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VOLUME 26 • ISSUE 315
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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
JUNE 2021
GO FROM FISH TO WAKE TO DAD OF THE YEAR IN THE SAME AFTERNOON.
Go from fishing to wakesurfing to conquering the water. The all new 25-foot FSH® Series from Yamaha is perfect for those who want to get the most out of their boating experience. With fishing-friendly features like a GPS Simrad® system and dual livewells, along with a premium layout and the patented Yamaha swim platform, the new 25-foot FSH Series guarantees you’ll be in the center of everything you love about life on the water. #RUNTHEWATER YA M A H A B OAT S . C O M
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Explore the Depths in Style For Only $99 PRAISE FOR STAUER DIVE WATCHES
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I love it. I have several Stauer watches and once again you don’t disappoint.” — F. from Jersey City, NJ
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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.
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JUNE 2021
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$375K GJKT Slated for July 12-17
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his month’s CAM cover is dedicated to the Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament (GJKT) and all of the die-hard kingfish anglers out there. The GJKT, from July 12-17, is a weeklong celebration of fishing in one the East Coast’s great fishing communities. With a festival featuring food, exhibitors and all things nautical, along with several different tournaments, including kids’ tournaments and a redfish tournament, the GJKT has grown into a lot more than just a spectacular kingfish tournament. With the traditional king mackerel tournament season upon us, GJKT is holding one of its richest tournaments ever. Teams will fish July 15-16 out of Jim King Park in Jacksonville, Fla. This year, teams will compete for a first-place prize package valued at more than $160,000. Catch the largest kingfish over two days of fishing, and you could be the proud new owner of a brand new 25T Contender sport fishing boat powered by twin 150hp Yamaha motors. If that’s not the biggest single prize in kingfishing, it has to be close. Fifty other places and divisions will also be paid out, including Lady and Junior Angler prizes, so anglers can still win big even if they aren’t the lucky angler to catch the largest kingfish. The weigh-ins are a sight for spectators to behold, and the total purse is valued at $375,000. The GJKT, one of the oldest kingfish tournaments around, is now in its 41st year. The tournament reached 1,000 entrants before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, and it is now on the way back up. Jacksonville Marine Charities (JMC), a 501c3 corporation, is the
parent organization of the GJKT, and all proceeds from the tournament are used to promote and enhance fishing in Northeast Florida. To date, several hundred thousand dollars have been donated for such projects as reef enhancement, marine science education and boater safety issues, to name a few. For more information about the GJKT or JMC, visit kingfishtournament.com.
e
m COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
JUNE 2021
NATIONAL 7
FOR GROUPER SEASON, IT’S... By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
W
ith the opening of gag grouper this month throughout the Gulf of Mexico, Florida grouper season is basically open across the board. The regulations for grouper vary greatly from state to state and even within specific regions of each state, so make sure to the latest legal harvest information in the location you plan to fish. With that out of the way, game-on and good luck; it sure will be nice not to have to vent and release these chubby, spotted, pre-sandwiches. Grouper fishing can be a challenge in regions that don’t have surface markings, where anglers rely primarily on coordinates of small hard-bottom patches. The numbers that aren’t completely overfished have been acquired by fishermen who’ve spent years cruising the ocean. Hiring a salty and experienced charter captain is highly recommended for targeting grouper; paying attention to what they tell you is equally as important. If you choose to go it alone, there are a few things recommended to ensure your best chances of success. As opposed to pelagic fishing, where a school of fish can move through, and it may be better to have lighter leader starting out just to entice a bite, you’ll want to gear-up for grouper.
8 NATIONAL
JUNE 2021
Losing that first grouper bite can result in shutting down the entire spot. When a large grouper breaks off, especially if it takes the entire rig with the hook and lead with it, that fish will swim back down to its home—where all the other fish are—and sound the danger alarm by grunting. It’s best to start out with heavy line to avoid this, especially if you don’t have more bottom numbers nearby to bounce around to. Make sure your drags are set tight, your gear is on the heavy side, and that you are paying attention when you first arrive at a spot. Cigars can be lit, beers can be shotgunned and rod-holders may be utilized only after you have been at a spot for the second half, or immediately after losing a big fish. If you want to catch spotted sandwiches, or just not cripple your anchor-pulling deckhand, this is important information to apply to your trip. When fishing for grouper, there are many ways to rig for them. Utilizing 60-plus-pound leader, the correct lead for your current and a large circle hook, many different kinds of baits will work. Experiment with squid, shrimp, crab, sardines, live bait and pieces of fresh fish cut a number of different ways. Keep a variety going down, and pay attention to what is getting bites. Don’t forget that if you lose a big one, you are on the right tide and are still marking fish, that you
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might have chased the bite away. This is the time to take your lunch break, light that cigar, or move spots entirely. If you come visit Marathon this grouper season, there are several restaurants that will cook your catch, but none more specialized in preparing this species for the table than Castaway Restaurant. Their Dijonnaise-style grouper, which is a heavy cream reduction sauce loaded with mushrooms, is top of the line. Remember to ask your crew to cut out the cheeks while they fillet your grouper, especially if you harvested enough of them to add up. Happy hunting, and good luck out there. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Blue Magic Charters, docked at Castaway Restaurant in Marathon, Fla. Contact Blue Magic at (504) 920-6342 and keep up with Quinlyn through her social media @CaptainQuinlyn.
Stauer Collector’s Series FREE $99 Binoculars With Knife Purchase (see details)
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Blade Stunner
Beautifully made, magnificent to look at, this knife is a work of art at only $99
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t’s not often you happen upon a blade smith who has gem cutting skills. In fact, you stand a better chance finding a needle in a haystack. But finding needles in haystacks is what we do best, so when we saw this master craftsman’s handiwork, we made certain to procure some of these Southwestern masterpieces to complete our collection. The stainless steel blade, bolster and pommel are exquisitely etched and would have looked great with a less ambitious handle. But the results of overachieving are stunning here. The turquoise-blue colored handle is ablaze with assorted stones like jasper, marble, sunstone, and coral that have been hand cut and inlaid in a Southwestern motif that conjures images of intricately beaded belts and moccasins. Whether you collect blades, EXCLUSIVE interesting stones, or are a lover of the great American Southwest, the Sedona Knife is more than cut out Stauer® 8x21 to do the job. Compact Binoculars But we don’t stop there. While -a $99 valuesupplies last, we’ll include a pair with purchase of of $99, 8x21 power compact the Sedona Knife binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Sedona Knife. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect
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“...Native American knives have since taken on a more artistic meaning in the modern era...these decorative style knives have become a must-have for any Southwestern home.” –– PRWeb, 2017
What customers are saying about Stauer knives...
êêêêê “Very hefty, well-built knife and sheath. Extremely good-looking and utilitarian.” — R., Lacey, Washington the impeccable craftsmanship of the Sedona Knife. 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. You could pay nearly $1,900 for a steel, fixed blade knife with a gemstone handle, but why would you when you can enjoy the superb craftsmanship of the Sedona Knife for only $99. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers. Call today!
Sedona Knife $179*
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*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.
Rating of A+
California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
• 5" etched stainless steel blade; 9 1/2" overall length • Turquoise-colored handle with accent stones including coral, marble, sandstone, tiger’s eye, jasper and sunstone • Leather pouch included
Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®
Find your
EDGE
Fish Mapping gives you 8 dedicated fishing features plus all SiriusXM Marine weather information directly on your boat’s display, relative to your boat’s location. The service is delivered via satellite and is available offshore well beyond cell range. Add SiriusXM entertainment and you’re all set for an incredible day fishing.
“Navigating around storms, locating the best fishing spots and rocking out on the water… SiriusXM Marine has me covered!” — Shane Murray, Team Total Vision, 35' Marlago Boater receives complimentary subscription.
OFFER DETAILS: Activate a new monthly subscription to either: (i) SiriusXM Marine Fish Mapping or (ii) SiriusXM Marine Fish Mapping and SiriusXM All Access audio on the same device, and receive your first (1) month free for each activated service (a savings of $99.99 on Fish Mapping and $21.99 on All Access), plus get free device activation (an additional savings of $25). A credit card is required on this offer. Service will automatically renew every month thereafter and, at the beginning of your second month, you will be charged at then-current rates. Fees and taxes apply. You must cancel your subscriptions during your promotional period(s) to avoid future charges. Please see our Customer Agreement at siriusxm.com for complete terms and how to cancel, which includes calling us at 1-800-985-9200. All fees, content and features are subject to change. This offer may be modified, suspended or cancelled at any time. Subscription and hardware sold separately.$100 Rebate from SiriusXM available through Dec 31, 2021 with hardware and subscription purchase, see Rebate Offer Details at siriusxm.com/fishmapping. © 2021 Sirius XM Radio Inc. SiriusXM and all related logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and its respective subsidiaries. All rights reserved.
Defender C-Hawk 23 Center Console
Marine Outfitter of Choice Since 1938
With a 14-degree deadrise hull, the 23 Center Console C-Hawk gives you a better ride in rough water. It is designed to be versatile—equally at home on bays, inlets and flats as it is graceful offshore. With plenty of room to move around, this model can be rigged out to suit whatever style of fishing you do, from fly fishing to bottom dropping. The large console offers plenty of storage space. Add a T-top, and you’ve got a boat for all seasons. The flat gunnel appeals to recreational and commercial anglers alike. A long list of options lets you set this boat up for family fishing, as well. Have one built with a leaning post, livewell and raw water wash down to further enhance your fishing experience. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT CHAWKBOATS.NET.
