some of these executive orders simply exempt particular industries from environmental regulation that has been in place for decades. As a state and nation, we are disengaging from scientifically-supported safeguards and practices that will have long term effects on our ecosystems. Hamilton Disston purchased 4 million acres of land in central Florida in 1881 for 25 cents an acre. He proposed to drain thousands of acres of wetlands and create a connection between Central Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. His dredges connected lakes, straightened the Kissimmee and linked Lake Okeechobee to the Caloosahatchee River. This scheme

was probably the beginning of South Florida’s water problems, and crazy land speculation. The relics of this unregulated gambit haunt us today and have cost billions. The space industry has brought billions worth of investments to Florida. But what will it cost? Executive Order 14335 of August 13, 2025, lifted all National Environmental Protection Act

(NEPA) environmental impact review standards for all commercial (not federal) space industry infrastructure. And recently the FAA has proposed a waiver of statutory requirements for commercial space launch and reentry actions. This would waive requirements for 13 federal environmental statutes, only

SEE RIVERKEEPER ..................... PAGE 14

R A WAIVED ENROLLMENT FEE — $ OASTAL ANGLER MAGAZINE FO 100 VALUE MENTION C !

Your Wellness, Our Priority.

Emily Gavel, APRN, FNP-C, IFMCP

AFFORDABLE. INSURANCE FREE. NO HASSLE. EXPERIENCE QUALITY DIRECT PRIMARY CARE AT ITS BEST.

~ Serving the Treasure Coast ~

CALL OR TEXT 772-663-4355 2100 SE Hillmoor Drive, Suite 101 Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952

info@nativehealthprimarycare.com nativehealthprimarycare.com

SCAN THE CODE AND SCHEDULE A MEET & GREET! COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2026

TREASURE COAST 13

RIVERKEEPER ....................FROM PAGE 13 least of which will be our increased

CERAMIC COATING & DETAILING PAINT CORRECTION PPF

NOW OFFERING MARINE CERAMIC COATING

Exterior & Interior Detailing Ceramic Pro Graphene Paint Protection Film Family Owned & Operated

zenautoconcepts.com 4109 SE COMMERCE AVE STUART, FL 34997

WITH THIS AD

772.463.8500

enforcing those that the Secretary deems necessary to protect public safety, property and national security. It should be noted that NASA has already identified contamination at Kennedy Space Center of perchlorate, mercury, arsenic and per- and polyflouralkyl substances (PFAS PFOS), other heavy metals and black carbon associated with previous rocket launches. This is a partial list and doesn’t include the nutrient pollution from millions of pounds of nitrates emitted each launch. An estimated increase of launch cadence will be something like 520 launches a year by 2030. The industrial scale of assembly and construction of each vehicle has its own potential pollution. The issue of what damage explosion, fire, noise and low frequency vibration have on structures and wildlife are not considered either. Space junk is already causing problems with orbiting satellites. Only rockets can take trails of black carbon directly into the stratosphere. Black carbon in the atmosphere will lead to depletion of the ozone layer; UV radiation is a cancer risk. There are many causes for concern about accelerating climate change, not

dependance on petroleum products including 65 billion barrels of high sulfur crude from Venezuela. Port Canaveral has proposed a massive expansion into the Mosquito Lagoon using exemptions from environmental impact review. Fort Pierce has proposed a port expansion to allow the docking and maintenance of rocket recovery barges in combination with a mega yacht center. Fernandina is also using rocket barge handling as rational for port enlargement, exempting them from NEPA review. We are now in the first decades of the 21st century. What have we failed to learn from the track record of unregulated industrialists of the late 19th century? Technology, experience and accumulated science with a broader world view should have taught us to be more cautious and somewhat skeptical of profit centered, deregulated and federally protected industries that do not care about what their environmental impact will be. To learn about the benefits of supporting Indian Riverkeeper and its efforts, visit www.theindianriverkeeper.org or call (772) 341-4953.

PROACTIVE. EASY. LIFE CHANGING.

Discover the range of health and wellness services that 4Ever Young provides to help you combat aging and showcase your best features. Whatever your concerns, 4EverYoung is ready to help you look and feel your best with an array of youth-reviving services using the latest technologies and most sophisticated techniques currently available. Whether in-office or via our telehealth services, our holistic approach ensures your path to aging with vitality is tailored to your unique needs.

