FORT MYERS/CAPE CORAL/CHARLOTTE HARBOR EDITION
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HARDCORE
TUNA
MYSTERIOUS
SAILFISH Sept. 9-11 • Orlando PHOTO CREDIT: DARCIZZLE OFFSHORE COURTESY OF HAIRCLUB / WWW.HAIRCLUB.COM VOLUME 26 • ISSUE 317
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
W O R L D W I D E
AUGUST 2021
Upper Class Just Got Lower Priced Finally, luxury built for value— not for false status
U
ntil Stauer came along, you needed an inheritance to buy a timepiece with class and refinement. Not any more. The Stauer Magnificat II embodies the impeccable quality and engineering once found only in the watch collections of the idle rich. Today, it can be on your wrist. The Magnificat II has the kind of thoughtful design that harkens back to those rare, 150-year-old moon phases that once could only be found under glass in a collector’s trophy room. Powered by 27 jewels, the Magnificat II is wound by the movement of your body. An exhibition back reveals the genius of the engineering and lets you witness the automatic rotor that enables you to wind the watch with a simple flick of your wrist. It took three years of development and $26 million in advanced Swiss-built watch-making machinery to create the Magnificat II. When we took the watch to renowned watchmaker and watch historian George Thomas, he disassembled it and studied the escapement, balance wheel and the rotor. He remarked on the detailed guilloche face, gilt winding crown, and the crocodile-embossed leather band. He was intrigued by the three interior dials for day, date, and 24-hour moon phases. He estimated that this fine timepiece would cost over $2,500. We all smiled and told him that the Stauer price was less than $100. A truly magnificent watch at a truly magnificent price! Try the Magnificat II for 30 days and if you are not receiving compliments, please return the watch for a full refund of the purchase price. The precision-built movement carries a 2 year warranty against defect. If you trust your own good taste, the Magnificat II is built for you.
Stauer Magnificat II Timepiece $399* Offer Code Price
$99 + S&P SAVE $300!
The Stauer Magnificat II is powered by your own movement
You must use the offer code to get our special price.
1-800-333-2045
Your Offer Code: MAG571-08
Stauer
®
®
Rating of A+
14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. MAG571-08 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337
www.stauer.com
† Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.
• Luxurious gold-finished case with exposition back • 27-jeweled automatic movement • Croc-embossed band fits wrists 6¾"–8½" • Water-resistant to 3 ATM
Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®
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.
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Now, THIS is a Knife! This 16" full tang stainless steel blade is not for the faint of heart —now ONLY $99!
EXCLUSIVE
FREE
I
n the blockbuster film, when a strapping Australian crocodile hunter and a lovely American journalist were getting robbed at knife point by a couple of young thugs in New York, the tough Aussie pulls out his dagger and says “That’s not a knife, THIS is a knife!” Of course, the thugs scattered and he continued on to win the reporter’s heart. Our Aussie friend would approve of our rendition of his “knife.” Forged of high grade 420 surgical stainless steel, this knife is an impressive 16" from pommel to point. And, the blade is full tang, meaning it runs the entirety of the knife, even though part of it is under wraps in the natural bone and wood handle. Secured in a tooled leather sheath, this is one impressive knife, with an equally impressive price. This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers. But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99, 8x21 power compact binoculars, and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Down Under Bowie Knife. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Down Under Bowie Knifes for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip BONUS! Call today and through your fingers at a price that won’t drag you’ll also receive this you under. Call today! genuine leather sheath!
Stauer® 8x21 Compact Binoculars -a $99 value-
with purchase of Down Under Knife
What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives
êêêêê
“This knife is beautiful!” — J., La Crescent, MN
êêêêê
“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.” — H., Arvada, CO
Down Under Bowie Knife $249*
Offer Code Price Only $99 + S&P Save $150
1-800-333-2045
Your Insider Offer Code: DUK212-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. Rating of A+
Stauer
®
14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. DUK212-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
*Discount is only for customers who useNot the offer code versus the shown listed original Stauer.com price. actual size.
California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
• Etched stainless steel full tang blade ; 16” overall • Painted natural bone and wood handle • Brass hand guards, spacers & end cap • Includes genuine tooled leather sheath
Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®
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FRANCHISOR-CORPORATE DIRECTORY
EDITOR IN CHIEF : Ben Martin • camads@coastalanglermagazine.com COO : Tracy Patterson • tracy@coastalanglermagazine.com ART DIRECTOR : Laura Kelly • graphics@coastalanglermagazine.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR : Nick Carter • editorial@coastalanglermagazine.com WEBMASTER : Ryan Clapper • webmaster@coastalanglermagazine.com ADVERTISING & FRANCHISE INQUIRIES:
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4 NATIONAL
AUGUST 2021
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
Sizzling Hot Deals From Suzuki’s Summer Sales Event Suzuki’s Summer Sales Event is finally here! It’s time to get to your local Suzuki Marine Dealer for a sizzling hot deal on the Ultimate Outboard Motor. You can get Low-Rate Financing on the all new DF140BG with Drive by Wire Technology, or our Flagship DF350. Get all the details at your participating Suzuki Marine Dealer.
REPOWER FINANCE
YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
5 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY†
REPOWER FINANCE Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards on approved credit.* [60 Months]
*REPOWER FINANCE is available through Synchrony Retail Finance, as low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new, unregistered Suzuki outboard motors, subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on creditworthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories, or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki outboard motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between from July 1, 2021 through September 1, 2021. †5 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY applies to qualifying purchases of Suzuki outboard motors sold and delivered to the retail purchaser, for pleasure (non-commercial) use only, from April 1, 2021 through March 31, 2022. See Suzuki Limited Warranty for additional details. The Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2021 Suzuki Marine, USA, LLC.
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IS
ISTIOPHORUS: THE MYSTERIOUS SAILFISH
By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
T
he sailfish is one of the most commonly caught billfish. Due to its proclivity for shallower coastal waters and frequency of ascension to the surface, the odds of catching one of these beauties can be much greater than for other billfish. There is little scientific certainty about the mysterious behavior of sailfish. They exhibit a general migratory pattern throughout the year, but they often break their own rules and show up unexpectedly. Summer sailfish catches are generally more associated with the Gulf of Mexico, yet they do appear on the Atlantic coast this time of year, as well. Sailfishing in the Florida Keys is usually a late autumn and early spring
bite. It can be an absolute catching frenzy. However, in July, following the passage of tropical storm Elsa, sailfish were seen tailing at the surface, cruising the waves along a strong current line off of Marathon Key. It was a bizarre and welcomed phenomenon. The conditions that followed the storm created a concise current line, with greener nearshore waters touching the blue water, and a milky powder-blue highway running down the center. Sailfish were spotted swimming east to west at the top of the waves, and seemed to dive deeper to circle back. The locals are no strangers to this phenomenon that occurs in the Keys. Though the time of year may be unpredictable, anglers are always ready to make the most of it. This type of fishing requires polarized sunglasses and a tower boat. Slowly creeping through the powder blue highway, scan the waves for black torpedo shapes or blobs that resemble black garbage bags. Hunt for the opportunity to sight cast live baits. Without the visual vantage of a tower, trolling lures or bump trolling live bait may be more productive than trying to spot them from deck level. Sailfish truly are an incredible and unpredictable species. Very few have been successfully tagged, and few have held a tag long enough to transmit much information. Of those tagged for up to a year, their patterns were generally erratic. They seem to be extremely transient, foraging and spawning in many different coastal regions, predictably unpredictable, like majestic aquatic gypsies. Commonalities in their behavior are that they primarily stay within a water temperature of approximately 80 degrees; they mostly stay near the surface, rarely diving below 300 feet; and they exhibit extremely curious evening routines. All of the transmissions showed sailfish spending the evening within 30 feet of the surface, descending briefly before sunrise and sunset. They were also observed to be active nightly, seemingly unaffected by lunar phases. Help uncover the mysteries of sailfish by reporting tagged fish or by visiting billfish.org to purchase a tagging kit. Remember to handle sailfish with care and revive them before release when necessary. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon fishes with Blue Magic Charters out of Marathon, Fla. Check her out her Instagram @CaptainQuinlyn, her website CaptainQuinlyn.com, or call (504) 920-6342.
MFD
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
AUGUST 2021
NATIONAL 7
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12:00:28 PM
Actual size is 40.6 mm
W N E IG S N DE
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The Biggest Event In Silver Dollar History!
he American Silver Eagle has been the most popular silver coin on the planet since its introduction in 1986. Its beautiful, iconic design inspires collectors, and investors love it because it’s struck in one full ounce of 99.9% fine silver, and guaranteed for weight and fineness by the U.S. Government. Now in 2021, for the first time ever, the coin’s design is changing.
The Most Important Coins in the Modern Era
When President Ronald Reagan signed the Liberty Coin Act into law, he didn’t know American Eagles would have the impact they’ve had, year after year. The coins were so popular that between 1986 and 2020, over 535 million were struck. That’s more than HALF A BILLION coins, easily making Silver Eagles the most bought coins in the world. Hugely popular now, Silver Eagles may soon become even more popular!
Collectors Crave Firsts
Collectors covet coins with Key Dates. Key Dates mark significance in a coin’s history...firsts, lasts, lowest mintage,
new finishes and new designs. Now, for the first time in over three-and-a-half decades, the Silver Eagle is getting a new design, leading to a historic “first” unlike anything we’ve seen. The iconic Heraldic Eagle reverse is being replaced by a beautiful new “Eagle Landing” design. This is arguably a bigger deal than even the actual introduction of the coin because there’s so much more interest now than in 1986, with investors and collectors!
If You Knew Then What You Know Now...
If you’d had a crystal ball in 1986, you undoubtedly would have grabbed every Silver Eagle you could get. Those coins in uncirculated condition continue to be sought-after. Now you’re getting another chance to land a big Silver Eagle first, a Key Date. Additionally, since these newly designed Silver Eagles are only being released during the second half of 2021, it’s quite possible this will be one of the lowest mintages we’ve seen. That’s significant because it could make 2021 a DOUBLE Key Date, with both a new design and a low mintage. Demand for these coins is already sky-high, but if that
happens, watch out! No one can predict the future value of silver, but many Americans are rushing to stock up, for themselves, and their loved ones.
Don’t Wait, Order Now! Buy More and Save!
Don’t wait another 35 years! Get your 2021 new design Silver Eagles in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) condition by calling 1-888-201-7639 right now, and using the offer code below. Buy more, save more!
New Design 2021 American Eagle Silver Dollar BU 1-3 Coins4-9 Coins10-19 Coins20+ Coins-
$44.95 ea. + s/h $44.75 ea. + FREE SHIPPING $44.50 ea. + FREE SHIPPING $43.95 ea. + FREE SHIPPING
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Limited time only. Product total over $149 before taxes (if any). Standard domestic shipping only. Not valid on previous purchases.
Call today toll-free for fastest service
1-888-201-7639 Offer Code NRE155-02 Please mention this code when you call.
GovMint.com • 14101 Southcross Dr. W., Suite 175, Dept. NRE155-02 • Burnsville, MN 55337 GovMint.com® is a retail distributor of coin and currency issues and is not affiliated with the U.S. government. The collectible coin market is unregulated, highly speculative and involves risk. GovMint.com reserves the right to decline to consummate any sale, within its discretion, including due to pricing errors. Prices, facts, figures and populations deemed accurate as of the date of publication but may change significantly over time. All purchases are expressly conditioned upon your acceptance of GovMint.com’s Terms and Conditions (www.govmint.com/terms-conditions or call 1-800-721-0320); to decline, return your purchase pursuant to GovMint.com’s Return Policy. © 2021 GovMint.com. All rights reserved.
DADDYghter u a DOFF DAYS VIRGINIA BEACH
F
By Nick Carter
or Matt Metelsky, daddy-daughter time with his 17-year-old is a little more involved than a trip to the ice cream parlor. Matt’s daughter Lily is a rising high school senior. She loves nothing more than waking up at 2 a.m. to run 85 miles off Virginia Beach and troll the edge of the Continental Shelf with her dad. In late June, the duo fished the Virginia Beach Tuna Tournament, where Lily placed second in the Lady Angler division with a yellowfin that weighed 39.9 pounds. But that’s not her biggest tuna to-date. Her heaviest yellowfin weighed 44 pounds. She caught it last summer, and at 5-foot-4 and 115 pounds, it took her about 15 minutes to haul it in stand-up with a belt. “I don’t know. We do wood work on the side, so we load wood, and I guess that gives you some back strength,” Lily offered as explanation for feats of fishing strength. “We always stay active. With Dad, it’s work hard, play harder.” Lily’s strength and stamina are a given considering she qualified and is working as an oceanfront lifeguard at Virginia Beach this summer. Matt, however, has another explanation for his daughter’s skill, as well as her love for this hard-core style of fishing. Lily was 5 years old when Matt purchased his Contender 25 with twin 150s. At a tender age, Lily cut her teeth going toe-to-toe with hard-pulling spadefish in 50 feet of water, 20 miles offshore. “I’m thinking the technique she picked up with those spades when she was little just kind of morphed over into the tuna,” Matt said. “It really amazes
me she is able to battle those things stand-up.” Lily began joining Matt for long days offshore when she turned 13. She was 15 the summer of 2019 when she was first physically able to handle a yellowfin—a 26-pounder—by herself. But pumping and reeling aren’t Lily’s only deck duties. She helps rig and bait and steers the boat while her dad deploys an eight-rod spread on the Gulf Stream. Last Jan. 11, she manned the helm while Matt battled a 550-pound bluefin. When the handle on the 50w reel broke under the stress, it was Lily’s idea to improvise with a screwdriver and electrical tape to eventually land that fish. The peak yellowfin season is June and July out of Rudee Inlet. Matt and Lily make five or six trips a summer, often with friends. Normal days consist of two or three tuna, some bonita and mahi, and occasionally a white marlin. Two or three times a year, January and February bluefin trips are just for the two of them. There aren’t many people interested in waiting on one big bite in brutal mid-winter conditions, anyway. “She’s just tough as nails,” Matt said of his daughter. “I don’t know how else to describe it. She’s just tough.” Lily doesn’t seem to perceive any hardship. She considers herself lucky to be able to spend time with her dad on the water. “When we’re out there on the boat, it’s just so peaceful,” she said. “I pretty much sleep the whole time. When that reel goes off, that’s my alarm.” For more action from Virginia Beach, visit coastalanglermag.com/tidewater-obx/.
A r
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F s m o d o l s s k a
W r C g e o Y w f s B w h H a o M s a c Q
10 NATIONAL
AUGUST 2021
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
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A gemstone 10,000 times rarer than diamonds
So rare, you can only find it one place on earth. Two, if you count Stauer! Over 7 carats of ethereal Larimar— From a remote Caribbean mountain
T
he rarity of larimar is legendary. Its exquisite beauty, unique color and scarcity make it a truly treasured gem. Found in only one square kilometer of the world, the ONLY source of larimar lies in the relatively inaccessible Bahoruco’s mountains in the Caribbean. Formed by unique combination of volcanic minerals and geological conditions, larimar is very dangerous to get to and therefore is only mined 5 months out of the year. Because of its rarity, few people have ever seen larimar, and it is only recently that the Caribbean yielded its secret to us. But luckily, the prices are not controlled by a syndicate so this rare stone is still affordable, as long as you know where to look. And, you’ve come to the right place, we are your ticket to paradise. We’ve crafted rare larimar into remarkable jewelry that’s also remarkably affordable. Each stone in our Sea of Love Larimar Collection is a picture of perfect swirling blue. Nature guarantees that no two larimar gemstones will be exactly alike, each has a wispy white swirl that looks like the highest clouds on a sun-filled day. You could spend PRAISE FOR STAUER LARIMAR RINGS well over $1,000 “There are not enough adjectives in for a larimar ring the dictionary to describe the beauty set in sterling silver. and excellence of this ring. Buy it, do But why would you not wait.” — C., Longwood, FL when you can bring her this gorgeous stone for an exclusive Stauer price. Her Satisfaction is 100% Guaranteed. If she’s not swept away within 30 days, simply return your purchase for a refund of the item price. Mother Nature has given us such a small quantity of this beautiful stone and there is no way to replenish the few carats that are available. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own this captivating gemstone that’s 10,000 times rarer than diamonds. Quantities are extremely limited, so please act quickly!
A.
B.
Add the entire collection to your jewelry ensemble C.
D.
Jewelry shown is not exact size
Sea of Love Larimar Collection
A. Ring (7 ¹⁄2 carat) ............................... $299 $99* Save $200 B. Earrings (5 ctw) ..............................$299 $99* Save $200 C. Pendant (7 ¹⁄2 carat) ..........................$299 $149* Save $150 18" Sterling Silver Cable Chain ........... $59 D. 7 ¹⁄2" Bracelet (7 ³⁄4 ctw) .....................$299 $149* Save $150 Pendant, Chain, Earrings & Bracelet $956 $299 Save $657 Call now and mention the offer code to receive your collection.
1-800-333-2045 Offer Code SLC174-03
Rating of A+
You must use the 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.
Stauer
® 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. SLC174-03, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
• Larimar from the Dominican Republic • .925 sterling silver settings • Ring: whole sizes 5-10 • Earrings: Post back
Stauer … A ffo r d t h e E xt r a o r d i n a r y .®
Switch to GEICO and see how easy it could be to save money on boat insurance. Simply visit geico.com/boat to get started.
geico.com/boat | 1-800-865-4846 | Local Office
Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or in all situations. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2021 GEICO. 21_660726485
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!
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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.
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All Suzuki repowers come with the new Suzuki 5-year factory warranty.
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Request a quote! • suzukirepower.com • 1-800-545-4574
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By Nick Carter
BAY COUNTY’S
A
t the mid-point of the Florida Panhandle, St. Andrew Bay dominates the map of Bay County, flanking Panama City on three sides. It’s a 107-square-mile inshore playground that bustles with all sorts of watersports during the heavy tourism months. But there’s a quieter side to St. Andrew. With access points spread throughout Bay County, skinny water is where it’s at for redfish anglers. The water is clear and maintains predictably high salinity thanks to limited freshwater inflow. There are vast prairies of spartina grass, cut through with channels, as well as acres of sand, mud and grass flats. Much of it is accessible only to shallow-draft vessels, and therein is the allure for folks seeking respite 2 FLORIDA
AUGUST 2021
from party pontoons and jet skis. When you’re in less than 2 feet of water, the only other boats you’ll see are kayaks, paddleboards and flats skiffs. “I fell in love with inshore fishing and kayaking here because of the ease and lower expense,” said Josh Damon, who hails from Fountain, Fla., about 25 miles north of Panama City. “I enjoy the tranquility and access to areas big boats can’t reach.” The fishing is good, too. Damon is a passionate angler who enjoys inshore tournaments, so he specializes in redfish on artificials. He said a good day might results in five or six reds from 18 to 24 inches, with a few trout or flounder thrown into a mixed bag. He fishes from a paddle-powered kayak, which is perfectly at home in the one-and-a-half-foot depths he prefers. Redfish are comfortable and free from predatory threats in extreme shallows, and it’s also where the food is. St. Andrew reds grow fat on mullet, mud minnows, pinfish and a variety of other little baitfish. With good visibility, sight fishing is a good tactic. This time of year, there’s usually a good topwater bite in the mornings and evenings, and walking baits are a favorite of many anglers. Damon, however, fishes soft plastics almost exclusively. With tackle modifications, they can be worked across the top, bounced on the bottom or fished anywhere in between. They’re delicate enough for sight casting and also make great chunk-and-wind search baits. “Aside from the versatility of a soft-plastic bait, I don’t want a fish flopping around in the kayak with six hooks,” Damon said. At St. Andrew, Damon’s go-to lure is a 4-inch D.O.A. C.A.L. Shad Tail rigged on a 1/8-ounce 4/0 Screw Lock jig head. He likes the Houdini color and dresses it with Kings Stank Stick, a scent product he said increases hookups. He fishes variations of this set-up, but this basic rig gets the job done. For safety reasons as well effective fishing, planning is key. Damon studies wind and tide before selecting a put-in on a given day. With the whole bay to choose from, he’s looking for a location that will provide long drifts over productive water. Follow Josh Damon’s adventures on his Facebook page Josh Damon’s Inshore Fishing. For information on kayaking the Panama City area, check out Sunjammers at www.sunjammers.com.
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IN THE
STILL OF THE NIGHT By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
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ith the dog days upon us, night fishing can be productive and much more comfortable than slogging it out during the heat of the day. Many fish feed aggressively in the still of the night. They can be
targeted by anglers in multiple ways in different locations. Here are a few options to try. I’ve utilized all three methods and found success with each. • Perhaps the coolest strategy is wade fishing in the dark. Large trout and redfish move unbelievably shallow under the cover of the night sky, and tossing a topwater plug on the flats can result in exciting explosions. I typically wade in the dark without lights, other than a headlamp for changing lures or unhooking fish. With vision impaired, your sense of hearing is on high alert. Nighttime is quiet on the water, which makes the commotion of a topwater take startling. It can give the impression that a fish is larger than it really is. That’s part of the excitement of a topwater bite! For safety reasons, I only wade at night in areas I know well and have fished many times. • Another way to beat the heat is to focus on dock lights. This can be done from the dock, a kayak or a boat. Many canal homes have lights, both under water and above the surface. Lights attract baitfish, which in-turn attract the gamefish we target. Trout, reds and snook are all drawn to baitfish around lights at night. I like to target these areas with smaller lures. In this situation, I’ve had a lot of success throwing my Knockin Tail Lures, which are soft-plastic paddletails with a built-in rattle. Small, lipped hard baits can also be very productive around canal lights. I prefer natural colors, with some shade of white or clear and some silver mixed in. • Fish also feed around rock jetties at night. The setup for this bite requires a little more work, but it can yield terrific results. When jetty fishing, I bring a generator and two 1,500 watt stage lights. These areas typically have more current, so I fish slightly larger lipped hard lures, but I still go with the smallest lure I can work properly in the current. I stick with the same color pattern as mentioned earlier. The channel and surf side of the rocks can both be productive depending on the tide, water clarity and bait presence. I recommend pointing one light in each direction until you determine which areas have the best conditions. Night fishing definitely brings new challenges, but it can offer some of the best catching of the summer. Remember, safety first and don’t fish alone. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures, Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
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SCALLOPING
Reports Look Mighty Good
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By CAM Staff
eports from a few of the historic scalloping hotspots indicated a very good beginning to the season. Capt. Katie Jo Davis, of KD Outdoors Fishing Charters, said scalloping out of Crystal River and Homosassa has been great. “It’s been fantastic. It’s been a lot better year than the last few to be sure,” she said. “They have also been larger than in recent years. The quantity and quality are very good, and I expect it to continue into August and September.” Davis said they are finding scallops six and seven at a time in 2 to 6 feet of water. She took her 6-year-old out, and it took them about an hour to get their 2-gallon limit. Up in Steinhatchee, there are reports of plentiful scallops. Headed north out of the river, scallopers are seeing tons of scallops in 6- to 7-foot depths. The bottom is loaded with them, but they are on the small side. Headed south, scallops are running larger, but there are not as many. Either way, quick limits are being reported. With the bulk of the season still ahead for most of the scalloping zones and Gulf County opening up this month, it’s shaping up to be a mighty good year for scallops. For regulations and information, go to myfwc.com.
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Early Hours By: Capt. Mike Manis
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s we approach the height of summer, it might seem that while enduring the heat, humidity, and thunderstorms our options are limited. However, there are some unique opportunities if you’re ready to get up early and be on the water before sunrise. The flat calm conditions make the boat ride worthwhile and it’s a short ride at that. Most days, plan on being back for lunch. At first light, the upper harbor is a good place to start looking for rolling tarpon. It’s a lot of area and can definitely use up some of that window. From the 20’ hole between the West Wall and Ponce Park up to the mouth of both the Myakka and Peace Rivers is the zone. In particular, around U.S. 41 Bridge can be really good. Moreover, loading at either Ponce or Laishley Park makes for a short run. On fly, I’ll throw a 3/0 red and black or purple and black Puglisi peanut butter pattern. On conventional tackle, the deep running D.O.A. Baitbuster is a good soft plastic and it’s always tough to beat a live threadfin herring. Around the 20’ hole, don’t be surprised if you run into some sharks. Black nose, blacktip, and bull sharks are always possible. In addition, smaller sharks can be great sport on the bars that border the open harbor. It’s not unusual to see blacktip and bulls cruising and on the prowl. These bars stay a bit cooler from a decent tide flow. Typically, Turtle Bay and the Bokeelia bars fish well. Also, don’t be surprised to see a school of Jack Crevalle cruising and busting bait on these bars. They disappear as quick as they show up so be ready to throw no matter what you’ve got rigged. Shorelines adjacent to these bar systems do hold numbers of redfish that provide for some sight
fishing opportunities. The best time to look is on the lower tides before the fish have an opportunity to get up in the bushes. With slick mornings, the markers offer a unique opportunity. Because it’s structure, there’s always bait and consequently predator species won’t be far away. Spanish mackerel, jacks, blue runners, and mangrove snapper are just an example. It may not be any of the more glamorous species; but it’ll keep your rod bent and on fly and light tackle it’s still plenty of fun. Artificial baits like plugs, feathered jigs and spoons are all you need. On the other side of the harbor, there’s another good option, snook on the beaches. In fact, this is one of the best opportunities for shore bound anglers all year. Again, I’ll throw a Puglisi design, but here I like the 2/0 silver and white peanut butter pattern. There are usually good numbers of pilchards or scaled sardines on the beaches so a suspending plug with some flash like a Mirrolure Mirrodine fishes well. Until next month, good tides.
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Shift Your Style By: Capt. Dave Stephens
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ere we are in August. We have already had a close call with a named storm and we need the rain, just not any major disasters. With the summer rains come changes to our water that can help you or hurt you. If you depend on mostly sight for your style of fishing, then this is probably not your favorite time of year. The rains tend to darken the water due to the rain. If you’re not very big on sight fishing? Well this time of year can be very productive for you. The darker water allows you to get closer to fish that are normally spooky. I myself rely on sight and knowledge of the area. I will admit the darker water can make it more difficult to set up on spots in the open water. Spots such as oyster bars and pot holes. With the technology of today’s GPS systems this shouldn’t be an issue as long as you took the time to mark them. I’m sure if you’re like me you had to learn the hard way. The good news is our top game fish such as snook, tarpon and redfish can tolerate the freshwater. A lot of the time if we get a large amount of rain it will shut the bite off for a few days for the fish that require a higher salt level such as trout and snapper. These fish might be pushed out closer to the gulf or into deeper salty waters. One fish that seems to make more of its presence known in the upper harbor when the rain comes is tarpon. I’m not sure if these fish get pushed from the river or come in from the beaches. It’s probably a combination of both, however there seems to be more schools around this time of year. Areas like the holes in the harbor will be holding fish. Also, the mouths of our two rivers are great places to locate fish. If you get an early start on a calm morning you will surely come across some rolling fish. If this summer is anything like last summer, the mangrove snapper should be showing up. Last year was one of the best snapper bites I’ve seen in a long time. Areas like deep mangrove points with moving water will hold good numbers of fish. Local grass flats with potholes and oyster bars are a good bet. These little guys can be tricky sometimes so I recommend downsizing your tackle to a smaller hook and baits. Moving water is also key to have a good snapper bite. For their size these guys put up a pretty good fight and they’re also very tasty. If you would like to enjoy some of South West Florida’s finest fishing give us a call or send an email. All of our trips are customized to fit you and your party’s needs.
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A 12-foot female smalltooth sawfish collected by Monroe County Sheriff ’s Office near Marvin Key. Credit: Monroe County Sheriff ’s Office.
A 16-foot female smalltooth sawfish collected by FWC in the Florida Keys. Credit: FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute
SAWFISH NEWS by Tonya Wiley, Havenworth Coastal Conservation
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Investigating death – what we can learn from recent sawfish mortalities.
everal institutions conduct research activities on the biology, distribution, and ecology of endangered smalltooth sawfish in the United States. These partners include state and federal governments, universities, nonprofits, museums, and international organizations. Results of these research projects inform management decisions and enhance recovery efforts for this endangered species. In this Sawfish News we are going to focus on the information we gather from necropsies, the thorough examination and dissection of sawfish carcasses. The purpose of necropsies is to collect samples for gaining insight into the biology of the species and to attempt to determine the cause of death. Necropsies of sawfish which have died in the wild provide the opportunity to collect data necessary for understanding age, growth, maturity, and reproduction. In the case of other, non-endangered species this type of biological data is typically gathered by sacrificing some individuals within the population. But sacrificing any endangered sawfish is not an option given their reduced population size, so carcass recoveries provide scientists with these valuable opportunities. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) sawfish biologists recently responded to collect several large smalltooth sawfish which had died in the Florida Keys. Curiously all were large females; one a mature 16-foot female, https://www.facebook.com/FWCResearch/photos/a.611845082164895/4713223488693680 and another an immature female measuring 12 feet, 4 inches long https://www. facebook.com/floridakeyssheriff/posts/10157727440136816. The 16foot sawfish was particularly interesting as it was the longest measured by scientists in the United States since research began on the species. There were no obvious causes of death for any of the sawfish recovered from the Keys this spring (whether natural or environmental); however, a number of samples were collected from each. At the very least though, valuable life history information will continue be collected from each carcass due to the swift response from Keys-based FWC Fish and Wildlife Research Institute staff and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office personnel to secure the carcasses for study. Sawfish biologists are working to learn as much as possible from all samples they collect from necropsies. The vertebrae will be used to
determine the age of each sawfish. Reproductive tissues will be used to assess the reproductive status (mature or immature) of each dead sawfish. and used in combination with age and length to fine tune both age and length at maturity for females in the wild population. DNA collected from tissue samples will be sequenced to compare to other sawfish throughout Florida, which is useful in understanding population structure, diversity within the population, and both the size and health of the current population in comparison to the historical one. Stable isotopic analyses can be run on tissue samples and compared to a variety of potential prey items in the environment to determine the diet and trophic position of smalltooth sawfish within the food web. Blood samples are collected from sawfish to investigate reproductive status as hormones within the blood can be used to assess reproductive maturity and timing. Samples are preserved for further analysis in the future which may provide insight into environmental conditions at their time of death. Collection of the sawfish and necropsy activities were conducted pursuant to NMFS ESA Permit No. 21043. If you catch or see a sawfish (living or dead), take a quick photograph of the sawfish, estimate its size, note your location, and please share the details with scientists. The details of your sightings or catches of sawfish help scientists collect valuable information to help monitor the population and track the recovery progress. You can share your information by visiting www.SawfishRecovery.org, calling 1-844-4SAWFISH, emailing sawfish@myfwc.com, or submitting the information through the FWC Reporter app.
4 FORT MYERS | AUGUST 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/
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St. James Creek By: Mike Hammond
A
benefit of writing these articles is that I am compelled to try launches off the beaten path. One of the launches I am happy to have tried is Saint James Creek Preserve, which is owned and managed by the Calusa Land Trust. This is not the type of spot where you back right up to the launch and unload your gear. There is potentially a half-mile hike along the Saint Jude Trail involved. This could be a real deterrent if you don’t have a kayak cart and probably the reason I have never launched here before. After hiking a little less than half the trail, paddlers will find a convenient chickee hut; directly across the path from the hut is an open area in the mangroves that serves as a launch. This is not the easiest launch to use on low tide, but it is the closest to the parking area. From this location you will have to paddle under low mangrove branches to get to open water so keep the rods down. If you choose to walk the additional quarter-mile, you will be
rewarded with a much easier launch and no low mangrove ceilings to negotiate. There is also a very nice overlook built by the Calusa Land Trust. While there was a bit of a breeze blowing up the wide creek, there are many coves, points and bends to hide in. Within no time I saw several large snook in the mangroves and maybe the biggest live redfish I’ve ever seen in Southwest Florida! Taking the most direct route a mile south, you will arrive at the mouth of Dawson Canal where San Carlos Bay and Matlacha Pass meet. Depending on the wind, you can easily fish the mangroves and flats north to Rock Hole to re-enter the creek. Paddlers may choose to stay in Saint James Creek or take an even less windy option. There is a fairly large lake that only seems to be accessible to paddle craft. Just explore the area where the mangrove tunnel enters Saint James Creek and you will find it. We observed a variety of game fish, small sharks, rays, and even a sawfish. Wade fishing was also fairly easy here. I found this to be a perfect spot to fish with the kids. There is very little wind to push kayaks or cast into the mangroves. This could easily turn into one of our favorite spots. If you can handle hiking with your kayak, it may become one of your favorite spots too. A big Thank You goes out to the Calusa Land Trust for providing this and other opportunities for paddlers visiting Pine Island.
6 FORT MYERS | AUGUST 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/
CalusaBlueway.com
Summer Snapper By: Capt. Bart Marx
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Tyler caught this 29” Red in Charlotte Harbor w/ Capt. Bart.
ello fellow anglers, things in Florida are open for business and it is good. Spending some time on the waters can be a little warm this time of year. The fishing can be hot too. The mangrove snapper should be schooled up on the artificial reefs and hard bottom ledges. If you have never chummed for snapper this could be your chance. Anchor just on the edge of the reef and start your chum and draw them to you, this method works well. When things go as planned you can see the snapper on the surface eating the chum. Oh, this is when you would work on your quiet skills, don’t drop anything on the deck or slam any bait tank lids etc. So, when you have the snapper up to the surface you can just use a hook and a small chunk or silverside, or a small sardine. Be sure of what waters you are in as they have different size and bag limits, State or Federal. As you are doing this, if you are out in Federal waters, you may also encounter some yellowtail snapper too, doing this same technique. Use the FWC Fish Rules app for gray/mangrove snapper; State waters 9 miles from the coast bag limit 5 with a 10” length limit, Federal waters beyond 9 miles bag limit 10 with a minimum length of 12”. Yellowtail bag limit 10 and 12” with
a 10 aggregate. The snook should be thinking about going back to their normal homes soon. Spiny lobster season opens this month. There are a few in SWFL waters if you dive and know where there are no goliath in the area. I like to go to the east coast for lobster, from Ft. Lauderdale south to Key Largo. I usually SCUBA dive for them with friends. This could be the time of year to get a hogfish in SWFL. You need to use crustaceans for bait; shrimp, or small crabs in waters from 40 to 80 feet. On my charters I only fish State waters I have a 25’ Parker with a 225 Yamaha 4 stroke that works very well for that. On my inshore trips I have an old school 22’2 Aquasport center console with a 150 Yamaha 4 stroke. So, if you would like to come along and learn some of these techniques on one of my boats or I can come along on yours for a training session to shorten your learning curve give Capt. Bart Marx a call or you could e-mail me (a phone call will get a quicker response). And always remember singing drags and tight lines make me smile. <*(((((>{
Alpha Omega Charters | alphaomegacharters.com captbart@alphaomegacharters.com | 941-979-6517
FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | AUGUST 2021 | FORT MYERS 7
“You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know” By: Capt. Sue Nerud
M
y passion for boats on the water started at a young age. Growing up in Minnesota, my father was a big-time fisherman. We boated the Great Lakes and the lakes around our home town. He was also an avid Larson boat lover, which I am assuming is where my love for Larsons' started! I met "Alpha Mare" for the first time in Minnesota. I was hanging by the lake and saw this gorgeous 22-foot cabin cruiser fly by. She was for sale AND she was a Larson cuddy cabin. I hailed the owner over, discussed the boat and asked to drive her. I got behind the helm, and I knew within five minutes she was mine. She had everything I was looking for: The deep V, the big 260 HP Merc Cruiser, and the cabin, including a closed in head. My connection with her was immediate, however, I was in the middle of selling my farm and I didn’t have cash. Hmmm..... So, after further discussions with the owner, I did my first and only barter. I swapped my skid steer tractor for the boat. He needed the skid steer, I needed the boat, it was a match made in heaven. Done deal. I spent the next weekend with her at my local lake and that fall my life's journey finally took me to Florida - that was 20 years ago. Everyone said “you can’t move to Florida, "you can’t take that boat to Florida, that's a fresh water boat". But I will tell you, this little boat has given me more enjoyment, more pleasure, and more fun than I ever thought possible. I believe getting up close and personal with your boat, means spending as much time on the water as possible, so I found a marina on the river, packed my stuff in storage, and lived on her for six months. Yes, that was another thing that everybody said I couldn’t do! Needless to say, I was a bit unprepared for some of my new adventures in Florida. To begin, no one told me that a single screw boat has a
lot less maneuverability. Especially in the wind. My very first weekend at the marina, I was out and a storm came in quick, as they do down here. It was late, really windy and I needed to get her back. The wind had picked up big time and I simply could not get her into the slip, stern first. I tried several times, in a very enclosed, very full marina and in a tight spot. So, I had to go bow first and then hunker down for the storm. At that time, I did not know what a spring line was, nor do I think I tied her correctly. But, I was safe .... or so I thought. In the middle of the night, I wake up to spewing water over my bow. During the night, my bow-pulpit had gotten underneath the dock and underneath the water spicket for my slip. Dang, not only did it break the water spicket off but my pulpit was severely damaged. It was at that point, I understood why everyone told me to go stern first into the slip. Lightbulb moment! So, what's a girl to do? I did the famous “walk of shame “ down the dock and tried to call the dockmaster. Quickly, my neighbors realize they have no water. Ultimately, the damage I did before forced them to shut off all the water at the marina, including the pool, showers and bathroom. News flew through the marina like wildfire, the whole marina was looking for the newbie women from MN who caused the issue. To this day, 20 years later, when I go to that marina, people remember that day and still laugh about it and now so do I. It was a very expensive learning experience. My hope is you find my coming columns entertaining, funny and maybe, just maybe, you might learn something along the way. I leave you with my quote: "If you don’t have tattoos on your boat, you’re not boating enough." To clean water, good seas, and blue skies! Captain Sue and "Alpha Mare"
8 FORT MYERS | AUGUST 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/
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Lake Amistad By: Dan Carns
D
el Rio Texas is home to one of the world’s greatest bass fisheries and has a long and storied past that much has been written about, but boy oh boy, until you see it, it’s hard to believe. I’ve arrived when the lake levels are way down, so far down that many of the boat ramps don’t reach the water but I’m told it’s still 250’ deep and won’t fill completely back up until a hurricane blows past Brownsville, TX and dumps rain in the surrounding desert! The lake is fed by three separate rivers and has an immense number of coves, points and canyon walls to fish so when I decided to launch my Mahi-mahi from Vanhunks I chose the closest put-in off Spur 454 as it’s the outflow from the Devils River and I didn’t want to be to exposed to the chilly winds of early April. To my surprise I was spooking fish instantly while I got my bearings and the fish were cruising out to see me passing by as the water was gin clear. I carry an arsenal of rods loaded with what I believed would get the job done and without hesitation I fired off three or four different lures but couldn’t seem to get their attention. Since I’ve never fished here it was a guess on my part where to begin, so I peddled over to a cliff line directly opposite the launch only to realize that it was a submerged canyon and I finally reached the bottom with a drop shot rig at approximately 100’ straight down off the face of this wall! I heard there were small mouth bass in this lake and they love deep cliffs
so I dropped a chartreuse tailed, wacky rigged worm straight down and bagged my first fish on the first cast. Sure enough it was a “Smallie” and on my second cast another Smallie so I’m thinking “Hey, there’s no largemouth bass which Lake Amistad is famous for but I’m catching fish!” So I begin working my way across this cliff line when the biggest largemouth bass of my long fishing career comes to the surface and throws my hook. I’m heartbroken and have this huge adrenaline rush because it was huge, maybe in the ten pound range! This scenario repeats its self for about three hours unabated. I manage to boat about 15 beautiful largemouth bass, but the biggest of them shake my gear off and I never boat a trophy, although many were in the 4-6-pound class. As the action begins to wane off a bit I begin to see why Lake Amistad, out here in this seemingly barren landscape is a true bass destination! I want to give a shout out to this awesome little bait shop called Karleens, where Roy spent a whole bunch of time bringing me up to speed; look them up on route 90. It’s A Wild World-Get Out There! Fishman Dan
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• Kayaks & Paddleboards • Fishing Charters • Rentals & Lessons • Guided Eco Tours
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239-283-1125 www.GulfCoastKayak.com 4120 Pine Island Rd NW Matlacha, FL 33993 10 FORT MYERS | AUGUST 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/
Catch Great Savings at Your
Hometown Dealer for Over 30 Years!
-1125
Freedive Spearfishing in SWFl
By: Capt. Chad Carney
W
ant to learn to freedive and 1994 Kirk Krack and I both joined Technical spearfish? Soon to be spearos Diving International (TDI) and then Scuba think about the Keys or SE Diving International (SDI). Kirk made Florida where the water is clear in shallow history in 2000 founding Performance depths and they overlook the SW & W FL Freediving International (PFI), the first Gulf coast, where I grew up. In the early agency in BC Canada & the US. Also, in 70’s I started skin diving (much later named 2000 I started my company Florida Skin freediving) and because there was no Diver, took PFI’s Advanced Course in 2003 training, I listened to senior skin divers and and made my deepest freedive to 114-ft. soon could hit 60 feet. Many of these seniors Kirk has trained 23 World Record holders, built their own boats & found dive sites including his wife Mandy-Rae Cruickshank, in 45’ to 60’ with just a compass and a red Martin Stepanek, Brett Lemaster and Tanya flashing bottom finder! No GPS or Loran. Streeter. He taught celebrities Tiger Woods, Many took up scuba and hated donning all Tom Cruise & Margo Robbie, Lindsey that gear to find poor quality fish on their Vonn, Woody Harrelson, and is working drops. I became their human fish finder! with James Cameron’s actors for Avatar 2. With 20’ to 25’ visibility, I could spot gags PFI has certified over 10,000 free divers and hogfish quickly without spooking’em, and as of July 2019, Krack brought PFI into but my mentors made me leave my gun in International Training, joining TDI, SDI, & the boat while scouting. Then we slayed’em! ERDI. So, I think it’s time for me to become With today’s electronics SW FL captains a PFI Instructor. can return to secret wrecks, sinks, towers and short ledges and potholes SW FL is a great place to freedive, with abundant quality fish to with great spearfishing spread all over 100-nautical miles. spear! Capt. Chad Scuba training took off in the western hemisphere, but freediving chad.carney@yahoo.com took a lot longer. My 1977 National Association of Skin-Diving Schools https://www.facebook.com/floridaskindiver/ (NASDS) instructor certification allowed me to teach Skin Diving but https://www.deeperblue.com/beginners-guide-spearfishing/ not deeper than 30-ft. Later they renamed NASDS from Skin to Scuba. In
727-423-7775
FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | AUGUST 2021 | FORT MYERS 11
3771 Palm Beach Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 33916 239- 694-2185
MATLACHA
August/2021 • 26°38’N 82°4’W
www.USHarbors.com
Matlacha Pass, FL - Aug 2021 High
Date
AM
ft
August/2021 • 26°39’N 81°52’W
ft
www.USHarbors.com
Fort Myers, FL - Aug 2021
Low PM
fishfacecharters@ yahoo.com 239-357-6829
FORT MYERS
High
Date
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Moon
3:28
1.0
5:52
0.5
6:52
8:21
1
4:02
1.1
AM
ft
Sun
10:51
1.3
Low PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
4:18
0.5
7:05
0.4
6:51
8:16
1
Sun
9:12
1.8
2
Mon
12:09
1.2
7:02
0.3
6:53
8:20
2
Mon
12:32
0.8
11:37A
1.3
4:59
0.6
8:28
0.3
6:51
8:15
3
Tue
10:49
2.0
8:02
0.2
6:53
8:19
3
Tue
1:53
0.8
12:24
1.4
5:45
0.6
9:24
0.2
6:52
8:14
4
Wed
11:43
2.0
8:53
0.1
6:54
8:18
4
Wed
2:59
0.9
1:09
1.5
6:38
0.7
10:09
0.2
6:52
8:14
5
Thu
9:38
0.0
6:54
8:18
5
Thu
3:52
0.9
1:55
1.6
7:33
0.8
10:48
0.2
6:53
8:13
6
Fri
4:39
7
Sat
8
9:57A
1.9
12:36
2.1
1.4
1:24
2.2
7:27
1.3
10:16
0.0
6:55
8:17
6
Fri
4:33
1.0
2:41
1.7
8:26
0.8
11:23
0.2
6:53
8:12
4:57
1.3
2:09
2.3
8:15
1.3
10:51
-0.1
6:55
8:16
7
Sat
5:06
1.0
3:27
1.7
9:17
0.8
11:55
0.3
6:54
8:11
Sun
5:09
1.3
2:52
2.3
9:02
1.2
11:23
0.0
6:56
8:15
8
Sun
5:34
1.0
4:13
1.8
10:04
0.7
6:54
8:11
9
Mon
5:20
1.3
3:35
2.3
9:50
1.1
11:54
0.0
6:56
8:15
9
Mon
5:58
1.1
5:00
1.8
12:24
0.3
10:49A
0.7
6:55
8:10
10
Tue
5:34
1.4
4:20
2.3
10:40
1.0
6:57
8:14
10
Tue
6:20
1.1
5:47
1.7
12:51
0.4
11:34A
0.6
6:55
8:09
11
Wed
5:51
1.5
5:08
2.2
12:24
0.1
11:34A
0.9
6:57
8:13
11
Wed
6:44
1.1
6:36
1.7
1:17
0.4
12:22
0.6
6:56
8:08
12
Thu
6:14
1.6
6:03
2.0
12:55
0.3
12:33
0.7
6:58
8:12
12
Thu
7:11
1.2
7:28
1.5
1:44
0.5
1:15
0.5
6:56
8:07
13
Fri
6:41
1.7
7:07
1.7
1:25
0.5
1:39
0.6
6:58
8:11
13
Fri
7:44
1.3
8:28
1.3
2:12
0.5
2:20
0.5
6:57
8:07
14
Sat
7:14
1.9
8:28
1.5
1:56
0.7
2:54
0.5
6:59
8:10
14
Sat
8:24
1.4
9:45
1.1
2:42
0.5
3:42
0.5
6:57
8:06
15
Sun
7:53
2.0
10:26
1.3
2:25
1.0
4:20
0.4
7:00
8:09
15
Sun
9:13
1.5
11:19
1.0
3:15
0.6
5:26
0.5
6:58
8:05
16
Mon
8:42
2.1
2:51
1.2
5:51
0.2
7:00
8:08
16
Mon
10:11
1.6
3:54
0.7
7:19
0.4
6:58
8:04
17
Tue
9:44
2.2
7:13
0.1
7:01
8:07
17
Tue
12:53
0.9
11:17A
1.6
4:43
0.7
8:41
0.3
6:59
8:03
18
Wed
10:57
2.3
8:22
0.0
7:01
8:06
18
Wed
2:11
0.9
12:27
1.7
5:45
0.8
9:38
0.2
6:59
8:02
19
Thu
9:18
-0.1
7:02
8:06
19
Thu
3:09
1.0
1:33
1.7
6:55
0.8
10:24
0.2
7:00
8:01
20
Fri
4:20
21
Sat
22
12:11
2.3
1.4
1:17
2.4
7:06
1.4
10:04
-0.1
7:02
8:05
20
Fri
3:52
1.1
2:33
1.8
8:03
0.8
11:05
0.3
7:00
8:00
4:32
1.4
2:14
2.4
8:18
1.2
10:43
0.0
7:03
8:04
21
Sat
4:28
1.1
3:28
1.8
9:05
0.7
11:40
0.4
7:01
7:59
Sun
4:45
1.4
3:04
2.4
9:16
1.1
11:15
0.1
7:03
8:03
22
Sun
5:00
1.2
4:17
1.8
10:01
0.7
7:01
7:58
23
Mon
4:56
1.4
3:50
2.3
10:08
1.0
11:42
0.3
7:04
8:02
23
Mon
5:31
1.2
5:02
1.7
12:09
0.4
10:52A
0.6
7:02
7:57
24
Tue
5:08
1.5
4:33
2.1
10:57
0.9
7:04
8:00
24
Tue
5:59
1.3
5:45
1.6
12:32
0.5
11:41A
0.6
7:02
7:56
25
Wed
5:23
1.6
5:17
2.0
12:07
0.4
11:46A
0.8
7:05
7:59
25
Wed
6:26
1.3
6:28
1.5
12:52
0.6
12:29
0.6
7:03
7:55
26
Thu
5:41
1.7
6:05
1.8
12:30
0.6
12:36
0.7
7:05
7:58
26
Thu
6:53
1.3
7:14
1.3
1:12
0.6
1:19
0.6
7:03
7:54
27
Fri
6:03
1.8
7:00
1.6
12:53
0.8
1:29
0.6
7:05
7:57
27
Fri
7:20
1.4
8:08
1.2
1:34
0.6
2:15
0.6
7:03
7:53
28
Sat
6:31
1.9
8:11
1.4
1:16
0.9
2:29
0.6
7:06
7:56
28
Sat
7:51
1.4
9:19
1.0
2:00
0.6
3:23
0.5
7:04
7:52
29
Sun
7:04
2.0
9:57
1.3
1:40
1.1
3:39
0.5
7:06
7:55
29
Sun
8:26
1.4
10:53
0.9
2:32
0.6
4:50
0.5
7:04
7:51
30
Mon
7:45
2.0
2:01
1.2
4:59
0.5
7:07
7:54
30
Mon
9:11
1.4
3:12
0.7
6:34
0.4
7:05
7:50
31
Tue
8:41
2.0
6:19
0.4
7:07
7:53
31
Tue
12:32
0.9
4:06
0.8
7:54
0.4
7:05
7:49
12 FORT MYERS | AUGUST 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/
10:09A
1.4
Moon
10871 Kelly Rd Ft Myers, Florida 33908 239-267-6857
SANIBEL/ CAPTIVA
August/2021 • 26°29’N 82°11’W High
Date
August/2021 • 26°56’N 82°4’W
www.USHarbors.com
Captiva Island (outside), FL - Aug 2021 ft
PM
ft
9:06
1.7
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
1:56
0.7
6:52
8:21
1
Sun
6:09
2.5
2
Mon
6:54
2.6
3:06
0.5
6:53
8:20
3
Tue
7:46
2.7
4:06
0.3
6:53
8:19
4
Wed
8:40
2.8
4:57
0.1
6:54
8:18
5
Thu
9:33
2.9
5:42
0.0
6:54
8:18
6
Fri
1:36
1.8
10:21A
3.0
3:31
1.8
6:20
-0.1
6:55
8:17
7
Sat
1:54
1.8
11:06A
3.1
4:19
1.7
6:55
-0.1
6:55
8:16
8
Sun
2:06
1.8
11:49A
3.2
5:06
1.6
7:27
-0.1
6:56
8:15
9
Mon
2:17
1.8
12:32
3.2
5:54
1.5
7:58
0.0
6:56
8:15
10
Tue
2:31
1.9
1:17
3.1
6:44
1.3
8:28
0.2
6:57
11
Wed
2:48
2.0
2:05
2.9
7:38
1.2
8:59
0.4
12
Thu
3:11
2.2
3:00
2.7
8:37
1.0
9:29
13
Fri
3:38
2.4
4:04
2.4
9:43
0.8
14
Sat
4:11
2.6
5:25
2.0
10:58
15
Sun
4:50
2.7
7:23
1.8
12:24P
16
Mon
5:39
17
Tue
18
www.USHarbors.com
Punta Gorda, Charlotte Harbor, FL - Aug 2021
Low
AM
15881 Chief Ct., Ft. Myers, FL 33912 239-489-0884
PUNTA GORDA/ CHARLOTTE HABOR
High
Date
Moon
AM
ft
Low PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
3:27
1.0
5:51
0.5
6:51
8:17
1
Sun
9:35
1.8
2
Mon
12:32
1.2
10:20A
1.9
4:01
1.1
7:01
0.3
6:52
8:16
3
Tue
2:30
1.3
11:12A
2.0
4:39
1.2
8:01
0.2
6:52
8:16
4
Wed
12:06
2.0
8:52
0.1
6:53
8:15
5
Thu
12:59
2.1
9:37
0.0
6:53
8:14
6
Fri
5:02
1.4
1:47
2.2
7:26
1.3
10:15
0.0
6:54
8:13
7
Sat
5:20
1.3
2:32
2.3
8:14
1.3
10:50
-0.1
6:54
8:13
8
Sun
5:32
1.3
3:15
2.3
9:01
1.2
11:22
0.0
6:55
8:12
9
Mon
5:43
1.3
3:58
2.3
9:49
1.1
11:53
0.0
6:55
8:11
8:14
10
Tue
5:57
1.4
4:43
2.3
10:39
1.0
6:56
8:10
6:57
8:13
11
Wed
6:14
1.5
5:31
2.2
12:23
0.1
11:33A
0.9
6:56
8:09
0.7
6:58
8:12
10:00
12
Thu
6:37
1.6
6:26
2.0
12:54
0.3
12:32
0.7
6:57
8:09
1.0
6:58
8:11
13
Fri
7:04
1.7
7:30
1.7
1:24
0.5
1:38
0.6
6:57
8:08
0.7
10:29
1.3
6:59
8:10
14
Sat
7:37
1.9
8:51
1.5
1:55
0.7
2:53
0.5
6:58
8:07
0.5
10:55
1.6
7:00
8:09
15
Sun
8:16
2.0
10:49
1.3
2:24
1.0
4:19
0.4
6:58
8:06
2.9
1:55
0.3
7:00
8:08
16
Mon
9:05
2.1
2:50
1.2
5:50
0.2
6:59
8:05
6:41
3.0
3:17
0.1
7:01
8:07
17
Tue
10:07
2.2
7:12
0.1
6:59
8:04
Wed
7:54
3.1
4:26
0.0
7:01
8:06
18
Wed
11:20
2.3
8:21
0.0
7:00
8:03
19
Thu
9:08
3.2
5:22
-0.1
7:02
8:06
19
Thu
9:17
-0.1
7:00
8:02
20
Fri
1:17
1.9
10:14A
3.2
3:10
1.8
6:08
-0.1
7:02
8:05
20
Fri
4:43
21
Sat
1:29
1.9
11:11A
3.3
4:22
1.7
6:47
0.0
7:03
8:04
21
Sat
22
Sun
1:42
1.9
12:01
3.2
5:20
1.5
7:19
0.1
7:03
8:03
22
23
Mon
1:53
2.0
12:47
3.1
6:12
1.3
7:46
0.4
7:04
8:02
24
Tue
2:05
2.1
1:30
2.9
7:01
1.2
8:11
0.6
7:04
25
Wed
2:20
2.2
2:14
2.7
7:50
1.0
8:34
0.8
26
Thu
2:38
2.4
3:02
2.4
8:40
0.9
8:57
27
Fri
3:00
2.5
3:57
2.2
9:33
0.8
28
Sat
3:28
2.6
5:08
2.0
10:33
29
Sun
4:01
2.7
6:54
1.8
11:43
30
Mon
4:42
31
Tue
5:38
12:06
1.5
12:34
2.3
1.4
1:40
2.4
7:05
1.4
10:03
-0.1
7:01
8:01
4:55
1.4
2:37
2.4
8:17
1.2
10:42
0.0
7:01
8:00
Sun
5:08
1.4
3:27
2.4
9:15
1.1
11:14
0.1
7:02
7:59
23
Mon
5:19
1.4
4:13
2.3
10:07
1.0
11:41
0.3
7:02
7:58
8:00
24
Tue
5:31
1.5
4:56
2.1
10:56
0.9
7:03
7:57
7:05
7:59
25
Wed
5:46
1.6
5:40
2.0
12:06
0.4
11:45A
0.8
7:03
7:56
1.1
7:05
7:58
26
Thu
6:04
1.7
6:28
1.8
12:29
0.6
12:35
0.7
7:04
7:55
9:20
1.3
7:05
7:57
27
Fri
6:26
1.8
7:23
1.6
12:52
0.8
1:28
0.6
7:04
7:54
0.8
9:44
1.5
7:06
7:56
28
Sat
6:54
1.9
8:34
1.4
1:15
0.9
2:28
0.6
7:04
7:53
0.7
10:05
1.7
7:06
7:55
29
Sun
7:27
2.0
10:20
1.3
1:39
1.1
3:38
0.5
7:05
7:52
2.7
1:03
0.7
7:07
7:54
30
Mon
8:08
2.0
2:00
1.2
4:58
0.5
7:05
7:51
2.7
2:23
0.6
7:07
7:53
31
Tue
9:04
2.0
6:18
0.4
7:06
7:50
Moon
HOLD YOUR BOAT TIGHTLY TO YOUR DOCK WITH ONLY TWO LINES No Spring Lines, Cross Ties, OutPilings or inflated Fenders Needed
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FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINEFTMYERS/ | AUGUST 2021 | FORT MYERS 13
E
Friends of the Pelicans
ven if you take precautionary steps to avoid it, sometimes you might hook a bird by accident. That’s when it’s important to remember—don’t cut the line and let the bird fly away with it attached. This will lead to entanglement, resulting in death of that bird and possibly others as well. Instead, follow these simple steps to unhook the bird: Reel. Remove. Release. 1. Wear safety glasses and enlist a partner for help. 2. Reel the bird in slowly and lift it from the water using a hoop net. Even a large pelican weighs only 4-8 pounds 3. Grasp the bird by the head just behind the eyes and fold the wings against the body. For pelicans, hold the beak, keeping the mouth slightly open so it can breathe. Cover the bird’s head with a cloth to keep it calm. 4. Never pull the hook out but carefully push the end through the skin, cut off the barb and back the hook out using pliers or clippers. If the bird is entangled, remove all line. 5. Release the bird (if healthy) by placing it on the ground near the water and allowing it to take off. 6. If the bird has swallowed the hook or is severely injured, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator from the list at MyFWC.com/unhook.
How else can you help a seabird or wading bird? 1. Don’t feed the birds, which teaches them to approach where they are more likely to be hooked. 2. Dispose of filleted bones where birds can’t get them—in a trash can with lid or at home. Bones of a filleted fish will become lodged in or tear throats, stomachs and intestines leading to the death of that bird . 3. Cover bait buckets and take unused bait home. 4. Dispose of fishing line in a monofilament recycling bin or cut into small pieces and place in the trash. 5. Don’t leave your line unattended. 6. Cast carefully to avoid hooking a bird in flight or being snared on trees, bridge pilings etc. 7. Help others learn what to do when they accidentally hook a bird. It’s pretty easy, once you know how. 8. Sponsored by Friends of the Pelicans, Inc. More detailed information can be found at facebook.com/ friendsofthepelicans. — Photos by Carol Cassels
14 FORT MYERS | AUGUST 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/
Pale Horse Fishing Charters
By: Capt. Billy Norris
F
ishing has been stellar this month! Both backwater and nearshore has been on fire! Moving through the summer and into the fall, you can expect excellent fishing as long as there are no hurricanes that put a speed bump in the way. Backwater has been hot, and it is clearly evident that the environment is recovering after the decimation from the 2018 red tide disaster. The backwaters have been very productive fishing for the “big 4” snook, redfish, jack crevalle and trout. Snook are nearly everywhere. This time of year, they will head more towards the passes and beaches, so look for them around the Gulf-backwater transitional areas. Also, highly effective this time of year is fly fishing for snook from the beach. Small flies of a white or olive drab/white pattern are best. Always remember, prey never runs towards a predator so make sure to strip away from snook to make it appear as if it is a fleeting baitfish. Redfish have been equally as plentiful in the backwaters, with some
over-slot fish not being uncommon. Trout have also rebounded since the 2018 red tide and are showing up in large numbers. Again, remember that we were hit hard and the season was closed for a reason, so now is not the time to try to fill your freezer with fillets. If you are going to keep fish rather than practice catch and release, just keep what you can eat that night. Offshore has been on fire as well. Cobia, permit, tarpon and more are cruising our local waters right now. This is my favorite time of year for nearshore fishing. Although it’s hot, the bite is just too good to pass up. We are in rainy season however, so ensure that you are getting out on the water early to avoid the afternoon thunderstorms. In addition, the big bucket list fish like Goliath Grouper and sharks are heavy in many areas right now, so bust out the big gear and make sure to stretch out! Fishing is great, the weather is great, and I only expect more stellar fishing throughout the rest of summer so get out there on the water! Captain Billy
Pale Horse FC | palehorsefishingcharters.com | 239-285-7710
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Doing the Opposite By: Capt. Tim Ramsey
U
sually in fishing you go with what feels right. The wind kicks up and you go searching for the quiet spots in the backcountry. Tide heads out and you fish toward bigger water and avoid the backcountry. Water gets colder and you avoid the beach. Ever think of doing the opposite? I always cursed the wind. It sends your casts off course, pushes the boat in unwanted directions, and often makes a day generally uncomfortable. I always paid strict attention to the tides. I didn’t want to get caught somewhere remote or run over something I couldn’t clear. I was stuck on “incoming tide means bait. Incoming tide means safe operation.” Then I challenged those beliefs.
One day, as the tide was going out and wind blowing straight into the backcountry, I decided to head as far back as I could. I rounded the corner of a favorite bay I often use to escape the wind, lowered the trolling motor, and decided to skip the leeward side and fish the exposed, “getting shallower every moment” windward side. The boat caught the wind. I was constantly on the trolling motor and Power Pole remotes, but I kept the Skeeter within casting distance. The water was mere inches deep under the trees, so I didn’t have to be as accurate as possible. Result? I had a banner snook and redfish day. With this success in mind, I fished the windier points and mangrove banks in other familiar places while reminding myself I have enough experience in the backcountry to fish whatever tide I like. I had equal success. I noted that windy spots with shade are even more productive. Sure, you have to do a bunch more boat handling and retrieving a stuck jig or lure can get a bit tricky, but the payoffs can be great. As for the beach, fish have been there all year and bluefish have been everywhere. Snook and reds appeared out front all year so the old philosophies about their location are constantly challenged. With this experience in mind, I’ve established a few new assumptions and beliefs based on observation. Fish don’t care if the tide is coming in or out. They want the water moving. Hard to be an ambush feeder in still water. Wind pushes bait against the mangroves so your calm side is vastly less productive than the windy side. Windy side means you won’t sweat as much or get eaten by mosquitoes so badly. Embrace low tide in the backcountry. The fish have to go somewhere when the roots are dry. Going back when the water is low teaches you not just about navigation, but fish movement and tidal flow. High tide isn’t always your friend. Too much water is too much water. Remember, take it easy in the backcountry. Don’t cross grass flats if you might dig them up. That ripple you see might not be fast water but the top of a barely submerged oyster bar. Respect others and don’t wake them. Not only does it rock them, but it stirs up mud along the mangroves. Be careful when on your trolling motor upwind of a mangrove bank or oyster bar. It’s surprising how fast the wind can push you into trouble. See you out there. 16 FORT MYERS | AUGUST 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/
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MOBY ‘DICK’ GOES TO MARATHON By: Capt. Terry Fisher
S
FISHING SW FLORIDA AND FLORIDA KEYS
ummer months are my favorite months to go fishing as fishing in SW Florida is about as good as it gets in regards to both inshore and offshore adventures. August is a month to target a number of species to complete one’s ‘bucket’ list. Reef and pelagic species are abundant in our waters. Winds permitting, long offshore runs to 100’-
very productive with both artificial and live shrimps. Those that want to catch lots of seatrout, ladyfish, catfish and Jack Crevalle (with an occasional Spanish mackerel or pompano) should use shrimp as their bait of choice. THE FLORIDA KEYS (‘Keys’) are strategically located for SW Floridian Anglers and 2nd Mate, MOBY ‘DICK’ (Chocolate Lab) is accompanying 1st Mate Vicki and I to Marathon for two full weeks of fishing for dolphin, yellowtail snapper and tuna. We have leased a house on Key Colony (Marathon) from August 14-28. Weather permitting, we
130’ of water may prove to be a worthwhile endeavor providing harvest of big yellowtail, mangrove, lane, vermillion snappers together with a variety of grouper species. The waters are warm and it is essential to fish deeper depths than those of ‘close’ reefs (35’). However, pelagic fish (mackerel, cobia, permit, barracuda and sharks) may be found around the shallower reefs. Look for the bait fish and diving birds in those areas and give it a try. Big snook are in the passes and just off of the beaches. The points with current and deep current cuts will prove best around the passes and have structure such as tree stumps and rocks. Inshore snook will be found on the inside around the boat docks and railroad truss bridges. Other locations for the sought-after game fish are in and around mangrove trees. Use sufficient tackle-medium heavy rod and 3500 to 4000 series spinning reels-to effectively fight and land these fish in a timely manner. Big fish will fight to exhaustion and easily die during hot summer months with water temperatures above 80°. Use 1/0-3/0 hooks with a 25-30lb test leader for freelining baits such as pilchards, pinfish and larger shrimps. Artificial presentations will work as well. Snook are closed to harvest in our immediate area of Ft. Myers and Cape Coral and the outer islands.
Redfish harvesting is also closed, but the ‘hunt’ and experience does not stop an avid angler from targeting them. The same size rod and reel combo ‘setup’ is recommended to hook and land the larger redfish. They will be located in the same areas as the snook mentioned above. Although, I have had success fishing artificial presentations, many more redfish will be caught on live or dead presentations such as, shrimp, pinfish, live pilchards, ‘cut’ ladyfish or finger mullet. FWC has opened seatrout for harvesting. Check out the regulations for compliance. The seatrout population seems pretty substantial but there are more restrictions with less bounty on the harvest. This was a good move on behalf of FWC with all of the pressure from new anglers, existing water quality issues and the uncertainty of future water quality problems. This species will be found on almost any type of seabed incorporating grassy spots at any depth. The most effective place to fish for them however, is in the grassy flats of Pine Island Sound, Bull and Turtle Bays of Charlotte Harbor. Water depth of 3’-5’ should be
have a few clients that have expressed an interest in joining us on an offshore charter or two during that period and we look forward to accommodating them. We plan on making this a yearly event, so keep us in mind for your charter. The annual ‘Mullet Run’ starts around the end of August or September in the Stuart, Florida area. Vicki and I have fished that area in past Septembers for snook, tarpon, reef species, tuna, dolphin and sailfish out of the Port Lucie Inlet with tremendous success. All of these areas are within a 4 hour drive (or less) and those with the flexibility (on short notice) to take advantage of good weather and time to enjoy fishing the east coast as well. Understand that fishing the east coast is the same as the west coast in regards to the type of species that will be prevalent at a chosen location throughout the year. For example; summer time (June, July) are good for dolphin and tuna in the ‘Keys’, late fall for sailfish, and early winter months for wahoo. Naturally, there are overlaps to the months mentioned. The pelagic fish come and go with the bait and water temperatures of the Gulf Stream. The target species you select will determine the months and locations to travel to fish.
