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VOLUME 26 • ISSUE 314

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F R A N C H I S E

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A V A I L A B L E

W O R L D W I D E

MAY 2021

Secrets of a Billionaire Revealed “Price is what you pay; value is what you get. Whether we’re talking about socks or stocks, I like buying quality merchandise when it is marked down.” — wisdom from the most successful investor of all time

e’re going to let you in on a secret. Billionaires have billions because they know value is not increased by an inflated price. They avoid big name markups, and aren’t swayed by flashy advertising. When you look on their wrist you’ll find a classic timepiece, not a cry for attention–– because they know true value comes from keeping more money in their pocket. We agree with this thinking wholeheartedly. And, so do our two-and-a-half million clients. It’s time you got in on the secret too. The Jet-Setter Chronograph can go up against the best chronographs in the market, deliver more accuracy and style than the “luxury” brands, and all for far, far less. $1,150 is what the Jet-Setter Chronograph would cost you with nothing more than a different name on the face. With over two million timepieces sold (and counting), we know a thing or two about creating watches people love. The Jet-Setter Chronograph gives you what you need to master time and keeps the superfluous stuff out of the equation. A classic in the looks department and a stainless steel power tool of construction, this is all the watch you need. And, then some. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Experience the Jet-Setter Chronograph for 30 days. If you’re not convinced you got excellence for less, send it back for a refund of the item price. Time is running out. Now CLIENTS LOVE that the secret’s out, we STAUER WATCHES… can’t guarantee this $29 chronograph will stick around long. Don’t overpay to be “The quality of their underwhelmed. Put a precision watches is equal to many chronograph on your wrist for that can go for ten times just $29 and laugh all the way the price or more.” to the bank. Call today! — Jeff from McKinney, TX

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Jackpot! Hoard of 1881-S Morgan Silver Dollars Found & Secured Mintage accounts for only 1.94% of all Morgan Silver Dollars Struck!

In 1859, Nevada’s Comstock Lode was discovered, and soon its rich silver ore made its way across the nation, including to the respected San Francisco Mint—the U.S. Mint branch known by collectors as the source of some of the finest U.S. coins ever struck. That includes the 1881 Morgan Silver Dollar, which exhibits crisp details, blazing luster, and the iconic “S” mint mark of the San Francisco Mint. Now you have the chance to add these historic, 90% pure U.S. silver coins to your collection!

Here’s the breakdown: in 1881, just 4.25% of the total Morgan series was struck. Less than half of those coins came from San Francisco. In the end, the 1881-S Morgan Silver Dollar accounts for just 1.94% of the entire series—and that’s before the mass meltings that have left so few coins for collectors to secure. And we can expect that even fewer of the survivors are of collector grade...

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(MS63) condition by NGC/PCGS

 Sealed in protective holder  1881-S accounts for just 1.94% of all Morgans Struck

Actual size is 38.1 mm

Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS)! Grading service varies. The condition of these coins are as though they were struck yesterday, despite being minted 140 years ago to circulate in commerce! And yet they have survived with a quality level of eye appeal that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.

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1881-S Date

The Morgan Silver Dollar was struck from 1878 to 1904, and again in 1921. In the 100 years since, most of these beautiful U.S. Silver Dollars have been worn out or melted down for their silver. It’s estimated that as little as 15% of all Morgans struck exist today in any condition. Even fewer come from this particular mintage.

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The Morgan Silver Dollar is the most popular and iconic vintage U.S. coin. They were the Silver Dollars of the Wild West, going on countless untold adventures in dusty saddlebags across the nation. Finding a hoard of Morgans doesn’t happen often—and when it does, it’s a big deal. So when we came across a recent hoard of 549 Morgan Silver Dollars—all struck at the San Francisco Mint in 1881—it was like hitting the jackpot!

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OFFER DETAILS: Activate a new subscription to SiriusXM Marine Fish Mapping and receive your first month free (a $99.99 savings), plus get free activation (an additional $25 savings), for a combined savings of $124.99. Add SiriusXM Select radio package at the discount rate of $11.99/mo. Fees and taxes apply. A credit card is required on this offer. You must cancel during your free month to avoid being charged. At the beginning of your second month service will automatically renew thereafter every month and you will be charged at the then-current rates. Fees and taxes apply. Please see our Customer Agreement at siriusxm.com for complete terms and how to cancel, which includes calling us at 1-800-985-9200. All fees, content, and features are subject to change. This offer may not be combined with any other trial offers and may be modified or terminated at any time. Subscription and hardware sold separately. $100 Rebate from SiriusXM available through Dec 31, 2021 with hardware and subscription purchase, see Rebate Offer Details at siriusxm.com/fishmapping. © 2021 Sirius XM Radio Inc. SiriusXM and all related logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and its respective subsidiaries. All rights reserved.

