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OCTOBER 2019

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Abel VAYA Vaya is Spanish for “GO!” as in go outside, go on an adventure or go fishing. Crafted by avid Colorado anglers, Abel’s VAYA series of fly reels introduces an allnew technical look and feel, paired with outstanding performance. The partially-ported VAYA frame offers the unique combination of minimized weight, incredible rigidity and just enough surface area to highlight Abel’s hand-anodized finishes, which are offered in numerous awesome colors and patterns, from flat black to brown trout, dorado and many more. Available in sizes 4/5, 5/6 and 7/8.

Filson Rugged Twill Compact Rod Case Filson has earned its reputation for sturdy quality construction and products that are overbuilt to handle the rigors sportsmen put their gear through. The Rugged Twill Compact Rod Case holds two 9-foot, 4-piece rods in their tubes with exterior pockets to hold reels and accessories. This lightweight yet durable case is perfect for days when you’ll need two rods and want to keep them safe when not in use. It’s constructed of water-repellant and abrasion-resistant 100 percent cotton Rugged Twill with brass hardware and bridle leather straps.

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Ross Reels Animas

Rod Vault ST Why waste time threading line through the guides? The vehicle-mounted fly rod storage solution from Denver Outfitter allows recreational anglers and professionals to arrive at their fishing destination with fly rods and reels intact, fully-rigged and ready to fish. Two roof-mounted aircraft grade anodized aluminum tubes hold two, three or four fully rigged fly rods up to 10’6 in length, and a locking reel housing area easily fits most fly reels. Protective polypropylene liners inside the Rod Vault eliminate rod on metal contact protecting guides and rod tips from abrasion. The Rod Vault was specifically over-engineered to keep valuable equipment safe in almost any circumstance. Stainless steel hardware ensures the RodVault will remain rust free no matter the fishing environment and fiberglass infused nylon construction protects the reel housing, mounting hardware and aerodynamic nose cone from UV degradation. Whether storing rods to fish before or after work or traveling across the country on an epic fishing trip the Rod Vault is designed to keep gear safe. Available in three models, the Rod Vault 2 holds two fly rods, the Rod Vault Original for three fly rods and the Rod Vault 4 holding four fly rods.

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THE BAHAMAS: BEAUTIFUL, DANGEROUS

although great variability exists between the northern and southern islands. This variability is most easily seen on Andros, the largest Bahamian island, where pine forests dominate in the north and give way to more tropical vegetation in the south. The majority of The Bahamas are low lying, with about 80 percent of the islands less than 15 feet above sea level. This, along with the fact that the islands span a great distance in warm tropical waters, make them attractive to tourists, who flock in for beautiful beaches, friendly faces and fantastic fishing. The Bahamas are heavily reliant on tourism, and for many “Family Islands,” angling tourism is vital for their survival. Unfortunately, these geographical traits also make The Bahamas susceptible to flooding and damage from tropical storms and hurricanes. The expansive nature of the islands of The Bahamas is a mixed blessing. Being large means Bahamians are more likely to be impacted somewhere in the chain by severe weather, but it also means many areas will remain untouched. This was the case with Hurricane Dorian, which devastated the two most northern islands, Abaco and Grand Bahama, but left countless others unharmed. The impact from Dorian on Abaco and Grand Bahama is catastrophic, and the outpourings of aid a blessing. One of the best ways to help The Bahamas overcome this tragedy, and future events, is to help the tourism-based economy by travelling to untouched parts of the islands. The author with a Bahamian bonefish caught from Andros Island while fishing out of the Two Boys Inn with one of the many legendary Neymour For anglers, this is a great opportunity to fish new waters. If you have family of guides. never been, try Andros, the Exumas, Long Island, Bimini, Acklins Island, Crooked Island, Mayaguana, Inagua or many other fantastic destinations By Tom Karrow throughout The Bahamas. he Bahamas are roughly 700 islands and cays with an additionIn this time of need, take the opportunity to help The Bahamas and Baal 5,000 low-lying rocks. Only about 30 of the 700 islands are hamians by simply booking a trip and getting on the water. Grab your fainhabited, leaving hundreds of tropical islands for wildlife. The vorite rods, reels, lines and leaders, tie up some Gotcha flies and give it a go. chain stretches more than 500 miles from the Island of Inagua in the Tom Karrow, PhDc, MES, BES, BED, is nearing completion of a PhD in Gesoutheast, to the northernmost island of Grand Bahama, an economic ography and Environmental Management, focused on sustainability of The Bahahub for the islands. mian bonefishing industry through ethnography. He was a research fellow at the Situated off the southeast coast of the continental United States, University of The Bahamas and is sponsored by R.L.Winston Fly Rods, Nautilus the climate is dominated by warm tropical-like air and water currents, Fly Reels, FishPond Gear, Costa Sunglasses and Simms.

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FLORIDA

NIGHTTIME

SNOOK

TAC T I C S

By John Saporito

ike many predatory fish, snook are more active under cover of darkness. In fact, fishing at night might be the single biggest thing you can do to increase your odds of connecting with quality snook. Night fishing is, however, a much different game than fishing under the sun. When the sun goes down, many snook leave their daytime habitat and head into shallow water to hunt. They can often be found in the shadow lines around piers and bridges, and may be holding tight to

shore in canals and bays. Many anglers are stunned to come across snook that are right at their feet as they fish shorelines at night. Snook make this move because the darkness gives them both a sense of security and a feeding advantage over their prey. It’s important, therefore, that you be cautious when stalking these fish. Move quietly and be careful not to produce any vibrations that will reach the fish and scare them away. The night is generally much quieter than the day, and clumsy movements are likely to be picked up by wary snook. In addition, you should never shine a flashlight on the water you will be fishing. This is a surefire way to doom your chances of hooking up. Although fish may be attracted to consistent light sources—such as lampposts on bridges and docks—erratic, unpredictable lights will spook them in a hurry. The lure types and colors you choose should be different from what you carry in your daytime arsenal. Snook switch from using the color-sensitive cone cells in their eyes to using their rod cells, which are honed to capture silhouette and profile rather than color and fine detail. It’s a good practice to choose your offerings accordingly. Dark lures, especially black and purple, are deadly at night. For a snook looking up from below, a dark lure will stand out well against the night sky, which is bright compared to the water beneath it. The more contrast you provide, the easier it is for these gamefish to find your lure. Baitfish and other prey items will also actively feed in the darkness, and swimming plugs are extremely effective at night as a result. Lures with rattles and those that produce enticing ultra-sonic vibrations will do well for you, as snook favor audible cues and vibration detection by both their inner ear and lateral line in the absence of color vision. A word of caution to those who choose to pursue snook at night: Although your catch numbers may increase dramatically, night fishing can be a dangerous game. Always have a fishing buddy with you and be extra careful around slick surfaces such as seawalls, jetties and rock pilings. Be sure to have your phone charged in case of emergency—and also to take photos of your trophy snook before you release it. John Saporito is a lifelong fisherman and student of the seas. Visit him online at guerillaangling.com and follow on Instagram @guerilla_angling

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CHEECA LODGE ALL AMERICAN BACKCOUNTRY TOURNAMENT

ar heroes will compete with world-class anglers at the Seventh Annual Cheeca Lodge All American Backcountry Fishing Tournament Nov. 7-9, 2019 at Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada, Fla. In honor of Veteran’s Day, the event invites two war heroes to join the tournament inspired by 41st President George Bush, who frequented Cheeca and the Florida Keys to pursue his love of fishing. Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, a non-profit organization whose mission is to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon and permit fisheries and habitats through research, stewardship, education and advocacy. “The All American Backcountry Fishing Tournament is part of Cheeca Lodge’s iconic legacy,” said Paul Burke, of Cheeca Lodge & Spa. “We’re excited to partner with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and to welcome Bruce Melnick, a former American astronaut and retired U.S. Coast Guard officer, who will fish the tournament.” All American anglers fish on a guided charter boat or their own boat

with a licensed guide. They compete for trophies and awards for releasing five different species of inshore fish: snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and permit. Individual and team trophies will be awarded for fly, general tackle/spinning/conventional and artificial lure divisions. Live bait is permitted in the general tackle division. Tournament entry fee is $1,500 per angler, offering two social events with dinner and beverages for four people, including the angler, guide and one guest each. Also included is a daily continental breakfast dockside at World Wide Sportsman, boxed lunches for anglers and guides and a gift bag per person. Social events will be held at the Cheeca Lodge & Spa, a sportsman paradise renowned for barefoot elegance, with fishing departing from nearby World Wide Sportsman. This first-class tournament will kick-off on Thursday, Nov. 7 with a cocktail reception, rules meeting, patriotic banquet on the beach and live auction. Competitive fishing hours are from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 8-9. The tournament culminates on Saturday with an awards ceremony and banquet, where anglers can mingle with fishing celebrities such as world-famous fly angler, Stu Apte. Awards for Individual Grand Champion, Individual Runner-Up, Grand Champion Team, Runner-Up Grand Champion Team, Champions in the Fly, Artificial and General Tackle Divisions and Best Photo will be presented. New for 2019 is a Friday evening reception and presentation by Bruce Melnick from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Cheeca, included in the entry fee. While the tournament’s social events are included in the tournament registration, social-only tickets for the public are available in limited quantity by calling (305) 517-4512 or e-mailing lthornhill@cheeca.com to reserve. Social tickets are $70 for Thursday’s kickoff dinner and auction; $25 for the reception with Bruce Melnick and $95 for Saturday’s Awards Banquet. Cheeca will also host the 30th Annual Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament Jan. 24-26, 2020, the second leg of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship.