BECOME A VIP MEMBER TODAY!

Our VIP membership packages provide year-round product and service discounts and VIP access to 4EverYoung events & specials. PERSONALIZED CARE•CUTTINGEDGE SCIENCE COMPASSIONATE PROFESSIONALS

“Come See Me at the 4EverYoung Stuart Location”

TELEHEALTH & VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE 14 TREASURE COAST

OCTOBER 2026

Gabby Ryan, MA-LME Managing Director - CEO 7725109040•GabbyR@4EverYoungStuart.com

4EVERYOUNGSTUART.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

772-220-4400 QUALITY BREWING & DISTILLING, ROOTED IN FLORIDA HISTORY.

973 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart • (772) 672-7882 • fraziercreekstuartfla.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2026

TREASURE COAST 15

Michelle and Gracie landed this bull redfish during the fall mullet migration at Sebastian Inlet.

Genesys Barnes hooked this 38-inch spotted seatrout on the IRL in Vero Beach.

Joseph Bologna nabbed , this lobster in Ft. Pierce diving in about 20’ of water. It was about 44” with antennae.

is Ashlynn Thorpe caught th rt. ua 40-inch snook off St

Everett McGuire caugh t this huge 40-inch crevalle jack fishing with his family in the IRL.

Gavin Dyall caught seven bonefish on pompano rigs tipped with Fishbites.

langlermag.com Scan the code or visit coasta d catch details. an to submit your photos

Staff

F LORIDA K EYS G OLD C UP S ERIES

The Florida Keys ONLY Tournament Series Islamorada Sailfish Tournament

Pro & Non-Pro Divisions! 2 Days of Fishing

Dec. 4 Kick Off Dec. 5 & 6 Fishing

$104,500 paid out in 2025!

Islamorada Fishing Club Sailfish Tournament Jan. 19 Kick Off Jan. 20 Fishing Up to $25,000 in prize money! theislamoradafishingclub.com

Cheeca Lodge & Spa Presidential Tournament Jan. 22 Kick Off Jan. 23 & 24 Fishing Up to 6 anglers per boat cheeca.com

Gold Cup Awards Banquet • Jan. 24 www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com

Call Dianne Harbaugh 305-522-4868 or Jenny Mason 305-664-2628 for more info

TWIN 300 HP

BLACK or WHITE Fly By Wire

300 HP WHITE Fly By Wire

TWIN 250 HP BLACK Fly By Wire

250 HP BLACK Fly By Wire

BLACK or WHITE Fly By Wire

TWIN 150 HP WHITE Fly By Wire

B

FI Z

GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICE! 175 HP

22

150 HP

140

BLACK or WHITE Fly By Wire

B

*FINANCING AT 5.99% OFFERED WITH APPROVED CREDIT

225 HP BLACK

TWIN 200 HP

200 HP WHITE

WHITE Fly By Wire

TWIN 175 HP WHITE

FINANCE AS LOW AS 5.99% WITH ZERO DOWN UP TO 72 MONTHS!

*

140 HP BLACK

115 HP WHITE

90 HP WHITE

SERVICE COUPON $100 OFF $200 OFF 100 HOUR SERVICE PER MOTOR

300 HOUR SERVICE PER MOTOR

Must Be Presented at Time of Service. Expires 12/31/26.

DRAWING HELD 12/18/26

ENTER TO WIN AT: One entry per person. No cash value. Prize does not include airfare or transportation to Clearwater Beach or destinations. Winner is responsible for transportation. Subject to blackout dates. Actual prizes may vary from what is listed and subject to change without notice. Winner has up to 72 hours to claim their prize. If winner does not con!rm receipt, another drawing will be held. Winner announced 12/18/26 on Facebook and will be noti!ed via email and any other secondary contact listed. Must be 18 years or older. Please email webmaster@coastalangleragazine.com for any questions. Thank you and good luck!

SCAN ME

ME

Spirituality

Meets Artistry

“I never expected it to be so beautiful that it takes your breath away.”