THE BASICS

By Michelle Dalton

Flying OF

Kites T

here’s something about kite fishing for big pelagic gamefish that gets me going. Flying kites presents baits with a natural appearance and allows you to cover lots of water for higher catch rates. Also, the technique provides the ultimate adrenaline rush, as you get to watch the strike happen. For those unfamiliar with kite fishing, let’s go over the basics. Captains consider everything from water color and clarity to baitfish and birds to determine where to start fishing. I like fishing edges, where water color turns green to a deep blue, usually somewhere in 100 to 300 feet of water. There are different kite designs for different wind velocities. Kites are typically launched and retrieved with electric reels. Launching kites is not a piece of cake, but with the right equipment, patience and steady winds, a beginner can practice and perfect the skill. Attached to your kite line are three release clips.

Each clip is assigned to a rod. An experienced crew will fish three live baits off one kite, with each reel’s line clipped to the main kite line. Although it seems like a potential tangled mess, it’s rather organized. For the bait lines, I use high-capacity baitcasting reels spooled with 20- or 30-pound monofilament. Attached to the mono, above the leader, there are a few terminal tackle items that make up your rigs.

First, a ceramic ring is attached to the kite line using release clips. Next, a neon float dangles in the sky above each bait to help track them from a distance. From there, a small egg sinker maintains the vertical drop that keeps baits at the surface. Finally, a bead separates the sinker from your leader. Your leader depends on the targeted species. For the toothy critters, I use an 18-inch wire leader connected to fluorocarbon with an Albright knot and a 7/0 live bait hook. For sailfish, I use 10 to 12 feet of 60-pound fluorocarbon leader with a 7/0 circle hook. By paying attention and adjusting the lines, the angler keeps the baits on the surface where they make the slight commotion predators find irresistible. The rigs suspend in air above the baits, completely out of sight of the fish. I prefer fishing goggle-eyes, threadfin herring and sardines. Healthy bait is far more likely to be eaten. Ahead of tournaments, my team and I spend weeks feeding and nurturing bait to keep it healthy. If you’re fortunate enough to hook a sailfish, don’t immediately clear the other lines. Sailfish often travel in groups. Leave those other baits in the water for a chance at additional bites. Traditionally, when winds start to die at the end of spring, the number of boats trolling offshore grows. However, kite fishing goes on year-round in South Florida. Even with very little wind, a kite will fly with the help of a helium balloon. Next time your friends want to troll around offshore, tell them to “go fly a kite!” Michelle Dalton books charters through her social media pages: @Bombchelle_fishing.

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on ply. ce mer ect ely. ng. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

MAY 2021

NATIONAL 7

Humbled

ON THE DAVIDSON By Nick Carter

he Davidson River in Brevard, N.C. is one of the most widely publicized trout streams in the Southeast. It’s a challenging fishery with beautiful water that holds some very nice fish. Part of the Davidson’s appeal, or its main drawback, is easy access. The river flows roadside through most its publicly accessible length. There is small water in the headwaters accessible only by foot, but for the most part it is a park-and-fish kind of place. On a gorgeous summer weekend, a buddy and I heeded advice from the guys at Davidson River Outfitters to join the dawn patrol. We arrived on

the river at first light to find a pod of big fish, maybe four or five in the 16- to 20-inch range, hovering near the bottom of a bellybutton-deep run. They were clearly visible in low summer flows. For the next hour, we worked the run together, one or the other of us making the same drift repeatedly as the other man tied on a new fly. It was a challenge that bordered on infuriating to see those trout, an occasional belly flash belying the fact that they were eating… just not what we offered. We tried everything, right down to a size 22 red midge pupa recommended at the fly shop. Finally, because we had tried everything else, I

tied on a white Woolly Bugger—another Davidson River staple. Just twitching it through the hole, a fish we had not previously seen streaked from the periphery to slam the streamer. Those big fish didn’t even flinch as I stripped in a pretty 11-inch brown. As I released the fish, an older gentleman waded down the side of the run. He glanced out at the pod of big fish still sitting on the bottom. “Wasn’t the one you were after, was it?” he asked. My response was to offer him a shot at the run. He declined. “Don’t want any part of it,” he grumbled. “Spent all afternoon yesterday standing right where you are.” That’s a snapshot of what fishing the catch-andrelease, fly fishing only section of the Davidson is like. The river is full of fish—and some big ones. It is also frequently full of anglers. The steady pressure makes trout wise. Of course, there’s always a guy who lights up Internet message boards with a photo of a big old bruiser. He’ll give advice like, “Use a little split-shot to get it down,” but I suspect there’s more to it. Pressured fish are on guard. Catching them requires perfect presentation of the perfect fly and also being in the right place at that right time. Arriving early, staying late and fishing hard makes it more likely you’ll be there when a 2-foot-long trout makes a mistake. This story is an abbreviated excerpt from the book “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia,” which includes maps and GPS coordinates to access points for all the region’s best trout fisheries. Purchase the book on Amazon or by contacting the author at nsc8957@gmail.com.