SPECIFICATIONS C-Hawk Center Console
LENGTH: 22’4” BEAM: 8’ DRAFT: 12” DRY WEIGHT: 2,430 lbs. COCKPIT DEPTH: 22” Fwd/ 20” Aft FUEL CAPACITY: 66 Gal. MAXIMUM HP: 225 DEADRISE: 14 degrees TRANSOM: 25”
FISH THE BACKWATERS BAY OR NEARSHORE CHawk 23
Center Console
Add an extra layer of sun protection with ShadeFin – a new product that easily attaches into rod holders, tops and gunnels for convenient, portable shade for almost any boat.
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
JUNE 2021
NATIONAL 11
FIND SOME
SUMMER SOLITUDE S
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
chool is out! This has always been my marker for the official beginning of summer. I know the bays will be filled with everyone getting out to enjoy Mother Nature, so finding solitude is key to catching fish. My family and I will be there too, but if I’m lucky, you won’t see me. Here are some methods to avoid the crowds and catch a lot of fish! Let’s focus on kayaks and areas only small vessels can access. Small, shallow-draft watercraft help us elude the summer crowds and find our solitude. Pushing farther back into the shallows and marsh areas requires some planning, so let’s start with some satellite scouting on the computer. The first thing to do is find areas that have tidal movement. One way to determine this via satellite is to zoom in on the openings of bayous and drains. If you notice a deeper hole at the mouth, this lets you know it has good current flow, which is what causes a washout in the mouth. If the mouth looks shallow or silted in, search for another spot.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES
Once you have identified areas with sufficient current, find the structure. I like areas with scattered grass, shell, or both. Add in some depth changes around bends, and you are set. Depending how deep into the marsh you are going, and if you are new to the area, taking a GPS is a great idea. Once you get in the marsh, it looks completely different on the way out. Cell phone service might not always be reliable, and I know on my phone the bright sun really makes it hard to see the satellite imagery. Now let’s get down to the business end and talk about lures and presentation. I generally like to throw a paddle tail. If I am fishing a new area, I’ll have one rigged weedless on a weighted swimbait hook. I prefer this style of lure for a couple of reasons. One, it is a great search bait. I can simply
cast, reel and cover a lot of water. It is also my preferred soft plastic when fishing shallow water, which is what you find in the marsh. Redfish will not hesitate to hit a lure reeled in a straight line with a vibrating tail. Adding sound into the mix really grabs their attention. Like the clicking sound of a fleeing shrimp, the Knockin Tail Lure, with its built-in tail rattle is my lure of choice in this scenario. These swimbaits rattle on a steady retrieve and can make the difference between just fishing and catching. Be safe, find an out-of-the-way area, and catch some fish! I know my family and I will be tucked away in the backwaters in June. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures, Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
LET US SHOW YOU HOW TO
BUILD YOUR OWN RODS
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JUNE 2021
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Actual size is 40.6 mm
3,000,000
Tied for 4th Lowest Mintage (1 million)
2,000,000
Buy More and Save!
We’re currently selling these coins for $51 each. But you can secure them for as low as $48.95 each when you buy 10 or more and mention the special call-in-only offer code below. Call 1-888-201-7639 now! Date: Mint: Weight: Purity: Diameter: Mintage: Condition: Certified:
2021 San Francisco (S) 1oz (31.101 grams) 99.9% Silver 40.6 mm 1,000,000 Mint State-69 (MS69) Emergency Production
2021(S) Emergency Production American Eagle Silver Dollar NGC MS69 Early Releases —$51 1-4 coins — $49.95 each + s/h 5-9 coins — $49.50 each 10+ coins — $48.95 each SAVE over $20 on 10 or more coins! FREE SHIPPING on 3 or More!
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This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Silver Eagle. It’s also the final mintage to feature the coin’s original eagle design by John Mercanti, 12th Chief Engraver of the U.S. Mint. “Lasts” are always a big deal for collectors—almost as big as low populations. This Emergency Production release is both. In fact, it’s tied for the fourth lowest bullion Silver Eagle mintage ever! But how do we tell which coins are from the Emergency Production run?
4,000,000
2017-P
The End of an Era
2016-P
Due to the pandemic, the West Point Mint—the U.S. Mint branch that normally strikes Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) Silver Eagles—temporarily locked down. Demand was skyrocking, and so the U.S. Mint turned to its other branches, ordering them to strike special “Emergency Production” runs of Silver Eagles. It was great news for silver buyers, and even better news for collectors. Here’s why:
Silver Eagles have no mint mark to tell us where they were produced. But thanks to some skilled detective work, the experts at Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), one of the world’s leading third-party grading services, were able to certify our coins as being struck at the San Francisco Mint during this Emergency Production run. What’s more, a number of these coins have been graded as Mint State-69 (MS69) condition—just one grade point away from perfection—and sealed with labels certifying them as being struck at the San Francisco Mint during the series’ 35th anniversary!
2017-S
Emergency Production!
Certified “Struck at” with Special Anniversary Labels
1966
ne of the most popular ways to buy silver is the Silver Eagle— legal-tender U.S. Silver Dollars struck in one ounce of 99.9% pure silver. When the COVID-19 pandemic began sweeping the world, demand skyrocketed. But there was a problem...
1994
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Rush Production of U.S. Silver Dollars Tied for 4th Lowest Mintage in History
Offer Code ESE215-01
Please mention this code when you call.
GovMint.com • 14101 Southcross Dr. W., Suite 175, Dept. ESE215-01 • 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.
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IN THE LAND OF THE MAYA
t incited excited Spanish chatter from the crew when the fish’s bill slashed the surface. “Marlin blanco?” was the only phrase I could decipher. I clung to the rod as Tony Tuz and his father Lorenzo cleared lines. “Billfish! Billfish!” Tony barked so the gringos understood. Then my 10-year-old son gasped. A 7-foot sailfish went airborne and tail-walked for 20 yards off the stern. It was awesome, exactly what I envisioned while e-mailing Charter Fishing Cancun prior to a recent family vacation. My son and I were the only anglers aboard the 35-foot Bertram Xaviera III. We could have used some help cranking in all those fish. Cancun, Mexico is a great place to fish. The resorts overlook the Straits of Yucatan on the northeast tip of the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s the pinch point between the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, a highway for pelagic species. In March, we were early for the headliner species. From April through July, summer is peak season for blue and white marlin, sailfish, tuna, wahoo and mahi-mahi—which they call Dorado. Snapper and grouper species, as well as amberjack
By Nick Carter and huge barracuda can be caught year-round. No matter. We just wanted bent rods, and Capt. Jorge Rivas steered us toward open water with baitwell full of small jacks and blue runners. The action began almost as soon as Tony and Lorenzo got lines out. We pulled a spread with bird teasers, a squid chain, skirted ballyhoo and several flat-lined live baits, which almost immediately brought up a big Dorado that came unbuttoned. Then we drove into birds. Gulls diving on flying fish were enough to get me excited. Tony was not impressed. “Bonito,” he said with a shrug. “Sea gulls mean bonito. Frigate birds mean tuna.” Sure enough, my son took the rod to catch bonito for the bait bucket until big fork-tailed frigate birds
started diving all around the boat. The boy could definitely tell the difference when a gorgeous 20-pound blackfin tuna took the bait. It wasn’t even 8:30 a.m., and we had seen a lot of action. But the captain and crew had more to show us. When the tuna bite died, we stopped over a ledge in 350 feet of water. Lorenzo worked quickly to cut bonito into baits. He sliced away the entire dorsal section and tail of each fish to leave streamlined head-and-belly baits. We jigged them deep, and in short order were tripling up on amberjacks up to 40 pounds. We battled big AJs until weary arms begged for mercy and then headed to deeper water and the sailfish. We finished the day with three big barracuda, which are a ton of fun when they’re 4 to 5 feet long. After all that activity, my son crashed in the shade for the ride back. Seeing him smile in his sleep is something I’ll never forget. To book an inshore or offshore trip out of Cancun, contact Charter Fishing Cancun at cfishingcancun@gmail.com. Check out their website www.charterfishingcancun.com.
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Meet the Beauty in the Beast Discover this spectacular 6½-carat green treasure from Mount St. Helens!
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or almost a hundred years it lay dormant. Silently building strength. At 10,000 feet high, it was truly a sleeping giant. Until May 18, 1980, when the beast awoke with violent force and revealed its greatest secret. Mount St. Helens erupted, sending up a 80,000-foot column of ash and smoke. From that chaos, something beautiful emerged… our spectacular Helenite Necklace.
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Helenite is produced from the heated volcanic rock of Mount St. Helens and the brilliant green creation has captured the eye of jewelry designers worldwide. Today you can wear this massive 6½-carat stunner for only $149! Make your emeralds jealous. Our Helenite Necklace puts the green stone center stage, with a faceted pear-cut set in .925 sterling silver finished in luxurious gold. The explosive origins of the stone are echoed in the flashes of light that radiate as the piece swings gracefully from its 18" luxurious gold-finished sterling silver chain. Today the volcano sits quiet, but this unique piece of American natural history continues to erupt with gorgeous green fire.