S

Impo tauer ssible Only Price

59

— Kaya C., on Stauer Opals

I

n a quaint village, nestled between rolling hills, lived a young woman with a deep appreciation for gemstones. Her grandmother gifted her a delicate cross pendant adorned with opals. "e opals shimmered with a mesmerizing play of colors, reflecting hues of blues, greens, and fiery oranges. Her grandmother shared the legend of the opals, believed to bring hope, purity, and luck to those who wore them. Using this story as inspiration, Stauer brings you the Opal Spirit Cross Pendant. With over 2 total carats of Kyocera lab-created opals set in .925 sterling silver encased in yellow gold, this pendant is a radiant celebration of beauty and craftsmanship. Each opal captivates with a kaleidoscopic dance of fiery oranges blending into oceanic blues, streaked with flashes of vibrant green that seem to come alive with every movement. "e shimmering opals are skillfully arranged to create an enchanting, otherworldly glow, embodying the spirit of hope and harmony. "is breathtaking combination of color and

craftsmanship is available as a limited availability of

®

only 930 pieces, making it a rare and treasured addition to your jewelry collection. Plus, when you order today, you’ll receive the gold-!nished sterling silver chain—a $69 value—absolutely free! Don’t miss your chance to own this exclusive tribute to timeless elegance and meaningful symbolism. Necklace Speci!cations:

• 2 ½ ctw. Kyocera lab opals and DiamondAura® accents • Yellow gold-finished .925 sterling silver setting • 18" gold-clad .925 sterling silver chain

Opal Spirit Cross Pendant plus FREE Chain $499 $59* + S & P Save $440

*Special price only for customers using the offer code.

1-800-333-2045 Your Insider Offer Code: OCR387-01

Stauer

®

14091 Southcross Drive W. Dept. OCR387-01, Burnsville, MN 55337

www.stauer.com

FISHING THE FALL MULLET MIGRATION

By Skye Nowak

T

he Atlantic coast of Florida experiences one of the planet’s greatest migrations each fall: the fall mullet run. When millions of mullet push south in giant schools toward spawning grounds o! the southern end of the state, it presents an exciting prospect for fishing. It’s an event anglers anticipate all year long. The mullet run doesn’t have an official start or end date. Large schools of mullet, some being the size of three football fields, move south as temperatures cool. Tarpon, sharks, kingfish and redfish are just some of the gamefish that move with these pods. Most years the fishing is on fire in the months of October and November. Obviously, mullet is the bait to use this time of the year. I prefer freelining finger-sized mullet as pretty much everything will bite! I mainly fish inshore, so light tackle is the way for me. However it is important to be prepared to switch up, depending on the size and species of the game fish present. In the backcountry, I like a light-to medium-action 2000 size spinning setup to fish 10/15 pound leader to a 3/0 circle hook, using a simple loop knot, tying a FG knot or double uni to connect leader to braid (main lines) creating a true free line without the added weight of the swivel. The rigging is pretty much the same if needed to beef up for larger catches.

That being said, in a 2500 size setup I’ll fish 15/20 pound leader, but I’ll bump that up to 25/30 pound test on a 3000 size gear for bigger game fish. To fish with mullet, I simply follow the pods, casting to the outside of the schools, opening my bail to let the bait swim naturally. When you hit it right you’ll find yourself hooking up on nearly every cast. With species changing from one cast to the next. From snook to tarpon. Big gamefish tend to seek out isolated or injured mullet, which is exactly what your bait is. This backcountry lady angler enjoys sight fishing and scouting the marshes from the Tomoka Basin to Mosquito Lagoon along Florida’s central Atlantic Coast. I’ll target large breeder reds in the inlets, however I spend my days chasing snook, reds, tarpon, black drum, and sighting tails in our estuaries and marshes. This style of fishing is perfect for throwing artificials on light tackle. This time of the year any artificial that resembles a mullet will produce—swimbaits, Rapala X-Raps, Bomber Lures, Savage Gear Pulse Tail Mullets, LIVETARGET Slow-Roll Mullets, MirroOlure Suspending Twitch Bait Mullets and, my “go-tos,” the NLBN 3-3.75 paddletail jigs, K-Tails and 4to 7-inch mullets. (You can never go wrong with a good ol’ fashioned spoon!) Please remember that during the fall mullet run our breeder redfish are much more susceptible to being caught from beaches, boats, bridges, docks and piers. Handling them with care and releasing them safely is important to the future of our fisheries! The statewide slot limit is 18-27 inches, intended to protect the larger fish which are part of the spawning stock. Landing a larger redfish this time of the year is easy with the mullet running simply freelined, or drop one on a weighted rig to land that trophy! Before you experience that drag-pulling run you should be knowledgeable on how to properly handle and release your fish. In recent years, Florida has adopted management plans for redfish, and there are new regulations across nine di!erent zones. Anglers need to understand these regulations because they are intended to protect one of our iconic species in the face of habitat loss. Most of the state now has a one fish per person daily limit in the 18-27 inch slot. Some regions have two fish per vessel limit and others have a four fish per vessel limit. The Indian River zone, from New Smyrna Beach South Causeway to the Martin/Palm Beach County line (not including Locks Of Hatchy), is strictly catch-and-release only for redfish. Make sure to visit myfwc.com for your area’s regulations, as well as instruction on safe handling and release.