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BUILD YOUR OWN RODS

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“Rooted” GET

he Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. This jungle-like paradise provides crucial habitat for numerous rare and endangered species like manatees, American crocodiles and Florida panthers. It is a truly amazing land and seascape, and it’s home to an awesome angling experience like no other: an encounter with the “Silver King,” one of Nature’s most acrobatic and striking underwater wonders. Tarpon (Megalops), in brief, are like an enormous silver bullet. They are powerful, explosive and acrobatic fighters, with the stamina of an Energizer bunny. Due to their tolerance of a wide range of water salinity, tarpon swim the canals and ponds of south Florida. I’ve caught juveniles in freshwater ponds, so I’ve sampled the pure power of the species. But catching a true behemoth has long been on my bucket list. To achieve this, I traveled to Flamingo, the southernmost headquarters of Everglades National Park, in Monroe County, Fla. There I met Sam Root, an exceptionally knowledgeable Miami-based

By Rosemary J. White

IN THE FLORIDA EVERGLADES

fisherman and media personality who has traveled the world to test his fishing skills. I’ve admired Root’s media work, and have been fortunate to collaborate with him through companies like Mustad, Savage Gear and many TV platforms. On this trip, we set out to test the Savage Gear Pulse Tail Mullet and Pulse Tail Ballyhoo. These swimbaits are engineered to look and move like the baitfish they resemble, and are molded with Savage Gear’s pulse tail. The tail has a patent-pending split rear kicker that allows realistic swimming action fast or slow. The bait also features “line-through” rigging that allows the soft-plastic bait to slide up the line during the fight, giving the fish less leverage to throw the hook. With the aerial tendencies of tarpon, this is a pretty good feature to have. We launched out of Everglades National Park quickly to avoid being air lifted from the ramp by mosquitoes. The scenery was breathtaking. Winding through the narrow canals was like trekking through the Amazon. We arrived at our spot with the moon to the west and the sunrise to the east, both simultaneously visible. That was unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

The action began immediately! We hooked multiple tarpon and got a first-hand perspective of why the line-through technology is helpful. An unobstructed fight, both from the lack of structure and the lack of a lure in the fish’s mouth makes for a pure battle of strength and endurance, on both sides of the rod. The acrobatics and sheer power of these fish as they launched into the air was mind blowing. At one point, it was all I could do to hold on as Root engaged the motor in pursuit of a monster tarpon with the reel screaming in my hands. After we exhausted ourselves—and several fish—we headed into the preserve canals to sightsee. We were ecstatic to get a glimpse of the American crocodile. The Everglades is the only place on Earth where both alligators and crocodiles coexist. When Root said it was time to “call it,” I cringed. I could have gotten lost for days fishing in the unparalleled landscape. The Everglades is a mix of different habitats including freshwater, brackish and salt, an angler’s paradise. I longed for more time to explore.

For more information on Savage Gear and their products, Sam does instructional “how to” videos on his Instagram @scssam. Follow Rosemary White @roasty194 for her fishing adventures that feature destinations throughout Florida and @daryn.white.fishing for photography.

Bow and pray.

Tarpon season in The Florida Keys is all about timing, skill and luck of the draw. Hook up and be ready to bow to the king. Stay tight and pray all those hours in the gym weren’t for naught. Whether you come just for thrills or to top your personal best, don’t miss the opportunity to experience true piscatorial bliss. fla-keys.com 1.800.fla.keys For the latest protocols on health & safety in The Florida Keys, please visit our website.

