Coastal Angler Magazine | February 2021 | Naples/Marco Island/Everglades/Bonita Springs Edition by Coastal Angler Magazine

NAPLES/MARCO ISLAND/EVERGLADES/BONITA SPRINGS EDITION

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FLOUNDER KAYAKING FOR 'HOOS & SAILS! PHOTO COURTESY OF MALLORY HENDRIX INSTAGRAM: @MALLORY_HENDRIX VOLUME 26 â€¢ ISSUE 311

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Why Are Dealers Hoarding These 100-Year-Old U.S. Silver Dollars?

hen it comes to collecting, few coins are as coveted as the first and last of a series. And when big anniversaries for those “firsts” and “lasts” come around, these coins become even more coveted. Take, for example, the 1921 Morgan Silver Dollars. These 90% pure silver coins were the last of their kind, a special one-year-only resurrection of the classic Wild West Silver Dollar. Three years prior, the Pittman Act authorized the melting of more than 270 million Morgan Silver Dollars so their silver could be sold to our allies in the United Kingdom. Facing our own Silver Dollar shortage, the world’s favorite vintage U.S. Silver Dollar was brought back for one year only while the U.S. Mint worked on its successor, the Peace Silver Dollar.

Dealers Begin Stockpiling Last-Year Morgans

Knowing what we’ve told you about special anniversaries, dealers around the country are preparing for a surge in demand. 2021 will mark the 100th anniversary of the 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar—the last-yearof-issue for the most popular vintage U.S. Silver Dollar ever minted. But slow-moving collectors may be disappointed in what they find when they seek out these coins. Since the days of the Pittman Act, millions more U.S. Silver Dollars have been melted or worn down in commerce. It’s been estimated that as few as 15% of all the Morgan Dollars ever minted have survived to the present day. That number grows smaller each year, with private hoards now accounting for virtually all the surviving Morgan Silver Dollars. And that was before silver values started to rise...

Interest in Silver Is on the Rise

19 19 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 LY G T T V C N B R R Y E LY G JU AU SEP OC NO DE JA FE MA AP MA JUN JU AU

As you can see from the chart on the left, in 2020, we’ve seen daily silver prices close as low as $12.01 per ounce and as high as $28.33 per ounce. That rise in value has led to a sharp increase in buyers’ interest in silver. We’re already seeing a surge of interest from collectors wanting to add vintage Morgan Silver Dollars to their collections. But at what price?

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Find & Catch Deep Winter Flounder

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PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES

o all flounder migrate offshore during the winter? I can’t be certain, but I have caught them in every month of the year. Those latewinter catches may have been flounder that never left, or they might be some that returned early. But one thing is for sure, during cold weather is when I have caught my largest flounder. Let it be known that I am a lure fisherman at heart, but if you want to consistently target the largest flounder this time of year, live and dead bait rule supreme. A large mullet or shad in the 6-inch range is ideal. Any type of fishfinder rig will suffice with the appropriate weight for the depth of water and strength of current you are fishing. You just need enough weight to keep your bait in contact with the bottom, where flounder live. The method I use for flounder catching is to keep the bait in constant contact with the bottom. Pointing the rod tip toward the water and utilizing a sweeping motion, I twitch my rod, kicking up mud and sand to create a trail of dust that attracts fish. This way I can cover some water in search of a hungry doormat. Once I feel the first tap from the flounder, I pause. I wait patiently for the second and usually a quick third tap. Then I give it a solid hook-set! Flounder will hold on to a bait longer than most inshore species, and they don’t always engulf it all at once. I feel they want to injure their meal before swallowing it, which is why it pays to be patient and wait until they’ve got the hook in their mouth before driving the point home. The best area to target the largest of the species is near structure, specifically bulkheads. Flounder like to bed down next to seawalls, where baitfish have fewer angles of escape. Other structure like rock jetties are also great areas to try. On an outgoing tide, I target drain openings where high tide flows out of the marshes. These drains can be small, 1 to 2 feet of width is all it takes. As long as the marsh behind the drain has enough water to hold bait, it’s perfect. Flounder will stage at the opening of a large drain as well, but no drain is too small, and I feel the smaller ones can easily be dismissed and easily missed. One final note is on tide direction and strength. During a strong outgoing tide, flounder use the tide as easy transportation to open water and focus more on swimming than feeding. I tend to avoid the strong outgoing tide when targeting migrating flounder. Be safe, stay warm, and get out there to catch the largest flounder of your life.