2026 Freedom Boats USA

19 PATRIOT Specifications: All composite construction.

Is

D

Ded

Length = 18’9” / Beam = 8’ 6”

Sales, Service and Parts Family owned and operated.

Hull Weight = approx. 1000 lbs Draft = approximately 8” Running = 3” Ten (10) year warranty on structure

T

2026 Freedom Boats USA

21 COMMANDER Specifications:

Authorized dealer for:

All composite construction Length = 21’ / Beam = 8’ 6” Hull Weight = approx. 1250 lbs

727-422-9557 5385 Seminole Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33708

maydaymarineservices.com

14 FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2026

Draft = approximately 7” to 8” Running = 3” Ten (10) year warranty on structure

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Ca

63rd Annual

Islamorada Sailfish Tournament

KILLBOX - 1ST PLACE PRO DIVISION 2025

$104,500 in Prize Money Discounted Room & Boat Slip Rates Paid in at Three Waters Resort & Marina Dedicated “spouse/family” programming. 2025! Bring the whole family!

KICK OFF

Friday Dec. 4, 2026

TWO DAYS OF FISHING Dec. 5 & 6, 2026

KALEX - 1ST PLACE NON-PRO DIVISION 2025

islamoradasailfishtournament.com

Call Dianne Harbaugh at 305-522-4868 or Jenny Mason at 305-664-2628 for more information ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT ISLAMORADA CHARTER BOAT ASSOCIATION

YOUR LOCAL SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING MARINE IN FLORIDA & ALABAMA! Fort Lauderdale | Pompano Beach | Stuart | Riviera Beach | Sarasota | Foley, AL Boat Owners Warehouse (BOW) is your trusted source for everything marine, backed by over 65 years of experience. We work with more than 500 leading marine brands to bring you the best in parts, tools, gear, and equipment. Shop online or visit any of our 6 stores for expert service and an unbeatable selection.

MEET OUR TOP 10 TRUSTED MARINE MEET OUR TOP 10 TRUSTED MARINE BRANDS, COAST TO COAST!

5%*

OFF

PROFESSIONALS can now use their Lewis Marine account IN-STORE on these GREAT BRANDS!

Sa! Sa! Big! Big!

Discount Valid June 1 - Dec. 31, 2026

ANGLER5

*5% NEXT PURCHASE *5%OFF OFFON ONYOUR YOUR NEXT PURCHASE TERMS & CONDITIONS • One coupon per customer for the • Not valid mail order or phone orders. duration of the sale. • Not valid on any merchandise • No facsimiles or copies. already discounted. • Coupon must be presented at • Excludes: Marquipt, special orders, time of the sale. EPIRBs, PLBs, sale items and gift cards. Other exclusions may apply. • In-store or online purchases. See cashier for details. • Valid on in-stock merchandise only.

