Coastal Angler Magazine - February / Fort Lauderdale by Coastal Angler Magazine

FORT LAUDERDALE AREA EDITION

FREE Gulf

Rods &

Tuna

Reels Reviews

At Night

Fish

Tales From Costa Rica

Skeeter Celebrates

Anniversary PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY KING VOLUME 23 â€¢ ISSUE 276

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

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

A V A I L A B L E

FEBRUARY 2018

W O R L D W I D E

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FAMILY LEGENDS

and fish tales

BUILT FOR THAT

210 FSH ® SERIES

Go where no other boat has gone before. With powerful twin TR-1® Yamaha Marine Engines, ample storage and comfortable bow seating, the all-new 210 FSH provides the shallow-water capability to get to those hard-to-reach fishing spots and the versatility to enjoy watersports with your family.

210 FSH®

210 FSH® Deluxe

210 FSH® Sport

YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M

©2018 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved. Follow instructional materials and obey all laws. Drive responsibly, wearing protective apparel. Always drive within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvers, and respect others around you. Don’t drink and drive. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT YAMAHABOATS.COM OR CALL 1.800.88.YAMAHA.

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2018 242CC

FISHING FOCUSED FAMILY FRIENDLY “Sailfish Boats are truly versatile. A great fishing boat and a great family boat all in one.”

2018 220CC ® Exclusive Variable Degree Stepped (VDS) Hull for Performance, Safety & Stability ® 10 year Structural Warranty ® SailTech Construction: 100% Composite, Reinforced with Kevlar® & Carbon Fiber ® Lifetime No-Rot Guarantee ® Bow To Stern Intelligent Ergonomic Design with Premium Finishes ® Family Friendly Features for Fun, Comfort and Safety

www.SailfishBoats.com

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THE NEXT GREAT THE NEXT GREAT

HAVALON HAVALON INNOVATION INNOVATION HAS LANDED. HAS LANDED.

QUIK-CHANGE II ™ Interchangeable Fixed Blade™ QUIK-CHANGE Cutlery System II Interchangeable Fixed Blade Cutlery System9” FILLET 7” FILLET 9” FILLET 5” FILLET 7” FILLET 3” SERRATED 5” FILLET 3” SERRATED

Easy Blade Release System Easy Blade Release System

Opens For Easy Cleaning

KN IVES

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COMING SPRING 2018 COMING SPRING 2018 4

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Rugged Canvas Roll Pack Rugged Canvas Roll Pack

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BLEED TRIM

SAFETY

EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com VICE PRESIDENT : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Rebecca Snowden • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Dmitriy Pislyagin • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Corporate Headquarters info@coastalanglermagazine.com • 888-800-9794

FLORIDA

BIG BEND : Mike McNamara • (850) 510-7919 • captmike@coastalanglermagazine.com BREVARD : David String • (321) 684-5888 • dstring@coastalanglermagazine.com DAYTONA/NEW SMYRNA BEACH : Don Meadows • (321) 436-5895 • donm@coastalanglermagazine.com FLORIDA KEYS : Cliff Lumpkin • (305) 849-9093 • cliff@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT LAUDERDALE : Gene Dyer • (954) 680-3900 • gene@coastalanglermagazine.com FORT MYERS : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com GREATER ORLANDO : Phillip & Giselle Wolf • (407) 790-9515 • phillip@coastalanglermagazine.com LAKELAND & SUMTER : Mary Brasher • (352) 598-4219 • maryf@coastalanglermagazine.com NAPLES : Nadeen Welch • (239) 595-8265 • nwelch@coastalanglermagazine.com NC FLORIDA/NATURE COAST : Cary & Lynn Crutchfield • (352) 372-4237 • crutch@coastalanglermagazine.com NE FLORIDA : Danny Patrick • (904) 742-4696 • danny@coastalanglermagazine.com PANAMA CITY/FORGOTTEN COAST : Randy Cnota • (229) 834-7880 • randyc@coastalanglermagazine.com PALM BEACH COUNTY : Barbara Ryan • (561) 373-8040 • barbara@coastalanglermagazine.com SARASOTA : Phil Prevoir • (239) 257-4684 • pprevoir@coastalanglermagazine.com TAMPA BAY : Chuck Atkins • (239) 464-5153 • chuck@coastalanglermagazine.com TREASURE COAST : Misti & Gary Guertin • (772) 285-6850 • treasurecoast@coastalanglermagazine.com

flahama@coastalanglermagazine.com

SOUTHEAST

ATLANTA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com CHARLESTON : Jane A. Redden • (205) 725-9616 • jane@coastalanglermagazine.com

Sam Buckareff • (843) 607-8629 • sam@coastalanglermagazine.com

CHARLOTTE/PIEDMONT : Mark & Haley Alberghini • (704) 651-1934 • mark@theanglermagazine.com

COME JOIN OUR TEAM Dear Reader, “Coastal Angler” and our freshwater component “The Angler” magazines are looking to expand our franchise footprint to include numerous Gulf Coast region markets. Having become the largest outdoor publication on the Eastern Seaboard, we’re now ready to continue our expansion westerly all the way to California and northerly to the Great Lakes and beyond. Our franchise system enables localized editions of the magazine to be managed and developed by our franchisee/co-publishers. Publishing your localized edition of either Coastal Angler Magazine or The Angler Magazine can be exceptionally enriching and financially rewarding. Our ideal candidate may never have been involved in publishing before. They would, however, be passionately involved in the outdoors. Obsessive anglers often make great fishing magazine franchisees.

COLUMBIA/MIDLANDS : John Lux • (803) 807-6885 • jlux@theanglermagazine.com MYRTLE BEACH : Mike Masiero • (732) 674-3019 • mmasiero@coastalanglermagazine.com SW GEORGIA : Bob & Brenda Rice • (706) 614-8231 • bobr@theanglermagazine.com TIDEWATER/OUTER BANKS : John Tiger • (757) 707-9654 • john.tiger@coastalanglermagazine.com

Laura Tiger • (757) 707-9655 • laura@coastalanglermagazine.com

WESTERN NC : Debra & Joe Woody • (828) 775-9663 • woody@theanglermagazine.com WILMINGTON/MOREHEAD : Kenny Ritter • (910) 550-9094 • kenny@coastalanglermagazine.com

NORTHEAST BOSTON : George Regan • (617) 488-2842 • boston@coastalanglermagazine.com LONG ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 • lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND : Lisa & Michael Danforth • (203) 321-7635 lisad@coastalanglermagazine.com

Your new career is just a phone call or email away.

GULF COAST MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST : Adam Nelson • (228) 627-5903 • anelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

This is a chance to own your own business but not be all on your own. Our training and support systems enable our co-publishers to quickly establish their localized edition of the magazine into a viable local business. If you think you would enjoy a career centered around the outdoors and fishing, you owe it to yourself to check out our franchise opportunities. Our expansion goals have numerous territories now available.