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4) Shrimp (weedless, or as it comes out of the package) without a jig head I can go anywhere there are shrimp and catch trout, drum, snook and more with a very small tackle box. It’s the universal bait. My favorite is just the shrimp on the Barefoot Jig without a cork, but under the fixed and sliding cork is sometimes just the ticket. You can use the sliding cork Tim Barefoot around docks and snags at an irresistibly slow speed. The reason it works ears ago, I was obsessed with live bait of all kinds. I kept livewells so well is the jig head is balanced and will maintain a perfect horizontal with mullet, shrimp, pinfish and cigar minnows. I spent a lot of position with or without a cork. time tending to bait and battling the otters at the marina. My inshore bait of choice was the live shrimp… hands down. Live mullets will get the bite, no question, but the shrimp is simply irresistible. I would spend hours and hours catching, housing and feeding bait. I was just about at the end of my inshore live bait road when along came the DOA shrimp. I love everything about that soft plastic shrimp body. It’s pretty tough, looks just like a real shrimp and can be made to work in every single situation including depth, grass/roots and current when used with the correct hardware. I have to admit there are times when I may catch a few more fish with live shrimp, but I can carry my entire inshore tackle The key is to make the shrimp look like a real shrimp. box now in just a few small trays of jig heads, DOA shrimp A live shrimp does not move around stern- or bow-heavy. colors and a bottle of Pro Cure shrimp scent. It’s extremely A live shrimp moves thru the water slowly in a perfectly easy to just plug a DOA body on the jig, apply a liberal horizontal position. Just look at them in the livewell or at a amount of Pro Cure shrimp scent on the legs and underside, tackle shop that sells live shrimp. That’s the reason the DOA and start fishing. I have so much faith in this combination. catches so many fish: it swims horizontally. It’s just a given; they will eat it when properly presented. The weedless version of this shrimp can be extremely I could write several pages of this article regarding the effective for fish tailing in the grass or around mangrove different applications, but I’ll be brief. roots. This is one reason to keep one rigged and ready and I keep four rods rigged with shrimp: always moving around quietly. For videos of these variations, 1) Shrimp body on a 3/8-ounce Barefoot Jig. visit my website and click on “videos” 2) Shrimp under a fixed cork about 20 inches deep on a 3/8 oz. Barefoot Jig. For more from Capt. Tim Barefoot, visit 3) Shrimp under a sliding cork on a 3/8-ounce barefootcatsandtackle.com. Barefoot Jig (to suspend over shell beds).

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Summer-Long, Statewide Fishing Competition Launches May 29 C CA Florida, the state’s leading marine fisheries conservation, education and advocacy organization, will begin the seventh-annual CCA Florida STAR competition May 29. The summer-long event invites anglers and non-anglers to participate and win prizes valued at $500,000, including boats, motors, scholarships and more. Launched in 2015, Florida STAR focuses on conservation with its catch, photo and release format, conservation division and unique garbage division. Additionally, STAR is driven by its smartphone app, which allows participants to upload competition photos, eliminating the requirement to harvest or transport fish. “In the past six years, it’s been amazing to see STAR participants catch more fish, practice catch and release and support recovery efforts—all to conserve and enhance our state’s coastal waters and marine resources.” CCA Florida STAR Director Leiza Fitzgerald said. “But, what’s been just as exciting, is awarding more than $1.2 million in prizes, including $600,000 in youth scholarships, to the thousands of STAR registrants.” 2021 STAR features 17 divisions targeting 12 inshore and offshore species. STAR’s signature divisions include the West Marine STAR Tagged redfish, and prizes in this division are a Contender Boats 22 Sport, Pathfinder Boats 2200 TRS and Spyder 19FX Vapor all powered by Yamaha Outboards. For the first two youth anglers who win this division, prizes include two Salt Marsh Skiff 1656 tiller boats powered with Yamaha Outboards, trailers, Minn Kota trolling motors and Humminbird electronics. The other signature division, the Tigress Outrigger & Gear Tagged Dolphin Division, offers one winner a $10,000 cash prize or scholarship to the STAR registrant and CCA Florida member who catches the first

tagged dolphin. Dolphin are captured, tagged and released off the Florida Keys by the Dolphin Research program implemented by the Beyond Our Shores foundation. With a focus on inclusion of anglers of all skill levels, every fish an angler catches counts in STAR’s Power Pole Conservation Division. This division makes each participant a citizen biologist by documenting catches in the app with data to be utilized in research. Engagement of youth is another priority of STAR, and CCA Florida youth members (ages 6 to 17) can participate in the competition for free. Kids are encouraged to submit entries in the Youth Scholarship Division presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors for an opportunity to win one of 12 scholarships with a total value of $100,000. Youth may also garner community service hours by gathering trash and disposing of it properly in the Costa Kick Plastic Trash Division or even win a new boat, motor and trailer by catching a West Marine tagged redfish. Other divisions include ladies, kayak, guides and more. Since most division winners are determined by a random drawing, it is about submitting qualifying entries for an opportunity to be drawn as a winner. Registration is open throughout the competition and ends Sept. 6. To register for STAR 2021 or receive additional information on divisions, prizes and more, visit ccaflstar.com or Facebook.