For more information, visit www.cheeca.com/all-american, www.cheeca.com/presidential or call (305) 517-4512.

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Does Age Matter?

Photo by Zachary Nolan Divers swim over the deck of the Ana Cecilia.

By John Lidington pril, 1968—a time early in Palm Beach County’s history of artificial-reef-building. The Mizpah floats about a mile off of Singer Island. That’s a problem. She’s supposed to be on the bottom 200 feet below, but refuses to sink. More holes are cut in her hull, and eventually she goes under. During that prolonged descent, the Gulf Stream has intervened, pushing her into shallower water. She lands upright on the sand, less than 100 feet down. Fast forward to July, 2016. About 150 yards south of Mizpah’s position, the Ana Cecilia is set to become the next addition to Palm Beach County’s artificial reef system. Her interior has been stripped of potential snags, and doors and hatches have been removed to allow access to her interior. The goal is to attract divers and fish. Unlike Mizpah, Ana Cecilia slips swiftly beneath the waves to her resting place 85 feet below.

The two ships’ proximity makes it easy to explore both on a single dive. That’s my plan as I ready my gear aboard Pura Vida Divers’ boat Sirena. I want to see just what 50 years of immersion does to a wreck. Similar in size (Ana Cecilia, 170 feet; Mizpah, 185 feet), the ships were sunk with outer structures intact and rest in the same environment. The big difference? Mizpah has been submerged 48 years longer. As the current carries me swiftly along the bottom, I see the Ana Cecilia’s bow emerging from the blue. She looks like a wreck should look—a ship on a journey that was interrupted. Encrusting sponges, hydroids and bryozoans are taking hold, but paint still shows in a few spots. Swimming through her open interior, I can imagine refloating her, scrubbing her and proceeding to port. Mizpah offers a very different experience. She’s now a true bottom feature. Most of her superstructure has collapsed. Marine growth is luxurious and includes gorgonians and cup corals. While both wrecks have plenty of fish (including goliath groupers), Mizpah’s increased growth attracts greater variety. Comparing the two, it’s obvious that wrecks don’t last forever. They create homes for marine life for a long, long time. But there’s a limit to how long a wreck will offer divers safe, easy penetration. Fresh wrecks keep the dive scene vibrant. To this end, the Palm Beach County Diving Association is working with Palm Beach County Environmental Resource Management to sink a new wreck every year for the next three years. To help fund this program, they host an annual Artificial Reef Fundraiser, which will take place on Saturday, Oct. 5 at Loggerhead Marine Life Center in Juno Beach, Fla. Tickets can be purchased at Pura Vida Divers, at any other PBCDA member, or online at https://divepbc.com/events. To check out these wrecks for yourself, give Pura Vida Divers a call (561-840-8750) or make an online reservation through their website at www.puravidadivers.com. For a well-researched history of the Mizpah, check out Walt Stearns’ article at https://xray-mag.com/blog/diving-mizpah.

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Pelagic Rockstar Ready To Rock Central America’s Richest Offshore Tourney is Jan. 10-12 out of Quepos

ith more than half a million bucks on the line, the Pelagic Rockstar Offshore Tournament will descend upon Marina Pez Vela in Quepos, Costa Rica Jan. 10-12 in what promises to be Central America’s richest fishing tournament. The Pelagic Rockstar is a fish all day, party all night kind of affair. With 60-plus boats expected to compete for more than $500,000, it is serious offshore competition. Back at the docks, it’s a massive party featuring multiple marina-side bashes and live rock ‘n’ roll. In the world’s premier offshore waters of the Pacific, target species for the tournament are sailfish, blue marlin, black marlin, striped

marlin, tuna and dorado. During last year’s Rockstar, fishing was off the chain. The fleet released a staggering 424 sailfish and marlin, while the weigh station was kept busy with piles of big yellowfin tuna and dorado. The Pelagic Rockstar kicks off Friday, Jan. 10 with check-ins, happy hour at Marina Pez Vela’s Pura Vida Beach Club and a Captain’s Meeting followed by the Kick-Off Party Extravaganza and Concert. On Saturday, Jan. 11, the tournament procession will depart Marina Pez Vela at 6:30 a.m. to stage at the starting line for the customary 7 a.m. shotgun start. Day One weigh-ins will be from 3 to 6 p.m. The Docktail Party and music begin at 4:30 p.m. Tournament Day 2 is lines in at 7 a.m., lines out at 3 p.m. The awards ceremony and farewell bash concert begin at 7 p.m. General Entry is $3,500. All-In is $17,500. Save $500 with early bird registration before Dec. 1 and get a free Official Tournament Apparel Package. Gather your crew and head on down to Quepos for “Costa Rica’s Funnest Big Game Fishing Event.” For information and to register, go to www.pelagictournaments.com.

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FLORIDA

LLEBROC UPS THE ANTE WITH THE NEW SV SERIES

lebroc Industries, a name synonymous with high-quality seats, has once again raised the bar for the marine industry. The SV Series will be unveiled at IBEX and The Fort Lauder-

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

dale Boat Show this fall and will quickly become the industry standard. With new stitching patterns and colors combinations, the SV Series is comparable to the cockpit of a Lamborghini. No matter the style or design of your boat, Llebroc will rise to the challenge and ensure your vessel is both stylish and comfortable. From helm chairs to bench seats and leaning posts, Llebroc is capable of designing and installing the very best seating available. Based out of Texas, Llebroc Industries has a long-standing tradition of working with any vessel big or small. From bass boats to yachts, they are equipped to handle any project no matter how big or small. One of the latest projects was outfitting the 45-Foot tender of an Ocean Alexander. “I love e ver yt hing I do, and that’s why we work on e ver yt hing no matter how big or small,” said Greg Carman of Llebroc Industries. This attitude has helped Llebroc Industries develop a brand that is a thoroughbred of design, comfort, and stability. You can see Llebroc seating and helm chairs throughout the marine industry. From Viking Yachts to Boston Whalers, every boat company is looking to have the best quality boat and that is why they turn to Llebroc for their seating. So, if you are in the market for a new seating set up on your vessel, be sure to stop by Llebroc Industries and talk to Greg Carman. You won’t be disappointed. For more information, go to www.llebroc.com.

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OCTOBER 2019

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FISH & FISHING

ON THE MOVE MARK SOSIN

t happens every year. No one really knows whether it’s shorter days, a slight drop in water temperature, or something else that triggers baitfish and predators to gather in schools and start moving south. This annual migration in September and October provides some of the best fishing on all coasts. Whether you prefer trolling baits or casting into the schools, success depends on getting an offering in front of the fish without frightening the schools into diving for sanctuary. The problem is, when you discover a school of fish, you are seldom alone. Instead of approaching the fringes of the school, boats race toward the fish at full throttle. The perfect position is on the seaward side of the school just off the forward edge and moving slowly with the school. If you’re trolling, this puts your baits where they can be seen easily. Casters can work the edges of the school, working their offering close to the main body and in the direction the fish are moving. In real life, it seldom works this perfectly. Boats tend to continuously jockey for position, while trollers move right through the middle of the school, forcing fish into the depths. Most of the action takes place when predators find a school of baitfish and begin to feed. Often gulls and terns

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

squawking overhead tell anglers there is action below. When the big guys aren’t feeding, it’s much harder to find them. You just have to keep studying the water’s surface until you see signs of fish. Baitfish have a habit of moving into an inlet and holding there for a period. Most of the time, you won’t see the action of breaking fish, but where there is prey, you can bet predators are nearby. As an angler, check every inlet carefully at this time of year. It could make your day. Whether you are retrieving a cast or trolling, baits should be moving in the same direction as the predators or not much of an angle to either side. Fish are not going to leave the school and chase something in the opposite direction. They will ease out of the main body, but they are going to maintain the direction of the school. Keep in mind that predators focus on one victim at a time. By working your offering on the edges of the school, but moving it in the same direction, it becomes an easy meal for them. For the surf fisherman, if you are working an area where mobility is possible, it pays to work up and down the beach until you find a school of bait or predators. Remember that casts must allow a retrieve in the direction the school is traveling. A single fish seldom goes against the direction that the main body is moving. This is the time of the year when coastal fishing can be spectacular. Take advantage of it. For more from Mark Sosin, visit

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BIG TROUT OR EASY TROUT ON THE NANTAHALA DH

Editor’s Note: In honor of delayed harvest trout regulations opening across the Southeast, here’s a look at one of North Carolina’s best. This description of the Nantahala River between Murphy and Bryson City is an abbreviated excerpt from the book “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.”