COUPON

CO OU UP O N C

SCAN TO START SHOPPING AT BOW.COM

PRO FISHING TECHNIQUES

3 BEST LURES FOR REDFISH

Y

CAPT. MIKE SMITH

ou can !nd red!sh around oyster bars, grass %ats, mangroves, dock pilings, mud %ats and any other place where they can !nd crabs, shrimp, snails and !sh to eat. PRO TIP - Red!sh spend most of their lives looking down with their heads “literally” in the mud. &e best way to get their attention is with a lure that stinks and/or makes a lot of noise to maximize your catch. GULP SHRIMP - &at is why my number one lure choice for catching red!sh in every inshore scenario is the Berkeley Gulp 3” shrimp. I usually couple that lure with a 1/8 ounce jig head and a 20 pound leader. Cast it to your target and let it sink to the bottom. &en bounce it on the bottom back to you slowly and repeat. I think that many anglers !sh their jigs too quickly. You have to give the red!sh a chance to notice your lure and then come over and attack it. Another great technique is using a popping cork with 18 to 24 inches of line beneath the cork. You are using the same Gulp shrimp and jig head but you are dangling it just off of the bottom and popping the cork to get the red!sh’s attention. &is is a great combination because it lets the red!sh use its nose and its lateral line to !nd the bait. GOLD SPOONS- Gold spoons have been the gold standard of red!sh anglers for decades. &is simple lure catches the heck out of red!sh anywhere red!sh live. &ere are long time red!sh anglers who only use gold spoons to target reds. You will want to get a weed less gold spoon because you need to !sh them in the bottom part of the water column. &ey work the best when they are bounced on the bottom or when they are presented just off of the bottom. Cast your gold spoon and bounce it slowly on the bottom as you reel it back to you. &e spoons do not have any scent to attract the red!sh but they can see the %ash and feel the low frequency vibrations as the lure moves through the water. PADDLETAIL - A 3-inch paddletail catches just about every !sh that swims and it is very easy to !sh with. Red!sh prefer a slow and steady retrieve that bounces off of the bottom. Your best paddletail colors for red!sh are white with gold glitter for clean water scenarios or brown with gold glitter for dirty water scenarios. Choose a paddletail with lots of wiggle so the red!sh can feel your lure even if they can’t smell it. Bring the three lures mentioned in this article for your next red!sh trip and you will be very happy with your results. Go get ‘em. Capt. Mike Smith, owner of Fish Your Ass Off Charters, 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.

Redfish Regs

F

all is prime time for targeting red!sh, but rules and regulations vary by state and often change, so always check with your state’s official Fish & Wildlife agency for the most current rules before !shing. • Texas: 3 !sh, 20-28 inches; special regulations apply to oversized !sh. • Louisiana: 4 !sh, 18–27 inches. • Mississippi: 3 !sh, 18–30 inches, plus 1 over 30 inches. • Alabama: 3 !sh, 16–26 inches, plus 1 oversized !sh. • Florida: Generally 1 !sh, 18–27 inches. Indian River Lagoon is catch-and-release only, with regional differences elsewhere. • Georgia: 3 !sh, 15–24 inches. • South Carolina: 2 !sh, 15–23 inches. • North Carolina: 1 !sh, 18–27 inches.

Submit Your Best Redfish Photos for a Chance to Get Featured in Coastal Angler Mag!

Wholesale • Retail CUSTOM MADE TO ORDER. Since 1967

(321) 508-2836 CALL TO ORDER! HANDMADE IN THE USA 206 Pine St. • West Melbourne, FL 32904

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2026

NATIONAL 5

Dometic Premier Film Reveals Innovation Behind Award-Winning DG3 Technology

D

ometic recently premiered “The Voyage,” a new documentarystyle film chronicling the development of its award-winning DG3 Gyrostabilizer. Featuring engineers, designers, and innovators at Dometic Marine, the film provides a behind-the-scenes look at how Dometic challenged conventional gyro technology to deliver significantly faster spin-up times, 40% lower power consumption, and broader accessibility for recreational boaters. With their ability to counteract wave motion and reduce side-toside boat roll by as much as 95%, gyrostabilizers have the power to make recreational boating more comfortable and enjoyable whether fishing, cruising, or relaxing on the anchor. With its new DG3, Dometic set out to overcome common obstacles to gyro ownership, delivering industry-leading spin-up and spin-down times, greatly reduced energy consumption, electric actuators with active precession for faster response and better performance, and maintenancefree design. The technology behind Dometic’s DG3 is so groundbreaking, it won both an NMMA Innovation Award at the 2025 Miami International Boat Show and the Dame Design Award at METS Trade 2025 in Amsterdam. This new film shares how the Dometic Marine team overcame engineering and design challenges throughout DG3’s development. It also explains the “why” — how Dometic designers and engineers set out to make the benefits of gyro stabilizing technology accessible to more boats and boaters around the world. The Voyage was filmed and produced in and around Dometic Marine’s design and manufacturing center in Vancouver, Canada — where many of the company’s award-winning boating products were designed, manufactured, and tested in one of the industry’s most advanced facilities. “We recognized early on that we needed outside-the-box thinking and bold adaptations of our core technologies to truly take gyro performance