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KAYAKING FOR

A DAY OF DOUBLES By Brian Nelli

n offshore kayak fishing, many of the milestones we pursue come in the form of knocking off “bucket list” fish. Sailfish is at the top of that list for a lot of anglers in South Florida. The sailfish is a great achievement, but there is one fish that many either write off as improbable or just a dream. That fish is the wahoo. One of the fastest fish in the ocean, it bounces around in kayak anglers’ heads with the question of could today be the day. I’ve been a South Florida kayak fishing guide since 2010. Here, where the currents of the Gulf Stream swing so close to coast, it is possible to launch a kayak from the beach in pursuit of offshore species. I have been fortunate to assist clients in catching multiple wahoo over the years. To give an idea of how special this is, my best year for wahoo saw just six of these speedy fish landed in 150 offshore kayak trips. Now what do you think the chances are of catching two in one trip? How about two at the same time? That is where our story begins. Two days after the December new moon phase, winds were light and the ocean was flat calm. My two clients and I were running live goggle eyes on 60-pound wire stinger rigs tied to 40-pound Yozuri Hybrid Line. We were geared with Shimano Spheros 10k reels paired with Crowder Rods E-Namic 6’6” 15- to 40-pound rods. At dawn, we headed roughly a mile from shore and started slow trolling. All hell broke loose within the first hour. It was a double hook-up on sailfish! The fish pulled my two clients in opposite directions. After screaming directions and running back and forth to each angler, we managed to secure both fish for a great photo before release. That sailfish double already made it a great day, but there was more to come.

8 NATIONAL

FEBRUARY 2021

We regrouped and got baits back out in search of another bite. At about 11 a.m., we approached a slight rip line near 150 feet of water. There was very little current and next to no surface action for most of the day, so we slowed down to stick in the rip area. Ten minutes in, I noticed one rod bounce hard and then take off. It was a good high-speed run and then line went slack. I screamed to keep reeling no matter what, as this is typical for a wahoo strike. Sure enough, the fish came tight again for another run to the bottom. As I yelled to one angler, the other client’s rod started bouncing. He reeled down, and there was head thrashing on surface. The fish circled the yak twice, and I

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gaffed the 29-pound wahoo within minutes. Once we got that one, I knew by its behavior the first fish was going to be a wahoo, as well. I was excited and shaking. I’ve been hunting a double wahoo for a decade or more. Ten minutes later, with that first fish safely in-hand, I let out a scream heard round the world, “We did it! DOUBLE WAHOO!” Brian Nelli operates Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters offering inshore and offshore kayak fishing trips out of South Florida. Contact him at Brian@tckayakfishing.com and check out his website at www.tckayakfishing.com.

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earlier, the biggest trout caught during February and March will eat crappie-sized jigs… so, there goes that theory. For the most part, though, I like bigger shrimp to eliminate as many of the dink trout bites as possible, but even the dinks will give the biggest shrimp you throw a whack. When you miss a bite, I always say, “don’t Tim Barefoot worry about it, it’s a dink.” Trout always eat a shrimp from behind, so they can fold the shrimp up and swallow it with the horn going forward. his is the time of year when the inshore bite can slow down or get hot as a firecracker, especially for speckled trout. Always. A missed bite usually means the fish didn’t have a mouth large Right now, bait size can make all the difference between enough to “inhale” your shrimp backwards. Another key ingredient stacking ’em up and getting to getting bites in cold water skunked. Live baits are is the speed of the retrieve. really the best bet when This is a perfect situation to things get tough, but for use a sliding cork or a fixedhard-headed anglers—like depth cork. For example: If me—who prefer artificials, you’re in water 6 feet deep it’s important to use smaller and you want to slow the profile baits and slow down bait way down, set the stop the retrieve considerably. at 5 feet and just let the As a matter of fact, I cork stand up and drift the know a guy who scales same speed as the current, down to crappie-size or if there is no current, jigs through the coldest just barely slow-take a stretches of February and wind on the reel to keep March. the bait moving forward. I prefer a smaller Don’t twitch the bait, just version of the same shrimp barely move it forward, and I always use. I normally always use a shrimp scent throw the 4-inch shrimp on like Pro Cure Shrimp. a jig head, but when it gets cold, I like the 3-inch size. There is not a time of the year when fish won’t eat a shrimp; there’s only a Videos for this style fishing will soon be available at: few weeks of the year when they won’t eat the 4-inch version. The reason I normally throw the bigger shrimp is that the old saying, BAREFOOTCATSANDTACKLE.COM “bigger bait, bigger fish” kind of holds true for seatrout. But like I said

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n May 18, 1980, the once-slumbering Mount St. Helens erupted in the Pacific Northwest. It was the most impressive display of nature’s power in North America’s recorded history. But even more impressive is what emerged from the chaos... a spectacular new creation born of ancient minerals named Helenite. Its lush, vivid color and amazing story instantly captured the attention of jewelry connoisseurs worldwide. You can now have four carats of the world’s newest stone for an absolutely unbelievable price. Known as America’s emerald, Helenite makes it possible to give her a stone that’s brighter and has more fire than any emerald without paying the exorbitant price. In fact, this many carats of an emerald that looks this perfect and glows this green would cost you upwards of $80,000. Your more beautiful and much more affordable option features a perfect teardrop of Helenite set in gold-covered sterling silver suspended from a chain accented with even more verdant Helenite. Limited Reserves. As one of the largest EXCLUSIVE gemstone dealers in the world, we buy more carats of Helenite than anyone, which lets us give you a great price. However, this much gorgeous green Helenite Earrings for this price won’t last long. Don’t miss out. Helenite is only found in -a one section of Washington State, so with purchase of call today! Helenite Necklace Romance guaranteed or your money back. Experience the scintillating beauty of the Helenite Teardrop Necklace for 30 days and if she isn’t completely in love with it send it back for a full refund of the item price. You can even keep the stud earrings as our thank you for giving us a try.