Toby Nelson • (228) 623-1761 • tnelson@coastalanglermagazine.com

Best regards,

NEW ORLEANS : Dr. Dave Dunaway • (225) 400-8156 • nola@coastalanglermagazine.com

GREAT LAKES WEST MICHIGAN : Phil Belsito • (616) 957-1714 • phil@theanglermagazine.com

INTERNATIONAL PUERTO RICO/VIRGIN ISLANDS : Ace Bassue • (407) 285-9453 • ace@coastalanglermagazine.com COSTA RICA : Mike Erickson • (561) 262-2242 • mike@coastalanglermagazine.com © 2018. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Disclaimer: Coastal Angler Magazine / The Angler Magazine will not be held liable for injuries incurred while partaking in activities described herein, or for claims made against products or services provided by advertisers. SAFETY

Ben Martin Editor in Chief info@coastalanglermagazine.com

1-888-800-9794

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FEBRUARY 2018

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By CAM Staff

ast and stable, with a needle nose that reminded people of a mosquito buzzing over southern waters, the world’s first bass boat was the 1948 brainchild of Shreveport, Louisiana’s Holmes Thurmond. That first Skeeter boat, made of molded marine plywood, caught on quickly with local anglers. It launched the brand

that today, 70 years later, is still renowned for building innovative boats designed specifically for the needs of recreational anglers. Cary Crutchfield, co-publisher of Coastal Angler Magazine’s North Central Florida edition, owns one of those early Skeeter boats. When he bought his first Skeeter in the 1960s, the company was already leading the way in what became an industry-wide transition to fiberglass. His was a 15-foot model with stick steering up front that was powered by a 35hp outboard. “It’s real easy to fish from, and it’s just a neat 6

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looking boat,” Crutchfield said of those early flat-bottomed Skeeters. “It’s narrow, and the way the sides turn up to the cockpit makes it very stable to move around in.” With today’s bass boats, a 250hp Yamaha seems like a necessity to even compete on the tournament circuits. Back then, a Skeeter with a 35hp was capable of reaching speeds in excess of 30 mph. It was a fishing boat superior to any that came before it. The Super Skeeter arose as the boat for serious anglers fishing the large, newly constructed man-made reservoirs that have since fueled the sport. Crutchfield sold his 15-footer in the 1980s and almost immediately began kicking himself. He missed the narrow profile and shallow draft, along with kind of stability that allows him to stand comfortably and pole into very tight places. It wasn’t long before he ran into another old Skeeter he had to have, this one a 14-footer, originally powered by a 25hp outboard that has since been replaced by a 1950s model 12hp. Even with that old motor, it still gets around pretty quickly, and Crutchfield said it’s still the perfect small fishing boat where he launches on the Suwannee River. With the spirit of innovation that gave rise to that first bass boat and an open ear to the new requirements of early bass tournaments, Skeeter grew and evolved with the sport. The Skeeter Hawk did away with the characteristic pointed bow, which allowed for a smoother ride and a raised casting platform. In the 1970s, after moving into its current plant in Kilgore, Texas, Skeeter rolled the dice and introduced the legendary Wrangler to the bass fishing world. Rated for 150hp with a V-bottom, it was an odd and new style that absolutely dominated the competition in performance. It became the template that led to the high-performance fishing machines that roar

around our reservoirs today. In 2018, Skeeter Performance Fishing Boats is celebrating its 70th year of providing anglers with exceptional fishing boats. With modern technology and computer design capabilities, it has continued to lead the industry with innovations such as the first production composite bass boat, the ZX202, in the mid-1990s. The venerable ZX series, in all its versions, has been a staple in the bass tournament world for more then three decades. But listening to the needs of the fishermen who are its customers, Skeeter branched out to produce deep-v boats for walleye tournament anglers on the big lakes of the north, as well as bay boats for saltwater anglers. Skeeter’s acquisition by Yamaha in 1996 brought new resources to the table and advances followed. In 2001, Skeeter again set a new standard for the industry with its Torque Transfer Transom and Stringer System, which provides lift to the entire keel, while eliminating stress on the on the transom, deck, hull and sides. Through all the advancements, Skeeter boats bear little resemblance to Thurmond’s first bass boat. But the same concept, to design perfect

fishing boats for fishermen, is evident throughout Skeeter’s product line. Whether it’s on southern reservoirs, the big northern lakes or the bays and backwaters of the Gulf of Mexico, Skeeter has a nimble, fast and extremely fishable boat perfect for the kind of fishing you do.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1/17/18 5:06 PM

IT’S MORE THAN JUST A BOAT. IT’S A LIFESTYLE.

STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE: Center console command center Abundant bow & floor storage Lowrance® Elite 9 Ti touch 40 gallon rear livewell/baitwell Deluxe lean post w/vertical rod holders 14 gallon console baitwell New upholstery styling ...and much more!

ENGINEERED TO BE THE ULTIMATE BAY BOAT Ultimate in the way you get to the fish, with a durability that is unsurpassed. Engineering this one was a dream come true. We put everything you need right at your fingertips to provide you with a true fishing machine. For additional information please visit SkeeterBoats.com/SX240.

$42,995* 2O18 SX21O WITH

YAMAHA VF15OXA

ACTUAL SALES PRICE DETERMINED BY DEALER. PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE FREIGHT, DEALER PREP & T.T.L.

NATIONALLY ADVERTISED PRICE BEFORE REBATE

43,495

MANUFACTURER’S SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE

52,060

STANDARD FEATURES INCLUDE: White Pro Series 2 Power-Pole® Abundant bow & floor storage Center console command center 25 gallon rear livewell/baitwell Leaning post with vertical rod holders 14 gallon console baitwell ...and much more! 8” setback plate

THE BEST RIDE AT THE BEST VALUE It’s true you really can have it all without spending it all. The SX210 is just the right fit for any situation. Family fun and weekend getaways make this boat a hero. For additional information please visit SkeeterBoats.com/SX210.

UP TO

INSTANT REBATE

LIMITED TIME OFFER INSTANT REBATE APPLIED AT TIME OF FINAL SALE BY DEALER.

VALID JANUARY 1-MARCH 31, 2018

LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty 10 Year Limited Transferable Structural Warranty 3 Year Limited Component Warranty

Visit SkeeterBoats.com to locate your nearest Skeeter Dealer. Nationally Advertised Price; actual sales price determined by dealer. Price does not include freight, dealer prep, and T.T.L.. uManufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Prices may vary due to supply, location, freight etc. Actual prices are set by the dealer. *Terms and Conditions: Nationally Advertised Price for 2018 SX210 with $1500 Rebate. Consumer benefit for purchasing a new (unused, not previously warranty registered) eligible MY 2018 and prior boat from 1/1/18- 3/31/18 is an instant rebate applied at time of final sale by dealer, at no extra cost to consumer. Actual rebate amount is determined by model selected. NO BENEFIT SUBSTITUTIONS. Promotion is only applicable from authorized participating Skeeter dealers in the U.S.A. and Canada sold to purchasing consumers residing in the U.S.A. and Canada. Promotion is limited to available stock in dealer inventory that is sold, PDI completed, delivered and warranty registered in accordance with Skeeter’s promotion and warranty registration req uirements during applicable dates. No model substitutions, benefit substitutions, extensions or rain checks will be allowed. Not redeemable for cash. Boats sold or provided for commercial, camp, resort, rental, promotional/ demo, government agency, competition, tournament or sponsorship use are not eligible. This promotion cannot be used in conjunction with any other Skeeter offer or discounts. Some exceptions may apply. See authorized, participating Skeeter dealer for complete details. Skeeter reserves the right to change or cancel this promotion at any time. Other restrictions and conditions apply. ©2018 Skeeter Products, Inc. All rights reserved. This document contains many of Skeeter’s valuable trademarks. It may also contain trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only, and are not intended to be an endorsement. Remember to observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and ride. Dress properly with a USCG approved flotation device and protective gear. +