By Nick Carter

easy or difficult as you make it, although frequently the water gets quite high with winter rains. Don’t let heavy flow and a little bit of a stain deter you. Murky water combined with the right nymph or streamer can be the right combination to fool big fish that see a lot of flies. And there are some big fish. North Carolina does a great job of sprinkling trophy-sized individuals in with its stockings. For years, the Nantahala DH was a destination location for me before a move to Graham County just a few miles from the river made it a back-up plan. At the time, I was a wild trout snob. I can’t count the times I drove past easier fishing and larger fish to hike into remote streams where 5-inch fish were the norm. I don’t regret that. It was fun. What I do regret since moving away from Graham County are the Wednesday afternoons I had off work when I passed on the opportunity to fish the DH. I did, however, fish it a lot. What I learned was the fishing can be ridiculously easy for numbers after a stocking, but the better fish require a little work. The river can also be downright difficult once the fish wise up. Showing them either something natural or something out of the ordinary can be productive. Patience is also a virtue. Moving quickly and picking off the eager feeders is a good way to land a bunch of standard hatchery fish. Moving slowly and stealthily, watching the water and carefully picking your casts helps for those larger fish. In a place where almost all the fish come to hand with lip piercings, there are individuals that become reluctant to eat. Egg patterns, Buggers, mop flies and flashy nymphs get the most attention after a stocking. But bugs will be on the water, with winter stones, blue winged olives, midges and maybe some small caddis popping off in sunny spots during winter. Come spring, the river is a riot of bug activity, and dry fly fishing gets very good. At any given time, there might be black and tan caddis, small dark stoneflies, yellow sallies, midges and a variety of mayflies on the water.

ith special regulations calling for catch and release, sin“Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia” includes maps, GPS gle-hook, artificial only October into June, a nearly 4-mile stretch of North Carolina’s Nantahala River is very popular access points and detailed descriptions of the region’s best trout fishing. this time of year. There is easy roadside access and wading can be as It is available on Amazon, at fly shops or by contacting the author at nsc8957@gmail.com.

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Photo Credit: Betsy Williams

Things to Do in October around Charlotte Harbor Oct 5: American Legion Outdoor Market

Oct. 26: 3rd Annual Throwback to the 50’s

8 AM - 3PM @ 2101 Taylor Rd in Punta Gorda 3 PM - 7 PM @ Fishermen’s Village Fishing tackle, plants, produce, jewelry, books Dress in your favorite 50’s attire and enjoy games, dance contest, prizes and live music! and more…& breakfast! Free admission and parking.

Oct. 17: Alive After 5

5 PM - 8 PM @ Downtown Punta Gorda Live music, artist wares and demonstrations held every 3rd Thursday of the month. Downtown merchants stay open late and give out freebies!

Oct. 19: Allstate Micah Smith Trick or Trot 5K Trail Run

8 AM - 11 AM @ Ann Dever Park Trail located in Englewood Join fellow ghouls & goblins in this Halloween-themed scholarship fundraiser with Zoomers SWFL Running & Triathlon Club.

Oct. 26: Big Orange Music Festival

12 PM - 11 PM @ Laishley Park Visit BigOrangeMusicFestival.com for info!

Nov. 1: 2019 Florida International Airshow 5 PM - 9 PM @ Punta Gorda Airport The United States Air Force Thunderbirds will be performing!

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TheCulturalCenter.com 2 FORT MYERS | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Kitchen

The Captain’s

Gourmet Grilled Seafood Dish — Feeds a Family of Four for Under $30!

Seafood is often thought of as a light summer meal, but this one is especially delicious to grill out on the boat or in the park this fall as the temps cool off. Chef Travis at the Blue Turtle in downtown Punta Gorda served this gourmet meal for a few of us recently, and we begged him to share his secrets! We love how quick, easy, and compact his recipe is to prepare. Enjoy! Grilled Mahi-Mahi, Zucchini & Mushrooms with Asian Slaw — Served with a Cilantro Ginger Aioli (Garnish Plates with Sriracha) 6 oz. Mahi-Mahi (per person) Season with salt and pepper. Grill on medium-high heat 4-5 minutes on each side. To make triangle grill marks, rotate halfway on each side. Tip: Catch your own fish or maybe pick up fresh seafood at E & L Clam House in Charlotte Harbor! Large Mushroom (per person) Zucchini (per person, sliced lengthwise twice to make spears) Season both with oil, salt & pepper, and then grill 3 minutes on each side. Tip: Marinate zucchini in soy sauce, brown sugar, cilantro, and garlic to enhance flavor for at least 25 minutes prior to grilling.

Cilantro Ginger Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise ½ cup chopped cilantro 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar 2 tbsp soy sauce 2 tbsp minced ginger 2 tbsp minced garlic 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp sriracha 4 tbsp honey Whisk all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate. Can make the day before and it will keep for 5 days.

Asian Slaw

2 carrots, peeled and grated 1 red onion peeled and sliced thin ½ head red cabbage sliced thin 2 bunches green onion, chopped Combine ingredients into bowl and add dressing.

Dressing for Asian Slaw

¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium) ½ tsp fish sauce 4 tbsp honey Fresh squeezed juice of one large orange Whisk together in a bowl and then add to slaw. Toss and let sit covered in refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.

Creative Services

Marketing | Photography | Graphic Design Events | Custom Copper Works The Captain’s Kitchen Photography: Betsy Williams

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FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | OCTOBER 2019 | FORT MYERS 3

Bouncing Back By Capt. Dave Stephens

Well, fellow anglers, Mother Nature has done a great job at bouncing back from the catastrophe that plagued our beautiful harbor a year ago, while we dodged one of the most powerful storms of the past century in Dorian. Schools of redfish have moved back into the harbor, and I have seen some of the best red fishing in a couple of years. On high tides, look for fish to push up to the mangroves, nice green overhangs are the key. On low tides, look for fish on the bars. Schools of large mullet will be holding reds. This time of year, these guys are not very picky. If youâ€™re not confident in catching live bait, just visit your local tackle shop; shrimp will get the job done. For the anglers wanting to catch some reds on artificial, October is your month. Look for mullet which also school during the fall months. Iâ€™m sure you know mullet are vegetarians, and our grass flats are full of what our predator fish feed on. As the mullet move across the flats they stir up the bottom. Fish such as reds, snook, and trout follow to take advantage. Soft jerk baits and gold spoons are great lures to locate the feeding fish. I recommend a lure that can cover a lot of water. Once you locate feeding fish, slow down and fish thorough, chances are there will be a large number in that area. The FWC has opted to keep our snook fishery closed to harvest this fall. I do not think this fishery should be closed indefinitely, like some other anglers; I would just like to see a healthy enough population where anglers can enjoy catching the kind of fish that stole my heart as a kid, not just a juvenile fish. I say this because the one that got away is the one that brings you back! Snook is by far our top-targeted game fish in SWFL, and we are fortunate enough to fish for these great fish year-round. I know there are times during our winter months that our snook fishery slows down; however, we are not waiting for a migration. A few days of warm weather can result in a great day of catching these guys! Contact Capt. Stephens at 941.916.5769 4 FORT MYERS | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

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FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | OCTOBER 2019 | FORT MYERS 5

Fishing with Joe

by Joe Sheaffer

pending most of my fishing time in shallow water has presented a few challenges for me. I primarily fish in 2-3 feet of water, but many of the fish are shallower. They can be very skittish and many times are very aware of my presence.

Being able to present a lure from a long distance can be the difference between struggling and a great day catching fish. When I made the move to SW Florida from Northern Virginia, I assumed that I could convert much of my bass fishing gear to inshore equipment. While there is some crossover for some of the equipment and techniques, it started to dawn on me that I was a bit under gunned, as I struggled to consistently catch inshore fish. 7 foot casting and spinning rods just didn’t allow me to make long and accurate enough casts. I started using 7’6 to 8’, medium to mediumheavy fast action spinning rods. 2500-3000 series spinning reels, spooled with 10-15 lb. braided line. Using this equipment has allowed

me to make much longer and accurate casts and I have definitely been able to present my lures to many more fish. Yes, I still use casting outfits for plugs and shorter spinning

outfits for skipping baits under mangroves and docks. Fishing shallow water, longer casts equal more opportunities to put my lure in front of more unsuspecting fish. I’m often asked, “How do I catch fish in certain areas, Joe, I’m using the same lures in the same areas with no luck”. I have fished with a few friends, I’ll catch fish and they struggle. The difference, almost every time,

I’m able to make much longer casts because of the equipment I’m using. Today’s fishing rods and reels are lighter, stronger and technically more advanced than their predecessors. Braid is a game changer, strength, small size, not to mention sensitivity, allows for much longer casts. There are many affordable, quality rods and reels, and braid that won’t break the bank. Check out your local bait and tackle shops, ask your local experts for help picking a combo that works best for you. Making longer casts on the flats, working parallel to mangrove islands, and being able to reach a group of schooling fish without spooking them, gives an angler many more chances to catch fish. It has made a big difference in my success as an inshore fisherman. Do you need to use only longer rods and braid? No, but having the right tool for the job can increase your opportunities to catch inshore species.

Let me know how I can assist you!