to a “Whole New Level,” said Dometic Marine Segment President Eric Fetchko. “For DG3 to be truly revolutionary in terms of spin-up time, power consumption, ride-smoothing performance, and durability, we had to achieve things that had never been done. This film takes the audience into our design room, factory floor and testing facilities as we create what will be the first of many gyro systems in the future,” added Fetchko. To learn more about Dometic’s award-winnning DG3 technology, visit your nearest Dometic Marine retailer or go to www.dometic.com.

WHY BUY NEW WHEN YOU CAN RENEW?!?

YOUR GAUGE RESTORATION SPECIALISTS

5049 HWY. 17 SOUTH • GREEN COVE SPRINGS, FL 32043 904-701-9726 • GAUGESAVER.COM 6 NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2026

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

on y

A WHOLE NEW LEVEL Introducing Dometic’s DG3 Gyro

Smooth Sailing Experience a new level of comfort on the water with our DG3 Gyro Stabilizer. By minimizing boat roll, it ensures a smooth, steady ride, even in choppy conditions. Whether you’re fishing, dining, or just unwinding, the Gyro creates a more enjoyable and stable environment. Operating quietly and without the need for external fins, it lets you focus on what matters most: making every moment on the water truly relaxing.

dometic.com

ANGLERS LAND NEW COME JOIN IGFA WORLD RECORDS OUR TEAM! FREE

@CAMTAMagazine

MAHI

ALASKAN SUMMER LOCAL REPORTS & CATCH PHOTOS

EVERYONE'S OFFSHORE FAVORITE

Y OF ALYSSA VEGA PHOTO COURTES S / TIKTOK:@FISHWITHLYSS IG:@FISHWITHLYS 337 T U N I T I E S VOLUME 28 • ISSUE E O P P O R

COA STA LAN

F R A N C H I

AG.ECOM I D E GLEARM W O R L D W V A I L A B L

APRIL 2023

S

FREE

CATCH BIG BASS

@CAMTAMagazine

BUCKET LIST FOR MOUNTAIN TROUT

WITH BIG BAIT

LOCAL REPORTS & CATCH PHOTOS PHOTO COURTESY OF MAGGIE CARSELLO IG: @MAGGIEJO_OUTDOOR S / FB: @MAGGIEJOOUTDOORS

VOLUME 30 • ISSUE 364 JULY 2025

F R A N C H I S E

THEA NGLE RMA G.CO O P P O R T U N I

T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

BECOME A

M

PUBLISHER MAY 2025

Find Out How Inside!

W O R L D W I D E

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE!

T

he International Game Fish Association (IGFA) tracks record !sh catches around the globe. Here are a few highlights from their newly approved world records. To see all newly approved IGFA world records go to igfa.org.

Lytle’s Weakfish Rowan Lytle was !shing Long Island Sound in Connecticut on May 14, 2026, when he landed this 25.19-inch weak!sh. With this !sh, Rowan has set the IGFA AllTackle Length Fly World Record for the species. &e record weak!sh struck his Clouser and was landed after a short !ght. He then recorded the length on his official IGFA Measuring Device before releasing the !sh safely.

Wroth’s Skipjack Tuna

If you love the fishing, boating and outdoors lifestyle, and dream of being in business for yourself—but not by yourself—now is the time to spring into action and become a Coastal Angler or The Angler Magazine Co-Publisher.

• Established Brand With Proven Systems • Complete Training & Ongoing Support • Low Startup Costs And Overhead • Work From Home & Be Your Own Boss!