LOOK FOR US AT THE MIAMI INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW AT BOOTH A112 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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Rods & Reels

G. LOOMIS/SHIMANO CONQUEST

PENN CONFLICT II

PENN redesigned its smooth and durable Conflict reel to bring anglers the Conflict II, the most lightweight PENN reel ever made. It is a superior reel, perfectly suited to inshore applications. True to its origins, the Conflict II features stealthy cosmetics and a smooth and reliable HT-100 carbon fiber drag system. The RR30 Rigid Resin body and rotor are extremely lightweight and durable, and with the redesign, the Conflict II is 20 percent lighter than the first-generation Conflict. Internally, the Conflict II is updated with PENN’s CNC Gear Technology and high quality stainless steel ball bearings, making it the ultimate PENN inshore reel. With the Superline Spool, no backing is needed because of the rubber gasket that keeps superlines from slipping. Other key features include: Slow Oscillation – Leveline System, 7+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system and line capacity rings.

WWW.PENNFISHING.COM

ST. CROIX LEGEND TOURNAMENT INSHORE

What do you get when you mix proven G. Loomis rod design with Shimano technology? You get Conquest, a line of 12 awesome bass rods, purposebuilt for different conditions and techniques. The new Conquest series includes eight casting rods with G. Loomis’ original “Mag Bass” fast-action tapers and four “Spin/Jig” fast-action spinning rods. With Shimano’s Spiral X and Hi-Power X processes, the blanks are rolled to exact G. Loomis specifications before being handfinished in G. Loomis’ Woodland, Wash. facility. With this partnership, engineers believe they have produced the most technologically advanced rods on the water. They are lightweight and offer anglers a whole new set of performance standards. Some of the benefits anglers will experience are: more accurate casts, increased fighting power, solid leverage for hook sets and reduced rod twist for rod control and durability. The casting rods are fitted with G. Loomis’ “skeleton” reel seats on full-cork contoured grips. The spinning rods feature split grips and Shimano’s CI4 reel seats. Blank-through-handle design on both versions adds sensitivity, as do the Fuji Torzite guides and a durable SIC Titanium tip guide. Whether you’re pitching jigs in thick cover or prospecting open water for smallies, high-performance Conquest rods will help you catch more bass.

WWW.GLOOMIS.COM

PENN INTERNATIONAL VI

Legend Tournament Inshore rods are the blending of the inimitable sensitivity, power and durability of St Croix’s Legend Tournament Bass and Walleye series with components and technology suited for saltwater environments. With good looks and a high-performance feel, the Legend Tournament Inshore was awarded Best Saltwater rod at ICAST 2017. The eye-catching “Belize Blue” blanks are crafted of SCIV graphite using Integrated Poly Curve tooling technology and engineered to eliminate all transitional points, which fosters smooth action, increased strength and sensitivity. They are surprisingly lightweight, yet durable, and are equipped with a Fuji TVS blank touch reel seat on spinning rods and PTS blank-touch reel seat with builtin hoods on casting models. These new Fuji seats are designed to stand-up to the pressure of hard-fighting inshore species. Kigan Master Hand Zero Tangle guides and a Kigan titanium hook keeper provide 100 percent corrosion protection.

After nearly 15 years, the PENN International big game reel will get a makeover. The reel that has become legendary for fulfilling angler dreams offshore has been refined and modernized to once again redefine big game reels. The PENN International VI series features many upgrades including a weight reduction on key sizes, a new silent anti-reverse and a more refined/ adjustable Dura-Drag system. The new series features 28 models in both gold and silver, single speed and two-speed, wide and narrow. Made in the U.S.A. of domestic and imported components at the historic PENN Fishing Tackle Manufacturing Company building in Philadelphia, the International VI will give anglers the edge in chasing that trophy of a lifetime. Key features include: Machined and anodized aluminum body and side plates, stainless steel main and pinion gears, Quick-Shift II two-speed system, sealed DuraDrag system, Versa-Strike Adjustable Strike stop, double-dog ratchet anti-reverse and line capacity rings.

STCROIXRODS.COM

WWW.PENNFISHING.COM

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Product Reviews

TSUNAMI ARMR

MUD HOLE TURN KEY KITS Avid anglers who want to take their fishing to the next level owe it to themselves to check out Mud Hole Custom Tackle’s rod building kits. They include everything needed for anglers to construct their own high-end custom fishing rods. Mud Hole is offering an amazing value on its Inshore Turnkey Kit, which includes all the tools and materials to build a custom inshore rod perfect for trout and redfish. The kit features the extremely popular and versatile MHX SJ842 rod blank. This 7’0” medium-light power rod features a fast action for throwing soft plastics and topwater lures at wary flats fish. Along with the blank, the kit comes with a matched guide set, handle kit and everything from the CRB wrapper, a CRB rod dryer and ProPaste and ProKote Rod Finish and all the tools needed to craft your own custom rod. Visit www.mudhole.com and check out all our Turn Key Kit options or simply Google: Mud Hole Turnkey.

Super smooth and well built, the Tsunami ARMR is lightweight, high-performance spinning reel available in 3000/4000 and 5000/6000 sizes. The Tsunami ARMR has a sleek design and features

high-end components to provide smooth and durable operation for fighting and casting. The lightweight, solid aluminum body combined with hybrid, corrosion resistant carbon infused side plates and rotor and a double anodized ported aluminum spool are what keep this reel feather light in the hand all day long. Seven high-precision, shielded stainless steel ball bearings allow full support to all free-moving parts during the toughest fight or retrieve after retrieve. The look and feel of the Tsunami ARMR reel, enhanced by a light, durable EVA handle knob and braid-ready spool is what separates these high-performance reels from the competition.

WWW.BIMINIBAYOUTFITTERS.COM

WWW.MUDHOLE.COM

SHIMANO SUSTAIN HOOKER ELECTRIC REELS Hooker Electric continues to raise the bar with the fastest, lightest and best looking electric reels on the market, along with second-to-none customer service. The top seller in 2017 was their 80 motor that features level wind and auto stop, mounted on the Shimano Tiagra 80WA. The auto stop feature allows the angler to set the reel to stop winding at any interval, including just before your terminal tackle reaches the rod tip. With both 12- and 24-volt functionality, there is no need for a converter box. Its full variable speed allows line retrieval at up to 500 feet per minute, which makes checking your bait from 1,800 feet a breeze. It also includes bluetooth connectivity, allowing the angler to control the reel through Hooker Electric’s iPhone app, ReelTime. If you’re feeling sporty, the reel can also be used manually, so you can feel the fight. New for 2018, Hooker Electric now offers custom colors in silver, black, blue and even pink. For more information, go to www.hookerelectric.com or give them a call at 954-530-6908.