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SWFLâ€™s Freshwater Scene

cannot say much bad about October in South West Florida; one of the greatest months for fishing both in the saltwater and the freshwater. We all dodged a big bad storm in September my heart

Clouser fly

goes out to the northern Bahamas-had many great experiences fishing there. They are a resilient bunch and I am sure they will rebuild better than before. Hopefully the rest of our hurricane season will be quiet and we can just think about our next fishing adventure. Lake Trafford fishing has been pretty decent for bass,

by Capt. Roan zumFelde

mostly flipping and pitching. I would expect that to continue and if we get some cooler nights and days, the bite should be pretty good on top water also. Lake Okeechobee Dodged a huge bullet with Dorian last month; that was a close call. It could of went really bad and dikes could have breached. There would have been no way to stop the water and the lake would have turned into one big marsh, along with a humanitarian and ecological disaster to the south. Anyhow, fishing has been pretty good out therewater levels have been kept in a good range and lots of bass being caught with this monthâ€™s cooling temperatures and as long as there are no storms, it should be an epic October on the Big O.

The Everglades Canals are temps start to decrease. I still going to be having issues would still suggest early or late with high water, but some afternoons. If there is a good canals like The amount of water Miami and L28 flowing over the Peacock Bass jig (access point earthen dams Hwy 41) should on L28, then the start picking peacocks should up this month. gang up at the You will always mouths of each. catch some bass Small jigs and and cichlids Clouser Minnow using small type flies, cast plastic worms up close to the rigged Texas water runoff and style, so you can cast or pitch worked into the deeper water them into the deeper cover. should catch them pretty Fly fishing these canals well. should get a little better, especially if our night time Texas rig

If you want to contact Capt. Roan z for a freshwater fishing trip or ask any fishing questions he can be contacted at the Shop 239-775-2248 or cell number 239-269-4426. Check the Web Site www.indianpassoutfitters.com and www.mikesbaithouse.com

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | OCTOBER 2019 | FORT MYERS 7

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The Great Calusa Blueway

by Mike Hammond

hen I first tried an inflatable standup paddleboard (iSUP) several years ago, I dismissed the board and all other iSUPs as toys. It wobbled and took the shape of the waves passing under me. I felt like I was paddling a noodle. Fortunately, iSUPs have come a long way over the years and are now a legitimate paddlecraft for angling adventures. The most obvious advantage of an iSUP is its lack of need for storage space. Finding an open area that is 11’ to 14’ long and 34” wide, for a traditional board, is much more difficult than throwing a large backpack in a corner or closet. Travel is also easier as there is no need for roofracks or worrying about the board when driving on the

interstate. Just put your iSUP in the vehicle and you are set. International travel can be easier as well. Many airlines charge $100 each way for “surfboards” and may not take large SUPs at all. Depending on the airline, iSUPs will be treated like normal luggage – no different from a backpack.

There are iSUPs on the market that are designed specifically for angling. They are stable, can carry a lot of weight and have

tie-downs and attachments for rod holders. Our iSUP has tie downs in the back for the cooler/tackle box we sit on that has rod holders. Additional rod holders can be attached directly to the board and another soft tackle box can be tied down to the nose. That’s potentially six rods and two tackle boxes. There is also a guide on the nose of the board for an anchor line. The iSUP, bag, paddle, leash, repair kit and pump should all be included. A good pump makes a huge difference in the time and energy spent preparing to paddle. Our pump

allows you to push air in the board during both the up and down motions. I usually pump our boards up to about 11 to 12 PSI (pounds per square inch) and let the Florida sun warm and expand the air in the board to about 15 PSI. Do not force more air into the board than it is rated for, otherwise it may blow up. While this is difficult to do by hand, people using electric pumps have popped iSUPs by over-inflating them. We will have a few Body Glove iSUPs – the Marina, designed for anglers – at the 2019 Calusa Blueway Kayak Fishing Tournament. One board will be the prize for the SUP division, a second board will be raffled off by the Candlelighters of Southwest Florida, and a third board will be available for demos. Anyone interested in trying it out is welcome come to the Olde Fish House on Nov. 9 and take an iSUP for a paddle.

For complete schedule and registration information, visit: https://paddleguru.com/races/BattleontheBlueway2018 Additional information about the site and other paddling locations in Lee County are at www.leeparks.org or www.calusablueway.com

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | OCTOBER 2019 | FORT MYERS 9

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y buddy Jim and I planned a group family vacation on Cape Cod this year and as in past years, we landed at Atlantic Oaks on the outer Cape; five families, campers in tow with kayaks on the roof racks and plenty of fishing gear. We were quite late for the initial striper migration, and the water temperatures were high. Remembering that this was a family vacation, we settled into our usual packing for the beach, planning group dinners for a couple days, then we head out for a little fishing. The new members of the group got a rough rundown of what to expect and we launched into the surf at Herring Cove, a first for some, but a favorite haunt for Jim and I. A mile out came the first shout of fish on and as expected, it was a mediumsized bluefish followed by more announcements of the same “fish on”. Then the stripers began to show on top water plugs. For the next 3 hours our tiny flotilla boated approximately 70 fish with some truly bruiser bluefish and a ton of just underslot stripers. We attempted to relaunch and repeat this scenario twice more, but due to the wind and surf were relegated to only a couple more fish. Our young anglers wanted to rest on the next attempt, so Jim and I planned one more early morning outing. We launched early with a slight breeze and a little surf coming onshore and soon passed the first line of buoys, about a mile out and continued to paddle

farther offshore when both our trolling rigs went off, one striper and one bluefish! Shared photos and smiles and then we see it - fish are busting on bait all around us, birds are everywhere, and all hell breaks out! Stripers are tagging everything we offer, while the bluefish are ripping apart anything tearable! For two hours we tie and toss every kind of lure we have, boating dozens of fish on topwater, metal jigs and rubber paddle tails until the cockpits of our kayaks look like a scrap yard; broken hooks and lures,

dozens of ripped up plastics and shredded leaders. We’re in the middle of one of those days, two friends sharing one of the best days of fishing, when I see Jim is trolling two lines and one has a fish on. So with the other hand he starts to attempt to reel in the spare rod and it goes off. This is a big fish and now he has one in both hands, so I paddle over, taking the first fish and he battles a keeper to his kayak! We both know fish is on the menu for dinner and we just smile knowing that this is a lifetime event for us both. (A special thank you to Atlantic Oaks Campground in Eastham, MA for the best cleaning station and outstanding campground!) It’s A Wild World-Get Out There!

Come by the shop at 4120 Pine Island Rd. Matlacha Fl. 33993 (239) 283-1125 and see for yourself what we have to offer as I’m sure you will love our location! It’s A Wild World-Get Out There! Fishman Dan

10 FORT MYERS | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

Estero Bay & Bonita Springs

by Capt. Billy Norris

n the Bonita Springs backwaters, snook, redfish and tarpon have been in abundance. To target snook, your bait of choice should be either pinfish or whitebait. Many of the fish will be hanging in the shadows and close to the bottom, so switching from a bait suspended on a cork to a bait pinned to the bottom with a split shot will definitely increase your hookups. Larger snook will also readily take large threadfins netted offshore. If you can’t throw a net, sabiki rigs can also be used to acquire threads. Snook season opens September 1st, however, remember that it remains closed in SWFL. Consult myFWC.com for the current closure areas. Redfish have also been eagerly taking pins and whitebait. The redfish bite has been one of the best I’ve seen in several years. There are a ton of rat reds (15”20”) around, with larger, overslot fish not being uncommon. Tarpon have also been hanging around in schools, both in the backwaters and nearshore. Tarpon can be picky, so having a variety of bait to figure out what they’re in the mood to eat

that particular day is crucial. A mixed bag of large pinfish, whitebait, threadfins and crabs will ensure that you have an arsenal ready to tangle with the silver kings. Offshore the bite has remained steady. The bigger

mangrove snapper have moved to the nearshore wrecks. We have been limiting out on nice sized fish from 13”-16” nearly every time we target them. Chumming them up behind the boat with a chum block and “freebies” will suck them right up to your transom like yellowtail. Cobia and permit have also been hanging around the wrecks. In addition, there have been plenty of sharks of all sizes cruising the local coastlines. Bulls, lemons, hammers and blacktips are in abundance. Catch and release is highly encouraged on all sharks, despite some being legal for possession, due to their vulnerability for overexploitation worldwide. We are starting to get into the swing of fall fishing here in Bonita Springs! With the slightly cooler weather, we will begin to see a shift from our summertime fishing patterns to fall fishing. October is prime time for redfish and big breeder sized snook! This month should provide great cobia, barracuda, grouper and snapper fishing offshore. As always, big pinfish, whitebait, or threadfins are the go-to baits of choice for offshore fishing. October is also the time of year that massive goliath grouper come to the nearshore wrecks to spawn. If you want to see if your back and arms can handle fighting these behemoths, target them on the wrecks from 5-15 miles offshore. This month also provides local residents with a chance to get out on the water before the snowbirds and tourists return in late October/ November. Fishing is great and should continue to be fantastic through the rest of 2019! Tight lines!

Capt. Billy Norris is owner/operator of Pale Horse Fishing Charters. If you, your family, or guests are looking to fish Estero Bay, Bonita Springs or the surrounding area, contact him through his website: www.PaleHorseFishingCharters.com or Facebook page: www.facebook.com/palehorsefishingcharters or give him a call at (239) 285-7710.