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I By Richard L. Matteson
Follow the
BAIT POD
2 FLORIDA
JUNE 2021
n June and July, small glass minnows school together and form bait pods here on the Atlantic Coast of Florida. The pods move up and down the beach. These bait pods are easy to spot by looking for diving birds and feeding fish thrashing the surface. Sometimes the bait pods come near shore and go out, but usually they move parallel to the shore and well within casting range. What kind of fish can you catch surf casting in these bait pods? In June, tarpon move around the inlets and start cruising the beach looking for bait pods. Large female snook swim along the trough under the bait pods. Schools of large jack bust the surface, and the occasional schools of bluefish and ladyfish are there, along with mackerel that haven’t yet moved north. Around the trough, smaller table fare like whiting and croaker will be caught with regular 4-inch shad tail jigs or more easily on smaller jigs and spoons. If you let the jig hit the bottom and snap it up quickly, you’ll catch lots of these great-eating panfish. Anatomy of a Bait Pod: Most of the time, a bait pod moves north or south. On slack tide, the pod will slow down. I’ve even seen them stop for 30 minutes in one place. Croaker and whiting will be on the bottom under the pod. Or if the pod is shallow, croaker and whiting will be under the first breakers and can be caught in the wash. Jerk your jig off the bottom, letting it hit for a second each time. Jerk, reel some, let it sit. Usually the tarpon are on the outside of the pod farthest from the beach. For tarpon, cast as far out over the pod as possible and use a slow steady retrieve. Snook are almost always on the shallow side near the trough and the first breakers. Cast more parallel to shore using a steady lifting and releasing movement with the rod tip. Jack can be anywhere, and I like fishing near the surface with a brisker retrieve when targeting jacks. Also use the brisk retrieve for bluefish, ladyfish and mackerel. My favorite June lures are a 3/8-ounce chartreuse jig with a 4-inch pearl white shad tail and a shallow running Yo-Zuri crankbait in white. I also throw a Skitter-Walk (topwater plug) when the water heats up. Remember, for the best summertime surf action: Follow the bait pod. Richard Matteson writes for Stuart Rod and Reel Club. Contact him at (336) 414-3440.
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Be a STAR Garbage-olist this Summer!
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I
n its seventh year, STAR remains the largest, family-friendly saltwater fishing competition in Florida. The summer-long event invites anglers and non-anglers of all ages and skill levels to participate in 17 divisions and win their share of prizes valued at almost $500,000, including boats, motors, scholarships and more. For anyone who enjoys trash-free fishing and boating, the Costa Kick Plastic Trash Division presented by Papa’s Pilar gives conservation enthusiasts the chance to win big just by collecting five-gallon buckets of trash. Trash Division participants can win by gathering five-gallon buckets of garbage from a coastline or while fishing and submitting photos of their collection through the dedicated STAR App. The Trash Division welcomes participants of all ages, but has become a favorite among youth registrants, as it gives students the opportunity to complete community service hours and improve coastal habitats too. For every five-gallon bucket of trash collected, disposed of and submitted through the STAR App, it not only increases opportunities for winning but equates to 30 minutes of community service time, too. “Unlike traditional fishing tournaments, STAR focuses on conservation, family participation and fun,” CCA Florida STAR Director Leiza Fitzgerald
said. “From Memorial Day to Labor Day, STAR gives families the shot to win prizes, youth scholarships and more while being outdoors, conserving coastal resources and making lifelong memories.” This year, Trash Division participants can also submit entries for two special photo opportunities including the “Reel Life & Thrash Can Bucket STAR Photo” and “Reel Life & Tacklewebs Fun Fishing Photo” awards. To enter, participants must wear Reel Life apparel and use a Trash Can Bucket Topper or wear Reel Life Apparel and include a Tacklewebs product, respectively. Additionally, the Trash Division will also name three randomly drawn winners and award “Most Buckets Gathered” at the end of the competition. STAR 2021 is the 101-day event that gives registrants countless fishing memories and opportunities to win. To register or learn more, visit ccaflstar.com today.
Cle Because every fish could be a winner!
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JUNE 2021
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PLANTING CORAL, By John Christopher Fine
D
eath of coral reefs is a worldwide dilemma. In the Florida Keys, Richard Stanczyk has watched it happen. A fisherman for 70 years, Stanczyk has spent a lot of time on the ocean. He and his family own the fabled Bud n’ Mary’s Marina in Islamorada. “I witnessed a lot of things. It took 25 years to put in sewers. I’m a bonefisherman. The bay was smothered by brown algae. It is from human waste and farming. There is acid rain,” Stanczyk said from his office at the marina, where the walls are covered with memories of great fish, major fishing tournaments and trophies. Stanczyk sees the environment married to the economy. “There has been a tremendous reduction in fish stocks due to technology and long-liners. I’d fish for swordfish at night. It didn’t take long for long-liners to wipe it out. The Gulf Stream is slowing down. It used to take 15 pounds to hold bottom.
Now only 5. Scientists say it now,” he said. “This coral restoration project is a grass roots effort. I have four grandchildren. I want them to enjoy the ocean as I have, as my children have.” The Stanczyk family contributed use of land on the ocean to a fledgling coral restoration project begun a year ago by Dr. Kylie Smith, with Clemson University and Mote Marine Laboratory, and Mike Goldberg, owner of Key Dives, Islamorada. They call the project I.CARE (Islamorada Conservation and Restoration Education). Mote established a coral nursery at Bud n’ Mary’s Marina. Pumping equipment, an insulated water-storage tank and banks of coral nursery tanks were set up along with an office trailer for researchers. Stony corals from Mote’s nursery on Summerland Key were replanted on substrate in the open ocean under permit and with the cooperation of NOAA and Marine sanctuary officials as well as widespread support from Keys
PHOTO BY JOHN CHRISTOPHER FINE
New Hope for the Oceans Live brain coral head underwater off Islamorada.
dive operations, businesses and individuals. “The science behind it is extraordinary,” Goldberg said. “Corals are being taken from disease resistant stock gathered by micro-harvesting and grown in laboratory conditions. Temperature and PH are carefully adjusted in the nursery to simulate ocean conditions in the future, when scientists predict temperature rise and acid rain will affect corals.” Coral is an animal. It begins as free-swimming larvae that settle on substrate and grow. A plant called zooxanthellae lives in symbiosis inside the coral polyp. The plant needs sunlight for photosynthesis to produce carbohydrates and oxygen that corals
use. The plant helps dispose of the coral’s waste. When water is turbid or when temperatures rise above 70 to 85 degrees, the plants die. Coral bleaches white and also dies in most cases. Coral wasting disease and bleaching have been devastating in the Keys. Dr. Smith said the 60 to 70 percent live coral coverage of the 1970s has fallen to just 3 to 5 percent. I.CARE’s program should hopefully turn the tide. Coral reefs provide critical habitat for fish and marine organisms. “If you lose the habitat, you lose everything,” Stanczyk concluded. For more on I.CARE, visit www.icareaboutcoral.org.
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Its Prime-Time Tarpon Season By: Capt. Greg Poland
A
nd if you are not out catching the Silver Kings you are really missing the boat. The fishing has been red hot in both FL Keys as well as the Everglades National Park. Whether you are standing on the bow being poled around with a hand Capt. Greg Poland 305.393.3327 | gregpoland.com full of chicken feathers tied to a fly rod or sitting in the shade under the bridge with a Instagram: gregpoland live mullet attached to a custom-built fishing rod the tarpon in my opinion is the best fish that swims in our waters. They can jump out of the water like an Olympic gymnast, Facebook: Fishing in the Florida Keys with Capt. Greg Poland they fight like a prize fighter and when the battle is over and the photo is posted on Instagram they can be released to fight another day. If you are looking to get out to catch a tarpon give me a call or check out my Instagram page to see some recent photos that I have posted of some of my most recent adventures. Another great fish we have been catching more and more of is the sawfish, and I have had a few caught over the last few months, howgregpolandphotography.com ever, if one jumps on your line please be extremely gregpolandstudios.com careful as not only are they an endangered species, but they can also inflict a lot of damage. I Recently had a client fishing out of his own boat try to take a hook back from one that he had caught and he ended up meeting up with one of our local doctors at the emergency room. I hear the mahi mahi fishing has been heating up and I look forward to running my Contender Bay Boat offshore now that the weather is settling down for the summer months out so stay tuned for a Mahi report next month. Tight lines and I will see you out on the h20.
— Contact Capt. Greg at 305.393.3327 or email at gregpoland@icloud.com FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS
JUNE 2021
FLORIDA KEYS 1
Fishing on a hunch By: Capt. Armando Alejo
I
t was my pleasure to fish with return client Jennifer on a recent trip! Jen and I headed out on a very pleasant day out of the Flamingo Everglades “front” boat ramp. I’d sighted a few solo tripletails over the past few previous fishing trips and felt it would be good day to try to land a few. We spent our morning trying to find Jen that redfish she requested and figured we’d adjust once the sun was over head. At around noon, we switched our tactics and made a species change, and that too initially failed us. It wasn’t until we decided to stop for lunch that I spotted this triple tail (which later weighed in at 12 lbs.), since Jen was enjoying lunch on the boat on a MUCH-needed vacation for herself, therefore I made the cast for her! Friends, even I must say it was horrible cast! I placed the bait immediately over the fish, an absolute no-no in triple tail fishing. Somehow, the fish was not spooked, ate my bait immediately, and then made a furious run and a subsequent acrobatic jump. Jen took the rod and now she began the fight. She fought the fish in true IGFA record holding style and brought the fish to our deck. As we continued our day with other triple tail caught, we also ended with her requested redfish along with many juvenile snook caught to close the day. I enjoyed sharing fishing stories with Jen, and reminiscing about previous trips we’d had with her dad, whom happens to be an IGFA world record holder! Good times are waiting to be had so feel free to join us aboard one day soon. See you on the water..