WWW.HOOKERELECTRIC.COM

T h e Best New Saltwater Reel winner at ICAST 2017, Shimano’s Sustain might just be the best new spinning reel for freshwater or salt. The Sustain series comes in four sizes suitable for everything from finesse baits for bass, to stripers and even small billfish. In all sizes, the reel’s Hagane aluminum body construction gives it a solid feel, and the Shimano Magnumlite low inertia rotor provides sensitive, light rotation and a light start up, which allows anglers to instantly begin the retrieve. Shimano’s Hagane gear has already made waves in the industry for its incredibly smooth operation. The exclusive technology used to engineer the cold forged aluminum drive also makes it extremely strong and durable. The X-Protect feature, which should be of particular interest to saltwater anglers but is relevant in any wet fishing conditions, is a threelipped rubber seal system that offers exceptional water resistance. With Cross Carbon Drag, eight shielded anti-rust ball bearings, and a one-way roller bearing to stop handle backplay, Shimano went in whole hog to produce these award-winning reels. Whether you fish freshwater or salt, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better spinning reel.

FISH.SHIMANO.COM

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MOTOR UPGRADES ARE AVAILABLE

Marine Wintertime Blowout $209* mon

G2968 Key Largo 160cc

G2661 Key Largo 1800 cc

40 HP Motor

90 HP Motor

WAS $23,849 NOW $15,999

WAS $37,749 NOW $25,999

$194* mon

90 HP Motor

G3149 Caravelle 16EBo 70 HP Motor

WAS $30,746 NOW $19,799

$299* mon thly

thly

G2849 Key Largo 2000

G2646 Key Largo 210LX

WAS $50,787 NOW $35,990

WAS $59,266 NOW $36,990

150 HP Motor

140 HP Motor

WAS $35,833 NOW $23,999

thly

$279* mon

thly

G3068 Caravelle 19EBo

$164* mon

thly

$377* mon

$306* mon

$368* mon

thly

G3010 Key Largo 220BAY

G3054 Razon 238PF

140 HP Motor

200 HP Motor

WAS $61,517 NOW $39,599

WAS $78,605 NOW $49,599

thly

G3081 Razor 247UR 200 HP Motor

WAS $71,288 NOW $48,499

www.factorydirectmarine.com *payments calculated at 180 months for well qualified buyers with 20% down. Please note: Prices do not include freight, dealer make ready, and rigging. Pictures may not reflect actual unit and/or available inventory. Price and payment do not include sales tax or fees. Not responsible for typographical errors.

Ridgeland, SC, 401 Sycamore Drive, 844-280-9753 | Panama City, FL, 8308 Panama City Beach Pkwy, 844-278-2510 Charlotte, NC | 9204 N Lakebrook Road | 980-267-5597 | Rockwood,TN, 2475 Westel Road, 844-271-9582 Hamburg, PA, 20 Industrial Drive , 844-247-1678 | West Coxsackie, NY, 12634 Route 9 West, 844-276-8649

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All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. Â© AkzoNobel 2017.

$136* mon

For over a century, a league of canned crusaders have been fighting to keep boats safe from barnacles, slime, algae and other aquatic evils that rob your boat of its true performance. With advanced know-how and unique capabilities, each antifouling is tailored to different conditions, and has the power to defeat fouling in all its forms. Micron® Extra leads the charge in all waters. Using its signature dual-protection with boosting Biolux® technology, it provides high-quality, multi-season protection that survives hauling and relaunch without the need for repainting. For super-powered antifouling protection and proven performance, choose Interlux®.

All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2017.

The hero your boat deserves!

8953/1217

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1/17/18 5:06 PM

Drifting For

Nighttime Yellowfin On Gulf Floaters

By Nick Carter

ellowfin tuna are some of the most sought after gamefish in the world. They are the ahi tuna on the menus at restaurants and sushi bars, and in the water they have the speed and power to wear down anglers and break gear. The signature “spiral” that tuna commence in the waning moments of a fight is responsible for untold numbers of broken lines and broken hearts. After battling 30 mph runs for 20 minutes or more, the weary angler, captain and crew face one final test, a team effort to survive the spiral and get the fish on deck. These tense moments, when a big yellowfin turns sideways and begins to circle, using its body’s mass as leverage, are the most critical minutes of the fight. If the line even touches the boat, it will snap, and the circling fish provides many opportunities for this to happen. These moments are the reason Randy King, of Paparda Rey Fishing Charters out of Galveston, Texas, says the main limitation on their catch is the ability of the angler. The captain, Kenneth Doxey, is solid. He has been running their 54-foot Bertram and their 35-foot Cabo for more than a decade. He was the 2016 recipient

of the Houston Big Game Fishing Club’s Jim Peachey Award. The crew is also top-notch, which leaves the angler as the potential weak link. The good news is there will likely be multiple opportunities on one of their overnight trips to deep-water oil platforms off Texas. King said a great trip with six anglers would yield a dozen yellowfin tuna in the 40- to 120-pound range, and that doesn’t include the shots anglers will have at mahi-mahi, wahoo, marlin and blackfin tuna. Out of Galveston, it’s 100 miles or more into the Gulf of Mexico to reach the enormous floating gas and oil structures off the edge of the Continental Shelf. These deep-water facilities, known as “floaters,” create their own food chain, consolidating bait and gamefish from miles around. On a typical 36- or 48-hour trip, don’t plan on sleeping much. The floaters are brightly lit at night, which is when the tuna fishing is best. After identifying fish on the sonar, chumming and drift fishing with 30-pound-class tackle is usually the most productive method for yellowfin. “Sometimes the tuna will start breaching,” said King. “They’ll jump in the air like king mackerel.” It’s for these occasions, when fish are on the surface, that big spinning rigs armed with poppers are

kept on deck. Drifting and pulling poppers while chugging back up-current to start a new drift goes on all night long. At dawn, the bait rods come in, and it’s time to start trolling. The primary daylight targets are marlin, sailfish, wahoo and dolphin. Between night and day, it equates to a whole lot of big fish packed into a weekend at sea. It’s a grand adventure, and a meat trip of epic proportions in the Gulf of Mexico. Check out Paparda Rey at www.offshorebiggame.com. Information on the Houston Big Game Fishing Club can be found at www.hbgfc.com.