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Fishing Adventures

by Capt. Bart Marx

ello fellow anglers! October in SWFL once again. This month, if you like to eat stone crab claws, it opens the 15th at midnight. Yes, if you scuba dive you can go in at midnight to harvest these delicacies. It is fun and spooky at the same time, depending on how good a dive light you have. LOL, they like to hang around rocks and docks where they feel safe. Until out of the dark comes something like the sun shining and they try to hide in any little crack, to get away from the light. Warning- if you try this wear gloves, they are not fast but they seem to grab you with one claw when you are measuring the other. The claw needs to be at least 2 ¾” to harvest; check the FWC regulations. This should be the time of year that you can find gags and red grouper in the fifty’-eighty’ range where there are ledges or good hard bottom. Start out with frozen baits and if you bring live bait, then as the bite slows send live ones down. It’s a good practice to check at forty’-fifty’ of water on your way out to catch some squirrel fish/sand perch to bring out with you. Keep the live ones in your well and if a few swallow the hook keep them on ice, they make great cut bait too. Some anglers like to drift for the red grouper. This is a good method, it takes a little extra weight to keep down on the bottom. I personally like to anchor up on a spot, get things going by chumming, and just getting the fish to bite. This attracts other species that may make the ride to the dock because

they are good eating. Snappers like lanes and mangroves like these kinds of areas too. You may find some porgies and maybe a trigger fish. While you are traveling out, keep your eyes out for birds searching for food; they tend to fly high in the sky as they search for food. This could indicate some Spanish or king mackerel, maybe a tuna or bonito. If you see flying fish there may be a sailfish around the area, if you have some small blue runners or jacks alive, hook one and

send it out to draw one to it. If you have enough grouper or snapper you could set up some rods and troll back in the direction you are returning. This is productive and you are fishing as you travel back toward land, to add to your bounty. Also, this is the time of year you may encounter the school reds/red drum close to the shore, searching for food to fatten up to return to the Gulf to breed. These are the ones that are usually over the twenty-seven-inch limit, but are fun to catch. Back in the day we called it RED October, we will see after the red tide last year.

If you would like to come along with Capt. Bart Marx on our thirty foot Scarab “ REEL JOB “ give me a call at 941-979-6517 or e-mail me at captbart@ alphaomegacharters.com And always remember singing drags and tight lines make me smile. <*(((((>{ 12 FORT MYERS | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

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Outdoor Opportunities

by Wayne Nichols

elow average conditions, above average hunting. Hunting season is in full swing across Florida and our weather has been as well. Hurricanes and thunderstorms have a huge impact on hunting down here. While we regularly get afternoon thunderstorms and rain showers here, a hurricane can be just the ticket for an outstanding hunt. Now I’m not saying run out and climb in a stand when it’s terrible weather... that’s just stupid (yes, I’ve done it). Our game here, such as hogs and deer, are accustomed to bad weather and usually just hunker down and wait out a storm. The conditions a hurricane brings are a lot different...here is

huge key in success normally. Knowing when and where game travels and feeds is essential in a successful hunt, more times than not. These huge systems cause game to get out earlier and more often the closer they get, giving you an edge. Feeders and food plots will see a big increase in activity on these storm fronts. Earlier feeding times and increased feeding during daylight hours; with this increase in feeding comes more opportunities for you. Game will frequent more open areas than normal as well, such as fields, farms, pastures, marshes, etc. Hunting a few days before and after these systems is your best time to take advantage of the

a natural phenomenon that the game can’t get used to, hunting before and after these systems can give you a huge advantage. It’s no secret animals know when mother nature is about to get nasty, really nasty. This more often times than not, causes game to act in ways that they normally do not do. Huge pressure differences scare the hell out of game, much like most of us, however we can leave while they can’t. Everything changes during these systems such as feeding times, feeding areas, nocturnal habits become daytime habits, travel routes, pretty much everything they normally do gets reversed or increased. Having local knowledge of an area is a

situation. Game will be more focused on feeding than what’s going on around them during these times. A few years ago, we had a hunt during a hurricane; bow hunt, 4 hunters. We were on the edge of it with winds in the 40’s, light rain, and in no danger. With all the noise in the bedding area, deer were out on the edges in the open. Simple strategy, downwind and skirt the inside edge. Four stalks and four bucks on the ground, don’t overthink it. Keep your safety in mind and get in/out before conditions are dangerous, it’s not worth it. As always take a kid hunting or fishing anytime you get a chance, stay safe out there.

If you have any questions about hunting down here, need information on booking a hunt or would like to know more about what we offer, give me a call anytime at 863-990-7650. I’m heading back in the woods now y’all stay safe and remember to take a kid hunting or fishing anytime you get a chance!

18 FORT MYERS | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

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Fishing with Capt. Terry

by Capt. Terry Fisher

THE HUNT FOR ‘RED’ OCTOBER This is it! Those looking for opportunities to catch redfish (big redfish); now is the time! The bigger redfish (‘Bull Reds’ 34” and bigger) are everywhere (inshore) in Lee County waters fattening up for their migration back to gulf waters. ‘Bull Reds’ spend the cooler months in about 40’ of water leaving behind the smaller redfish to winter in the shallows, back

manufacturers, such as MirrO-Lure, Bomber or Rapala for top water, twitch baits and crank baits. I like Gulp and Zman for soft plastics, scented or unscented. Gold spoons are very effective. Most anglers have favorites, but the truth of the matter is, they all work. I prefer to use live or cut presentations such as, large shrimp, cut pinfish, or

country, creeks and rivers that flow into Pine Island Sound. The ‘Bull Reds’ will not return to spawn and eat again until late next summer or early fall. They won’t be here much later than mid-November, so now is the time for a ‘Redfish of a lifetime’. Regardless of the moratorium on harvesting these fish, they are fun and worth the experience. October offers high tides for access to areas that hold these fish. These big fish are hungry and will eat artificial presentations, as well as live and dead baits. I use artificial presentations from a variety of

ladyfish, at the bottom and on a weighted jig head. I also like to free-line live pilchards. The strategies to find and catch these fish rarely change. On high tides they will congregate in schools and will move into shallows around, in and under mangrove roots offering protection and providing oyster clusters holding supplies of food. On low tides, look for them just off of the mangroves in deeper water. It will not take long to figure out if the fish are in the area, as they will be more aggressive this month (more so than any other month of the year).

I OFFER THE FOLLOWING CATCHING ‘BULL REDFISH’:

STRATEGIES

being lucky). Do not hesitate to change locations after 15 minutes or so, in and effort to locate fish. If they’re not biting, they are probably NOT there; 3. Fish the point(s) of spoil islands and oyster reefs. Fish edges of and under the mangroves for better results; 4. Fish southerly wind directions when possible, as the water levels will be higher than those from north or easterly directions. This allows both the fish and angler access to more remote, less pressured locations; 5. Utilize both artificial, live, and cut-bait presentations that are mentioned above; 6. Do not hesitate to re-visit previous stops (spots) at different stages of the incoming or outgoing tides, as these fish will be on the move; 7. Do not arrive at your locations too late during a new or full moon phase that produces higher and stronger tides, as these fish will position themselves too far back into mangroves for one to get an effective presentation in front of them. A presentation even 3 feet away from where they are may be 3 feet too far! (If and when this happens, one will have no choice but to wait until the water starts to move out). On the other hand, do not arrive too late to fish the top half of the outgoing tide. If the water level has fallen too low, the fish will have already moved to another location with deeper water. 8. Use light spinning gear (3500 to 4000 series reels) with matching rod strength. Use a quality 15 to 20 lb. line test with at least a 30lb. fluorocarbon leader to reduce chance of a cut or break-off from a mangrove/oyster cluster while hooking or fighting the fish. Check you leader and line often for damage. Change leader when necessary or you may be sorry! Size of hooks should be 1/0 to 4/0 in size. Hopefully this article with tips on catching Redfish will assist every angler to be successful catching this awesome fighting species.

FOR

1. Work the top half of the incoming and outgoing tides. Fish the higher monthly tides on both sides of a new or full moon cycle; 2. Be very quiet when moving into a spot you choose to fish, as these bigger fish spook easily (they did not get big by

This is Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters. Charter information may be obtained by calling me direct at 239-357-6829 or email fishfacecharters@ yahoo.com. Other information may be obtained by visiting my website at www. fishfacecharters.com. I am also available as ‘Captain for Hire’ (by the hour) on your vessel to assist with safety, navigation, fishing techniques and locations to ensure that you ‘catch your fish of a lifetime’!