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Winter Surf Fishing Forecast

ith beach erosion from the fall hurricanes, some areas of the Treasure Coast have developed a sandbar. To get to the best water, surf casters need to think about getting their baits farther out past the sandbar. You’ll need to go across the sandbar with longer casts by using heavy spoons or jigs or wade across the trough and fish from the sandbar. On low tide, you absolutely need to fish from the sandbar to get good results. Surf cast with 3/8-ounce chartreuse jig with a 4-inch plastic bait in pearl white. One- or 2-ounce silver crocodile spoons are another good choice, and you can cast them a mile. Bait schools have been sporadic recently, so look for birds to locate feeding fish. No birds, no fish. Schools of jacks, mackerel and bluefish are cruising the beach. They are in the trough early in the morning on medium to high tides. It’s best to fish the trough at around 7 a.m., when the sun rises. If cold weather has kept you out of the surf or from getting out to the sandbar, consider using neoprene waders. Waders are also great for fishing the Indian River Lagoon. There are a lot of jacks in the lagoon right now, with larger ones hanging around the bridges and deeper water. Pompano are being caught on sand fleas and fish bites on the incoming tide from Fort Pierce Inlet to the St. Lucie Inlet. Some are nice sized, but the numbers aren’t great. Whiting and croaker are being caught on shrimp, sand fleas and cut bait. I’ve caught some on small jigs and spoons at high tide around the trough. There are a lot of beach accesses from Fort Pierce Inlet to Bathtub Beach and St. Lucie Inlet. Although Bathtub Beach is closed, the St. Lucie inlet is within walking distance from other beach accesses. Stop and look for bird or bait activity before you decide to fish. Although the feeders are in the trough early in the morning, you’ll need to find baitfish to have success during the day. I use a medium-action, 7-foot spinning rod and 10- to 20-pound braid. I like white line, for its visibility, and I use a 30- or 40-pound fluorocarbon leader in the winter months. Make sure you retie your lure after catching a few mackerel, ladyfish or bluefish so you don’t lose the big one because of frayed line.

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THE PERFECT GRIP By John Saporito

handle is much more than just the part by which you hold the rod. It is the conduit that transmits strikes to your hands and the trusted grip that ensures a hold on the fish of your dreams. But not all handles are created equal, and each material has strengths and weaknesses. Whether buying a factory rod, building your own or having a custom rod built for you, it pays to know which handle style is the best choice for the job. This primer will give you a “grip” on which one is right for you. EVA Foam: Foam handles are common across all types of fishing rods. They are inexpensive and durable, making them a go-to option for anglers. However, foam is neither the most comfortable choice nor the best in terms of grip. It can become slippery when wet or after handling fish. It also lacks true sensitivity, muffling what is transmitted from hook to hand rather than delivering it directly. Cork: A fan favorite, cork is as comfortable as it is elegant. However, it is less durable and more expensive than foam. A lightweight material, cork offers good sensitivity and a solid grip—even when wet. Split Grip: A split grip is simply a handle that is partly covered with foam, cork or another material, and partly left bare. The narrow diameter of the naked rod won’t tire out a hand over long periods

of use and allows for maximum sensitivity, translating whatever is happening on the end of the line to the hand as efficiently as possible. Lacking coverage of their entire length, split grips are also very lightweight. The gripping potential depends on the material. The main concern of split grips is durability, as the unprotected portion is damaged more easily than a fully covered handle. Cork Tape: A favorite of surf fishermen, cork tape offers an incredibly reliable grip under all conditions. Its “sandpaper” texture may scare some anglers off, but it is actually quite comfortable. Cork tape is durable, although it may need replacing after seasons of use—much like the grip on a golf club. It promotes good sensitivity due to the thin and firm nature of the material. It is perhaps the most underutilized handle type of all. Heat-Shrink Vinyl: A cork-tape lookalike, vinyl permits excellent sensitivity, is comfortable, and provides good gripping grip materials are available for the rods that meet ability. It is both durable and inexpensive. Many anglers turn to heat-shrink vinyl as an easy your needs. Then, the decision will practically make itself. replacement for worn handles on well-used rods. In the end, selecting a handle doesn’t need to be a confusing affair. Evaluate which qualities you Lifelong fisherman and student of predatory fish, seek in a rod, how the rod will be used, and which visit John Saporito online at guerillaangling.com.