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By Capt. Larry Conley

f you’re new to fishing out of the Fort Myers, Fla. area, it can be very technical. It can also be very good. Knowing water depths for a certain fish can help you. Grouper typically reside in the 70- to 120-foot depths, and it changes with the water temps and the time of year. Red snapper will be in depths of 140 feet or more. Lane snapper are great table fare and can be found in 40 to 50 feet or deeper. This year we’ve caught more and bigger lanes than I have seen in eight years. Look for hard bottom areas; learn to use your sonar. If it works as you’re running it helps a lot. Watch your screen continuously as you get past 40 feet of water. I’m not going give out a bunch of numbers, but if you watch the sonar you’re going to find a lot of lane snapper in 45 to 65

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feet of water. As you’re running out, watch for rocky ledges, as they will hold mangrove snapper, gag grouper and white grunts. If I spot a new area as I’m running, I’ll mark it on the GPS and label it “RO.” I’ll know it as a run over. If it looks really good, like a bunch of lanes, I sometimes label it “WOW.” That way I know to look for lanes on a future trip. As I get in 40 feet or so, I’ll watch the radar and sonar more than out in front of the boat, and that’s how I’ve found many new spots. I might not fish them for months out, and I’ll delete the ones that don’t produce. As for bait, squid, threadfin and herring are the best and cheapest. Live shrimp work, but it’s one bite and the shrimp is gone, which adds up. Chum with cut threadfin. Cut them small, as you don’t want to fill the fish up. Just give them a taste to get them interested. A few of the best spots I’ve found are “potholes.” I found them by going slowly from one spot to another, watching the bottom machine. In 74 feet of water, I saw the bottom drop just 2 feet and then come back up after 20 yards to form a pothole. I saw what looked like one fish. One more red grouper was more than I had at the time, so I anchored. It took a few minutes, but the bottom came alive and we caught 15 keeper red grouper! That pothole was one of the best places I ever found. So, I continued looking for places that seemed the same and found about a dozen of these potholes. I keep records of the keepers for each spot on the GPS, and I can’t tell you enough how important those records are. When it gets tough, go to the high-numbered spots. Capt. Larry Conley and Reel-Ality Sportfishing offers inshore, offshore, and deep-sea fishing out of Fort Myers. The Reel-Ality offers various trips as well as tournament charters and is licensed to carry up to 6 passengers. Call 239-980-3880, visit www.reelalitysportfishing.com/ contact.html, and check them out on Facebook.

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By Capt. Ryan Drygas

n early morning departure from Key West Harbor puts the motor vessel Reel Time, a 45-foot Sea Hunter, right in the middle of 8- to 10-foot seas. The owner of the boat has been running sea trials for the last few days and has been comfortable running the boat throughout the trip, but has not yet handled seas of this magnitude. The owner made a decision to pass the helm to Paul Myrtetus, a member of the Sea Hunter team, and told him to start heading north. Myrtetus has been a part of several sea trials and is comfortable running

vessels in all types of conditions. After setting his course, Myrtetus began picking up speed and cutting through the swells. Usually, Myrtetus would be standing at the helm with his back resting on the edge of the seat. However, with the design and hydraulic integration of the Llebroc helm chair, he was more than comfortable running the course while remaining seated. In fact, Paul turned around to see the rest of the crew sitting down, as well. Anyone familiar with running in rough seas will tell you it was an unusual sight. Rough seas make for a rough ride, and the lack of a quality seat can cause back injuries quite easily from bottoming out in a chair. The 45foot Sea Hunter was fitted with Llebroc chairs, and the reasoning is quite obvious. Not only was everyone sitting down while running through 8- to 10-foot seas, they were laughing together, joking and enjoying watching wave after wave crashing over the decks and splashing against the window. After four days and 800 miles on the water, the sea trial was complete. Not only was the owner more than satisfied with his new boat, he was also injury free and has another sea story under his belt. Time after time, Llebroc has stood the test and passed with flying colors. Myrtetus is convinced Llebroc is the industry leader in seating and has helped return clients re-outfit their boats to Llebroc chairs. As a former member of the Coast Guard, I can personally recall stories of running in rough seas and bottoming out in helm chairs. The static and dynamic forces that affect the boat and the people inside are tremendous. Not only can they damage your vessel, but they can also have a lasting effect on your body. The equipment with which you outfit your boat determines the performance of your vessel as well as the enjoyment of your voyage. When looking for a comfortable ride, choose comfort, choose durability, choose Llebroc.

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trolling along the beaches of Florida, a wanderer is apt to notice cream-colored shells piled along the waterline. They might spot shades of brown, green, turquoise or even blue seaglass scattered along the sand. It takes a particularly keen eye, however, to spot an even more elusive prize of the Florida beachcomber: a fossilized shark tooth. Varying in size from a few millimeters long to the length of the palm of your hand, shark teeth can be found along Florida’s coasts, in freshwater riverbeds, and on sandy beaches dotting the Intracoastal waterways throughout the state. In a lifetime, the average shark will shed a few thousand teeth. When close to shore, a freshly-lost tooth might be carried right to the beach by moving water currents or storm surges. Locally, brighter white or cream hued shark teeth are usually found near West Palm Beach, on the public beaches of Palm Beach Island or along Singer Island. Most teeth, however, sink to the ocean floor or riverbed and settle

among the sediment. It is due to the sediment that fossilized shark teeth appear in an array of colors, from jet black to dark grey, mottled brown and lighter toffee tones, and even some shades of splotched red and pink. Deep underneath the water, surges will tumble the tooth into the sand, burying it alongside fragments of seashells and coral. Over time, minerals like calcite and silica make their way into porous spaces of the teeth. The covering of sand and sediment protects shark teeth from abrasion, and helps prevent decay due to oxygen and bacterial exposure. Darker teeth are rare along Florida’s lower east coast, but can be spotted by a patient observer on beaches along Juno and Jupiter, even spanning farther north into Martin County. It takes thousands of years for a shark tooth to truly become fossilized, which makes them a valuable find for collectors and beach-goers. Although spotting shark teeth along local beaches takes a practiced eye, fossils are more commonly found on Florida’s west coast, particularly around Venice Beach. Pura Vida Divers will be on the hunt for these elusive beach treasures, and invites you to join in the fun! February is Shark Month at Pura Vida, and they will have a month filled with related activities, educational sessions and travel opportunities. On Sunday, Feb. 11, Pura Vida Divers will join Jupiter Dive Center for a Lemon Shark Dive to observe the aggregations that gather each year in our local waters. Spaces are limited on the two-tank dive, so call us at 561-840-8750 to sign up. Join Pura Vida Divers on Friday, Feb. 16 for a Free Social Night, featuring guest speaker Dr. Kajiura, a Florida Atlantic University professor and researcher for their “Shark Lab.” Dr. Kajiura will share his research regarding shark migrations off Florida’s east coast, and the evening will feature complimentary potluck-style snacks, wine and beer. Later in the month, sign up for a Fossil-Finding Expedition, and join Pura Vida as it explores Florida, learning how to find and identify fossilized shark teeth. To register for any of the upcoming events, contact Pura Vida Divers at Info.PVD@PuraVidaDivers.com or 561-840-8750. See all of Pura Vida Divers’ upcoming activities at www.PuraVidaDivers.com.

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nfortunately, the fishing community recently lost one of its’ own. Tragically, Nik Kaylor lost his life after he was ejected from a bass boat on the first day of an FLW tournament in extremely cold and rough conditions on Lake Okeechobee. Within hours of the announcement that the boat he was on didn’t make it back to the weigh station as scheduled, word of the accident quickly spread across social media. With rough conditions persisting over the next several days, numerous folks volunteered their time, boats and their own lives searching the Big O for six days in hopes that he would be found alive. Sadly, Nik did not survive, but his body was recovered and returned to his family, providing them with some sense of closure. In the wake of this unimaginable accident, I’d like to ask that tournament directors across the fishing world consider making the use of EPIRBs or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons a requirement on all participating boats and PLBs or Personal Locator Beacons mandatory for all anglers. Considering the fact that tournament anglers already spend lots of money to enter and participate in these events, it seems that another $400 for an EPIRB or $250 for a PLB are small prices to pay to insure that this kind of tragedy doesn’t affect another angler’s loved ones. A GoFundMe account has been set up to help Nik’s wife Kelly and their daughter Caralee deal with this difficult time. If you can, please donate by visiting www.gofundme.com/nik-kayler.

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RIVA Motorsports U

nder the same family ownership since 1979, RIVA Motorsports and Marine has grown from a mom and pop shop to a two story, five building Powersports superstore with over 100 employees. After moving from New Jersey, Steve and Lynn Bamdas opened a small business in Pompano Beach, Florida. Showing their passion for motorsports they named it Lambretta South after the Lambretta scooter line. In 1983, Lambretta South picked up the venerable Yamaha Riva scooter line and adopted the name RIVA World. It didn't take long to run out of space with so many lines of scooters and karts. It became clear that RIVA World needed a bigger facility. A large parcel of land was available just blocks down the road. The family knew this was their passion, so they took the leap and construction began. The new, larger showroom, parts department and service center gave RIVA the room they needed to become one of South Florida’s top dealers. In 1987, soon after moving into their new and larger facility, Yamaha approached RIVA World with an exciting proposition to sell WaveRunners. It was a challenge to introduce a sit down personal watercraft in a stand up dominated market, but before long, RIVA World found a way to make both the WaveRunner 500 and WaveJammer a huge success. In short order, RIVA became the top WaveRunner dealership. In 1997, Yamaha designated RIVA as its official Factory Race Team. Team managers quickly began building a super team that went on to capture a record number of US National and World Championship titles, becoming the winningest team in personal watercraft racing history. In the Pro Runabout 1200 class, team rider Chris MacClugage set an unprecedented record by winning 10 out of 11 rounds on the US National Tour. As the business grew so did the need for space. Not wanting to stray too far from home, RIVA broke ground on a new superstore just a few blocks further down the street. Soon after the grand opening, RIVA took on Honda motorcycles and SeaDoo personal watercraft. Never one to back down, the Bamdas family acquired several more

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RIVA Motorsports 3761 North Dixie Highway Pompano Beach, FL 33064 954-785-4820 www. RIVAsuperstore.com

Powersport lines in 2007 and expanded its facility to 40,000 square feet, making it the Ultimate Motorsports Superstore. Today, RIVA is recognized both locally and internationally as the world’s largest personal watercraft dealer, the premier source for personal watercraft performance parts and accessories, and

South Florida’s largest motorsports dealer. To this day, RIVA is still family owned and operated, providing Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade customers with sales of both new and used street bikes, dirt bikes, scooters, personal watercraft, ATVs, side-by-sides, jet boats, and generators while providing a complete parts department and unrivaled customer service. RIVA features top quality brands like Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, SeaDoo, Can-Am, KTM, and Suzuki. Visit RIVA's incredible superstore in Pompano Beach, on the corner of Sample Road and Dixie Highway and make sure to tell them that Coastal Angler sent you.

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Are boat insurance premiums leaving you Are boat insurance with a sinking feeling? premiums leaving you Call Rick Gibbs, P.A. for a quote. Although we insure vessels of all sizes — we have a “sweet with a sinking feeling? spot” for smaller boats ranging in size from Call Rickwith Gibbs, P.A.A-rated for a quote. Althoughfrom we 15'-26' many companies insureto vessels of all sizes — we have a “sweet which choose. spot” for smaller boats ranging in size from 15’-26’ with many A-rated companies from which to choose.

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FEBRUARY 2018

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SPORT

fISHING

t's an interesting month for sportfishing in Fort Lauderdale. Kite fishing is a great option for big game hunters. Sailfish are biting strong and our world famous shark fishing season is just getting rolling. Every year, from February through May, we have an incredibly large big game shark migration down our coast. Hammerheads, mako sharks, tiger sharks, bull sharks and the very exotic big-eye thresher shark (the one with the crazy long tail and huge eye) all make their way up the gulfstream current, just 2 miles offshore of Fort Lauderdale. We take out a lot of Big Game charters this month to hook into these sharks and billfish that range anywhere from 6-10 feet long and up to 400 pounds. There are some BIG critters swimming out there offshore this month. A ways further

DRIFT F

fISHING

ebruary is the start of our kingfish season in Fort Lauderdale. A lot of kingfish start filling in onto the second and third reef, in 40-100 feet of water. A lot of small, just over keeper size kingfish will be caught this month. Kingfish are making their way northward up the coast, traveling in pretty large schools for protection and eating everything they come across. I catch a lot of kingfish right on or very close to the bottom this time of year. Fish a smaller bait, like a ballyhoo plug or small whole ballyhoo or sardine. Jigs work very well on these kingfish too. Go with smaller 1/2-1 ounce jigs, baited with a streamlined cut-bait strip for scent. Jigging will also get a better tuna bite, and there are a lot of small to medium sized blackfin tunas around this month. We carry a lot of glass minnows on our boat, so when we find the tunas busting on the surface, we can get them chummed up right next to and all around the boat. Mahi mahi also come in on the reef sporadically. A few here and few there may swim in on us while

forecastS out, fishing 15-20 miles offshore, you have a better than fair chance at catching swordfish and blue marlin in February. This is a month for big fish. Wahoo are also a big hit this month. Already in January, we've had a great wahoo bite and it should continue on throughout this entire month. Wahoo, ranging from the average 15 pounder up to monster 40-50 pounders bite almost every day. They are very sensitive to the tide and moon, with the best bite occurring each day on the falling tide and the best few days of wahoo fishing right around the full moon. Trolling artificial lures at faster speeds or slow trolling live baits like bonitos or speedos are the best techniques to catch wahoo. Wreck fishing is also a great way to get good action this time of year. Amberjacks, almaco jacks, groupers, cobia, barracuda and just about anything else can be caught around the wrecks in

Nice wahoo caught by these happy anglers fishing with New Lattitude Sportfishing.

150-350 feet of water. They are beginning to show up and will continue to bite better and better later into the month and beyond. If you want some quick action on some big fish, wreck fishing with live baits is the ticket. We're getting into our best time of the

Gene with a couple nice snappers caught drift fishing aboard the Catch My Drift.

drifting the reefs and are easily caught by quickly pitching them a bait. Dolphin are lit up in the water and you can see them really

Capt. Brett Magers New Lattitude Sportfishing (954) 707-2147 www.newlattitude.com

Night fishing is good in February too. Mangrove snapper bite really good this time of year and some of them are really nice in size too. We catch them especially good anchoring around the 40-60 foot wrecks. The yellowtail snapper we catch in the winter are smaller than the rest of the year and they move in really shallow this season, into 20-30 feet of water. As mangrove snapper tend to bite better later in the evening and yellowtails bite best just after dusk, we start off on our first spots in shallow and move out to the deeper wrecks later into the trip. Mutton snapper are also around and biting pretty decent most nights. A ballyhoo plug on the bottom is still the undefeated, heavyweight champion of catching muttons. Shallow water groupers are still out of season, so unfortunately have to be released. An oddball cobia is also a possibility anytime you're drifting or anchoring. Good luck fishing this month. I'll sea ya on the water! well when they swim up on you. They are iridescent turquoise in color and they almost glow. You can't miss them.

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year to fish in Fort Lauderdale, so come on out and Let's Go Fishing! Tight lines and good fishing.

FEBRUARY 2018

Capt. Paul Roydhouse Fishing Headquarters www.FishHeadquarters.com

https://www.facebook.com/FishingHQ

(754) 214-7863

FORT LAUDERDALE AREA 5

1/16/18 2:36 PM

Python

By CAPT. NEAL STARK

Predicament S

outh Florida has become home to many invasive and non native species over the years and nowhere is it more evident than in the Florida Everglades. One species, the Burmese python has thrived in the environment provided by the Everglades and is wreaking havoc on the ecosystem. Once very popular as pets, these snakes made their way into Everglades National Park after being released into the wild by their owners when they became too large to keep. Some actually escaped their confines after the destruction of Hurricane Andrew. These pythons have become an apex predator and kill and eat just about anything, including deer and alligators. They also pose a threat to humans and are robbing native species of their natural food sources. In April of 2017, the South Florida Water Management District implemented a pilot program in Miami Dade county to help eliminate these snakes. In just under two months, 158 snakes were captured and killed. In June of 2017, the program was expanded to Broward and Collier counties and as of this writing, nearly 800 snakes have been eliminated. Recently, I had the opportunity to join my friend Barry Offenburger on a snake hunt. Barry started hunting pythons as a volunteer for Everglades National Park in 2011 and is now one of the 25 professional hunters selected from 1000 applicants to participate in the South Florida Water Management Districtâ€™s Python Elimination Program. Our trip began with a thirty mile drive, deep into the Everglades. As we drove, I noticed

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what I would call normal wildlife sightings. There were alligators, raccoons, rabbits, squirrels, birds and other native species. After a while, we came to a gate that Barry had to unlock for us to gain access into the managed area where we planned to hunt. Now on dirt trails, we were getting deeper and deeper into the wilderness when Barry told me to keep my eyes open as we were getting close to an area where the pythons have made their home. Suddenly, I realized that I was seeing fewer native animals and birds. We continued heading down the trail where we came across another vehicle. Itâ€™s the Miccosukee Police, dressed in hunting attire. After checking us out, they tell us that they are also hunting the invasive species. We continued on and came across another professional hunter who had already bagged an eight foot python. He has it in a snake bag which is basically a giant pillow case that is tied at the top and helps to keep the snake calm during transport. A short time later, Barry spots one. Though some hunters choose to kill on sight, he takes a different approach. First, he evaluated the area and planned how to catch the snake safely and humanely. He strikes forward like a snake would and grabs the pythonâ€™s head to gain control and prevent it from biting him. It's a nice 8 footer. As we moved on, I had many false sightings. You start to question what you're seeing as they blend in so well, even to the trained eye. I was looking in dry foliage, swamps, and trees. The eye strain was unreal. Suddenly, I did a double take and there it was! A giant snake that is so big it looks like a downed tree. I called out my spotting and Barry heads over.

1/16/18 2:36 PM

species including fish, plants and other reptiles present in the Everglades, the elimination of the Burmese python should be at the top of the list as they multiply very quickly and have no natural predators to control their increasing numbers. How long before these creatures take over and start to really impact us here closer to home? To learn more about the SFWMD’s Python Elimination Program, go to www.sfwmd.gov/our-work/python-program.

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As he approaches, I draw my "Judge", a handgun that holds six 410 shotgun shells. It makes a great snake gun because of the pattern it creates. Barry yells out "don't shoot it!". I tell him it's a giant. He identifies where the head is and grabs it. As the snake unfolds, I grab it too and it was on! It was a twelve foot Python and it was as thick as a man's leg. It was like wrestling a large man as it pulled and thrusted its body trying to escape. It took everything we had to get control of this almost 200 pound snake, but we managed to get it in the bag! Though there are numerous other non native and invasive

FORT LAUDERDALE AREA 7

1/16/18 2:36 PM

forecastS

KAYAK

fISHING

ith the many cold fronts coming through South Florida this time of year, kayak anglers have to pick and choose their fishing days wisely when going offshore. However, if you can get out there, on the right day, you’re in for a treat. In February, sailfish start making their way through Pompano Beach in pods of hundreds. Finding the right depth is key when trying to find these pods, thus hoping for multiple hook ups in the right areas. For me, the prime depth for targeting sailfish is a range from 60 to 200 feet. Always look for that color change where the blue water meets the green water and fish along that line. When targeting these species, my rig is fairly simple and the key for me is being stealthy. Make sure your reel holds at least 300 yards of line. I like to tie line directly to

EXOTIC A

fISHING

s we welcome the new year, it's followed by South Florida's second decent cold front. The early weather dropped the temperatures to forty degrees in Miami, Florida and less in parts of the state further north. Tallahassee had reports of snow and some cities a bit south like Sarasota, had reports as well. How will it affect the fishing, especially for the tropical exotics in freshwater and post Hurricane Irma? The effects of Hurricane Irma have resulted in a few unusual things since late last year. I've seen greater numbers of snook and tarpon pushed deeper into our freshwater canal systems. Especially in Snapper Creek which runs much further away from Biscayne Bay than Black or Snake Creek. A small mangrove snapper was sighted in a freshwater canal months after the hurricane, over twenty-five miles inland. It was swimming with spotted tilapias, peacocks and various bait fish and was obviously lost.

8 FORT LAUDERDALE AREA

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Joe Hector and Nathan Special with a late afternoon catch and release.

the leader or use a very small, but strong swivel. I’ll use 5 to 6 feet of 40 pound fluorocarbon leader tied to a 3/0 to 4/0 circle hook. Schools of mahi mahi will be in kayak range off Pompano Beach, straight out from Pompano Pier in 120 to 250 feet of water. Again, look for the color change and weed lines as well as flying fish. Lot’s of schoolie dolphin have been found around 190