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hen fishing, we all need to practice more stealth. I like to fish for redfish in the back-country waters, skinny water, maybe two foot or less. Over the years I’ve found the quieter you are, you improve your chances greatly. I’m not asking you to get up on the polling platform and push your boat around with the push pole. You paid two thousand dollars or so for that electric trolling motor, use it. They work great. When was the last time you ran yours? It’s not a bow ornament and you don’t have to run it at full speed. Just ease yourself into the spot you want to fish. If you don’t have an electric trolling motor, the next best thing to do is shut your motor off early and coast into the spot. Make

by Capt. Neil Eisner sure you turn that radio off after you leave the dock. Music is a no no; you’d be surprised at all the tunes played for the fish. And by all means, don’t slam hatches when you want a drink. Once you have hooked that trophy redfish, reel, but make sure you reel smoothly, it’s not a race to see how fast you can get the fish back to the boat. Just keep the tip of the rod up, let the rod bend. When the fish pulls on the drag, stop reeling. It does nothing when the fish is pulling on the drag and you are reeling. He will stop pulling soon and you can start your retrieve again. Many great fish are lost right at the boat. Remember, when the fish sees the boat he will try to dive under it. Let him dive, don’t pull, nothing good

will happen if you pull on him. Sometimes I will loosen my drag a bit knowing he’s going to dive. He will soon give up the fight. Have your net ready to scoop him up. Take a picture or two and gently lower him back in the water as soon as

possible. You might have to rock him back and forth (fish CPR) to revive him. Don’t let the fish go until he can swim off on his own. Now you can turn the radio back on and head on in for that cold one.

I’m your captain, Neil Eisner Captneileisner@gmail.com 239-860-4242

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The Best Angler Photos From Southwest Florida!

Lily DeFreitas of Alva had a great day catching reds, snook and snapper.

This redfish made it fun fishing in the rain for Jordan Hall.

This beautiful redfish put that smile on Dalton Ribka.

Cameron Smith & 6yo son Myles landed this snook on a Penn Battle 1000!

Tyler with his first redfish, out with Capt. Johnny Knottingham.

Nice Charlotte Harbor red, caught by Willie Armstead.

Cameron Smith, Ted Jimenez, Brian Mac showing off their day’s fun.

Kenneth Dougherty carefully handling a sailcat.

James Sillett caught this 44” 36# snook at the Matlacha Bridge.

Photos submitted Courtesy of Coastal Angler Readers and Contributing Writers 28 FORT MYERS | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

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ALABAMA ADDS THREE-DAY FALL RED SNAPPER SEASON

hose looking to fill the freezer with tasty red snapper will have a few more days in Alabama thanks to a three-day fall season announced for the weekend of Oct. 4-6. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will open an additional three-day private angler recreational season for red snapper at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 4 until midnight on Sunday, Oct. 6. The possession limit is two fish per person with a minimum size limit of 16 inches total length. Anglers are reminded that as of Sept. 1, 2019, any angler age 16 and older must have a Reef Fish Endorsement to possess any species of Gulf reef fish. For more information about the Reef Fish Endorsement, visit www.outdooralabama.com/saltwater-fishing/saltwater-reef-fish-endorsement. Landing estimates are derived from mandatory angler reports submitted through Alabama’s Snapper Check Program. Anglers are reminded that greater amberjack is available for voluntary reporting through the Snapper Check app. Detailed red snapper landing information from the 2018 and 2019 seasons is available at www.outdooralabama.com/saltwater-fishing/ exempted-fishing-permit.

• ISSUE 292

JULY 2019

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TAMPA BAY WATCH SEEKS VOLUNTEERS U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Tori Long

ampa Bay Watch is seeking volunteers for two upcoming programs designed to restore lost habitat in Tampa Bay waters. The first, slated for Oct. 3-4, will install an oyster shell bar on the shoreline of MacDill Air Force Base from 9 a.m. to noon on each day. The goal is to prevent further erosion of the shoreline and improve water quality through natural biological filtration. Oyster bars also make excellent habitat for gamefish. The second project, being conducted on weekday mornings of October 2, 15, 21 and 23, needs hard workers to help build oyster domes at the Marine Center in Terra Verde. The project involves pouring marine-friendly concrete into a fiberglass mold to create oyster domes and taking apart the molds that were previously poured. This project is physically demanding in requiring bending, crouching, and some heavy lifting. It is entirely on land, and the domes will be installed at a later date to provide hard structure for oysters to grow. Oyster communities help stabilize shorelines, provide hard bottom habitats for fish and wildlife resources, and promote water quality improvements in the Tampa Bay ecosystem. For more information and to register for these events, go to www.tampabaywatch.org.

PERFECT FILLETS!

Sheri Daye

fter all the time, effort and determination it takes to land that beautiful fish, you don’t want to compromise the quality of your dinner by improper handling at the end. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years: 1) Dispatching/ bleeding: Whether you are fishing or spearfishing, try to minimize the amount of time the fish is under stress, as this can produce lactic acid which affects taste. Dispatching as soon as possible is humane and helps maintain quality. Bleeding also helps, especially for raw consumption. Spearfishermen can do it in the water, but if you don’t want to attract sharks, you Sheri Daye with a big Keys wahoo. can also do it on the boat. Cut the throat and place it in a bucket of water for a few minutes or use scissors and cut the gills. 2) Icing: Make sure you have plenty of ice, two pounds for every pound of fish. Saltwater ice is best if you can get it, and crushed

ice is optimal because it covers more surface area. Heat and air are the enemies, so ice your fish immediately. If you don’t plan to fillet soon, remove the guts and gills and fill the cavity with ice before burying it in the cooler. Drain and replace ice often to ensure fish stays cold and is not sitting in water, which will cause the fish to get mushy. 3) Filleting: When the flesh is chilled and firm, cutting is much easier, and a razor sharp knife makes quick work of filleting. After filleting, try not to rinse the meat, as water degrades the fillets and produces a breeding ground for bacteria. If you keep your knife clean, don’t puncture the gut cavity and you bled your fish beforehand, you should not have to rinse fillets. If the fillet is exposed to water, dry it promptly with paper towels. 4) Refrigeration: Fish can be stored in your refrigerator at 40 degrees for about three days. Wrap the fish in plastic-wrap and place in crushed ice. It is still best to store fish surrounded by crushed ice because the cooler you can keep it, the better. 5) Freezing: Store in the freezer at 0 degrees or lower. Lean fish (snapper or grouper) will keep for about six months. Fatty fish (salmon, tuna and mackerel) will keep for about three months. I like to vacuum-pack fillets. Vacuum packers are relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and available at Target. Fill pre-cut bags with fillets and follow the directions on the vacuum packer. This keeps fillets airtight to prevent freezer burn. 6) Thawing: The safest way to thaw fish is in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. Plan to cook immediately after thawing. Do not thaw fish at room temperature, and never refreeze fish. Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.

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NOTHING IS OFF LIMITS FROM A KAYAK Photo courtesy of Justin Ritchey

By FWC Staff ayak fishing is a growing sport, and it’s easy to see why. Kayaks are nimble, less expensive than most motorized boats and provide access to places even the best casts from land just can’t reach. But those who love the sport1say kayak fishing is more than just Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 a quick and less expensive way to get on the water.

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“You are more in tune with what is going on,” said avid kayak angler Tony Hart, who runs YakOutlaws.com, a website dedicated to kayak and SUP angling. “The slower approach gives you an opportunity to take in more. It’s almost as though you become a part of what’s around you.” “Because you are so low in the water, there is this sense of vulnerability when you start fishing, but you also have this feeling of freedom and accomplishment, blood, sweat and tears,” said Justin Ritchey, who has been kayak fishing for more than a decade. “I’m very passionate about it, it’s a huge part of my life.” Like many kayak anglers, Hart and Ritchey got into kayak fishing for similar reasons: they loved fishing and didn’t have access to a boat. Ritchey got his start in college with two-person rental kayaks. He would ask classmates to foot the rental fee. Ritchey would provide the car, fishing gear and knowledge. Hart was fishing from a dock in Jacksonville when he noticed fish off a point too far for him to reach casting. “That’s when two young guys paddled by and I thought, that’s the smartest thing in world,” said Hart. “The next weekend I got two kayaks.” What often gets people into kayak fishing is the ability to access places they can’t reach from shore. “You can go anywhere you want with no stress of a motor breaking down or electronic failure,” Ritchey said. “And because you are quiet, you can often get closer than boat anglers can get.” Some might think kayaks are great for seatrout and redfish, but they can also be used for monster tarpon and sailfish. While what you catch within paddling distance will vary according to where in Florida you are fishing, if you can catch it, your kayak can take it. “Being able to catch every species from a kayak is personal goal of mine,” said Ritchey, who has personally caught sailfish, blackfin tuna, mutton snapper, kingfish and tarpon from his kayak. “In a boat, when a fish takes a lot of line, you have less control. In a kayak, you might be getting towed, but you are never too far away from the fish, which allows you to get the fish in much faster.”

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FLY FISHING

There are two schools of thoughts regarding bite-proof tippet. One school favors the soft, stainless-steel leader when fishing toothed game fish. The other school leans to the single-strand stainless-wire leader. Let’s compare the two.

BUILD THE PERFECT SALTWATER LEADER AND BITE TIPPET The basic fly leader is the saltwater fisherman’s most important connection between him and the fish. Tied incorrectly, it will place the angler at a distinct disadvantage when casting, especially under windy conditions. Simple in its design, the saltwater fly leader can meet the demands in almost every saltwater fly fishing situation. A leader’s length varies depending on conditions, but a 9-foot leader will work in most situations. A “4-3-2 combo” works well, as it allows the fly to roll over as it is cast. Creating this leader is fairly simple. First tie a two-turn surgeon’s loop of 40- or 50-pound soft monofilament at the fly line’s terminal. Then join the sections of your leader with blood knots, applying saliva to the knots to guarantee a solid connection. Take care to test the strength of each knot as you complete tying them. 4 feet of 40# soft mono 3 feet of 30# mono 2 feet of 20# mono Best Material for a Wire Leader When you fly fish in saltwater, there will be times when you deal with toothy critters like barracudas, sharks, needle fish, mackerel and numerous other fish sporting “ivories” capable of severing the heaviest monofilament and fluorocarbon leaders. It is the savvy saltwater fly fisherman who has learned to attach a bite-proof tippet to his fly line.