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CATCH. PHOTO. RELEASE. WIN. MAY 29 TO SEPTEMBER 6 CCA Florida STAR is the largest family-friendly saltwater ﬁshing competition in Florida, and it’s unlike traditional ﬁshing tournaments.

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or the first time in decades, there’s an old-school inshore grand slam tournament slated for South Florida. The first Herman Lucerne Biscayne Legends Classic, presented by Hell’s Bay Boatworks, will launch on Biscayne Bay July 7-8 thanks to The Herman Lucerne Memorial Foundation and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. Twenty-five teams will compete in an exciting one-day contest, chasing bonefish, permit and tarpon in what is perhaps the greatest urban inshore fishery on earth. Registration is open now, and space is limited.

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Opportunities By: Capt. Mike Manis

his has always been one of my favorite months as opportunities really open up. Moreover, the wind lies down somewhat allowing the range necessary to take advantage of an expanded fishery. It’s time to make my way out of the backcountry towards the harbor, beach and adjacent shorelines. As the water temperature hits 79° migrating tarpon coming north will stage in and around our passes. Off the beach, I like setting up between Captiva and Boca Grande Pass on Murdock point. Here, the fish make their way around a sandy shoal in clear shallow water allowing for some great shots on fly. Inside Pine Island Sound, Foster Bay just north of Redfish Pass also tends to hold groups of fish. Closer to home, they’ll also begin showing up in the upper harbor between the West Wall and Punta Gorda. These are resident fish that come out of the rivers and generally eat pretty well. A free-lined live bait is always a good bet and if you get out early and see them rolling, they’ll take a fly. The harbor should be full of threadfin herring and I like throwing patterns that resemble these baits somewhat. A big Puglisi Peanut Butter pattern in black and purple or black and red are two of my favorites. As hard as it is to resist tarpon, it’s tough to beat early summer snook fishing. When the wind is cranking out of the west making the

May Trout

May Redfish

beach sloppy, it’s makes for a great back up plan. In addition, because of tarpon fever, the backcountry see’s less pressure and this provides a great opportunity to get in some redfish and snook fishing. Particularly, first thing in the morning, you could find yourself with a flat or shoreline all to yourself. They’re on many outside shorelines and I particularly like the lower end of the west wall and around Cape Haze Point down through the long bar that runs along Turtle and Bull Bay. Typically, redfish can be found in close proximity to snook. However, as the water warms I like looking for the cleanest most oxygenated water. Here, it’s tough to beat the combination of the intracoastal and adjacent passes. Keeping that in mind, Pine Island Sound is a good bet. Too, spotted sea trout prefer the additional salinity and cooler water that these areas provide making redfish country good trout habitat as they’re both part of the croaker family. Lastly, whether in the harbor, on the beach, or on a flat, don’t be surprised if you see a big school of jacks, a cobia, or one of the many sharks that are scattered throughout the area. Keep an eye out for birds and have a rod ready. Until next month, good tides.

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Spring By: Capt. Dave Stephens Abundance

his is the month SWFL has a lot of fishing to offer. We are done with any chance of a crazy front pushing down, but not into full summer. Multiple species of fish are in their migratory routes passing through our area. Not to mention we have some that will be here for the duration of summer. Let’s begin with the fish that are just passing through. Some of these guys can be very exciting to catch! Probably the most asked about is cobia. These guys can be hard to figure out in our area. I have been caught off guard by large cobia more than any other fish. I’m on a flat with clients catching fish and boom, there’s a big cobia! I think these guys’ stupidity is often mistaken for curiosity. I have had numerous times when these guys have swum up to the boat to just say hi. I threw everything I had available at them with no bites! I’ve had other times when they would eat a sock if it was on a hook. My recommendation would be to keep a big rod handy just in case, keep your socks on. Another fish that is often over looked that can be a lot of fun to catch are Spanish mackerel. These are the guys that are more than likely stealing your hooks while you’re fishing. Large schools of macks will be migrating north for the summer. Keep your eyes open for birds (terns and sea gulls). Large groups of these birds will lead you to a feeding frenzy. The biggest problem is these guys are very toothy. Often a light wire leader will do the trick. If they seem too smart for that try a long shank hook. I know we don’t normally think of table fair when we think of mackerel. Well I think you would change your minds if you put a few fresh fillets on the grill! When I say fresh, I mean caught that day. A little garlic, and some butter or olive oil might change your mind. The biggest thing is, this is not a freezer fish you have to eat it that night! The big guys that visit us for the duration of the summer are showing up all around. Tarpon can be found all over this month. Beaches will be holding lots of schools moving up from the south. It’s also no big secret that the passes will play host to large schools as they get ready for their offshore runs. This time of year, our water is very clear, so a stealthy approach is necessary to place your bait in front of these guys. Also respect the other guys out there trying to catch a fish. Once a school of fish are spooked it takes a long time for them to settle back down. A little patience goes a long way to ensure everyone has a successful day.

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SAWFISH NEWS By: Tonya Wiley

Havenworth Coastal Conservation Anglers and Divers Asked to Help with Sawfish Research

ne of the best ways to track the effectiveness of ongoing management and conservation efforts is to collect information about interactions with endangered sawfish by fishers, divers, and others. Details of public sightings and captures of sawfish can substantially increase the data we have about the species, allowing us to make management and policy decisions that are reflective of the realities in the water. Because of their countless hours on and in the water, we are seeking to partner with the angling and diving community to collect information about sawfish in the United States. For anglers to safely and legally release any sawfish accidentally caught: • Release sawfish immediately • Leave the sawfish, especially the gills, in the water at all times • Never lift a sawfish from the water or drag it ashore • Do not use gaffs or ropes to secure any captured sawfish • Cut the line as close to the hook as safely possible • Share the details of your sawfish catch with scientists • Anglers should note that advertising fishing trips or charters aimed at catching endangered smalltooth sawfish can be considered “targeting,” which is a violation of the ESA. Therefore, I strongly urge that the following conservation messaging be included in all social media posts regarding sawfish: Sawfish are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Help protect this critically endangered species by following NOAA Fisheries handling and release guidelines available at www.SawfishRecovery.org. For divers to enjoy encounters with sawfish safely and legally: • Keep your distance • Avoid disturbing sawfish • Never chase, feed, or touch them • Share information about your sawfish encounters with scientists • Divers should note that advertising expeditions aimed at encountering endangered smalltooth sawfish can be considered “targeting,” which is a violation of the ESA. Therefore, I strongly urge that the following conservation messaging be included in all social media posts regarding sawfish: Sawfish are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Help protect this critically endangered species by following NOAA Fisheries viewing guidelines available at www. SawfishRecovery.org. You can promote sawfish protection by following these interaction guidelines and educating others about them. Please share the information about your sawfish encounters by visiting www.SawfishRecovery. org, calling 1-844-4SAWFISH, or emailing sawfish@myfwc.com. Your encounter reports will be used to track recovery of the population and steer research efforts, which will ultimately benefit the species and the areas in which you fish and dive.

Tonya Wiley, President /Tonya@havenworth.org 941-201-2685 www.havenworth.org Tax-deductible donations to help us continue our mission to promote the sustainable use and conservation of marine resources through research, outreach, and education can be made at https://havenworth.wedid.it/

4 FORT MYERS | MAY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

May You Stay Tight! By: Capt. Brian Boxx

pring in Southwest Florida is when prayers are answered and legends are born. During the month of May we see many of our inshore game fish become “Twitterpated”. This biological need to pass on their genetics calls species like snook and tarpon to group together. These large schools are called spawning balls. This behavior greatly increases the chances of hooking into a trophy size specimen for anglers in the know. Finding an active spawning ball can lead to nonstop action when conditions are right. Focus your efforts on area passes and beaches. Use your sonar to locate deeper fish. Watch for boiling water and diving birds as these are tell tale signs of feeding frenzies. Remember, be careful handling these fish. It is inherently important that we all assume total responsibility while enjoying this prime opportunity. Proper handling, revive, and release techniques should be implemented. These beauties are in the process of creating trophy fish for future generations during their spawn.

As we enter the second month of Spring our patterns have stabilized in the backwaters. The large sheepshead have moved on, but the mangrove snapper have been quick to fill their place. The snapper will eagerly gulp down a live shrimp rigged on a ¼ oz. jig or corked leader. Drift along mangrove edges with decent water flow for the best results. Snook and redfish are still in abundance in the outer bays, just find clean moving water around undercut mangroves or a good oyster bar and with you will get bent in no time. Want some reel adrenaline? Reel Salty Endeavours is a pro guide service for advanced anglers. I specialize in chasing the monsters that go “THUMP” in the night. I mean, big rods, big bait, and big fish. We are chasing legends here, boys and girls. These slots fill quick, so make sure you secure your spot to have your chance at the ultimate fishing story and a checkmark on that bucket list. (Contact info below) Take advantage when the water turbidity is low and try your hand at sight fishing. It is hard to beat the thrill of the hunt. Imagine, you are silently drifting along a glassy smooth flat when your captain spots that perfect fish. With the wind and sun at your back, you make out the faint wake and execute the perfect cast. With a quick flick of her tail, the peaceful calmness of the flats is shattered by the explosive strike. The acoustics of screaming drag and splashing water are almost completely drowned out by your adrenalin fueled heart rate pulsing your ears. When the water settles and the camera shutter closes, you leave her with a handshake, hoping the catch her again another day. STAY SALTY -Capt. Brian Boxx