— Fish with us: Call Capt. Armando at 305-778-5342 or visit us at www.a2charters.com, we are a FIVE-STAR rated service and guide.
2 FLORIDA KEYS
JUNE 2021
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JUNE 2021
FLORIDA KEYS 3
As he off
By: Ca
I
t’s it th that th ing by as the so wi of the fishing gulf st spring late su dolphi fishing plenty Th of Islam ious ri
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.
How else can you help a seabird or wading bird?
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. 4 FLORIDA KEYS
JUNE 2021
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
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captain patche the fish bases a It to give If you call yo school and th You’ll In sailfish of the Keys.
— M
As Summer heats up so does offshore fishing... By: Capt. Bruce Andersen
I
t’s amazing how busy it has been in the Keys this year that it seems that the season has been flying by. Summer is here and as the temperatures heat up so will the fishing offshore of the Upper Keys. Offshore fishing for mahi-mahi in the gulf stream can be great from spring all the way through late summer and early fall, but June is typically thought of as the peak of dolphin season. Just like any type of fishing there will be periods of red-hot fishing with slower days mixed in, but even on the slow days there’s usually plenty of mahi to be had if you put the work in and know what to look for. The gulf stream current flowing over the irregular bottom found offshore of Islamorada that many captains refer to as the broken bottom produces various rips on the surface and can make for some spectacular fishing. Every day of mahi fishing in the keys can be different. Some days you will find mahi under the birds chasing flying fish in the rips and the next day you might make your day on a piece of floating debris or under a weed line. The gulf stream is always flowing and with an average velocity of 2 to 4 miles per hour means that every day offshore is truly a new adventure. The water you fished in yesterday could be 50 to 100 miles away and fresh debris, sargasso weed, and batches of fish are flowing by daily. Keeping a sharp eye out for all the signs is the key to mahi fishing. Frigate birds hovering low, small groups of terns picking in the water and heading southwest that local captains often call low pickers, pieces of floating debris in the water, sargasso weed patches, weed lines, and turtles can all be the ticket. The distance from shore that the fish are coming through changes daily as well. It’s always good to cover all your bases and pay close attention anywhere from 300 feet of water on out. It can get crowded offshore especially on weekends in the summer. Try to give plenty of space to other boats. It’s always best to find your own fish. If you see a boat stopped and catching fish, stay away from them unless they call you in on the radio or wave you in and invite you. Unless it’s a really big school or a piece of debris with a lot of fish on it there’s usually not many left and the ones that are will usually be kind of beat up and not want to bite. You’ll usually be better off finding a school of your own to capitalize on. In addition to the mahi, black fin tuna, wahoo, triple tail, and billfish like sailfish, and even blue and white marlin can all be part of the catch offshore of the keys this time of year. It’s a great time to go offshore in the Florida Keys. I hope I see you out there!
— You can reach Captain Bruce Andersen at Capt. Easy Charters, MM 85, call 305.360.2120 or email at: captbrucekey@comcast.net
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FLORIDA KEYS 7
TIDE CHART KEY LARGO
www.USHarbors.com
Key Largo, South Sound, FL - JUNE Jun 2021 2021 High
Date
Low
TIDE CHART ISLAMORADA
High
Date
Low
Rise
Set
6:31
8:09
0.2
6:31
8:09
0.2
6:31
8:10
2:58
0.1
6:31
8:10
0.1
3:55
0.1
6:31
8:11
3:27
0.2
4:43
0.0
6:31
8:11
0.4
4:02
0.2
5:25
0.0
6:31
8:11
11:14
0.4
4:36
0.2
6:03
-0.1
6:31
8:12
11:51
0.4
5:09
0.2
6:40
-0.1
6:31
8:12
5:41
0.2
7:16
-0.1
6:31
8:13
0.7
6:14
0.2
7:54
-0.1
6:31
8:13
12:00
0.7
6:48
0.2
8:32
-0.1
6:31
8:13
0.4
12:40
0.7
7:25
0.2
9:13
-0.1
6:31
8:14
2:36
0.4
1:22
0.7
8:08
0.2
9:56
-0.1
6:31
8:14
Tue
3:22
0.4
2:09
0.6
8:59
0.2
10:40
0.0
6:31
8:14
16
Wed
4:09
0.4
3:04
0.6
10:02
0.2
11:27
0.0
6:31
8:15
8:15
17
Thu
4:54
0.4
4:11
0.5
11:19
0.2
6:31
8:15
6:28
8:15
18
Fri
5:38
0.5
5:31
0.5
12:14
0.0
12:42
0.2
6:31
8:15
6:28
8:15
19
Sat
6:21
0.5
6:58
0.4
1:02
0.1
1:59
0.1
6:32
8:15
-0.2
6:28
8:15
20
Sun
7:05
0.6
8:21
0.4
1:49
0.1
3:07
0.0
6:32
8:16
1:45
-0.3
6:28
8:16
21
Mon
7:50
0.7
9:32
0.4
2:37
0.1
4:08
-0.1
6:32
8:16
0.0
2:40
-0.4
6:28
8:16
22
Tue
8:38
0.7
10:32
0.4
3:24
0.1
5:04
-0.2
6:32
8:16
3:14
0.0
3:35
-0.4
6:29
8:16
23
Wed
9:28
0.8
11:26
0.4
4:11
0.1
5:58
-0.2
6:33
8:16
1.9
4:08
-0.1
4:29
-0.4
6:29
8:16
24
Thu
10:19
0.8
4:59
0.1
6:51
-0.3
6:33
8:16
10:48
1.8
5:01
-0.1
5:22
-0.4
6:29
8:16
25
Fri
12:15
0.4
11:11A
0.8
5:48
0.1
7:42
-0.2
6:33
8:17
11:38
1.8
5:54
-0.1
6:15
-0.4
6:30
8:16
26
Sat
1:02
0.4
12:03
0.8
6:39
0.1
8:32
-0.2
6:33
8:17
6:48
-0.1
7:08
-0.3
6:30
8:17
27
Sun
1:47
0.4
12:55
0.8
7:32
0.1
9:21
-0.1
6:34
8:17
1.6
7:42
0.0
8:02
-0.1
6:30
8:17
28
Mon
2:33
0.4
1:47
0.7
8:29
0.1
10:08
-0.1
6:34
8:17
1:35
1.5
8:37
0.0
8:57
0.0
6:30
8:17
29
Tue
3:19
0.4
2:40
0.6
9:32
0.1
10:55
0.0
6:34
8:17
2:29
1.4
9:32
0.0
9:53
0.1
6:31
8:17
30
Wed
4:05
0.4
3:37
0.6
10:43
0.2
11:40
0.0
6:35
8:17
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Moon
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
1
Tue
2:36
1.6
2:59
1.5
10:03
0.1
10:27
0.1
6:27
8:09
1
Tue
4:57
0.4
4:05
0.6
10:57
0.2
2
Wed
3:32
1.5
4:01
1.4
11:04
0.1
11:28
0.1
6:27
8:09
2
Wed
5:55
0.4
5:21
0.5
12:30
0.0
12:24
3
Thu
4:27
1.4
5:03
1.4
12:01
0.1
6:27
8:10
3
Thu
6:46
0.5
6:42
0.5
1:22
0.1
1:47
4
Fri
5:20
1.4
6:00
1.4
12:25
0.2
12:53
0.1
6:27
8:10
4
Fri
7:29
0.5
7:57
0.4
2:08
0.1
5
Sat
6:10
1.4
6:51
1.4
1:18
0.2
1:40
0.0
6:27
8:10
5
Sat
8:05
0.6
8:59
0.4
2:49
6
Sun
6:56
1.4
7:37
1.5
2:06
0.2
2:23
0.0
6:27
8:11
6
Sun
8:37
0.6
9:51
0.4
7
Mon
7:39
1.4
8:19
1.5
2:50
0.2
3:03
0.0
6:27
8:11
7
Mon
9:08
0.6
10:34
8
Tue
8:20
1.4
8:59
1.6
3:31
0.2
3:42
-0.1
6:27
8:12
8
Tue
9:39
0.6
9
Wed
9:00
1.4
9:39
1.6
4:11
0.2
4:20
-0.1
6:27
8:12
9
Wed
10:12
0.7
10
Thu
9:40
1.4
10:18
1.6
4:48
0.2
4:57
-0.1
6:27
8:12
10
Thu
10:46
0.7
11
Fri
10:19
1.4
10:58
1.6
5:26
0.2
5:33
-0.1
6:27
8:13
11
Fri
12:30
0.4
11:23A
12
Sat
10:59
1.4
11:38
1.6
6:03
0.2
6:11
-0.1
6:27
8:13
12
Sat
1:09
0.4
13
Sun
11:41
1.4
6:41
0.2
6:50
0.0
6:27
8:13
13
Sun
1:51
14
Mon
12:20
1.5
12:24
1.4
7:22
0.2
7:32
0.0
6:27
8:14
14
Mon
15
Tue
1:02
1.5
1:11
1.4
8:07
0.2
8:20
0.0
6:27
8:14
15
16
Wed
1:46
1.5
2:02
1.4
8:57
0.2
9:14
0.1
6:27
8:14
17
Thu
2:33
1.5
3:00
1.4
9:52
0.1
10:14
0.1
6:27
18
Fri
3:24
1.4
4:02
1.4
10:50
0.0
11:18
0.1
19
Sat
4:19
1.5