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Capt. Bill D’Antuono Be ready for battle though and make that first shot count. An

Get Out There!

erroneous shot on a cobia will cost you dearly and even if you get a good shot, best of luck to you! Personally, I have a customized speargun with multiple spears that ensures I have an underwater advantage. Mutton snapper and mangrove snapper will be targeted as well. Mangroves will be stacked up on many spots and provide solid table fare. I always mention the artificial reefs for many fish, but definitely do not discredit the newly placed reefs, they hold nice fish! Mutton snapper tend to be in deeper water. We find them on deeper live bottom spots and sometimes in the sand off of wrecks. Be ready and check off into the sand because it can be ‘mutton mania’ this time of year on any deeper spot. As always, check my Instagram pages for our latest catches and give me a follow. Offshore Naples | offshorenaples.com | 904-866-5050

et yourself a 5mm wetsuit and get out there! Winter time spearfishing is hot! What a cobia run we have had in recent months. Many anglers and spearos got their personal best cobia since local water temperature dipped into the 70’s. Cobia migrate from the panhandle south into our waters early winter bringing one of the most desirable fish right into our back yards. Cobia then hang around Florida Bay and Florida Keys until the water begins to warm and back up the SWFL coast. So far, we have seen cobia upwards of 80 pounds with many other sizeable ones being landed. Spearfishing for cobia is truly one of the most exciting hunts a spearo can do. Any high relief structure can hold these aquatic warriors when the run is on.

2 NAPLES | FEBRUARY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/NAPLES/

SWFL Freshwater Scene H

Capt. Roan zumFelde

ere comes February, not one of the best fishing months in Southwest Florida. Coming off of a terrible start to January with red tide in our salt waters high water in the Everglades canals and Okeechobee, lots of people trying to fish just about everywhere, what can we say but “Rots of ruck, Shaggy”. Not sure where to start other than I would expect to have some water levels in Okeechobee coming down I hope; fishing there has been a little hit and miss due to very

Sto g ie

-_W ate rm elo n_ C

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high water. Try and find scattered grass in The Monkey Box area and look for hard shell bottom for the bedding fish. The fishing on Lake Trafford should still be productive for crappie and bass should be bedding around any cover you can find. The Everglades canals should be picking up steam and coming around to some good fishing. Hopefully the water has come way down and the fish are more concentrated. If we have had a mild winter with no freezes (insert prayer), the fishing for the different cichlid species should be good and getting better coming into March and the bass should be on fire. Most of the fish are still going to react better to slower presented baits and the bass should hit well on Senko type baits. I would expect the cichlids to hit smaller grub type jigs and Ned rigs, bass too, especially Ned jigs. We carry a full line of Wyze Guys Ned Jigs at the shop. I like to rig the Senko’s with a single hook or wacky style and it seems the 4 inch and 5 inch work the best in Green Red flake. For flies this month you are going to do well on poppers for the bass and sinking or weighted patterns for everything else. Last month’s fly of the month should be a killa on both bass and cichlids! Good luck and good fishing and I hope everyone is able to get vaccinated. Come visit Mike and me at Mike’s Bait House and Indian Pass Outfitters on Danford Street, next to Bayview Park in Naples and we can talk fishing. We carry a full line of tackle including: fly fishing needs and both saltwater and freshwater gear, food, drink, and bait. Thanks and good fishing. Roan z Mike’s Bait House | Mikesbaithouse.com Indianpassoutfitters.com | 239-775-2248 | C- 239-269-4426

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Jack

Pot

By Capt. Brian Boxx

ur annual dose of cold fronts has been blasting their way through our area. Choppy seas, chilly days and blustery winds bring less than ideal conditions. This Floribbean would happily pass, but you can always find a way to get bent if you’re willing to try. Finding a nice bay or creek out of the direct wind can greatly improve your comfort for the day. For those that do not wish to challenge the fury of Old Man Winter, then you my friend, are in luck. We live in the magical land of South Florida and the temperatures will be back to “paradise degrees” in a matter of days. So, sit back, prep your gear and get ready to enjoy that perfect bluebird sky. In the backwaters, huge Jack Crevalle are crushing baits. With its sickle tail and streamline body, this fish is built for speed and maneuverability, earning it the nickname “Canal Tuna". These bruisers will put any in-shore setup to the test. Jacks are not very picky eaters and will slam just about anything you place in front of them. My personal favorite is top water, using Storm lure’s “Chugg Bugg". The hits are literally explosive, followed by the symphony of screaming drag with braided

line peeling through the rod guides. This never ceases to bring me that thrill I crave as an angler. For the kids, try trolling a shallow diving jerk bait like the Bomber Long A. Locating an active area for Jacks is easy. Look for a bay with a lot of bird action and watch the mangrove and sea wall edges for boiling water. Troll around 5 mph and pump the rods to trigger strikes. This is a guaranteed way to put a smile on their face and be hooked for life. The mangrove edges are alive with sheepshead, snapper, black and red drum. Live shrimp, fished on jigheads or a circle hook and bobber, have been our top producers for these species. This is a great way to spend some quality family time as it’s full of action and excitement. If you’re fishing the right spots, the bite should be almost instant. Look for a spot that has good water flow and gives the fish some form of cover. Bridges and rock piles are a good bet. Just off-shore the tripletail bite has been insane! These fish will hold tight to just about anything floating and will aggressively take a live shrimp. The many stone crab pots dotting our waters this time of year offer almost endless opportunities to hook into one. Just remember crabbers and their families depend on those traps. Treat them with respect and stay out of their way when they are hauling them in. Catch you next month. Stay salty my friends. Reel Salty Endeavours | 904-866-5050

4 NAPLES | FEBRUARY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/NAPLES/

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Capt. Armando Alejo was up first, from the casting platform, I directed her attention

A Champagne Toast

to what we call “puffs of mud” a tell-tell sign that redfish are there. And indeed, they were. In seconds Lyn hooked into her personal best redfish, fought it like a true angler and brought it boat side, and to the landing net. Paul was next on deck and he was stocked! By then, we’d lost the school but we quickly got right back on them. I asked Paul to cast 50’ away from the school and work his bait back toward the school. He made a super precise cast, “bounced the bait off the bottom” and hooked up almost instantly! Paul also, fought his fish like a champ and, it too was brought to the landing net. With what remained of an outgoing tide that morning, we worked and brought many other species including Goliath grouper, speckled trout and others. On this trip I treated Paul and Lyn to a champagne toast! They toasted to their recent engagement of course and also both of their personal best redfish. Give me a call to fish with a FIVESTAR rated service and guide! www.A2charters.com | A2charters@outlook.com 305-778-5342

e are now enjoying our best weather here in the South Florida Everglades. With the season upon us, we are pleased to fish with most of our returning clients. On a recent trip I had Paul and Lyn aboard to celebrate their recent engagement. They’d been aboard before and wanted to highlight this milestone in their life with us (I was truly humbled). We ventured out to the Everglades on a beautiful winter morning, with a chill in the air, live well full of shrimp and many hopes of landing some celebratory Redfish. And that we did! With the recent addition (a new Pathfinder 2300, bay boat) I guided Paul and Lyn to a school of tailing redfish in about a foot of water. Lyn

6 NAPLES | FEBRUARY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/NAPLES/

Know Where to Look

Capt. Billy Norris

ishing was great again this last month…but more challenging. The return of an unusual December/January red tide has definitely slowed the nearshore and backwater bites down. However, if you still know what you’re doing and remain persistent, there are some great fish to be caught. Backwater: The backwaters have been tough to fish. As always, I prefer to fish with live bait, specifically pilchards or threadfins. However, due to the red tide in the area, keeping bait alive has become a constant struggle. There is living bait

around, however as soon as you put it into the livewell it drops dead. After discussing the issue with several Marine Biologists, they informed me that the reason for this phenomenon is that the red tide is in the water column in almost a layered affect. Most of the time it is sitting at the surface, which is why the bait is able to survive and you mark it deeper on your machine, but as you pull your net in it quickly dies because you are dragging it through the red tide layer. In addition, it tends to hover at the surface layer, which is exactly where your livewell is drawing water from. Even challenging, we have been catching some nice redfish, snook and sheepshead. As always, look for moving water and that’s where the fish will be. Nearshore: The close wrecks and reefs were producing some beautiful fish prior to the Okeechobee releases. There was plenty of bait with a great cobia bite, kingfish showing up, and tripletail starting to arrive. We have been catching sheepshead, snapper and gag grouper regularly. As far as choice of bait, we have been leaving the dock with a variety of bait including shrimp and frozen pilchards/threadfins. Live bait is possible, however rather than use the net it’s easier to Sabiki the baits. Offshore: The offshore bite is definitely your best bet! The water is clean, there is no red tide, and most of the pelagics have pushed out farther to avoid the bad water. Offshore we have been catching cobia, goliaths, tons of big mangrove snapper, grouper, and just about everything else that bites this time of year. Shrimp, frozen baits and heavy chumming have also helped us to have some outstanding offshore days lately. If you are good and know where to look, there are some great fish to be caught! It’s expected that it will clear up soon and we're excited for an excellent 2021 fishing season! -Captain Billy Pale Horse FC | palehorsefishingcharters.com | 239-285-7710 FACEBOOK.COM/CAMNAPLES/ | FEBRUARY 2021 | NAPLES 7

Capt. Jim Kalvin

In the Wake

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reetings to the New Year - glad to see the last one fade away in the wake. Here’s to a great season, fair winds, following seas, and good times. I’ve had a run on service calls over the past few months that have all been “emergency” in nature. They haven’t been for service to the vessels, but for service on the boatlifts that hold the vessels. Not that I care – a service call is a service call. But it brings to mind an important tip that could save you a bunch of money. Regular service to your boatlift is every bit as important as service to your boat. In fact, even if your boat is in pristine shape, you won’t be able to use it if your boatlift fails. I can’t pinpoint the reason for the sudden surge in calls, but it seems like a good time to mention this fact. What I used to preach to folks about their boats holds true for their boatlifts – there is a distinct difference in the cost of the words “repair” and “maintenance”. Remember that we do “maintenance” to avoid having to deal with “repairs”. Maintenance can be scheduled at your leisure and costs are known up front. Repairs happen only at the worst times and are generally dramatically more expensive. Believe me when I say that I prefer to perform maintenance service calls rather than the emergency repair. Sure, the profit margin on a repair is better, but the work is harder, the work can be dangerous, and the client is never glad to see us in that circumstance; even though the situation has nothing to do with anything I did. Rather, I prefer scheduled down-time to lubricate chains & shivs, inspect cables, check belt wear, fix crossed cables, and run through a maintenance check list for whatever make of lift you may have. It’s a cost of our life-style and the lift seems to be generally out of mind until something breaks. When something on a boatlift breaks, it can make for a real bad day. Give us a call if you have any questions about the last time your boatlift was serviced. We work on all brands and have experienced field techs that can identify any pending or potential problems. With the new season firmly in swing, the Calvin & Kalvin Mariner Construction crew would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable year with lots of fair winds and following seas. As a final safety tip for the month, I like to use a line from the late Captain Dick Bradley, who was a “Live-aboard” columnist for Motorboat & Sailing Magazine years ago. He said, “…my answer to seamanship is to avoid getting into situations which call for it!” So, keep a sharp eye on the weather, keep and maintain a proper lookout, and make sure that your speed is safe for traffic situations in your immediate location. Another quote that I’ve used over the years is, “a collision at sea can ruin your entire day.” Use Captain Bradley’s quote, and you won’t ever have to worry about the second one! Capt. Jim Kalvin | kcmcfl.com | 239-280-6054