GRANT SIMPSON & FAMILY Florida Treasure Coast Co-Publishers

On April 3, 2026, &omas Wroth was !shing Rottnest Island out of Perth, Australia, when he landed this 10.4-pound skipjack tuna. With this !sh, &omas has set the IGFA Junior Men’s 4-kg (8 lb) Line Class World Record for the species. He was trolling aboard the “Natraliste” when the record skipjack struck his lure. He was able to boat the !sh after a 30-minute !ght and returned to the Fremantle Sailing Club for an official weight on a certi!ed scale.

Taylor’s Bonefish Laura Ann Taylor was !shing the %ats of Molokai, Hawaii, on April 30, 2026, when she landed this 8.9-pound Paci!c bone!sh. With this !sh, Laura has set the IGFA Women’s 6-kg (12 lb) Tippet Class Record for the species. After an exciting !ght, she was able to land the bone!sh that had struck her shrimp %y, record the weight on her certi!ed scale, and release it safely.

Nechuta’s Walleye

SCAN THE CODE

TO VIEW OUR BROCHURE

1-888-800-9794

info@coastalanglermagazine.com

franchise.coastalanglermag.com 8 NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2026

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

On May 10, 2026, Carter Nechuta, age 16, was !shing Big Eau Pleine Reservoir when he landed this impressive 27.17inch walleye. With this !sh, Carter has set the IGFA AllTackle Length Junior World Record for the species. Carter landed the record walleye on a jerkbait. He was able to record the length on his official IGFA Measuring Device before releasing the !sh safely.

I ‘Bearly’ Made It Out Alive A 12-inch stainless steel knife for only $79

®

Staueler Price

ImpossibLY ON

$79

What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives



“The feel of this knife is unbelievable... this is an incredibly fine instrument.” — H., Arvada, CO



“This knife is beautiful!” — J., La Crescent, MN

I

t was a perfect late autumn day in the northern Rockies. Not a cloud in the sky, and just enough cool in the air to stir up nostalgic memories of my trip into the backwoods. This year, though, was different. I was going it solo. My two buddies, pleading work responsibilities, backed out at the last minute. So, armed with my trusty knife, I set out for adventure. Well, what I found was a whole lot of trouble. As in 8 feet and 800-pounds of trouble in the form of a grizzly bear. Seems this grumpy fella was out looking for some adventure too. Mr. Grizzly saw me, stood up to his entire 8 feet of ferocity and let out a roar that made my blood turn to ice and my hair stand up. Unsnapping my leather sheath, I felt for my hefty, trusty knife and felt emboldened. I then showed the massive grizzly over 6 inches of 420 surgical grade stainless steel, raised my hands and yelled, “Whoa bear! Whoa bear!” I must have made my point, as he gave me an almost admiring grunt before turning tail and heading back into the woods.

Join more than 322,000 sharp people who collect stauer knives I was pretty shaken, but otherwise fine. Once the adrenaline high subsided, I decided I had some work to do back home too. That was more than enough adventure for one day. Our Grizzly Hunting Knife pays tribute to the call of the wild. Featuring stick-tang construction, you can feel confident in the strength and durability of this knife. And the hand carved, natural bone handle ensures you won’t lose your grip even in the most dire of circumstances. I also made certain to give it a great price. After all, you should be able to get your point across without getting stuck with a high price.

But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 Stauer pocket binoculars FREE when you purchase the Grizzly Hunting Knife. Make sure to act quickly. The Grizzly Hunting Knife has been such a hit that we’re having trouble keeping it in stock. Our first release of more than 1,200 SOLD OUT in TWO DAYS! After months of waiting on our artisans, we've finally gotten some knives back in stock. Only 1,337 are available at this price, and half of them have already sold!

EXCLUSIVE

FREE Stauer Pocket

Binoculars -a $99 value-

with your purchase of the Grizzly Hunting Knife

Knife Specifications: • Stick tang 420 surgical stainless steel blade; 7 ¼" blade; 12" overall • Hand carved natural brown and yellow bone handle • Brass hand guard, spacers and end cap • FREE genuine tooled leather sheath included (a $49 value!)

The Grizzly Hunting Knife $249 $79* + S&P Save $170 California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product. *Special price only for customers using the offer code.

1-800-333-2045

Your Insider Offer Code: GHK375-04

Stauer, 14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. GHK375-04, Burnsville, MN 55337 | www.stauer.com

Stauer | ®

AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY

®

®

VISIT SUZUKIMARINE.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION