Issuu

FORT MYERS/CAPE CORAL/CHARLOTTE HARBOR EDITION

FREE

@CAMTAMagazine

HOLIDAY

GIFTS

FOR ANGLER S

PHOTO CREDIT: BEAN SPORTFISHING, LLC INSTAGRAM: @BNMBEAN VOLUME 26 • ISSUE 321

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

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

A V A I L A B L E

DECEMBER 2021

W O R L D W I D E

INTRODUCING MEGA JACKPLATE

ENGINEERED TO HANDLE THE STRONGEST OUTBOARD ENGINES ON THE MARKET Today’s engine manufacturers are building engines that are more powerful and heavier than ever before. Dometic’s new Mega Jackplate has been developed to withstand the power of high performance engines and provide boaters with the ability to maximize the output of their engines while offering more flexibility in shallow water. The Mega Jackplate is rated to 600 HP and is an extension of our existing product line. It will be offered in 6”, 8” and 10” setbacks. There will be 2 versions available, a standard bolt pattern designed to fit engines like Yamaha XTO and a wide bolt pattern designed to fit Merc 500/600.

www.dometic.com

Protect your baby (and their toys) with coverage for fishing gear and personal property too. 1- 8 0 0 -PROG RE S S IVE / PROG RE S S IVE .COM

Progressive Casualty Insurance Co. & affiliates. Additional charge may apply. Prices vary based on how you buy.

Shhhhh. No wake zone.

PR DI

Il St ag

—

Explore the Depths in Style For Only $99 PRAISE FOR STAUER DIVE WATCHES

êêêêê

I love it. I have several Stauer watches and once again you don’t disappoint.” — F. from Jersey City, NJ

Dive in Without Taking a Plunge

The Explorer is one well-constructed 20 ATM dive watch for a price that won’t take you under.

he market’s swimming with overpriced dive watches. We’re here to tell you those guys are all wet. At Stauer our philosophy is everyone deserves the best without having to dig deep into their pockets. We’ve been in the watch industry for decades and know more than a thing or two about getting the ultimate bang for our buck— which means we can pass the fruits of our know-how onto our clients. Case in point: The Explorer Dive Watch. This tough-as-nails sophisticate would cost you in the thousands if you got it from a high-end retailer that’s really in the business of selling a big name more than a quality watch. We keep the big names out of the equation so we can price this top-notch timepiece for just $99 –– a price that let’s you dive in and have enough left over for an excursion or two...or three. You’re getting a lot for your money with this watch. The Explorer is the perfect companion in any locale–– whether you’re exploring coral reefs or investigating the rum options at a beachside bar. With a case, band and crown of stainless steel, this watch is built to last, and its water resistance rating of 20 ATM means it can handle most of your aquatic adventures to a depth of 678 feet. The striking metallic blue face reflects the “...dive watches feel authentic—they project an air of necessity which other categories of timepieces simply fail to match” —Hodinhee.com

deep waters it was designed to explore and it’s sporty screw-down crown can take the pressure in stride. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you are not completely convinced you got excellence for less, simply return the Explorer Dive Watch within 30 days for a refund of the item price. At Stauer, we never leave our customers high and dry. Limited Edition. Sure you could give your hard-earned money to those other guys, but why would you? We’ve got the thinking man’s timepiece right here. This watch takes six months to engineer and it’s already making waves, so we can’t guarantee it will be around for long. Call today, and experience how good it feels to get true luxury for less.

Limited to the First 1400 Respondents to This Ad Only Stauer Explorer Dive Watch $399† Your Cost With Offer Code

$99 + S&P Save $300

1-800-333-2045 Offer Code: EXW140-01

You must use this offer code to get our special price.

† Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer. com without your offer code. 14101 Southcross Drive W., ® Ste 155, Dept. EXW140-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 Rating of A+

Stauer

www.stauer.com

• Precision movement • Stainless steel crown, case, caseback and bracelet • Date window at 3 o’clock • Water resistant to 20 ATM • Bracelet ﬁts wrists up to 8 1/2"

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®

LOAD THE BOAT WITH

WINTER CRAPPIE

ake a look at what guide Tony Adams does during the winter on Alabama’s Lake Eufaula. With all the slab crappie he catches this time of year, it’s worth considering a fish fry for Christmas or New Year’s festivities. Gone are the days when crappie fishing was a springtime-only endeavor. Anglers have figured out how to pattern these swimming fish sandwiches year-round, and Adams has them dialed in on Eufaula. It’s a pattern that probably translates well to many reservoirs across the South. Lake Eufaula is an impoundment of the Chattahoochee River that stretches out to more than 45,000 acres on the southern end of the Alabama/Georgia border. Centered around the town Eufaula, Ala., hard winter is usually shortlived. Instead of being hunkered down in the depths this time of year, Eufaula crappie are still in a fall feed-up mode. “Lake Eufaula doesn’t get as cold as a lot of lakes. They’re chasing shad in the mouths of the creeks or on the flats in 8 to 10 feet of water,” Adams said. “It’s one of the best times of year to catch bigger fish. They’ve pushed up out of

By TAM Staff

the depths to feed and put on fat to take them through the winter into the spawn.” Adams said loading a cooler with fillets can be pretty easy in these conditions. The fish might be as scattered as crappie get, but they are actively feeding. This makes catching them easy once you find them. Adams has a milk-run of brush piles in different locations and depths. His Humminbird electronics tell him quickly whether or not a location is holding fish. Once fish are located, most of Adam’s clients prefer to fish old school. Jigs catch fish, he said, but most of his anglers prefer fishing minnows the way their grandfathers taught them. Adams’ War Eagle boat is equipped with three Hi-Tek rod holders in front of each angler’s seat. His 10-foot B‘n’M rods are rigged with spinning reels and 6-pound high-visibility line. On the business end, he ties on a No. 2 hook for a lip-hooked minnow and pinches a splitshot about a foot up the line. He Spot-Locks the trolling motor over active brush and lets his anglers go to work tightlining. Sometimes, when it’s windy, he’ll add another split-shot to keep the lines from bowing.

“If you fish all three rods at different depths, you can figure out what depth they’re biting at,” Adams said. “Then you can leave all your baits at that depth.” Anglers should watch rod tips, of course, but keeping an eye on that high-vis. line is also important. Sometimes fish swim up after eating, and you’ll only notice that by watching the line. Give Adams a call if you’d rather be heating up oil than a grill on New Year’s Day. Contact Tony Adams through his Facebook page—Gone Fishing With Tony—or by calling him at (334) 695-3003.

_BUI

The C

techn

neck

it’s ho

well a

gift th

BREATH

4 NATIONAL

DECEMBER 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

performance is the greatest gift for every angler

_BUILT FOR ANGLERS _DESIGNED IN FLORIDA _TESTED ON T E ATER

The Contender series longsleeve shirt is packed with performance technology to handle the elements on the water. This lightweight crew neck shirt is an ideal layer on cooler days and can be worn by itself when it’s hot. Designed with superior breathability and UPF 50+ protection as well as mechanical stretch for movement and comfort. Its versatility is the gift that keeps on giving.

SHOP THE ALL NEW FALL 21 PRODUCTS

BREATHABLE

UPF50+ PROTECTION

STRETCH

VISIT GILLZGEAR.COM

EASY FISHING AND FAST LIMITS OUT OF

ish are everywhere in the Florida Keys. From big pelagics on offshore humps to vast backcountry flats teeming with tarpon and permit, the options are so varied that decisionmaking can be difficult. Throw in wrecks, reefs, bridges and ledges, and one boat just isn’t enough to do it all. If you wanted to experience all the fishing the Keys have to offer, you’d need several different types of vessels. Joel Brandenburg, of Ana Banana Fishing Company, understands this. Based in Marathon, he’s pulled together a fleet of boats and the captains to fish it all. With five boats ranging from a 53-foot Hatteras to a 24-foot Hanson, they are equipped to chase big game at the famous Marathon Humps and beyond, and also to fish skinny backwater flats and everything in between. The options are enough to make a visiting angler’s head spin, but Joel will be your guide. Putting clients on fish runs in his blood. When his son Jojo Brandenburg earned a master captains license about five years ago, it extended the family business into its third generation. They’ve had a “no-fish, no-pay” policy for more than 20 years, and in all that time they’ve only had to honor it three times. Joel certainly dialed up a good option when I contacted him on short notice this fall. I was looking for a quick half-day while on family vacation in Islamorada. With the winds up on the Atlantic, he suggested a backcountry trip. We’d trade the excitement of blackfin tuna, mahi mahi and sailfish for fast snapper action. That was just fine with

By Nick Carter

my 10-year-old son and me. Back home, the boy is a bream slayer. “It’s like crappie fishing on steroids,” Joel said as he lowered a chum bag off the stern. We had run 13 miles over skinny water into Florida Bay to anchor off a small wooded island called East Bahia Honda. The boat bobbed at the edge of a deep channel that cuts through the flat like a green vein. The action began immediately. On light tackle, we pitched baits and hauled in mangrove snappers as quickly as we could turn to get another pilchard or ballyhoo chunk from first-mate Eddie Traylor. With a five-fish limit per person, we threw back a bunch of fish and filled the cooler with a quick limit of the chunkiest mangos. Then we bumped around a while, waiting for the tide to turn and throwing Cuda Tubes to wood structure. Casting and working a lure for the visual thrill of a barracuda streaking from cover is a lot of fun. It was tough to put the rods down when Joel suggested we go check out the bridge. On the way in, we got a good look at an endangered hawksbill sea turtle. Anchored near Fred—the storied Australian pine tree that grows from the roadbed of the Old Seven Mile Bridge—we chummed and pitched pilchards into the tide that rushed between pilings. Joel knew we’d get into some yellowtail snapper, and he was hoping for some yellow jacks and maybe a big shark. “Best as I can tell, yellow jacks started showing up around here about 12 to 15 years ago,” Joel said. “I’m happy to have them. They fight like jack crevalle and taste like tuna.” Yellow jacks average 5 pounds around the bridges, but they reach weights in the 15-

f A r s w d m

W B b i

N m a g

S T s to 20-pound range, Joel said. We didn’t boat any yellow jacks, but a big jack crevalle ran the boy around the rails twice, and a nice mutton snapper went into the box along with some keeper yellowtails. When the bite slowed, Joel took us to the docks at Castaway Watefront Restaurant in Marathon with a lot more than a fish supper. They’ll cook your catch any way you want, and it was the perfect end to a day on the water. If you’re looking for a winter get-away, it’s hard to beat winter fishing in the Keys. Joel said they’re targeting sailfish and blackfin tuna and high-speed trolling for wahoo right now. Snapper, grouper and other species are biting on the wrecks, reefs, ledges, bridges and flats. The cobia will show up on the Gulf side in January and February.

L s c

L t

Contact Ana Banana Fishing Company through their website at anabananafishing.com.

• 2 ct

Flip Flip Hooray! A perfect symbol of fun in the sun for only $79

ere’s a memorable beach moment: You’re basking in the warm sun, toes in the sand, letting the gentle turn of the foam-capped waves lull you into a state of complete relaxation. As your eyes scan the endless horizon of blue on blue, you’re rewarded with a school of dolphins making their way across the sea. There’s no denying their signature shape as they leap from the water. If you don’t see anything else extraordinary the rest of the day, you can take solace knowing you’ve witnessed one of nature’s most playful and intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. Why not re-create that special toes-in-the-sand moment with our Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant? The beloved sea mammal has been captured mid-jump in sterling silver. And, tucked into its fins is a full two carats of shimmering blue topaz. Nothing captures the shimmering color of the ocean in the midday sun like blue topaz. With its sparkling clear blue color and high refractive index, blue topaz is one of the top-selling blue gemstones. And with our special price, you have quite the catch. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Enjoy the Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant for 30 days. If it doesn’t pass the test swimmingly, send it back for a full refund of the item price.

A full two carats of shimmering blue topaz set in sterling silver

Limited Reserves. A full two carats of genuine blue topaz set in sterling silver for this price is as rare as a dolphin sighting. We cannot guarantee availability for long. Call today!

Limited to the first 1900 responders to this ad only! To show exquisite details, pendant shown is not exact size. Chain sold separately.

“Enormously popular, significantly intelligent and scientifically sophisticated, dolphins are amidst the most beloved animals among people.” — Dolphins-World

Blue Topaz Dolphin Pendant non-offer code price $395 † Offer Code Price Only $79 + S&P Save $316!

êêêêê

You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.

“This sterling silver dolphin is absolutely beautiful and the blue topaz is like the color of the ocean”

— Vivian, Cabool, MO

† Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.

Stauer

1-800-333-2045

Your Insider Offer Code: DPP324-03 Please use this code when you order to receive your discount.

® 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. DPP324-03, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337

www.stauer.com

Rating of A+

• 2 ctw blue topaz; ½ ctw Ultimate Diamond Alternative®, DiamondAura® • .925 sterling silver setting • Sterling silver chain sold separately

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®

Fu bo

als If y wi loo Th ex bla res Th de fea na Th in wi aro for sp Bu las co she Hu Yo Fe on cra cu 30 ite Li las Bl be

*D list

Ca Pr

•

8 NATIONAL

DECEMBER 2021

P360-COAS-FP-JAN-2021-OUTLINED.indd 1

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

1/12/2021 12:00:28 PM

THE ALTERNATIVE TO BUYING A NEW BOAT

Suzuki RePower Centers are stationed around the southeast to help with your Suzuki service and repower needs.

Performance Bulletin Available

Lou’s Marine, Inc. Gulf Breeze

57 YEARS OF REPOWER EXPERIENCE!

Custom Marine Service

St. Augustine Marine Center

Panama City

St. Augustine

Mastry Engine Center has received the Suzuki Marine Super Service Award and has been ranked #1 in Suzuki Marine US Sales! Repower packages designed to best fit your needs and not stretch your budget. Financing available.

Oyster City Suzuki

Apalachicola

COMING SOON Volsuia County

On-Site Marine

Mastry Engine Center

Ruskin

Clearwater

Innovation Marine Corp.

Bayfront Yacht Works

Sarasota

Siesta Key

Calusa Certified Marine Cape Coral

Marina One

Deerfield Beach

Twin Screws Marine Service

All Suzuki repowers come with the new Suzuki 5-year factory warranty.

Fort Myers

Atlantic Marine Store Hialeah

Boat Services Group Key West

Request a quote! • suzukirepower.com • 1-800-545-4574

Go on a power trip with

Find Your Sweet Spot

Build your own custom, high-resolution Personal Bathymetric Generator (PBG) charts to discover fish-hoarding structure others have missed.

TZT9F

9" Hybrid Touch MFD

TZT12F

12" Hybrid Touch MFD

TZT16F

TZT19F

16" Multi Touch MFD

19" Multi Touch MFD

DFF3D

Multi Beam Sonar* *required for PBG

Discover, map, then fish structure and wrecks in an entirely new way. Create maps with PBG & DFF3D 50-100x faster than the competition

Create shaded relief maps from 10 ft. to 1,000 ft.

A lifetime of map storage on TZtouch3 MFDs

Get the whole story at NavNet.com

Bathymetric mapping up to 3x fishing depth

Draw contour lines where none exist

MFD

• METAL BUILDING • SALE • PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDINGS • SAVE • METAL BUILDING • CHRISTMAS SAVINGS • SAVE • CALL NOW • SPECIALS • SALE • METAL BUILDING • SALE •

JUST IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS SALE. OVER 500 PORTABLE STORAGE SHEDS IN-STOCK.

$0 DOWN FINANCING AVAILABLE UP TO $100,000

3 MONTHS NO PAYMENTS

6 MONTHS NO PAYMENTS

GROWING SEASON STARTS HERE

• DOWN FINANCING • NO CREDIT CHECK • EVERYONE GETS APPROVED • GREAT FINANCING OPTIONS • FREE DELIVERY AND FREE SETUP

$27.10 20X21 DOUBLE CARPORT

KEENSBUILDINGS.COM

/Month + Tax

AS-LOW-AS $35.19/MO +TAX With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

$28.35

$35.10

/Month + Tax

18X31 BOAT PORT AS-LOW-AS $42.02/MO +TAX

/Month + Tax

8X10 PORTABLE GREEN HOUSE AS-LOW-AS $42.60/MO +TAX With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

$54.90

Call for

/Month + Tax

Pricing

Call for

$275.00

Pricing

28X40X12 CUSTOM WORK GARAGE AS-LOW-AS $289.00/MO +TAX

30X50X14 CUSTOM STEEL GARAGE

With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Financing Disclaimer:

AS-LOW-AS $282.60/MO +TAX With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

LIVE OAK (Corporate Office) P: 386-364-7995

620 W. Howard St. (Hwy 90 W.)

LIVE OAK SUPER CENTER P: 386-364-1548

CHIEFLAND P: 352-490-5028 2495 Young Blvd.

PERRY

P: 850-223-1939 2320 Hwy. 19 S. Byron Butler Pwky

211 72nd Trace

Subject to credit approval. Fixed APR of 3.99% for 84 months. For each $1,000 financed, 5 payments of $3.33 followed by 79 amortized payments of $14.41. Subject to credit approval. Fixed APR of 11.99% for 84 months. For each $1,000 financed, 5 payments of $9.99 followed by 79 amortized payments of $18.36.

Morning

AVAILABLE FOR SAME DAY OR NEXT DAY

12X24 ROLL-UP DOOR

AS-LOW-AS $58.93/MO +TAX With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

WAYCROSS

/Month + Tax

KEEN’S BUILDINGS 2 STORY SHED

AVAILABLE IN 4 SIZES AND BUILT ON SITE.

P: 352-797-2291 568 S. Broad St.

KEENSBUILDINGS.COM View our inventory online.

Subject to qualifying credit approval. Interest is billed during the promotional period but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid in full within 12 months. Financing for GreenSky® consumer loan programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender or familial status.

• METAL BUILDING • SALE • PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDINGS • SAVE • METAL BUILDING • SALE • CARPORTS • CHRISTMAS SAVINGS • SPECIALS • SALE • METAL BUILDING • SALE •

ON THE DEERFIELD BEACH PIER By James P. Goss

s a small South Florida city, Deerfield Beach has many notable attractions. One of them is the International Fishing Pier. Depending on the season, schools of small fish cluster among the pilings, while along the ocean bottom stingrays, tarpon, turtles and moon jellyfish swim slowly by. Schools of baitfish swirl below and cloud the water. On some mornings, the outer end of the pier is crowded with fishermen, hunched over the railings with their tackle and gear. Down below, the small bodies of fish fleck the water with silver, while larger fish breach the surface in a slow curving motion. If there is a noticeable shift of energy in the air, this usually means some very large fish have arrived. This day, the excitement builds quickly when the

4 FLORIDA

DECEMBER 2021

ble

Suz of a exte adv

Wh Co

With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

MASARYKTOWN

P: 850-223-1939 2203 Memorial Drive Waycross, GA 31501

bonita are running. “Vinny, can we get a line soon?” a fisherman asked one recent morning. Vinny is a large man—larger than most of the others standing nearby. A bright bandana wrapped low on his forehead, Vinnie focused on his fishing line sloping over the railing, where it sagged into the water. Nearby, the fishermen’s casts made a low whir, followed by a faint tuck, tuck as lures dropped beneath the water’s surface. The sound shifted as the mood in the air changed, from mild indifference to anticipation to high animation. A man in flip-flops ran toward the fishermen huddled near the hut. The men were gathering more closely together, their five-gallon buckets, tackle boxes, nets, buoys, rolling bait tanks, coolers, and various unused fishing rods standing at the ready nearby. On a bollard, a curious grackle pecked at a plastic bag of shrimp. “Get back! Get back! Get back!” one man shouted, his voice full of urgency, while another wheeled his cart of bucket and fishing rods toward the focal point of activity. Two fishermen had reeled in a bonita, which flopped desperately on the sun-splashed deck. A grizzled fisherman in the crowd spoke to his friend, a middle-aged woman with a towel draped over her head. “I want you to take this fish home to your mother,” he said, approaching the two anglers, offering pliers to cut the lure. Perhaps he knew the two men. Or he was somehow skilled enough to strike a quick arrangement with them: the gift of their catch. “It’s good to do things for others,” he said to the woman. When she asked what kind of fish it was, he told her, “It’s a bonita,” adding a translation: “Beautiful.” Carrying the dead fish in a plastic bag, the woman left the pier to walk into town. The mood on the pier remained energized. More fish were caught, the bonita piling up. A man yelled, “I’ve never seen so many fish on one pier!” An online fishing report said that boat catches offshore in varied depths of water were netting swordfish and mahi-mahi. And on the pier, the fishermen continued to feel the optimism that accompanies a beautiful day on the water.

•M

•M so

•M rig

•W pe

•O

• Fi

• Al w

For information, go to www.deerfield-beach.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Consider Ad for

ALE •

TE.

tus.

ALE •

Consider A Mastry Suzuki RePower

It Simply Makes Sense

Repowering your boat with Mastry Suzuki outboards gives you an effective

blend of pure power and rugged durability.

Suzuki’s extensive lineup of four-stroke outboards are built for long life, reliable performance, fuel efﬁciency, quiet operation, ease of access to major parts, and simpliﬁed integration. Plus, with Mastry Suzuki’s reputation for high-quality, customer service and extensive marine dealer network — including genuine Suzuki parts and service — we are prepared to support you wherever your adventures lead.

When Considering A Repower, Consider These Factors: • Mastry Suzuki RePower exclusive Owner’s Edge Program* • Mastry Suzuki RePower Centers are located throughout the southeast • Mastry has over 5-decades of repower experience for proper rigging, controls, propeller matching and in water testing • With Mastry Suzuki RePower owners gain improved performance, less noise and greater reliability • Options that will ﬁt most any budget • Financing available • All Suzuki RePowers come with latest factory backed 5-year warranty

Get with the Program! *When you purchase a new Suzuki outboard from an authorized Marstry RePower Center you qualify to become a member of the Mastry Suzuki Owner’s Edge. Owners receive an identiﬁcation card that provides them with important information about their Suzuki outboard motor as well as a passport to additional beneﬁts during ownership. Members enjoy a detailed engine maintenance schedule, Mastry Suzuki RePower Trade Program and special pricing from Mastry Suzuki Partners. suzukirepower.com

1-800-545-4574 Consider Ad for CA 210608.indd 1

7/15/21 8:30 AM

7TH ANNUAL

JANUARY 21ST-23RD 2022 All All of of the the top top boat boat brands brands are are featured at the Island Boat Show. featured at the Island Boat Show.

Come Come enjoy enjoy aa great great weekend weekend with with aa large large number number of of boats, boats, auction items and vendors featuring a variety of merchandise. auction items and vendors featuring a variety of merchandise. Only Only $10 $10 Entry Entry per per person, person, Free Free parking, parking, and and Free Free shuttle shuttle service. service.

www.islandboatshow.com www.islandboatshow.com

Go Go online online to to see see ticket ticket purchase purchase options options

SHOW SHOW SCHEDULE SCHEDULE Friday, Friday, January January 21 21 -- 1pm 1pm to to 5:30pm 5:30pm Saturday, Saturday, January January 22 22 -- 10am 10am to to 5:30pm 5:30pm Sunday, Sunday, January January 23 23 -- 10am 10am to to 3pm 3pm Florida Florida Keys Keys Premier Premier Boat Boat Show Show Presented Presented by by

CONSTRUCTION - REMODEL - REPAIR CONSTRUCTION - REMODEL - REPAIR

EPAIR EPAIR

BIG

has turned into a full-on quest, in which Storin (a.k.a. Bean) designed his own micro-rod and is using it to catch some impressive fish. “We were bored during covid, and we took out a bunch of those little ice fishing rods,” he said. “We wanted to see if we could maybe catch a tarpon with them.” Viewers of Storin’s Youtube channel, Bean Screen TV, ate it up. It was entertaining, and it spurred Bean to design his own Bean Pole, which he sells on his website beansportfishing.com. “It’s so fun. No matter what, the rod just bends and it won’t break,” Bean said. “As long as you’ve got the right line on it, you can land almost any fish in the ocean with it if you’ve got enough patience and fishing skill. “No matter what you hook, it feels like a monster,” he continued. “You could hook a 12-inch mangrove snapper, and it feels like a monster.” But Bean wasn’t content with mangos. He wants to test the limits of his new rods on true monsters of the deep. Bean Poles are intentionally noodle-stick flexible. He said the key to the design process was “to make them as bendy as possible, so they don’t break.” The reel seats, however, are designed to hold some serious gear. Bean usually fishes a 4,000-size spinning reel with 20-pound braid, but he’s gone as heavy as a 6,000-size reel and 60-pound line when pursuing big tarpon and sharks. He said the rod is capable of holding a 10,000-size spinning reel for folks who might want even heavier tackle. So far, Bean has caught tarpon close to 100 pounds, an 8-foot lemon shark, keeper cobia, giant barracuda, king mackerel, a 30-plus-pound By CAM Staff African pompano, blackfin tuna, mahi-mahi, juvenile goliath grouper and more with the Bean Pole. “The next thing we want to do is catch a sailfish,” he said… “and a giant goliath grouper.” In case you were wondering, Bean has normal gear, and he doesn’t force charter clients to fish Bean Poles. He does, however, keep one on e’ve heard of fishing light tackle, but this seems a little board… just in case. ridiculous… ridiculously fun! Capt. Brandon Storin, who fishes out of the legendary Bud Contact Brandon “Bean” Storin through his website N’ Mary’s Marina in Islamorada, Fla. has taken light tackle fishing to the beansportfishing.com, and check out his YouTube channel, extreme. What started as a lark—toying with ice fishing rods in the Keys— Bean Screen TV, to see the Bean Pole in action.

FISH RIDICULOUSLY LIGHT TACKLE

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FLORIDA 2021

LOCATION 7

Coming to Orlando Jan. 5-7

urf Expo is gearing up for its upcoming in-person trade show to be held Jan. 5-7, 2022 in Orlando, Fla. at the West Hall of the Orange County Convention Center. Surf Expo’s January show has become known as a one-stop shop to preview and get a first-hand look at the latest and greatest apparel and accessories that will lead the industry in 2022. A few of the brands featured in the Bluewater section are AFTCO, HUK, Pure Lure, Reel Life, Jeep by Buck Wear, Fish Hard Gear, Boat Builders Trading, Saltwater Born, Habit Outdoors, Fish Hard Gear, Unsalted Coast and Marsh Wear. Other brands in the show include Salty Crew, Costa, AVID, ANETIK, REEL Skipper, Chums, SMITH Optica, Aqualung, O’Neill and many more. There are quite a few new brands you’ll find in Bluewater making their Surf Expo debut, including Bajio eyewear, Fireside Outdoor, Red Bobber Fishing Gear, Kahuna Wagons, RUMPLE and more. The Bluewater section was designed with the buyer in mind—so they can see all the key inshore and offshore apparel and accessory brands in one location. They’ll find products ranging from lifestyle and technical apparel to footwear, outerwear, sportswear, t-shirts, sunglasses, outdoor apparel and gear and lots more.

Steven “Fish” Fisher, Surf Expo’s senior buyer relations manager works directly with buyers from marinas, outfitters, boat dealers and bait and tackle shops. “There’s a definite need for product. People from Florida and across the U.S. as well as the Caribbean, Puerto Rico and all over the globe are registering and excited to come,” he said. “We staged two safe and successful shows in 2021, and we’ll continue to evolve our health and safety plan to keep those practices in place as we head into 2022 shows,” said Roy Turner, Surf Expo show director. “We want our exhibiting brands and retailers to feel confident in returning to our show. Surf Expo will continue to assemble the right mix of brands, new products and events for inspiration and camaraderie that can’t be produced digitally.” Features of the show will include the Bluewater Lounge, plus fashion shows, live seminars, the Surf Expo Industry Party and happy hours. Surf Expo will be announcing its full line up of special events in the coming weeks. Registration is free for qualified buyers. For more information, contact steven.fisher@surfexpo.com. For more information on the upcoming show, visit www.surfexpo.com.

CMY

8 FLORIDA

DECEMBER 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

J22_SurfExpo_Coastal_Angler_FPFinal.pdf

11/5/21

11:47 AM

JANUARY 5-7, 2022 ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER WEST CONCOURSE ORLANDO, FL

Discover the newest ﬁshing and marine apparel and accessory products for 2022 within Bluewater at Surf Expo

CMY

21 FEET OF AWESOME

From award winning new handling technology to Yamaha’s most premium feature set, the 212SD is not just a class leader, it’s in a class all of its own.

™

2021 Yamaha Marine 212SD

Starting MSRP $63,799*

Black with Blue

White with Seude Gray

SHOP OUR FULL LINE UP OF YAMAHA BOATS

! p i h s r e n w Under New O Beach Blvd Motorsports is now: 10315 Beach Boulevard Jacksonville, FL 32246 904-328-7651 | www.ridenowbeachblvd.com

•A

•SUP •ENH •99%

Get on the water at www.ridenowmarine.com *Manufacturer’s suggested retail price does not include freight, delivery, prep and other dealer fees. Pricing is subject to change.

*LIF 16 BREVARD

BOATHOUSE BOATHOUSE Discount Marine Supplies

Marine Supplies

Jacksonville West

Locations Same Low Prices

Jacksonville Beach

Locations Same Low Price

OEM Marine Parts

Melbourne

Certified Service Department

Authorized Marine EngineAuthorized & Parts Dealer OEM

Marine Engine & Parts Dealer

Trailer Parts

2SD

Trailer Sales

BoathouseDiscountMarine.com

799*

• AUTOMOTIVE • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL

CTX NANO-CERAMIC TINT

Three Locations To Serve •SUPERIOR HEAT REJECTION •ENHANCED STYLE Melbourne Jacksonville Beach 557 N. Harbor City Blvd 8587 Beach Blvd •99% UV PROTECTION Melbourne, FL 32935

(321) 254-2535

Jacksonville, FL 32216

(904) 564-9669

You Jacksonville

5615 Blanding Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32244

(904) 778-7775

BoathouseDiscountMarine.com

*LIFETIME WARRANTY 16 BREVARD

JANUARY 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THE ANGLERMAG.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES.

A N A LY Z E A N D

CAPITALIZE O N T H E S I T U AT I O N

I BOAT INSURANCE SINKING YOU?

SAVE

50%Insurance

up to

on Boat

Get the

LOWEST Rates!

BOATS & $37,000 $75,000 JETSKI From: $264/yr $474/yr

$100,000 $250,000 $500,000 $586/yr $2,975/yr $5,985/yr

GET A QUOTE! (888) 977-4500 (954) 785-5000

BoatInsuranceFlorida.com Bradley Insurance Group

Covering Boaters throughout the south since 1988

Your #1 Source for Boat Insurance 12 FLORIDA

DECEMBER 2021

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

witnessed a scenario a few weeks ago that when analyzed might help us all catch more fish. I was fishing a familiar cove, drifting my kayak across grass flats mixed in with sand potholes. This area typically holds clear water, and on low-wind days such as this, it should have been exceptionally clear. The farther I drifted across the area, the more I noticed dinginess in the water. This area of the cove had a small island perpendicular with the shoreline and a 15-yard gap in between. I saw small mullet pushing up on the edge of the island. At that point, I decided to anchor my kayak and work the area thoroughly with my rattling soft-plastic paddletail. This area was 1 to 2 feet deep and mostly carpeted with grass with just a few sand potholes. To keep from fouling my jig on the grass, I was burning the lure just under the surface. I unexpectedly hooked up with a nice redfish that came out of the water to inhale my copper and silver soft plastic! Due to the redfish mouth being on the bottom of their head, they put on a nice show while attacking a lure on or near the surface. I caught a dozen or so reds in this area using the same retrieve, and about half of them came out of the water or created a whitewater attack to strike. I was also able to sight cast to a few that swam through in groups of two or three. As the bite started to taper, I noticed the water had begun to clear up. This led me analyze the situation a little more. This area is not known for a lot of tidal movement, and typically you can’t see the water move, as was the case on this day. However, the tide was incoming, which created the silty water, and this slight movement was also pushing the small mullet against the island. Once the water cleared, I realized the tide had slowed or stopped, and as that happened the mullet began to scatter through the cove. I still managed to pick up a few more reds and some trout, but not until I started to drift other areas of the cove. Hindsight is 20/20, and I didn’t put all the pieces together until the end, but it was a great lesson I will use in the future. Even though I could not see the movement of the water, the dirty water was a clear sign of the incoming tide. The bait was reacting to the rising water, and that’s the reason the fish were feeding in that area. I hope this story helps you out in the future. I will remember what I learned that day and apply it. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures, Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

This Might be a Rougher Winter By: Capt. Dave Stephens

e have already been having some fronts make it down to us and bringing some windier weather, and also cooler than normal. Normally when this happens it can cause our fish to move around more. You may find that areas that usually should be holding fish are not. This may be due to the fact that those fish have moved closer to areas that they are comfortable being at during the winter months. The one species of fish that will be making the biggest move will be our snook. When water temps dip below 70 degrees these guys run for cover. When the threat of a major front approaches, they will migrate to areas that have deep water access. For the anglers that don't know, snook are a tropical fish. If are water drops below the 60-degree mark for 24 hours, we could have a major fish kill. The positive is, we have a fishery that does very well when these fronts pass through. Trout is one of our fisheries that does well when our water temps dip down to the point that other fish stop feeding. They might not be in the same areas that you have had success during the warmer months. They also seek out areas that has deep water access such as creeks, and residential canals they will hold good numbers of fish. You might have to spend some time looking for these guys, but the

rewards will be worth it. Cooler weather does not necessarily mean that Charlotte Harbor shuts down. It just means that you have to change up your approach to our fishery. We have fish that I will discuss in future columns. Fish such as Sheepshead just to let the folks from the north know, these are not the same fish that swim in the great lakes. These striped guys are actually very good eating, and put up a great fight also. The cooler water should have the pompano also moving in from the beaches, it's another great winter fish that is way over looked. We are very fortunate to live in a very diverse area when it comes to our fishery. No matter what Mother Nature throws at us, we can adjust and have great fishing. As we approach winter we will discuss different species, and ways to target them. If you would like to experience some of South Florida’s best fishing give me a call or send me an email. You can also follow me on Twitter @backbayxtremes for weekly and daily updates and Instagram @capt.davestephens

Back Bay Xtremes |Backbayextremes.com 941-916-5769

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | DECEMBER 2021 | FORT MYERS 1

Ready For a Charter? By: Capt. Bart Marx

ello fellow Anglers! I have learned this year fish aren't affected by Covid any strain. What I have noticed this year too red tide affects the fish and have worked around both of these things and have stayed busy this year. I also have added a boat to the fleet at Alpha Omega charters as we retired one vessel and replaced it with another. We now have a 25ft. Parker Walkaround Cuddy Cabin, it is a very roomy boat and has a potty for the ladies. We have a State of Florida fishing license that allows us to travel out to 9 miles in the Gulf. And we still have our 22ft. Aquasport Center Console it too is a good fishing boat, it is good for in the harbor and flats. We also have gift certificates that can be purchased for Christmas or just if you have guests coming from out of town, or birthday gift. Yea this is the time of year we get lots

of visitors from up north they may enjoy a half day on the water. And this time of year, we find in the harbor red drum, sheepshead, flounder, and trout. These are all fun to catch and good table fare. This would be using the 22ft. boat around Placida, Charlotte Harbor, and Pine Island sound depending on the area you live in or are visiting in S.W. Florida. I furnish all the tackle and licenses that are required for a fun day on the water. Looking at what could be available offshore this time of year, the king mackerel will be migrating to the south as the Gulf waters cool down. There should be plenty of spanish mackerel too moving south. And the hogfish bite should be going on as the waters cool down they feed better out to 50 to 60 feet on natural bottom structure. Also, the nearshore artificial reef should be covered up with sheepshead. If you like to do some site fishing you could go into the Gulf and follow the lines of stone crab traps and search for some tripletail hanging around the floats to ambush shrimp or small fish. Okay live shrimp or artificials do work, and remember not to set the hook when you see the fish take it, WAIT till you feel it then it is game on. So, if you would like to come along with Capt. Bart Marx give me a call or e-mail at captbart@ alphaomegacharters.com And for those of you that have moved to the area I will go with you on your boat and do what I call a training session to shorter your learning curve here in S.W. Florida. And always remember singing drags and tight lines make me smile. <*(((((>{

Alpha Omega Charters | alphaomegacharters.com captbart@alphaomegacharters.com | 941-979-6517 2 FORT MYERS | DECEMBER 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

s.com -6517

A Good Month to Have a Wind App By: Capt. Mike Manis

like the Windfinder App as its accurate and free. It’s a good way to keep an eye out for opportunities, chamber of commerce type days, that do come along between the fronts that are so prevalent this time of year. And even though we may have to put on a few extra layers of clothes, at least we don’t have to get up at the crack of dawn. In fact, I like to wait till late morning to let the sun warm things up. Like last month, I’ll continue working the same pattern for redfish and trout; but now, I’ll even push farther up my favorite backcountry creek systems. In fact, I’ll even make my way up to some old mosquito ditches. Basically, I’m following the fish. With reduced rain and cooler water, salinity and oxygen both increase back here providing good habitat as well as a refuge from the windswept open flats. Also, after a cool night the sun will warm the shallow water over the darker mud and sand bottom quicker here than on open flats. The combination of low clear water will increase sight-fishing opportunities as there isn’t enough water for fish to get deep into the mangroves. I like a morning or early afternoon incoming tide coming off a negative low. Fish will work their way with the tide to warm up and feed. I’ll look for them laid up off the shoreline in deeper sand depressions. If there’s enough water, I’ll still pole shorelines, but it’s the sand holes off the shoreline that hold the best numbers of fish. In addition, when dealing with a strong north breeze, I like to work areas that provide as much lee as possible. Fortunately, there are some good choices throughout our entire estuary system from as far north as the Peace and Myakka rivers and down to and around the edges of the harbor and into Pine Island Sound. The baitfish so prevalent most of the year is scarce. Scaled sardines migrate offshore looking for more stable water temperature. Being a natural nursery, these estuarine creek systems provide a decent array of prey albeit of a smaller source like silversides, killifish, shrimp, and crabs. As a result, I’ll throw small, #1 or #2, baitfish and shrimp patterns. Sheepshead are a good bet around docks and piers. If the wind is really cranking, the Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte canals hold good numbers. When calm, the artificial reef outside Alligator Creek is a great spot. Cut shrimp works well. Lastly, when the wind permits, take a run over to the hard bottom off Cape Haze Point where pompano like to hang out and get in a few casts with a ¼ ounce Nylure jig. Until next month, good tides.

Punta Gorda Fly Charters | puntagordaflycharters.com 941-628-7895

SCHUMAN INSURANCE

"Nothing Like A Day On The Water!"

WE KNOW BOATS!

Why insure yours with anyone else! I'm Capt. David Schuman a second generation insurance agent. Our family has been serving Lee County for 42 years.

Boat Auto Home Motorcycle Life Business Capt. David Schuman 1329 Hibiscus Dr., Cape Coral, FL 33909 239-242-8072 Davidschuman3@allstate.com 2801 Del Prado Blvd S., Cape Coral, FL 33904 239-945-8888

3114 Lee Blvd Suite 4, Lehigh Acres, FL 33971 239-369-1313

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | DECEMBER 2021 | FORT MYERS 3

Photo Credit Havenworth Coastal Conservation

SAWFISH NEWS

by Tonya Wiley, Havenworth Coastal Conservation

Angler and Diver Guidelines for Interactions with Endangered Sawfish

he population of smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata) in the United States experienced a dramatic decline during the 20th century due to overfishing and habitat loss. Given the decline, NOAA Fisheries listed the U.S. population of smalltooth sawfish as “endangered” under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 2003. One of the best ways to track the effectiveness of ongoing management and conservation efforts is to collect information about the sawfish encounters of 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 their sawfish interactions.

For divers to safely and legally enjoy encounters with sawfish: • 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 observations: 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 recovery by following these interaction guidelines and educating others about them. Please share the For anglers to safely and legally release any sawfish accidentally caught information about your sawfish encounters by visiting www. while fishing: SawfishRecovery.org, calling 1-844-4SAWFISH, emailing sawfish@ • Release sawfish immediately myfwc.com, or entering the details in the FWC Reporter App. Your • Leave the sawfish, especially the gills, in the water at all times encounter reports will be used to track recovery of the population and • Never lift a sawfish from the water or drag it ashore steer research efforts, which will ultimately benefit the species and the • Do not use gaffs or ropes to secure any captured sawfish areas in which you fish and dive. • 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 catches: 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.

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

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | DECEMBER 2021 | FORT MYERS 5

Winter is at our Doorstep By: Joe Sheaffer

t is time to prepare ourselves, to adapt to different areas and our equipment and our feeding patterns. We will need mindset. There are definite to adjust where we look for changes that are taking place fish and how we fish for them. as winter pushes on us. Colder Many of our species will look temps, lower water, fish behavior for deeper and more stable water and shorter windows to name a temperatures. few. Taking the time to plan and 3. Presentations, once again fish prepare for these changes can will adjust their behaviors in make for an easier transition for colder water, so we will need to fishing the next few months here adjust the way we fish for them. in SWFL. Here is a checklist of Slower presentations can be more things that can be helpful for the effective during this time of year. seasonal change. 4. Equipment, we may be using 1. Temperature, water and air different fishing strategies, we temps will cool and these may need to adjust or modify can and will affect us and the our equipment to make certain fish. We will need to dress in presentations. layers as it will be cooler in the 5. Shorter Windows, the amount morning but warm as the sun of daylight in a given day is comes up. Having the proper shorter, our fishing windows attire on can make for a more may need to be adjusted. comfortable experience on the These are few things to consider water. Early to rise may not be as winter arrives, preparing for the best strategy for fishing. Fish are lethargic in colder water and these changes can be helpful as we transition. many times tend to be more aggressive as the day and water warms. Good luck and Keep Casting. 2. Finding Fish, the colder temperatures will force our inshore species

By: Ca

t P s espec ft dep out w A lar South know 79 yr Navy Old w habita life, w snapp clarity speari includ South have p are: Ed Bosilj Gunv USS Y Farth a min

6 FORT MYERS | DECEMBER 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/

The Southernmost Gulf Spearfishing

By: Capt. Chad Carney

traight South from Capri Pass / Marco Island are some great spearing sites, especially if you want less than 70 ft depths & very far from fished out wrecks & artificial reefs. A large area 61 nm (naut. mi.) South and 11 nm wide has little known large wrecks from WW2, 79 yrs. ago! 3 wrecked into US Navy mines, in 60 to 65 ft depths. Old wrecks break up into tight habitats and are covered with life, which bottom fish - grouper, snapper & hogfish like. Water clarity of 20 to 30 ft is good for spearing and keeps away crowds, including many spearos 26 nm South in Key West. These wrecks have produced lots of fish! They are: Edward Luckenbach - 456 ft cargo steamer, sunk by mines -1942. Bosiljka - 322 ft cargo ship, hit a mine - 1942. Gunvor - 277 ft freighter, crashed into an Allied mine - 1942. USS YP331 - 102 ft Yard Patrol Boat, sunk in bad weather - 1944. Farther S 13 nm lies the USS Sturtevant, a 314 ft Destroyer also sunk in a mine field. Located 18 nm NW of Key West & 2.25 nm beyond State

waters, at a 60 ft depth. Many divers continue into Key West for a rest and refuel. Spearfishing near is still best on reef drop-offs like the 10 Fathom Bar off Ballast Key. In 1980 I shot my first big grouper, 47# there. Air Force Radio Relay Towers P and T are 53 nm and 36 nm from home, in 60 to 65 ft depths and are great sites for amberjack, permit & african pompano, found right to the surface. P Tower is just 2.2 nm South of the Hogfish Gulf Waters boundary along 25.09 Latitude off Cape Sable. The D Tower at 24.5 nm from Capri Pass can be your last site, but 5’ visibility makes spearing tough so it’s best for hook & line fishing. As always check myfwc.com for regulations as many close in December. Shoot straight!

chad.carney@yahoo.com https://www.facebook.com/floridaskindiver/ https://www.deeperblue.com/beginners-guide-spearfishing/ 727-423-7775

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

3771 Palm Beach Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 33916 239.694.2185

MATLACHA

December/2021 • 26°38’N 82°4’W

www.USHarbors.com

Matlacha Pass, FL - Dec 2021 High

Date

fishfacecharters@ yahoo.com 239.357.6829

FORT MYERS

December/2021 • 26°39’N 81°52’W

www.USHarbors.com

Fort Myers, FL - Dec 2021

Low

High

Date

Rise

Set

Moon

12:57P

1.3

11:49

1.9

7:09

0.0

6:35

0.7

7:03

5:36

Low

Rise

Set

Wed