5:06
1.5
11:50
-0.1
20
Sun
5:17
1.5
6:10
1.6
12:21
0.1
12:48
21
Mon
6:17
1.5
7:11
1.7
1:21
0.1
22
Tue
7:16
1.6
8:09
1.8
2:19
23
Wed
8:14
1.6
9:04
1.8
24
Thu
9:09
1.7
9:56
25
Fri
10:04
1.7
26
Sat
10:57
1.7
27
Sun
11:49
1.7
28
Mon
12:27
1.7
12:42
29
Tue
1:15
1.7
30
Wed
2:03
1.6
8 FLORIDA KEYS
www.USHarbors.com
Islamorada, Florida Bay, FL - Jun 20212021 JUNE
JUNE 2021
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS
ft
Moon
TIDE CHART KEY COLONY BEACH
Key Colony Beach, FL - Jun 2021 JUNE 2021 High
Date
www.USHarbors.com
Low
TIDE CHART KEY WEST
High
Date
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Moon
8:25
0.3
9:23
0.0
6:33
8:10
1
www.USHarbors.com
JUNE 2021
Key West, FL - Jun 2021
Low
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Tue
4:18
1.0
3:26
1.6
8:50
0.5
10:23
0.0
6:36
8:13
11:15
0.2
6:36
8:13
6:36
8:14
1
Tue
2:52
1.3
2:41
1.7
2
Wed
3:50
1.4
3:49
1.6
9:38
0.3
10:19
0.1
6:33
8:10
2
Wed
5:16
1.1
4:42
1.4
10:17
0.5
3
Thu
4:45
1.5
4:59
1.5
10:48
0.3
11:11
0.2
6:33
8:11
3
Thu
6:07
1.3
6:03
1.3
11:40
0.4
4
Fri
5:34
1.6
6:07
1.4
11:51
0.2
11:57
0.3
6:33
8:11
4
Fri
6:50
1.4
7:18
1.2
12:01
0.3
12:51
0.3
6:36
8:14
5
Sat
6:17
1.7
7:05
1.4
12:44
0.1
6:33
8:12
5
Sat
7:26
1.5
8:20
1.1
12:42
0.4
1:48
0.2
6:36
8:15
6
Sun
6:56
1.8
7:54
1.4
12:40
0.3
1:31
0.0
6:33
8:12
6
Sun
7:58
1.6
9:12
1.1
1:20
0.4
2:36
0.0
6:36
8:15
7
Mon
7:33
1.8
8:36
1.4
1:19
0.3
2:12
-0.2
6:33
8:13
7
Mon
8:29
1.7
9:55
1.1
1:55
0.4
3:18
-0.1
6:36
8:15
8
Tue
8:11
1.9
9:15
1.4
1:57
0.3
2:51
-0.3
6:33
8:13
8
Tue
9:00
1.7
10:35
1.0
2:29
0.5
3:56
-0.2
6:36
8:16
9
Wed
8:49
1.9
9:54
1.4
2:34
0.3
3:28
-0.3
6:33
8:13
9
Wed
9:33
1.8
11:12
1.0
3:02
0.5
4:33
-0.3
6:36
8:16
10
Thu
9:27
1.9
10:33
1.4
3:10
0.3
4:06
-0.4
6:33
8:14
10
Thu
10:07
1.8
11:51
1.0
3:34
0.5
5:09
-0.3
6:36
8:17
11
Fri
10:06
1.9
11:14
1.3
3:46
0.3
4:44
-0.4
6:33
8:14
11
Fri
10:44
1.8
4:07
0.5
5:47
-0.4
6:36
8:17
12
Sat
10:45
1.9
11:55
1.3
4:22
0.3
5:23
-0.3
6:33
8:14
12
Sat
12:30
1.0
11:21A
1.8
4:41
0.5
6:25
-0.3
6:36
8:17
13
Sun
11:25
1.9
5:00
0.4
6:04
-0.3
6:33
8:15
13
Sun
1:12
1.0
12:01
1.8
5:18
0.5
7:06
-0.3
6:36
8:18
14
Mon
12:38
1.3
12:07
1.9
5:42
0.4
6:47
-0.2
6:33
8:15
14
Mon
1:57
1.0
12:43
1.8
6:01
0.5
7:49
-0.2
6:36
8:18
15
Tue
1:22
1.3
12:52
1.8
6:29
0.4
7:33
-0.1
6:33
8:15
15
Tue
2:43
1.0
1:30
1.7
6:52
0.6
8:33
-0.1
6:37
8:18
16
Wed
2:07
1.4
1:45
1.7
7:26
0.4
8:21
0.0
6:33
8:16
16
Wed
3:30
1.1
2:25
1.6
7:55
0.6
9:20
0.0
6:37
8:18
17
Thu
2:53
1.4
2:46
1.7
8:32
0.4
9:13
0.1
6:33
8:16
17
Thu
4:15
1.2
3:32
1.4
9:12
0.6
10:07
0.1
6:37
8:19
18
Fri
3:41
1.6
3:54
1.6
9:42
0.3
10:06
0.1
6:33
8:16
18
Fri
4:59
1.3
4:52
1.3
10:35
0.4
10:55
0.2
6:37
8:19
19
Sat
4:30
1.7
5:07
1.5
10:51
0.1
11:00
0.2
6:34
8:16
19
Sat
5:42
1.5
6:19
1.2
11:52
0.2
11:42
0.3
6:37
8:19
20
Sun
5:21
1.9
6:20
1.5
11:55
-0.2
11:53
0.2
6:34
8:17
20
Sun
6:26
1.7
7:42
1.1
1:00
-0.1
6:37
8:19
21
Mon
6:14
2.0
7:27
1.4
12:55
-0.4
6:34
8:17
21
Mon
7:11
1.8
8:53
1.1
12:30
0.4
2:01
-0.3
6:38
8:20
22
Tue
7:07
2.2
8:27
1.4
12:46
0.2
1:52
-0.6
6:34
8:17
22
Tue
7:59
2.0
9:53
1.0
1:17
0.4
2:57
-0.5
6:38
8:20
23
Wed
8:00
2.3
9:22
1.5
1:38
0.2
2:46
-0.7
6:35
8:17
23
Wed
8:49
2.1
10:47
1.0
2:04
0.4
3:51
-0.7
6:38
8:20
24
Thu
8:54
2.4
10:13
1.5
2:29
0.1
3:39
-0.8
6:35
8:17
24
Thu
9:40
2.2
11:36
1.0
2:52
0.3
4:44
-0.7
6:38
8:20
25
Fri
9:47
2.4
11:01
1.5
3:21
0.1
4:30
-0.7
6:35
8:18
25
Fri
10:32
2.2
3:41
0.3
5:35
-0.7
6:39
8:20
26
Sat
10:39
2.4
11:49
1.5
4:12
0.1
5:21
-0.6
6:35
8:18
26
Sat
12:23
1.0
11:24A
2.2
4:32
0.3
6:25
-0.5
6:39
8:21
27
Sun
11:31
2.3
5:05
0.1
6:11
-0.5
6:36
8:18
27
Sun
1:08
1.0
12:16
2.1
5:25
0.3
7:14
-0.4
6:39
8:21
28
Mon
12:36
1.5
12:24
2.1
6:00
0.1
7:01
-0.3
6:36
8:18
28
Mon
1:54
1.0
1:08
1.9
6:22
0.3
8:01
-0.2
6:40
8:21
29
Tue
1:23
1.5
1:17
1.9
6:59
0.2
7:51
-0.1
6:36
8:18
29
Tue
2:40
1.1
2:01
1.7
7:25
0.4
8:48
0.0
6:40
8:21
30
Wed
2:10
1.5
2:12
1.7
8:01
0.3
8:40
0.1
6:37
8:18
30
Wed
3:26
1.2
2:58
1.5
8:36
0.4
9:33
0.1
6:40
8:21
FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS
JUNE 2021
Moon
FLORIDA KEYS 9
The Waters Offer Abundant Opportunities… By: Capt. Chris Johnson
We w
A
s for wide-open fishing, this is the time of the year we see the peak of the dolphin (mahi-mahi) run offshore of Marathon. Large quantities of these colorful gamefish pile through the Florida Straits every day. What the dolphin may lack in size, they make up for in quantity. So, if you’re looking to fill your freezer, you’ll be able to load up on schoolie-size (five- to ten-pound) dolphin, with the occasional bigger fish in the 15- to 40-pound category. All the standard dolphin fishing tactics will work. Try trolling or looking for weed lines, birds working the surface or floating debris. If you find some floating debris in these deep areas, you may luck into a wahoo or two. For best results, troll lipped plugs past the debris or drop large bucktails or butterfly jigs to 200 feet and retrieve them to the surface as fast as possible. On the reef, it’s all about the snapper fishing, with yellowtails Shallow-water, catch-andand mangroves providing most of the action. Large amounts of release shark fishing in chum will keep the fish interested. Florida Bay is red-hot. We supplement our Bionic frozen block chum with a mixture of oats and YellowtailUp from Aquatic Nutrition. Any cut baits, such as ballyhoo or bonita belly, work well. The most productive depths typically are 50 to 80 feet of water. The yellowtails eat cut baits or shrimp, while the mangroves take chunk baits or small live baits such as ballyhoo or pinfish. Wreck fishing for mutton snapper is usually very good during June, with all depths from 100 to 250 feet worth investigating. There are lots of larger fish in the 12- to 18-pound range, plus we often find our heftiest muttons of the year at 20 pounds and greater. Live baits, including pinfish and ballyhoo, work best for the muttons, although a butterflied ballyhoo will sometimes outproduce a live bait, so it’s always worth a try. And, there are still plenty of amberjacks, almaco jacks and we usually 10 FLORIDA KEYS
JUNE 2021
see some African pompano during June as well. While there’s still some tarpon action at the bridges, it tends to wane dramatically by midmonth. So, if catching a Silver King is on your bucket list, get out there early in the month for a shot at a mature tarpon in the 80- to 150-pound class. Sha l l ow - w a ter, catch-and-release shark fishing in Florida Bay is red-hot during June. Lemons are the primary shark species this time of year, but you may also see blacktips, bulls, hammerheads and more. These sharks range in size from five to eight feet, and it’s not unusual to find yourself with a 200-pound toothy critter on the end of your line. They give you a good fight, with acrobatics, before you reel them in to the side of the boat for a photo opp and then release them to fight another day.
— Capt. Chris Johnson specializes in offshore, reef/wreck, gulf/bay, sailfish, shark and tarpon fishing with SeaSquared Charters, docked at Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht Club in Marathon. You can reach him at 305-743-5305, http://SeaSquaredCharters.com. For daily fishing reports with pictures, please click over to http://Facebook.com/MarathonFishing.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS
Big Pine Key’s Most Complete Outfitter
We want you to have the best sporting experience possible. Bait, Tackle or Kayak Rental
Monday - Saturday 7 -7, Sunday 7 -6 30321 Overseas Hwy MM 30.3, Big Pine Key, FL 33043 305-872-1040
www.jigsbaitandtackle.com
9TH ANNUAL
VFW FISHING TOURNAMENT June 18-20, 2021 • Key West, Florida Welcome to the 9th annual VFW Fishing Tournament in Key West. This tournament in now in its eighth year and is known up and down the Florida Keys as being a family event with cash prizes for the heaviest fish from five different species and includes angler cash prizes. The tournament is capped off by an award’s dinner at our refurbished VFW Post 3911. This year we have made a slight change in the format. We are still a one-day fishing event, but now anglers have a choice of fishing on Saturday, June 19th, or Sunday, June 20th. Another change is that all anglers will receive long sleeved, dri-wick tournament shirts. We have also added a 15-pound Calcutta (closest fish to 15 pounds) which was very popular last year. All three Calcutta’s, which are completely optional, if entered, will allow one vessel to increase our first prize from three thousand dollars to well over ten thousand dollars. Whether you are a returning angler, or new to the tournament scene, this is one event that you do not want to miss. All proceeds benefit needy and disabled veterans. Help us help those that have given so much. Should you need further information and/ or have questions, please feel free to contact me. Pete Thomas, Tournament Director • 610 304 2392 psty2k@yahoo.com • www.vfwpost3911.org/tournament Wayne Russano, Associate Director • 770 630 3570 • vfw391110@yahoo.com Veterans of Foreign Wars • Post 3911 is a 501-(c)-19 non-profit organization • vfwpost3911.org FACEBOOK.COM/CAMFLORIDAKEYS
JUNE 2021
FLORIDA KEYS 11
Mahi Quality vs. Quantity By: Capt. Joel Brandenburg
W
hen we are on a charter we’ll fish on a floating object for as long as the mahi keep coming. When we are fishing a tournament, we’ll leave a floater if all we’re catching is schoolies. I‘d say 90 out of our last 100 slammers (big trophy bull dolphin) have been caught under diving frigates (war birds). If you are looking for a trophy bull dolphin keep trolling underneath the war bird. Big bird, big fish and big seas big fish. Understanding the frigate and mature mahi’s relationship is important for targeting trophy bulls. A frigate can’t get its wings wet like a pelican, seagull or osprey. The frigate’s wings don’t wick water like most sea birds as their wings absorb water. If a frigate lands on the water it will most likely die. It won’t be able to take back off to flight and would eventually drown. Frigates stay up in the air sometimes for many days in a row. They fly thousands of feet up into the thermals, set their wings, close their eyes and go to sleep falling an inch at a time and that’s how they sleep when they are out to sea. Because frigates can’t hit the water, they dive down and pick fish out of the air with their beaks only. They have a hearty diet for flying fish. A frigates’ dream situation is to be flying over a big bull and cow corralling flying fish to the surface. Once the dueling dolphins force the flying fish out of the water and into the air, that’s prime time for the frigate to pick off the frantic flying fish. The frigate has to do this with surgical precision, their lives depend on it. When you get three or four frigates following a couple big mahi, we like to either troll right under them or cast a full ballyhoo right into where we’re anticipating they’ll be. Sometimes we even sight cast them. If we catch a small mahi we’ll keep it in the water as a decoy dolphin and chum around the decoy dolphin For big trophy mahi bird is the word and bring in other dolphin and and the bigger bird the better with the get a mahi rally frigate always being the number one big going. For big trophy mahi bird bird for trophy mahi. That frigate has is the word and the bigger bird eagles’ eyes and big range. the better with the frigate always being the number one big bird for trophy mahi. That frigate has eagles’ eyes and big range. If a frigate is circling or diving in the middle of the ocean it’s for a very good reason. That frigate could be anywhere in the ocean it wants to be, but it’s right there right now. If you see a frigate you’ve got to dig it. No matter what give it five minutes of respect and troll under it. It’s your very best bet for boating that monster mahi. Bird bird bird is the word! Good luck finding your trophy mahi this dolphin season. 12 FLORIDA KEYS
JUNE 2021
Y
W
c
s
o
For a charter with Ana Banana Fishing Company Marathon Florida Keys call 813-267-4401 cell or office 305-395-4211 or visit us in person at Ana Banana Marina at 12699 Overseas Highway Marathon Florida Keys or Captain Joel Brandenburg 570 Sombrero Beach Rd Marathon Fl.33050 marathonkeyfishingcharters@gmail.com 305-395-4212 or 813-267-4401 us at marathonkeyfishingcharters@gmail.com
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/FLORIDA-KEYS
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One of several sawfish on display at Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay - Credit: Tonya Wiley
A boy admires a sawfish at Dallas World Aquarium Credit: Paula Carlson
A sawfish glides through the waters of a National Aquarium exhibit Credit: Alan Henningsen
SAWFISH NEWS by Tonya Wiley, Havenworth Coastal Conservation
To See a Sawfish in Public Aquariums: Making Conservation Connections by guest authors Paula Carlson, Stacia White, and Alan Henningsen
S
ince the early 1930’s when the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago displayed a smalltooth sawfish for the first time, public aquariums have created connections between people and these incredibly unique, and now critically endangered, rays. Over the years, millions of visitors to zoos and aquariums around the world have enjoyed that experience, and for many it is the only opportunity they will ever have to see a living sawfish. Because of the decline of sawfish populations worldwide, public Several sawfish are currently aquariums are in a unique viewable at Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay position to build on these Credit: Tonya Wiley connections and help to create conservation solutions. Sawfish conservation requires a multi-faceted approach to be successful, and the public aquarium community shares common concerns with researchers, field biologists, and conservation and management agencies in terms of the need for continued and increased collaboration between stakeholders at all levels. Many of the public aquariums in the United States are members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of accredited zoos and aquariums in the areas of animal care, husbandry, conservation, education, science, and recreation. With more than 183 million visitors to accredited institutions each year, AZA’s focus on connecting people and animals provides a critical link to helping animals in their native habitats. For many years, members of the AZA Marine Fishes Taxon Advisory Group have worked with governmental and non-governmental conservation agencies to find solutions to protect sawfish in their natural environment. In addition to their role in education, research, and conservation, AZA member zoos and aquariums also play an important role in the preservation of species through population management programs and AZA Species Survival Plans® (SSP). The mission of an 14 FLORIDA KEYS
JUNE 2021
SSP is to cooperatively manage specific, and typically threatened or endangered, species populations within AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, certified related facilities, and approved non- member participants. Smalltooth sawfish (Pristis pectinata), largetooth sawfish (Pristis pristis), and green sawfish (Pristis zijsron) are the three species most displayed in aquarium collections. A sawfish at Ripley’s Aquarium In the United States you Credit: Paula Carlson can view sawfish with amazement at Dallas World Aquarium, Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, National Aquarium, Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, Shedd Aquarium, Georgia Aquarium, SeaLife Minnesota, Sea World Orlando, Landry’s Downtown Aquarium Denver, and Landry’s Downtown Aquarium Houston. These connections with sawfish in aquariums are important to the conservation of sawfish because “In the end we will conserve only what we love, we will love only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught” ~Baba Dioum. Tonya Wiley, President • Tonya@havenworth.org 941-201-2685 • www.havenworth.org
Tax-deductible donations to help us continue our mission to promote the sustainable use and conservation of marine resources through research, outreach, and education can be made at https://havenworth.wedid.it/
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Florida Keys
Talk about a variety! Con grats to the Gietzen family for catching a nice cow mahi, a jumbo blackfin tuna and two sai lfish all on a ½ day charter with Main Attrac tion II, run by Captain Aaron Sutcliffe and first mate Cole DeLeon rne and his friends for Congrats to Trent Ho l full-grown permit, catching this beautifu wrecks fishing with on one of Marathon’s d first mate Lance an Captain Marty Lewis in One Charter Boat. Doire, aboard the Ma
Our boys on the Main One Charte r Boat have been scoutin g the big groupe rs.
Jerry Harder and his firefighter friends fishing with Capt. Aaron and 1st Mate Cole aboard the Main Attraction 2. This year was no different, several days of good laughs and great quality fish, like this jumbo blackfin tuna.
caught off utton Snapper Ben M. with 2 M fa r mily boat. rd “SOFIA” thei Marathon aboa
Captain Steve Fitzgerald caught this full-grown African Pompan o aboard the Reel Attraction, the center console of the Main Attraction fleet in Ma rathon.
If you have a catch to brag about send your picture and caption to: flkeys@coastalanglermagazine.com
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species, but let’s explore the topic a little deeper. The reasoning behind making a certain type noise with your cork is to imitate the sound of fish busting bait on the surface. In the case of striped bass and snook, they make a popping sound when they eat a bait on the surface, as opposed to a speckled trout that “slurps” a bait off the surface or a red drum that has a mouth on the Tim Barefoot underside of its head and has to get on top of a bait to eat it. There is a lot here to unpack regarding the size, shape and how have started using fixed-position as well as sliding corks more much weight you’re trying to suspend and more over the past few years. under the cork—too much to cover in this Recognizing the effectiveness of article. The point is, don’t just stick with the different styles of cork is important for same cork you’ve always fished. Just like you different situations. Considerations include change lures or baits when the bite slows, water depth and temperature, current—or try experimenting with different cork sizes lack of current—and target species. and styles. Pay attention to the way your Also, it has become evident that not all lure or bait is presented as well as how the corks make the same noise. That can be a fish react. turn on—or a turn off—to fish at different I’ve evolved to fishing a ¾-ounce jig times of the day, and especially in different and 7-inch Super Fluke under a cork for currents and/or depths. larger fish, so a 3-inch cigar float is not an For example: A couple weekends ago, we option for this size bait. The 3-inch cigar had a great morning bite from striped bass float is perfect for the 3/8-ounce jig/shrimp using a 2-inch oval (chugging) cork. It was combo, and it makes the perfect sound for one of those bite-on-every-cast situations speckled trout and drum in the backwater. everyone dreams of. I’ll close with this: Check out my We noticed the bite slowing down a little videos that describe the different size and as the sun got higher. A simple switch to a shape of floats I use and what type sounds much quieter pencil-shaped cork brought they make. Here’s a teaser: Have you ever the bite back to almost every cast again. We thought of using a popping cork offshore? were fishing the same lure under the cork; For more details, check all this out on the the only change we made was the cork itself. website. The more current, and the more brokenup current you have, the more noise you For more from Capt. Tim Barefoot, visit his want your cork to make as an attractant. website at barefootcatsandtackle.com. This holds true for pretty much every
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ast month, FWC sawfish biologists responded to sawfish hotline reports of two large smalltooth sawfish that died in the Florida Keys. Sawfish are shark-like rays named for their saw-shaped snouts. With dramatic reductions in their numbers and range over the years, they are listed as Endangered under the Endangered Species Act. They are regularly found only in southwest Florida, especially around Everglades National Park. One of the two dead sawfish in the Keys was a mature 16-foot female that weighed an estimated 800-1,000 pounds. The other was an immature female measuring 12 feet, 4 inches long and weighing an estimated 400-500 pounds. The 16-foot sawfish is the longest measured by scientists since research began on the species. There was no obvious cause of death for either sawfish; however, valuable life history information was and will continue to be collected from both carcasses due to the swift response from Keys-based FWC staff and Monroe County Sheriff ’s Office. Sawfish biologists are working to learn as much as possible from samples. For example, the vertebrae will be used to determine the ages of both sawfish, the DNA will be sequenced to compare to other sawfish that have been studied throughout Florida, and the length at maturity for females will be fine-tuned based on these data. If you see or catch a sawfish, report it by calling 844-4SAWFISH or e-mailing sawfish@myfwc.com
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CustomBilt Pondtoons
The Pondtoon is the perfect small-water boat for the avid river and pond angler, duck and bow hunter, as well as the family with children or grandchildren. It’s easy on, easy off, so it is the perfect boat for the elderly. All boats are all-welded aluminum construction made in the USA with premium options LENGTH: 14’ to 16’ to meet every fisherman’s needs in boating. BEAM: 5’ to 6’ With a vision to build MAXIMUM HP: 9.9 innovative, durable and CONSTRUCTION: comfortable aluminum .090 Marine-Grade Aluminum boats, CustomBilt has emerged as a leader in the design and building of small to mid-sized pontoon boats. Steve J. “Bassin” Bynum, designer of the all-welded aluminum Pondtoon boat, strives to offer quality, premium options to meet every fisherman’s need in boating. Pondtoon boats are factory assembled in three standard sizes with options and additional features that allow you to equip the boat for your fishing and hunting style at a very affordable price. Contact us at (334) 684-2210 or pondtoonboats@gmail.com with any questions to help “customize” your very own CustomBilt Pondtoon boat.
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NATIONAL 19
SUMMER IS HERE Time to Get Out There!
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he long days of summer are here, and we all know what that means—more time to fish. It also means blazing sun and stifling heat. That’s reason enough to take inventory of your gear to make sure you’re prepared to take on the summer heat. GILLZ technical fishing apparel is designed in Florida, one of the hottest places on the planet in summer. Gear that keeps you cool and comfortable here will keep you cool anywhere! Constant innovation has led to superior fabrics and designs that push performance to new heights. This gear is designed with the single goal of allowing you to fish longer and harder in total comfort. Consider the Flex Mesh Woven Short Sleeve shirt. On the boat or at the bar dockside, this shirt is up to the task. The incredibly unique fabric has thousands of micro holes acting as vents, keeping you cool and comfortable. Performance features include UPF 30+, two chest pockets, snap collar and quick dry. Plus, the shirt comes in three colors: Aquatic Water, Hawaiian Ocean Grunge, and Hi Rise Grey Grunge. So, you don’t have to wear the same one every day, because trust us, you’ll want to. Next, check out the new Men’s Tournament Short Sleeve. Proprietary, chemical-free GillzTec fabric provides 30 percent better cooling than other shirts. The revolutionary cross-breeze ventilation system brings another blast of cooling air, making it the coolest shirt you’ll ever own! Featuring incredible stretch that effortlessly moves as you move, this is a must-have shirt for any serious angler. Check out the website at gillz-gear.com
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HYDRASTEPP’S NEW 18’ FLATS-BOAT By CAM Orlando Owner Phil Wolf
T
he new Hydrastepp 18’ is a high-performance flats boat resulting from years of trial and improvement by renowned racing boat designer/ builder Steve Stepp. With 35 years in the industry, Stepp racked up 14 world records with his company, Velocity Powerboats, of Sanford, Fla. His advanced designs achieve performance and efficiency most manufacturers are unable to match. His latest venture, Hydrastepp Boats, manufactures this new vessel in Lake Mary, Fla. As owner and co-publisher of the Orlando edition of Coastal Angler Magazine, I wanted to see if Stepp’s newest production vessel could measure up to claims made in their advertisement with us. Eager to climb aboard, I met Stepp at Lake Monroe and the I-4 Bridge on the St. Johns River. The boat was equipped with a 140 hp Suzuki 4-stroke with half tank of gas,
Coast Guard-required equipment and a modest amount of gear. Stepp said it would get on plane in less than three seconds with both of us in it. Each of us weighs more than 200 pounds, and it did just that… effortlessly. Heading into a moderate quartered-sea chop at about 32 to 34 mph, the ride was extremely smooth and incredibly dry. With those boxes checked, we returned to calm water in the river. This boat has a large gunnel and a 94” beam, extremely wide for an 18’ boat. It was very stable when I walked around on the gunnel. It has a huge storage compartment up front, with a removable tackle-storage system, and two large storage compartments in the rear. There are front and rear livewells. The custom, divided sport seat with a removable backrest is like those on offshore racing boats. The console is sleek and sports a 9” monitor screen/fish-finder/ GPS and all the normal gauges: tachometer, water pressure, temperature, gas, speed by GPS, all linked to the motor and fuel system. Very cool! This boat gets up to 10 mpg while cruising between 30 and 32 mph at 3,400 to 3,600 rpms. Back in the river, we cruised at about 32 mph and the monitor read 3,400 rpms. Then Stepp hammered the throttle, and the boat quickly achieved over 65 mph at 6,200 rpms with a little throttle left. It was very impressive for a stock 140 hp engine with a rear poling platform creating drag. I jumped at the chance to drive back to the ramp. Once acquainted with the throttle and trim, I drove with confidence. Cruising over 55 mph, we only burned about 6 gallons per hour on the gauge. This boat also floats in 10” or less and has room for four anglers with a huge front deck. If you’re in the market for a flats boat, the new Hydrastepp is worth a test ride. Hydrastepp is taking production orders, so get in line! This vessel is nicely equipped at around $60,000 for boat, 115 hp motor and custom trailer by Ameratrail. Or, you can upgrade to the fully loaded version with a 140 hp for $75,000. See this boat online at www.HYDRASTEPP.com.