Soft Stainless Steel Wire Soft stainless wire is a good alternative to single-strand wire. It works well on smaller saltwater gamefish like Pacific barracuda, bonito and other toothy critters the fly rodder will encounter in many nearshore fisheries. The best attribute of the soft stainless wire is you can tie a loop knot in it rather than going through the time consuming process of making the haywire twist commonly used with single-strand wire. Single Strand Wire The second option, and my personal preference, is the single-strand stainless wire leader. The wire is tough, able to stand the raking teeth of a shark far better than its softer counterpart. Also, the advantage of using this type of leader is its small diameter. Like a piece of dental floss, it fits nicely between the fish’s teeth. As the battle rages, the wire does not wear against razor sharp teeth, giving the advantage to the angler in a difficult and prolonged fight. If your choice is the single-strand wire leader, the most commonly used knot is the reliable haywire twist. Although there are tools to assist you in the tying of this knot, I recommend the “old school” method you will find in numerous books and pamphlets, many currently available at your local fly shop.

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ELITE SERIES TO OPEN SEASON AT ST. JOHNS RIVER B.A.S.S. photo by James Overstreet

n Feb. 6-9, the Bassmaster Elite Series will begin its 2020 season with an event on the St. John’s River out of Palatka, Fla. Last year’s tournament on the St. Johns was one of the most exciting in history, with Rick Clunn weighing a 34-pounds, 14-ounce sack on Championship Sunday to complete an amazing come-frombehind win with 98-14. That final-day bag included two bass over 9 pounds. The big-fish factory is an apt location to launch a 2020 schedule that was designed for fans who love watching professional anglers catch big bass. With the St. Johns event, the world’s best professional bass

fishermen will embark on a journey that spans six states and nine events on some of the most storied fisheries in the sport’s history. “This year, we unveiled the mantra ‘Big Bass. Big Stage. Big Dreams.,’” said B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin. “Fans will have an opportunity to see our anglers compete on some of the best big-bass lakes in America.” On Feb. 14-17, the Elite Series will shift focus to a location that has yet to be announced. The Bassmaster Classic takes the stage in March, when the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing descends upon Alabama’s Lake Guntersville, with weigh-ins and the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo taking place in nearby Birmingham. When regular season Elite competition resumes, B.A.S.S. will take a trip down memory lane with a return to Alabama’s Lake Eufaula on April 2-5. B.A.S.S. hasn’t visited Eufaula since 2006. But the lake on the Alabama/ Georgia border has been the site of 18 major B.A.S.S. events, dating back to 1968. The fourth Elite Series event will be in Manning, S.C., on the Santee Cooper Lakes. Lakes Marion and Moultrie, which have been on fire recently. A BFL event held on the Santee Cooper Lakes in March was won with five bass that weighed just over 30 pounds. The next fishery on the schedule is known for producing big crowds— the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. The 2020 event will be held May 29-June 1 and could challenge the fan attendance record of 36,200. The site for the Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest will be announced at a later time. But the dates have been tentatively set for June 5-9 — just before the Elite Series makes its New York swing. That swing begins with a trip to smallmouth fishing’s holy country, the St. Lawrence River in Waddington, N.Y., on July 23-26. The 2019 Elite Series event on the river was won by Georgia pro Micah Frazier with an average of more than 20 pounds of smallmouth each day. The pros will then head to Plattsburg, N.Y., for an event at Lake Champlain on July 30-Aug. 2, where Vermont angler Bryan Labelle won with an average of almost 20 pounds of largemouth per day in 2018. With the Bassmaster Angler of the Year title and numerous Bassmaster Classic berths hanging in the balance, the Elites will finish their season in Macomb County, Mich., at Lake St. Clair on Aug. 20-23.

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Photo by Tom Purves/flickr

Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s Project Permit has reached a major milestone of 150 permit tagged with acoustic transmitters in south Florida since March 2016. Scientists track the movement patterns of tagged fish for up to five years, providing important information on habitat use and spawning locations. This information is essential to guide permit conservation efforts, and data from Project Permit have already influenced permit harvest regulations, such as the expansion of the permit harvest season closure in the Special Permit Zone (SPZ) to include the month of April. Recently BTT Collaborating Scientist Dr. Jake Brownscombe tagged 14 permit on the flats of Biscayne Bay with fishing guides Capt. Augie Moss and Capt. Carl Ball. Project Permit would not be possible without the help of the dozens of fishing guides who generously donate time and expertise to catch and tag fish with BTT scientists. Currently BTT is also seeking information on juvenile permit to gain a better understanding of the habitats that support the juveniles and sub-adults. For permit in the Keys, abundant newborns form 1 to 3 inches can be found on sandy beaches. Adults and larger sub-adults greater than 15 inches live on the flats or reefs and wrecks. However, fish between 4 and 14 inches are surprisingly rare. These 4- to 14-inch fish might be absent because the habitats they use are becoming degraded, and as a result, there are less of that size. Or, scientists haven’t yet looked in the right places for them. In either case, BTT seeks to identify the habitats these fish are using to restore them if they are unhealthy, or protect them so permit have a place to grow into adults. Report sightings and catches of permit in the 4- to 14-inch range to Florida Keys Initiative Manager Dr. Ross Boucek. Email Dr. Boucek at ross@bonefishtarpontrust.org.

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FLY FISHING’S

WARMWATER REVOLUTION By Nick Carter

here’s a brutish undercurrent gaining momentum in fly fishing. Whether it’s river-run striped bass, muskie or carp, long-rodders are targeting freshwater’s most powerful fish. Here are a few destinations where you can get in on the action. James River Photo courtesy of Matt Miles Muskie, Virginia The James River is one of the few rivers in the east that supports a fishable wild muskie population. Guide Matt Miles eagerly pointed out that most of the fish they catch, the 35- to 42-inchers, were spawned wild in the upper James. He said the monster 50-inchers might have originally come from the hatchery, but they still prowl the river, ready to give anglers the adrenaline rush of a lifetime. Between Iron Gate and Lynchburg, Va., more than 80 miles of the James are considered muskie water. The relatively shallow pool and riffle habitat is uniquely suited to hunting freshwater’s biggest, toothiest fish with a fly rod. But muskie fishing isn’t for everyone. Casting waterlogged, 14-inch-long streamers on sinking lines with 10- and 11-weight rods is a workout. Doing it all day in hope of a single take requires mental fortitude. Peak muskie season is October through mid-March.

Saluda & Congaree River Striper, South Carolina Each spring, South Carolina striped bass go on the move. From the Santee-Cooper Lakes between Columbia and Charleston, fish run some 60 miles up the Congaree and arrive in Columbia to spawn in April. By early May they push into the lower Saluda, where they spend the summer in the cold-water refuge of a 10-mile stretch of tailwater. Jake Howard, of Saluda Valley Guides, tapes his thumbs during the June through August heart of the striper season because they become raw from lipping fish. He told of huge numbers of stripers and said 60-fish days are possible for anglers who can lay out line with a 10-weight rod and 350-grain sinking lines. The standard fish weighs 4 to 8 pounds, but 20-, 30- and even 50-pounders are caught each season. Catawba Chain Carp, North Carolina More than 15 years ago, Capt. Paul Rose left the Texas coast with his flats skiff in tow. He settled in the North Carolina Piedmont, far from the salt marshes he loves. But he found a new passion in the clear Catawba River lakes between Asheville and Charlotte, N.C. In the shallows, he watched carp tailing like redfish. The fishing style that arose is a lot like sight casting to bonefish. Rose poles anglers over clear-water flats, searching for pods of carp rooting and feeding. Many clients hire Rose to practice before a trip to the Bahamas. They return because carp are so much fun. Fish from 3 pounds up to 20 pounds call for a 6- or 7-weight rod. The peak season on impoundments like Lake Norman and Lake James runs from May through September. Nick Carter is the author of “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.” It is available on Amazon.com, and autographed copies are available by emailing the author at nsc8957@gmail.com. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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n enormous 40-pound, 6-ounce brown trout caught at Lake Taneycomo in southwest Missouri is a new state record and just a couple pounds shy of the IGFA all-tackle world record. Bill Babler, a veteran fishing guide from Blue Eye, Mo., caught the monster brown on Sept. 4 using a pink Berkley plastic worm. He caught it on 6x tippet, which equates to less than 4-pound test, making his catch 2 ounces heavier than the current IGFA 4-pound line class record. The previous state record, set just seven months, weighed 34 pounds, 10 ounces. It was also caught at Lake Taneycomo. Babler told the Springfield News-Leader he’d only been out fishing for a few minutes when he caught his new state record. “As soon as I set the hook it came to the top and I knew we had a good fish on,” Babler told the newspaper. “We positioned the boat in an unobstructed area. It was pulling drag pretty good!” Babler attempted to keep the behemoth alive in an aerated tank, but unfortunately the trout died before it could be released. Fisheries Biologist Shane Bush said the fish was eight or nine-years-old. For more information on Missouri state-record fish, visit the MDC website at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z3t.