I watched as it frantically swam around. Amazingly, the fish had transitioned to freshwater, which I have seen in only a couple of other situations, both much closer to the Bay. As mentioned in last month's forecast, going deeper and slowing everything down will be key, especially with artificial lures, flies and even live bait. The colder times of the year are also a great time to practice casting while consistently working on proper presentation with lures or flies. Over working lures is often the case if you see it rolling or going sideways. Work it softer and slow your retrieve down. All this makes great practice since the fishing is not as active during winter. This time of year also presents a great opportunity to scout new waters or revisit past ones, especially previously productive spots. While scouting an old spot with some friends, I was able to find a large school of tiger oscar cichlids, which is not common for this time of year. They're usually paired off and very spookish, but these guys were fighting over the bread after lures were FEBRUARY 2018

to 200 feet of water around the color change. A stud mahi mahi weighing 50 pounds was recently caught off Pompano in 135 feet of water which is exciting news for all kayak anglers trying to get this fish off their bucket list. The occasional wahoo is being caught on an outgoing tide straight out from the Hillsboro lighthouse in 190 feet of water on downriggers. Recently, a kayak

angler pulled in a nice 40 pound Wahoo on a downrigger, slow trolling using a live goggle eye with a stinger rig in that depth. Some nice kingfish, with the occasional 30 pounders, are being caught in 90 feet of water. Most of the kings are being caught peddling or paddling in a zigzag pattern from 80 to 120 feet while slow trolling. Catch the fish of a lifetime during the popular sailfish run in Pompano Beach, Florida. Do it in the most fun, safe, and competitive way possible by registering for the second leg of the Extreme Kayak Fishing Sailfish Smackdown series scheduled for April 7th and 8th, 2018. Remember to follow us on Instagram @extremekayakfishing for amazing kayak fishing photos, videos, podcasts, magazines and tournament information.

Joe Hector 954-895-4527 Extreme Kayak Fishing Inc. www.extremekayakfishing.com joe@extremekayakfishing.com

Hai with a tiger oscar cichlid caught on a bread ball.

PHOTO CREDIT: Jose Martinez

refused. They don't have the best eyesight, but what they lack in vision, they make up for with tenacity and heart. Pound for pound, one of the strongest and top five favorite fish to catch on ultralite spin or lite fly. Oscars are most aggressive during spring and summer. Find them in schools and prepare for the giggles. Try using a small hook and plain white bread if lures or fly fishing isn't your thing. Most small cichlids

cannot resist bread as seen here. Please visit my website or any social media links for more information or to book your South Florida trip in Miami, Florida. Come down for the chance to knock off several bucket list species, from freshwater to inshore and more.

Hai Truong

(786) 405-4146 www.HaiTruongFishing.com hai@haitruongfishing.com

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FEBRUARY 2018

FORT LAUDERDALE AREA 9

1/16/18 2:37 PM

FRESH T

WATER

he fishing world is stunned after a tragic accident that occurred on Lake Okeechobee on January 3rd, 2018. Friends, family, and the fishing industry mourn over the recent loss of Nik Kayler. Nik was reported missing on January 4th, 2018, the day following the first day of competition in the FLW Costa Series tournament. Fellow anglers, tournament contestants, FWC, and other government agencies searched for days trying to find Kayler. Both the boater and co-angler ended up in the water because of inclement weather. Nik Kayler was the co-angler. Both Nik and his boater were wearing life preservers during the incident. In general, there are two types of personal flotation devices or PFDs used in today's fishing industry. However, there are many versions of the two. There are many positives and negatives to both types of PFDs and also many different things you can do to help insure your safety while out on the water. One rule of

thumb to consider when going out on any body of water is if the body of water has “Lake” in its name, it’s no joke. The first type of PFD that is offered in today’s industry is the one that most of us know, the traditional life jacket. Let’s start with the positives regarding the traditional life jacket. For one, compared to inflatable life jackets, no matter the circumstances as long as you have chosen the correct jacket for your weight you will float. There is no need to pull any strings or worry about any maintenance when it comes to the non-inflatable life jacket. Now there are some rules that you must follow when choosing either of the two life jackets. The biggest thing to remember is you must purchase a life jacket that supports your weight. One big thing to take into consideration is the fact that while out on the water you will be fully dressed and possibly in winter attire. This means that you must take the extra weight from your clothing into consideration. One negative to non-inflatable life jackets are that they are quite bulky and hard to store when not being

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used. They also don’t give you the mobility to move around and provide little to no ventilation. Moving on to inflatable PFDs, there are two types. The type V inflates when water is detected. Type III requires that you have to manually pull a string for it to inflate. Again, we will start with the positives. Inflatable PFDs are are very light weight and allow you to move freely even when fishing. They allow you to have more ventilation and are very easy to store when not being used. Depending on the type of inflatable PFD, some negatives apply. With a type III, you will have to pull a string or self-inflate the PFD if you do find yourself in the water. With a type V, the PFD has the potential inflate if it takes on too much water in the rain or from over spray while running in rough conditions. Inflatable PFDs must also be periodically checked and maintained to insure that they will work properly. Additionally, once the life jacket has been deployed and inflated you must buy a new Co2 cartridge and install it. Another option when it comes to thinking about safety is a PLB

or Personal Locator Beacon that can be attached to your PFD. These devices can make a huge difference, especially when you are overboard for a long period of time. When activated, a PLB will send your location via satellite to authorities and give you the best chance at being rescued. There are many times when our freshwater vessels experience rough conditions similar to those found offshore with saltwater fishing. The safety equipment you choose could very well end up saving your life or someone else’s and is no place cut back on cost. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Kayler family and friends. We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident.

Capt. Neal Stark (954) 822-1481 Fishing with America’s Finest, Inc. "Changing Lives One Cast at a Time." 501(C)(3) Non-Profit Organization, FEIN #45-5494005

www.FishingwithAmericasFinest.org fwaforg@gmail.com American Everglades Guide, Inc. www.AmericanEvergladesGuide.com aeguideinc@gmail.com

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U.S. Marine Corp Kevin and U.S. Navy Deep Diver Chief Daniel caught these largemouth bass fishing with Capt. Neal Stark.

FEBRUARY 2018

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1/16/18 2:37 PM

Tide Charts | South Port Everglades, ICWW | Feb/2018 | Florida

US HARBORS

forecastS

SPEAR

fISHING

Amberjack Spearfishing at Tenneco Towers

erhaps the most underrated fish found offshore in SE Florida, is the greater amberjack, commonly defiled here as a “Reef Donkey!” I first heard that name in Tampa Bay in the early 2000’s, from charter customers from Fort Lauderdale, who like Outer Banks fishermen, wanted no part of the “Jackass of the Sea!” Fast forward – now I live in Fort Lauderdale, and in winter when so many fish are off the table, I went out to an artificial reef site made up of oil rigs brought here by Tenneco Oil back in 1985. We were on the Deep Tenneco Towers site which is in 195 feet of water, with 65 feet of relief. My dive buddy Fred is not a deep diver, but knows how to handle a camera – see attached photo! We agreed to stay shallow, and at 80 feet I could just see the dark structure below. The first fish to come up to greet me was a nice AJ. My speargun is a 55” enclosed track, with a reel that I

FLORIDA

Port Everglades Tides

South Port Everglades, ICWW Tides - Feb/2018

26°5'N 80°7'W

keep locked down while scuba shooting. The shot was a hair away from stoning him, and the fight was hard as expected, but seconds later my stiletto finished the struggle. Smoked amberjack is the most popular dish I serve at seafood parties, only second choice to stone crabs! Medium sized AJs are the perfect size to spear, because the big ones usually have lots of worms. And now you can choose an award-winning

DATE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Capt. Chad with a solid amberjack shot on the Tenneco Towers.

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HIGH AM

Thu