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This May is Different By: Capt. Bart Marx

ith all that has happened, the fishas desirable. Shrimp or sardines/white bait. ing has been good and we are still Depending when the rains start, there may be waiting when they will open the a sailfish or two lurking in the depths from reds, snook and trout in the Gulf. Last month 45’ out to 100’.. Some permit may be found we were catching some very nice trout in the on the reefs looking for a crab or shrimp or a 20” range. It is tough to tell your customers perfectly placed lookalike fly. If you are new they have to release such nice fish when they to the area and need a little jump start learnwould like to harvest some for a meal. With ing where and how to target some of these the waters finally warming up the migration species, I can help. For those with their own of tarpon will be in full swing with the predboat and would like to have a little help with ators following close behind. The passes from the learning curve as to where you could take Lee to Sarasota counties will have tarpon your boat, I can help. Whether you have your coming in and out in search of food. If you own boat or not, feel free to call or email me. have not heard, Boca Grande is billed as the I grew up here fishing Charlotte Harbor with best tarpon fishing in the world, right here in some of the locals from the Quick family from our backyard. If you like to battle big critters Solana and my grandpa Scribner. Going to that eat tarpon in two bites, like a shark, there the fishing shacks in Bull Bay and spending are some big hammerheads and bull sharks the weekends, then migrating to the shacks following the tarpon. You can find them on just west of Pineland Marina on Pine Island, the natural ledges for those of you that have where I have been fishing for over forty years. GPS’s. I know there are some that like to drift I was certified to SCUBA dive around 1980 fish for the reds, back in the day we would do and started spearfishing offshore learning to just that. But we would have a marking jug ready when two of us would fish offshore. I went to St. Croix for three years and came back here to get hooked up at the same time throw the jug and power up and anchor start my fishing guide business. And always remember singing drags over that spot till they quit biting and start drifting again. This is when and tight lines make me smile. <*(((((>{ you can find some good lane and mangrove spots too. This is where Alpha Omega Charters | alphaomegacharters.com you need something alive to send down after the frozen stuff is not

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FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MAY 2021 | FORT MYERS 7

Fishing Matlacha, Florida A Unique Hobie Experience

n the heart of Southwest Florida between Ft. Myers and Pine Island, there lies a hidden jewel called Matlacha. Historically a tiny commercial fishing village, Matlacha has transformed into a laidback, somewhat-eclectic blip on the map where you may find yourself wanting to spend some more time. We recently got an invite to a small media gathering that was to take place in the colorful backdrop of Matlacha. The event was organized by Hobie and AFTCO so we would be kayak fishing in the latest Hobie fishing kayaks. Our kick-off dinner was hosted by the Lee County Visitors & Convention Bureau at the The Olde’ Fish House Restaurant. Of course, as the date of the trip drew near, Mother Nature was conjuring up an extremely late-season Tropical Storm Eta. Tons of rain and gusty winds made for a pretty quiet first day. The crew from Hobie was showcasing brand-new tech in the world of kayaks. They certainly have catered to anglers in the development of their 360 pedal drives, rod holders, ergonomic seats, and more. Lowrance was also there and rigging the kayaks with their latest MFD’s which now can network with other units and boat accessories. The new Elite Fishing System (FS) gives you access to the full line-up of Lowrance fish-finding tools – including Active Target Live Sonar, Active Imaging, Fish Reveal, and preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts – to help you make the most of your time on the water. Another innovation that was showcased and has just been released was the Mirage iTrek series of inflatable kayaks and pedalboards that come in various configurations. This is not just any blow-up boat; it is an incredibly stable platform and offers the ability to use Hobie’s pedal drive units, comfortable seating options, and unique fishing accessories. Now you can take your fishing kayak anywhere because it deflates and stores in a compact carry case; ready to use at a moment’s notice. The iTrek 9 hull only weighs 20-pounds and the iTrek 11 is 27-pounds. The iTrek series presently includes four models depending on how much fun you want to have and how many people you want to share it with. The Mirage iTrek Fiesta holds 4 people and holds up to 4 Mirage drives for maximum speed and agility while the iTrek 9 and 11 are geared towards a single angler choosing stealth and convenience in one package. In addition to the amazing technology that Hobie introduced us to, we also got to explore some of the Matlacha’s amazing local restaurants like The Olde’ Fish House Marina Seafood Market and Restaurant, Matlacha Cove Inn, and the Blue Dog Bar & Grill.