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Ultimate Control For Saltwater Fishing Boats The Dometic Group Introduces New Optimus Electric Steering Actuator

altwater anglers who fish aboard today’s large center console fishing machines and other high-performance outboard powered boats will soon be able to experience a new level of precision steering and vessel control. The Dometic Group is introducing its new Optimus Universal Electric Steering Actuator. Incorporating proprietary technology and several new components designed and manufactured by Dometic, this new actuator is built exclusively for use with its Optimus Joystick and Electric Power Steering Systems. About the same size as the Dometic Tournament Cylinder, the Optimus Electric Steering Actuator mounts directly on the outboard in place of the present hydraulic cylinder. With its powerful drive train, integrated proprietary position sensors and embedded electronics, it eliminates the need for separately mounted hydraulic actuators used in the Optimus Joystick and EPS systems. This means no more Pump Control Module, no more hydraulic pump, no more hoses, hydraulic cylinders and fluid, and no more purging the system. “We are continually inventing ways to make boat building more efficient and boating more enjoyable,” said Eric Fetchko, President of Dometic Marine Americas. “Once again, we have taken marine steering to the next level. You have my word that we will never stop innovating and solving industry problems.” In terms of performance underway, ease of installation and seasonafter-season reliability, the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator will provide substantial benefits to boat builder and skipper alike. With the present system, the signal from the Optimus electronic helm goes to the Pump Control Module, which activates an electro-hydraulic steering system. Even though it is “by-wire,” hydraulic fluid is still pumped through hoses and into the steering cylinders on the outboard(s) which act on the tiller arms of the outboards to move left or right. With the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator, the electronic helm signal goes directly to the actuator which instantly moves the outboard. The “brains” of the Pump Control Module, including ECM, rudder position circuit and CANbus communication, have been

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transplanted into the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator itself. Steering power is delivered by a proprietary high-torque high-efficiency brushless DC electric motor, designed and manufactured by Dometic, and a patented compact roller-screw drive system, also a proprietary Dometic design. Both the motor and power train reside within the steering actuator. In terms of steering performance, skippers will sense a marked improvement in handling. Steering response will be immediate, smooth and precise, thanks to this robust, industry-leading drive train that provides unparalleled performance and system rigidity when needed most. Programmable steering settings, including adjustable speed-sensitive lockto-lock turns, adjustable speed sensitive wheel effort, and speed-sensitive rudder angle limits to ensure safe steering, continue to be available, now without the need for any extra components. Installation of the new system is a snap, with just three CANbus connections plus power. Twin, triple and quad outboard installations will be set up similar to the present design, with Optimus Electric Steering Actuators controlling adjacent outboards via tie-bars. In addition, the new Electric Steering Actuator will interface with compatible autopilot systems in the same manner as the present Optimus systems. Dometic’s SeaWays Autopilot and SeaStation GPS Anchoring functionality are also built in. The Dometic Optimus Electric Steering Actuator exceeds all applicable marine standards, including NMMA, ABYC, CE and SAE electrical and environmental requirements. The actuators are maintenance free, except for regular greasing of the steering ram via installed zerk fittings. Over 100,000 hours of rigorous testing during development assures safe and reliable performance under harsh salt and freshwater conditions, all in keeping with Dometic’s proven reputation for superior quality. To learn more, visit seastarsolutions.com

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He’ll typically kick the morning off with redfish encounters in depths of 2 feet or less. As the sun grows stronger, he’ll probe docks and structure looking for summer flounder before finishing off with feisty seatrout in feeder creeks. “I’m thinking this season will be a special one if we don’t get smacked by any major storms,” said Collins. “There’s tons of bait around already, and it’s been a long time since I’ve seen as many mullet as we have this year. Crabs and small menhaden are abundant, too. Plus we have tons of shrimp; everything loves shrimp.” By Tom Schlichter Collins targets early morning reds around oyster bars, oyster reefs and oyster rocks in water that is generally hip-deep or less. He’ll work shoal areas and Seatrout: Dale Collins puts a fare even dig into the grass on White Oak Sound, White Oak River and the area on a pretty Oak River area sea trout. Photo courtesy of Do or Die surrounding Swansboro with a 7-foot, 6- to 10-pound class Star Seagis rod. His Charters, Swansboro, N.C. lure of choice for the reds is a Skitter Walk SW11 in a golden mullet pattern that always seems to bring surface thrills. Backing off the edges and working near docks and structure, he’ll switch to a ¾-ounce white Spro bucktail tipped with a 4-inch Berkley Gulp! pearl-white shrimp for the flatties. “For the reds,” disclosed Collins, “I keep a second rod rigged with a Z-Man soft plastic or Gulp! Jerk Shad impaled on a weedless screw-style hook. If a redfish blows up on the topwater but misses, I immediately send the soft plastic his way. He’ll slam that as soon as it starts to sink.” For flounder, Collins hops his bucktail about a foot at a time, but it’s vital you actually feel it strike bottom on the drop. “Most hits come as the lure falls, and if you don’t feel it hit bottom it’s probably in a fish’s mouth,” he said. “Strike immediately, because those flounder spit a lure out quickly once they realize it’s a fake.” As for the specks, Collins recommends getting on them as soon as possible. “You’ll find the biggest fish arrive first,” he said. Throw a Mirrolure MR 17 or ou’ve got to love fall’s promise here in North Carolina,” said Capt. Dale 18, or try my personal favorite: a Zoom Golden Bream on a 1/16-ounce jighead. Collins, of Fish or Die Charters (www.fishordiecharters; 252-422- Man can that lure catch some fish! Just work it slow and allow time for it to get 4236) in Swansboro, North Carolina. “The water temperatures are down deep. If you think you are fishing slowly enough, slow down a little more.” starting to cool and there’s plenty of red drum, flounder and big seatrout in our bays and creeks. Indeed, it’s my favorite time of year to fish around here.” If you’d like to fish the Swansboro area on your own, Collins suggests Collins should know. He’s built a reputation putting fares on big fish in launching from Cedar Point Wildlife Ramp near Dudley’s Marina (https:// skinny water in this area west of Morehead City and separated from Pamlico www.dudleysmarinanc.com; 252-393-2204) in Swansboro. For overnight accommodations Best Western Plus (252-393-9015) is right near the launch. Sound on the southern side of Cape Lookout.

SWANSBORO, NC: FALL ROCKS WITH REDS, FLOUNDER AND SEATROUT

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OCTOBER 2019

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SIGHT CASTING TO LOUISIANA’S BIG BULL REDS ON THE FLY

Photo courtesy of Michael Booth Jr.

t’s no secret that the Louisiana coast is an inshore angler’s dream. A seemingly endless tangle of interconnected waterways, with big salt lakes, canals, grass, oysters and mud flats make the bayous south of New Orleans the No. 1 destination in the world for redfish. Places like Grand Isle, Cocodrie, Venice, Delacroix and Hopedale are the destinations for redfish anglers seeking out some of the best fishing on the planet. The region is filthy with reds, and targeting big bulls with a fly rod is the ultimate thrill. Angler Michael Booth Jr. and his buddies, many who are local captains, have made a practice of sight fishing these monsters. Instead of working the grass to find individual bulls or pods of slotsized redfish, they move out deeper on the big lakes in search of

schools of big bulls, which usually hunt in the 3- to 4-foot depths 100 to 200 yards off the grass. “The weather has to be good for a couple weeks beforehand for the water to be clean enough to see them,” said Booth “When we go out looking for schools of big fish, we start about 20 yards out and pole that line until we figure out where the reds are holding that day. Then they’ll usually all be in that same area.” On certain special days, when a strong northeast wind and a low tide suck the water out of the marsh around Hopedale, those 4-foot depths become 2 feet and spotting fish is easy. “Those big bulls will all be belly crawling with their backs out of the water,” said Booth. But normally, finding fish means looking for the telltale dark triangles of tails and fins or fish pushing water as they chase bait and root for crabs. Booth said a good pair of green-mirror glasses with amber lenses makes it easier to distinguish the shadows and colors of a big redfish in tannic-stained water. Once you find them, tempting them to eat a fly is a matter of trial and error to find the fly and retrieve they want on a given day. Booth prefers fishing on top, and a size 2 Surface Seducer Double Barrel popper is the hot bait at the moment. Booth likes purple, gold, chartreuse, black and combinations of those colors. Sometimes, when the fish aren’t feeding as actively, Booth said he’s forced to fish something that sinks. A size 2 shrimp pattern with extra large dumbbell eyes becomes the bait of choice. Again, purple and chartreuse work well, as do more natural tan or olive patterns. A 10-weight rod, floating line and a 50-40-30 leader with 12 to 18 inches of 16- to 20-pound tippet are in order. Booth said he’s seen days that brought 10 fish over 20 pounds to the rail and others when a single 40-pound red was reason for rejoicing. “Any day you’re able to catch a 20-plus-pound bull red on a fly is pretty awesome,” he said.

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