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NATIONAL 23
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JUNE 2021
Angler Lands World Record Shellcracker
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hen sunfish get this big, are they still considered panfish? On Tuesday, May 4, Thomas Farchione, of Wisconsin, caught this 6.3-pound redear sunfish at Lake Havasu on the Arizona/ California border. The fish, which measured 17 inches in length, with a 20inch girth, is a potential world record if accepted by the International Game Fish Association. The existing IGFA All-Tackle World Record was caught in Feb. 2014 by Hector Brito. It weighed 5-pounds, 12.8 ounces (5.8 pounds). Brito’s fish was also caught from Lake Havasu. Wait… it gets better. Before Brito caught his fish, the world record for redear was 5 pounds, 8 ounces. Can you guess where it was caught? You got it. In May of 2011 Robert Lawler landed a 5-pound, 8-ounce record redear at Lake Havasu to set the mark at the time. Obviously, this 19,300-acre impoundment of the Colorado River has earned its reputation as the best place in the world to catch enormous redear sunfish, which are also known as shellcrackers because they feed on snails, mussels and other mollusks using teeth in their throat to crush the shells. According to USA Today, invasive quagga mussels were discovered in Havasu in 2007. The fast-spreading mussels have provided an abundant food source to grow the largest shellcrackers in the world. Farchione caught his monster redear drop-shotting a nightcrawler in 25 feet of water. For more information, see www.azgfd.com.
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JUNE 2020
LOCATION 1
A fry guarder is a bass guarding a big ball of tiny bass hatchlings. These bass are extremely aggressive and territorial and will chase and eat pretty much any fish that gets near the babies. In this scenario, I go down banks through areas where bass have recently spawned. I stay off the cover and cast a frog through it. I like a bluegill-colored walking frog in this scenario, which means the lure will have a yellow or orange belly. Bluegill are a common nemesis to the bass and their fry. This color pattern drives bass crazy when they spot it near their babies. Often, you can find a shad spawn in the low light of early mornings and evenings. Look for birds lined up along the banks to find spawning shad. The shad often relate to hard cover (rocks and wood), grass lines and slow tapering points. A shad-colored popping frog in a white or silver color is an awesome lure to pick up bass feeding on shad. With the hollow-body frog being so weedless, it can be thrown where many other baits would get hung up. These are the places where shad spawns occur. A hollow-body frog is an awesome way to cover a lot of water, and it can produce some extremely fun topwater strikes. Whether you’re targeting late spawners, fry guarders or fish that are on the feed, a frog puts fish in the boat this time of year. Frog Fishing Gear: Typically, you will be fishing a frog around some type of heavy cover, which calls for some heavy gear. I like to throw a 13 Fishing 7’4H Omen Black rod paired with a Concept A 8.3 reel spooled with Seaguar 50-pound Smackdown braid. This setup allows you to haul fish out of heavy cover and into the boat! Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcottfishing.com. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
JUNE 2021
NATIONAL 25
G o to An ch or Pu lle ri st he W ay or Be lo w ,E -Z D ec k Ab ov e Above-deck on the 3025 GFX or below-deck inside the rope locker of the 35’ Sea Chaser HFC, the Rebel drum anchor winch is included as the standard or optional upgrade feature on these and other 2021 models. The compact design and 316 stainless steel components ensure E-Z Anchor Puller drum anchor winches can be retrofitted into tight spaces and perform in harsh, saltwater environments.
E-Z ANCHOR PULLER MFG. CO. America’s Anchor Winch Since 1990 Call 1.800.800.1640 | ezanchorpuller.com E-Z Anchor Puller’s drum anchor winches are complete 316 stainless steel with patented motors. This jam-free, hands-free solution neatly stores any diameter rope and chain right on the spool - no more tying off to a cleat!
30
Y EARS ANNIVERSARY
E-Z ANCHOR PULLER MFG. CO. DEBUTS NEW PRODUCTS IN 2021 New Offers Include Pre-Spooled Rope Kits, Bowsprits and a Break-Away Anchor Design
A
fter 30-plus years of specializing in the windlass-replacement anchoring solution, E-Z Anchor Puller debuts its branded anchoring products engineered to suit each drum anchor winch. Widely used anchoring accessories such as hawse pipes, bowsprits, guide rollers and more have been added to the catalog, manufactured specifically to accommodate the Hero, Patriot and Rebel drum anchor winches. “To offer improved level winding of the rode onto the drum, we now have 4-inch wide flat rollers that let the rode wander back and forth to create a better spooling onto the drum,” said company President Aaron Knopp. “The 4-inch wide flat rollers allow more travel to ensure the rope is not centered onto the drum.” “We knew our catalog needed to include inventory totally unique to our drum anchor winch dimensions,” said Sara Hitchins, Office & Trade Show Manager. “The standard anchoring accessories you see on the market now cater to the traditional windlass, for example, narrower guides on the roller, however, narrower guide rollers mean pile-up in the middle of the winch.” Hitchins said the company’s expanded inventory will enhance boaters’ experiences on
the water, as well as improve the buying process for customers who prefer a “one-stop-shop” experience over researching and selecting other brand accessories. “For a while, we’ve identified ourselves as the drum anchor winch experts, but really, having dealt with various consultations and unique boating experiences over the years, we’ve really become boat anchoring experts along the way,” Hitchins said. Two other notable products, the Shear Magic galvanized plow anchor and the pontoon anchoring solution are also on sale. The 15-, 22and 35-pound anchors were designed with a shear pin designed to break, so boaters no longer have to worry about cutting away their anchor rope and anchor when they get caught in coral reefs or other obstructions on the seabed. With the pontoon anchoring solution, an under-deck mounted configuration utilizes the structural integrity of the pontoon and is powered by the drum anchor winch. To further compliment the
catalog, the company will begin offering spools of anchor rope in July, 2021, further eliminating guesswork and wait time for customers. Vice President Christy Funk said the pre-cut nylon and dyneema will be shipped the same day as the customer’s anchor winch. “We’ve offered consultations on winch size and appropriate rope configurations based on boating needs for years,” said Funk, “so it’s exciting to be able to provide them with what they need right off the bat, when they need it, rather than ordering the winch first, then ordering the rope and having to wait for that.” E-Z Anchor Puller will attend the in-person ICAST boat show, July 20 at Booth 3817 as well as the 30th anniversary IBEX show in late September, Booth 3-2130. The “Trade Only” Tampa-based event caters to marine industry professionals and is “dedicated to advancing the business of boating.” For information, go to www.ezanchorpuller.com.
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JUNE 2021
NATIONAL 27
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PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. GREG RAPP
n April, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council approved a slight increase in the annual catch limit for red snapper for 2021. It’s nowhere near the increase some expected after the Congressionally funded Great Red Snapper Count (GRSC) indicated an abundance of red snapper far higher than estimates being used to set regulations in the fishery. The Gulf Council’s scientific review committee chose not to include GRSC data in its 2021 acceptable catch recommendation. However, the Gulf Council requested catch level recommendations for 2021 and beyond be revisited with consideration of the GRSC final report. The Gulf red snapper season for federally permitted vessels is June 1-Aug. 2. Each Gulf state sets its own season for private recreational angling and charter operations without federal permits. Check state regulations for gear and reporting requirements. The daily limit is two fish per person, with a 16-inch minimum size, except in Texas state waters, where the limit is four fish per person with a 15-inch minimum size. State seasons are as follows: Florida: June 4-July 28. Alabama: Four-day weekends, Fridays-Mondays, beginning May 28 and continuing until the private angler quota is projected to be met. Mississippi: Opened Friday, May 28, with an expected mid-season closure on July 5 to compile data and examine the potential for a season extension. Louisiana: Weekends only (Friday-Sunday), including Memorial Day, Labor Day and the 4th of July regardless of the day of the week; Season subject to change. Texas: Open year-round in state waters until the quota is met.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. GREG RAPP
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NATIONAL 29
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ave the parking headaches—one-shot your boat into position every time with one of Parkit360’s electric trailer dollies. The Force and Transformer models are compatible with almost every trailer right out of the box thanks to their ball-mounted Stablelock technology. Just freewheel the dolly to the trailer, connect to the hitch and steer your trailer into place. With weight capacities ranging from 5,000 to 15,000 pounds, these portable powerhouses can handle the most difficult parking challenges with ease. Unlike a driver who relies on mirrors and backup cameras, the user faces the trailer, giving them complete visibility and control while parking. See exactly where the trailer is at all times and steer within inches of any obstacle if needed. Park in ways that were once impossible with a truck, and have the flexibility to move around the trailer at any time to check its position. The dolly’s compact design also allows the user to park hitchend forward as a serious theft deterrent, something that is nearly impossible to do with a vehicle. All models include Intelligent Speed Control, a great feature for those looking to move through open areas quickly, and more precisely in tight spaces. The high and low speed option starts and stops the motor gradually to prevent potential damage from sudden movements, something that makes these dollies stand out above the competition. Switch speeds any time during parking and get things done faster! Have a unique trailer hitch on your boat
trailer? Easily move any ball mounted, fifth wheel or gooseneck trailer up to 15,000 pounds with our standard adapters, or try the Telescopic Hitch Adapter. It’s a non-invasive, alternative connection point that bolts around your existing trailer frame. Parkit360° dollies are built strong and secure to safely move on firm grass, packed gravel, and 4- to 6-percent inclines. Want a Dolly that’s ready to park, right out of the box? Most models include a 12V U1 Interstate Battery with all required cables and hardware. With existing features like the Built-in Battery Charger, Electric/Surge Brake Controller and a full 2 Year Warranty, Parkit360° has truly made parking simple for every trailer. Parkit360° has been in business for more than 10 years and has shipped more than 15,000 trailer
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