8 NAPLES | FEBRUARY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/NAPLES/

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FACEBOOK.COM/CAMNAPLES/ | FEBRUARY 2021 | NAPLES 9

Get My Drift

Joe Sheaffer

the bite will happen during the fall but there are times when the fish will bite on the bottom. Donâ€™t be afraid to adjust the weight of your jigs based on how the fish are biting, lighter if they are striking close to the surface and deeper if they are relating to the bottom. Trout will more than likely be the species of choice but donâ€™t be surprised catching others like Jacks, Ladyfish, Bluefish, an occasional Redfish and others. Using your electronics to mark bites and catches, using those marks you can continue to run the same drift over your day on the water to increase your success. This strategy worked great with my daughters on Christmas Eve 2020, we had a blast. Get your DRIFT on when conditions are tough, good luck and keep casting.

s winter takes hold and conditions become a challenge, as anglers we need to think about different presentations that can help us be successful. This time of year, colder water temps and very low water make it very difficult to fish in shallow areas unless you own a shallow running boat. After cold fronts fish tend to be less active and it can be very difficult to get a bite. One strategy I go to during tough fishing days, finding large grass flats, positioning my boat in 3-5 foot of water drifting with the wind and aided by my trolling motor. I like drifting with the wind, which allows me to make longer casts and allows me to cover more water. I usually use a jig and paddle tail combination and I like to let the fish dictate my presentation. Many times, 10 NAPLES | FEBRUARY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/NAPLES/

Capt. Greg Poland heaver rod like a 20lb spin rod in case you want to put out a live

Cool Weather Fishing

his is absolutely the best time to get your family out on the water for some great action in the Gulf of Mexico and here are some tips to make your trip a success. Head down to your local tackle shop and get a few blocks of chum and as many shrimp as you can afford along with some light wire and a few hooks and you are all set for a fun day on the water. I like to use a light spinning rod with braided line and a 20lb mono leader that is about the length of the rod, tie a trace of light wire to the mono or use a small swivel then either a jig head or a circle hook and a shrimp. When you get out into the gulf and see the other boats be sure to give them plenty of room and above all else don’t set up in somebody’s chum slick or they might throw egg sinkers your way! Now that you have found your spot chum heavy and the fish will find you, it usually takes 15-20 min so it will give you time to rig up a

bait. Just a few weeks ago, I was anchored up next to a fellow guide and we were power chumming and catching good sized macks when he put out a blue runner on a bobber for a shark and ended up catching a kingfish that bottomed out a 40lb scale. We both had great charters and caught plenty of macks, a few nice sharks, but I must admit I am still jealous of that big kingfish! The Gulf is a great place to fish and you have opportunities at so many species so get out on the water and have some fun with the family. Most tackle shops I have been in lately, have a great selection of tackle including the tackle in this article, and have put together a box of everything you will need for a day in the Gulf along with the finest custom fishing rods on the water. Hope to see you out on the water and if you would like to get out on my boat contact me below. gregpoland@icloud.com | www.gregpoland.com 305-393-3327

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for the drop offs. Use a number 2/0 circle hook. Place a split shot

Capt. Neil Eisner about a foot up on the leader. Over the years I find a smaller

Keep it Fun S

o, the grandkids are coming down for their school break and you want to take them fishing. Remember to make it fun and you will create an angler for life. Keep your fishing trip to about two to three hours. Don’t overdo it, kids get bored easily. Target ladyfish, you and the kids will have a blast. The fish jump like tarpon, that’s how they got the nickname, the poor man’s tarpon. Ladyfish are easy to find and catch. You can find them around the passes and in deep holes when you’re fishing the back country. They are also off the grass flat edges. Just look

shrimp works best for bait. If your kids are old enough to cast, have them cast and use a slow retrieve. If they’re too young to cast, just drift over the deep hole or cut. Try using a popping cork when you are drifting. When you’re back over shallow water, bring the boat back around and start the drift again. I like using a lead head jig 1/4 oz tipped with a shrimp. I cast out as I can and change my speed of the retrieve. This will change the depth of the jig, so I work all depths of the water column. I also use this set up and method when I trout fish. Ladyfish school up so when the action starts, look out. Who knows, you might land a trout or two, since they hang around the same spots. Want to learn more, email or call me.