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Kayak Anchoring By: Dan Carns

eeping your kayak in the best possible location while fishing is a super important technique that may seem simple, but requires some planning and practice. Sure, on a super calm day with no wind and no moving tide it may be as simple as tossing your anchor overboard and your good to go but weather and tide play big roles most days! There are several types of kayak anchors, the most common is the grappling anchor that comes in various weights and I recommend at least a 2.5 lbs. up to 5 lbs. This particular anchor needs to be deployed by engaging the locking ring so when I’m using mine I simply leave it in the locked position and store it so it’s handy on my rig. Another style of anchoring that has become popular, especially in shallow water environments like the coastal estuaries of Florida, is the stick-it pin. This is typically a T bar shaped fiberglass pole with a sharpened end and varies in length from 4 ft. to as tall as 10ft! Some guys are using this same pole for anchoring, as well as poling through shallow flats while standing on their kayaks. Power Pole has now introduced a Micro Power Pole that mounts to the rear transom and can be remotely operated. The only real problem with this is you only have one anchor point so your kayak will position itself bow away from the wind or tide and may leave you in an awkward position to fish. Regardless of which anchor system you use the more important aspect is where you will tie off on your craft. Beware that if the wind

or tide are very strong and you simply lash your anchor directly in the middle of your kayak the pressure can roll your boat. I’ve added five nylon loop anchor points to each side of my kayak so that I’m able to customize my position perfectly for casting and targeting fish. You will need to be very proactive when it comes time to finding the sweet spot, so be prepared to move your anchor rope, whether it’s a T-bar or grappling type, from side to side or front to back. Some kayaks have pre-installed anchor trolley systems to the outside of their boats that perform this varying anchor point system quite nicely. I’ve recently began fishing out of the new fin-drive kayak from Vanhunks called the Mahi-Mahi and it has changed my anchoring habits tremendously as I’m now able to power control my kayak especially in rough conditions. As I approach my target area I can use the peddle drive system to keep a preferred location by simply using small peddle stokes and the rudder to keep position. This peddle drive system also allows me to continue to fish the entire time as I no longer have to hold a paddle to move! Of course, catching fish is the goal but practicing this technique will increase your catch! Get Out There-It’s A Wild World! Fishman Dan

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Gulf Reef Donkeys!

By: Capt. Chad Carney

he first time I heard of a fish nicknamed a “Reef Donkey” was on my charter to some deep gulf wrecks with some guys from SE FL nearly 2 decades ago, and I laughed my ass off! “Wreck Donkeys” would have been a better name for amberjacks, because that’s where they really hang out, along with deep sink holes. In 1972 on one of my first spearfishing trips, a big AJ nearly drowned me skin-dive-spearfishing on a wreck then called the Boca Grande Wreck, now known as the Bayronto. A bad shot made the fight a stalemate at 30-feet till we were both exhausted, but then the line broke and I lived, but lost my spear. Get a reel or a float & float line, and a slip tip shaft for a strong hold, and a stiletto dive knife. Amberjack season in SWFL State waters opens May 1 and closes for June, July, and reopens August – October, Federal waters open August – October. Take is 1 per harvester per day, 34” at the fork. Atlantic season is open year-round and 28” at the fork. This makes no sense to me! Since 1972 I have always seen way more AJs in the Gulf than in Florida’s Atlantic waters. Last week the Associated Press wrote that a new $12 million-dollar Federal Count reported estimates of up to 3 times as many red snapper in the Gulf than the 2018 NOAA estimates. Scientists are paying a lot of attention and it could make changes allowing less fishing restrictions! I’ll write more about this next month, as red snapper & gag grouper both open June 1. Shoot straight and try some smoked reef donkey. Mmmm!! Capt. Chad

Florida Skin Diver | floridaskindiver.com | 727-423-7775 FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | MAY 2021 | FORT MYERS 11

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MATLACHA

May/2021 • 26°38’N 82°4’W

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Matlacha Pass, FL - May 2021 High

Date

May/2021 • 26°39’N 81°52’W

Sat

5:27

2.2

2:01

Sun

6:22

2.0

Mon

7:39

1.8

Tue

1:25P

1.3

9:36

Wed

1:17P

1.4

Thu

Fri

12:43

Sat

High

Date

Rise

Set

-0.4

6:49