18 FORT MYERS | AUGUST 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FORT-MYERS/
Fish Face Charters | fishfacecharters.com | 239-357-6829
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caught , 10yo, w t. o t it h w/ Cap nW Jackso seatrout out e this nic Terry Fisher.
Midi Ramos at Chokoloskee Island Park and Marina.
Jurgen Sommer with an over-slot snook out w/ Capt. Chris Turner.
5’8” 66lb eautiful Island. b is h t t ugh arco Larry ca orthwest of M n o o wah
Frederick and Gavin showing off their summertime fun fish!
Mike Cox with a real rod breaker!
Karen T caught heis at Cattle D a beau ty using ock Bait sardine s.
Ron Hatt with some mangrove action in Rotunda West.
Will Lue dtke, Island s 9yo w/ a nice w/ Fish eatrout fishing Pine Face C harters .
Photos submitted Courtesy of Coastal Angler Readers and Contributing Writers Submit pics to: camswfl@gmail.com or text to 239.595.8265
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SUMMER BASS ON TOP
TYLER WOOLCOTT
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t’s hot. The bass are transitioning, and the fishing can be very fun if you can locate them. Generally, summer bass are chasing baitfish. This can group fish up and make them eager to eat easy meals off the surface. Whether you’re throwing a walking bait, a buzzbait or even a popper, topwater lures can do some extreme damage in the heat of summer. When targeting fish chasing bait near shallow water, I like a popper-style bait or a bait that kicks up water, like a buzzbait or a Whopper Plopper. Bank dwellers usually chase bluegill and shad. They can be very aggressive and fun to target. Always keep your eyes peeled for movement and baitfish activity when you’re working down the bank. Bass won’t be far from this activity. Often times in the summer, fish group up near deeper water to harass large schools of baitfish. The baitfish will be different from lake to lake and region to region, but the patterns will be similar. Focus on points and humps, where the fish can push and ambush bait. These deeper fish tend to show themselves, and you’ll sometimes see them schooling on top or chasing bait near the surface. Keep your eyes and ears open
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for activity. When schooling activity occurs, you want to get a bait in the mix as quickly as possible. I like a walking bait for this scenario and throw Spook-style baits like
the 13 Fishing Dual Pitch or a pencil popper. Whether you’re deep or shallow, matching
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the size of your lure to the size and shape of the baitfish will result in more bites. Always look for activity, and be ready when the opportunity presents itself. Summertime is an awesome time to fish, and it’s my absolute favorite time of year to throw a topwater.
Topwater Gear When targeting fish chasing bait near the shallows with a popper or a buzzbait, I like a shorter rod for more accurate casts. I use a 13 fishing 7’ 1” MH Omen Black casting rod paired with an 8:3:1Concept A reel spooled up with 20-pound monofilament or 40-pound braided line. When chasing schooling fish in deeper water, I like a longer rod for longer casts. I use a 13 Fishing 7’ 5” Omen Black casting rod paired up with an 8:3:1 Concept A reel spooled with 30-pound Seaguar Smackdown braid. The braid and the long rod pair up to allow long casts to get the bait in the strike zone when fish come up schooling far from the boat. The fast gear ratio reel is important in both the shallow and deep scenarios. They allow you to get your bait back to the boat quickly if you need to make a different cast when the moment presents itself. Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcottfishing.com.
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nook, redfish and spotted seatrout are now catch-and-release only in Tampa Bay due to recent impacts from red tide. The restrictions began July 16 and will continue through Sept. 16. This applies to the following areas: • All Florida waters of Manatee County north of State Road 64, including all waters of the Braden River, and all tributaries of the Manatee River, excluding all waters of Palma Sola Bay. • All Florida waters of Hillsborough County. • All Florida waters of Pinellas County, excluding all waters of the Anclote River and its tributaries. “While it’s unfortunate that we must do this so close to the recent reopening of these species to harvest in this area, we know temporary catch-andrelease measures such as these are successful in keeping fisheries sustainable throughout red tide events such as this one,” said FWC Executive Director Eric Sutton. “We will continue working with our partners, stakeholders and local communities to evaluate this situation.” “We’ve seen the devastation to the redfish, trout and snook populations in Tampa Bay, and we support the catch-and-release initiative taken by FWC,” stated Brian Gorski, Executive Director of Coastal Conservation Association Florida. “In working with FWC on this initiative, we’ve heard support from members and guides throughout the region who also understand the need for such a change. We must protect the fish and our waterways so that generations to come can enjoy the thrill of catching one of these iconic species.” Regulations outside of those counties remain unchanged, including the measures south of State Road 64 in Manatee County through Gordon Pass in Collier County for snook, redfish and spotted seatrout. For more information, visit MyFWC.com.
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urf Expo is a lot more than surf. As the largest and longest-running watersports and beach lifestyle tradeshow in the world, the show is about watersports; it’s about boating; it’s about everything that has to do with the coastal lifestyle. Surf Expo’s “Bluewater” category caters to the fishing lifestyle that is an inherent part of the “waterman” lifestyle of today’s watersports enthusiast who lives on, in and for the water or just aspires to the lifestyle. Surf Expo caters to all things water, from surfing, to fishing, and paddling on a SUP, kayak or canoe, or just a day at the beach or on the lake. For apparel and accessory brands and manufacturers, Surf Expo is the ideal place to promote products to a new audience of buyers searching for products to cater to the “waterman” customer. AFTCO’s Chairman and CEO Bill Shedd said, “We’ve been coming to Surf Expo since the beginning, and we were one of the first to be in the Bluewater section—where we’ve found a new home. There’s a whole lifestyle around saltwater, offshore and big game fishing that’s bled off into inshore fishing and more of an outdoor activity in the broader outdoor world. AFTCO fits into that.” For buyers, it’s the ideal way to conveniently shop top fishing apparel and accessory brands and source from the show’s 10 other water-related categories to fill shelves with everything from sunglasses and sunscreen to towels, footwear and sportswear. Tackle dealers who don’t take advantage of the crossover between fishing and the overall watersports lifestyle are missing out on a powerful revenue stream. Owner of Sarasota fishing and boating landmark CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, Aledia Tush said, “We’ve been attending Surf Expo for many years. We’re always looking for new products, T-shirts, sportswear, suntan products, towels, sandals, shoes and sunglasses. Being a Florida retailer, Surf Expo is a show not to be missed!” Brands you’ll find in Bluewater at Surf Expo include AFTCO, Deep Blue Gear, Fish Hippie, Habit Outdoors, Jeep by Buck Wear, John Boy Brand, MANG Gear, Marsh Wear Clothing, Reel Life, Reelhead, Salt Life, The Qualified Captain, Unsalted Coast and WTF-What The Fin. Other core brands to be found across the show include Costa, YETI, Salty Crew, Avid Gear, Hook & Tackle, Reel Skipper, Beach and Barn, Bimini Bay Outfitters, Unsalted Coast, Skinny Water Culture and many, many more. Surf Expo’s upcoming show stages September 9-11 at the Orange County Convention Center’s West Concourse in Orlando, Fla. Registration is free for qualified retailers, at surfexpo.com or contact steven.fisher@surfexpo.com.
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CAMP FOR TROUT DEEP IN THE SMOKIES By Nick Carter
W
hen the boat dropped us off Friday morning, it was with an understanding someone would return for us Sunday afternoon. We debarked into two nights and three days of camping and trout fishing deep in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With no cell service or road access for miles in any direction, we were about as disconnected as you can get in this part of the world. It was a glorious feeling. Actually, one of our guides, Jake Tallent, of Fish Tales Outfitters in Franklin, N.C., had a satellite phone/EPIRB “for emergencies.” Around the campfire one night, he admitted using it to text his girlfriend. Guess the whole out-of-touch and roughing-it fantasy is a little outdated these days. We weren’t really roughing it much at all. Tallent and our other guide, Nick Potts, rolled cartloads of gear up the trail to our campsite near the mouth of Hazel Creek. Three other clients and I sat in camp chairs and got to know each other while the guides set up camp. That set the mood for the weekend. The camping was comfortable, everything was provided for. All we were expected to do was fish hard, enjoy ourselves and return to hot meals around a campfire each evening. Hazel Creek flows through high mountains on the north shore of
North Carolina’s Lake Fontana. Road access to the north shore was completely cut off in the 1940s, when TVA flooded this impoundment of the Little Tennessee River. Abandoned, the communities that existed there returned to the forest. In three-quarters of a century since, it has become one of the most beautiful and historically intriguing areas of the Smokies. The best access is by boat across the lake. Proctor, N.C. is the ghost town on Hazel Creek. The town’s main drag, Calico Street, is now the gravel trail that parallels the creek for 15 miles up into the hills. Ruins of Proctor are hidden everywhere in the creek and up steep wooded hillsides. Tallent regaled us with history as we passed landmarks hiking upstream in search of good trout water each day. The creek itself is on the large side of typical for the park. It is cold and clear with a relatively flat gradient that makes for easy streamside hiking. A mix of boulder-strewn stretches and bedrock shoals create interesting holding water. There are also some deep, dark pools. Hazel Creek is loaded with beautiful 7- to 12-inch stream-born rainbow trout. There are also some big browns lurking in the deep holes. Over three days of fishing, we caught good numbers of fish with simple dry-dropper rigs on 3- and 4-weight fly rods. There’s nothing more fun than wading up a mountain stream to toy with wild trout that are eager to jump on a dry fly. Hazel Creek is a gorgeous place to do it. For a guided backcountry trip into the Great Smoky Mountains, check out Fish Tales Outfitters at www.fishtaleswnc.com.
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