14 NAPLES | FEBRUARY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/NAPLES/

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Sheepshead

Capt. Jim Klopfer catch oyster crabs or fiddler crabs on the low tide. Sand fleas

ebruary can pose some challenges to anglers on the Suncoast. The water can be cold and dirty, sending fish scurrying off of the flats. Wind can make casting difficult. Tides are so low that it can be tough getting around. Fortunately, there is one species than anglers can count on despite these conditions; sheepshead! Sheepshead are a member of the porgy family. There are available most of the year, but their numbers greatly increase in the winter. They are found around docks and oyster bars at Christmas and by February the passes will be thick with them. Just about any structure including rocks, docks, bridges, or ledges in or near the passes will hold sheepshead in February. Very few sheepshead are caught by anglers casting lures, they want the real thing. Shrimp are the most popular bait as they are readily available. Some veteran sheepshead anglers prefer to

work as well. However, shrimp are easy to get and use and work fine most of the time. Basic bottom fishing tackle and techniques produce sheepshead. In shallow water, a hook with a split shot or two is all that is required. In slightly deeper water, a small egg sinker can be used. In depths of 10’ or less, it is usually best to anchor a short distance away and cast to the structure. In deeper water, a vertical presentation works well. One simple rig that works very well is the “knocker rig”. With this rig, the sinker sits right on top of the eye of the hook. Some anglers think the sinker will spook fish, but it does not. This makes for easy sinker weight adjustments and tackle changes. A 24” piece of 30lb fluorocarbon leader is used when fishing around structure. Anglers can use circle hooks, “J” hooks, or even jig heads to present baits to sheepshead. Many have gone to circle hooks since they are required when fishing for reef fish, which are often mixed in with sheepshead. The exact wording is; “When fishing with natural bait, non-stainless steel, non-offset circle hooks are required”. #1 “J” hooks or #2/0 circle hooks are good all-round sizes. Sheepshead are notorious bait-stealers. One technique that will help anglers hook more sheepshead is to not set the hook. This is especially true when using circle hooks. Anglers will often feel a series of “taps”. They should not more the bait at this time. Instead, wait for a steady pull. When this occurs, the angler should reel quickly then slowly raise the rod tip. Sheepshead are plentiful and tasty, but anglers should be responsible in the amount of fish that are kept. Despite their numbers and the generous limit (8 per person, 50 per boat in March and April), over-fishing can occur. Capt Jim Klopfer | captklopfer@comcast.net | 941-371-1390

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Free Kids’ The Marine Industries Association of Collier County Foundation, along with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation

Commission (FWC) will offer a free Kids’ Fishing Clinic for children between the ages of 5 and 15 from 9 a.m. to noon March 6 at Naples Pier, 25 12th Avenue S. This free clinic enables young people to learn the basics of conservation stewardship, fishing ethics,

Fishing Clinic

angling skills and safety. In addition,environmental displays will offer participants a unique chance to experience

Florida’s marinelife firsthand. The Kids’ Fishing Clinic strives to achieve several goals, but the main objective is to create responsible marine-resource stewards by teaching children about the vulnerability of Florida’s marine ecosystems. In addition, organizers

hope to teach fundamental saltwater fishing skills and provide participants with a positive fishing experience. Fishing equipment and bait are provided for kids to use during the clinic, but organizers encourage children who own fishing tackle to bring it. A limited number of rods and reels will be given away to participants upon completion of the clinic. If conditions allow, participants will have the opportunity to practice their new skills and fish from the pier. This event is a photo catch-andrelease activity. An adult must accompany all participants. Individuals or companies interested in helping sponsor this event or volunteering at the clinic should contact the MIACC Foundation Event Coordinator, Tiffany SawyerSchank at 239682-0900 or email foundation@ miacc.org. About MIACC Foundation The MIACC Foundation is the charitable branch of the Marine Industries Association of Collier County, responsible for producing the annual Naples Boat Show(s) and the Naples Christmas Boat Parade. The Foundation was organized to develop, produce, and support programs related to recreational boating and our marine environment. Annually, the Foundation supports many local programs such as Kids Don’t Float Life Jacket Loaner Program, CCSO Build-A-Boat Program,

16 NAPLES | FEBRUARY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/NAPLES/

Freedom Waters Foundation, Friends of Rookery Bay, Junior Deputy, Keep Collier Beautiful, Miss Marine Queen Scholarship Pageant, and the Naples Community Sailing Clinic. As a charitable nonprofit, the Foundation seeks sponsorships and donations to help support its programs and charitable contributions. A majority of Foundation funding comes from boat donations. Donors can give a boat, even if it’s not in running condition (some exceptions may apply) for a tax deduction. The Foundation will make all the arrangements to pick up and sell the vessel at no cost to the donor. Donors receive the full fair market value as a lawful

IRS tax deduction. For more information about donating to the MIACC Foundation or for a schedule of events, visit www.MIACC.org or Like the Facebook Fan page Facebook. com/MarineIndustries.

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West is Best for Big Carbo Spearfishing Capt. Chad Carney

35 to 90-nautical miles (nm) offshore & run from N of the Middle Grounds, S past Tampa Bay & SWFL, to the Tortugas Bank. (See oceangrafix.com for NOAA Chart #11006.) Up to 40-nm apart, the lines depict scattered limestone coral & sponge encrusted ledges. A few with 30-ft relief, but most only 1 to 5-ft. Like the numerous crumbling wrecks & pot holes, also in this huge W FL area, big carbos love the tight holes & cracks!! Shooting a big carbo is on top of all spearos 2021 lists. They’re smart, get over 100#s, photogenic, taste great & often win tournaments! In my home town, the St Pete Open, is a huge tourney & the best aggregate stringer won’t cut it. The top carbo wins it! (They’re always deep west FL fish!)

Chad’s personal best, 23# hogfish.

ar more big Black Groupers are found offshore of Florida’s W coast, between the 20 & 30-fathom lines, than anywhere else in the state. These old coast lines parallel the FL coast,

Steve & Chad, 87# carbo. The 87# silhouetted carbo photo was shot in 175-ft offshore of Anna Maria Island by Steve Bryan along the 30-fathom line. The grouper rocked up leaving a bad shot & a silt-out to follow. Low on time & gas he had to ascend empty handed. Back drops are often needed, & after 3 deep dives, I was the loner left with maybe enough gas. Following his directions, I spotted the hole with some smoke puffing out & a huge hogfish looking in at it. “So, do I shoot the hog & maybe silt-out the hole again, losing the black?” Bang! Stoned the hogfish & shot the black & yanked it out! Steve’s spear wasn’t coming out & exertion is not wise, so you see it in the photo. Bonus, the 23# hogfish became my new personal best! (My backdrop save was 1 of 5 I’ve made on buddie’s carbos.) Spearing Tips: Get a long-range free shaft speargun & mount 2 more spears & a narrow spot light. Line shafts are slow & can be entangling, occasionally drowning a big fish shooter. I know guys missing fingers. A stiletto knife, a hoop stringer, Dyneema or Kevlar gloves. Long freedive fins & a low volume opaque skirt mask. All spearos get a good buddy & training. Be prepared for many drops. Technical Spearfishing & Tech Dive Training is recommended deeper than 132-ft. Florida Skin Diver | floridaskindiver.com | 727-423-7775 18 NAPLES | FEBRUARY 2021 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/NAPLES/

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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.

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.

ishing Cli F s n d

— Photos by Carol Cassels

Kids Fishing Clinic Sponsor

Sponsored by:

Teaching children a lifelong hobby, instilling appreciation for our marine environment and providing fun, family outings are the objectives of the Kids’ Fishing Clinic. Over 200 children and 60 volunteers participate in this community event hosted by the MIACC Foundation & Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Sponsorship Opportunities T-shirt Back Logo - $1,000 T-shirt Sleeve Logo - $2,000 Participant Backpack - $500 (Sponsor must provide minimum 250 backpacks) Fisherman’s Hand Towel - $500 (Sponsor must provide minimum 300 towels)

Company Name: _________________________________________________

Your Logo

Contact Name: ____________________ Phone Number: ________________ Email Address: __________________________________________________

Deadline: Friday, February 19th Make Checks Payable to MIACC Foundation PO Box 9887, Naples, FL 34101 The Marine Industries Association of Collier County Foundation, Inc. is a tax exempt charitable 501(c)3

For more information contact Marine Industries Foundation at: Foundation@MIACC.org or (239) 682-0900

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redfish is first ande. h t h g u rrill ca oca Gr Brothers Corey & Kyle Zumstein Troy Fe rf fishing in B u s fishing the Marco Bridge. e il h w

Chad Green with a nice 34â€? snook.

Charlotte Wess caught a nice red with Redfish Robâ€™s Charters.

lmost aught a ! c s a h ocky there 11 yo R y species out r e v e

Diana F or nice Bo espring with a keellia sheeps couple head.

Jason & Sam Rundorff sharing a couple Everglades largemouth caught with JoGene Holaway.

Jacob w largem ith a nice outh ba ss.

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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Vincent Canabal got this shot of a lemon shark swimming gracefully over a shallow reef.

SHARK

AWARENESS W

By John Lidington

intertime is shark time off south Florida’s Atlantic coast! Yearround populations of lemon, bull and reef sharks swell as thousands of migrating blacktip sharks move through. The concentration of hammerheads, which feed on blacktips, also goes up. If you poll dive tourists on what marine animals they most want to see, you’ll find sharks at the top of the list. In Palm Beach County, Pura Vida Divers focuses on February as “Shark Month.” This “sharky” time maximizes the probability divers will encounter sharks in the wild. But for those who want more than a passing encounter, February is a great time to take the PADI AWARE Shark Conservation Specialty course. Anyone diving in the ocean will have some thought of sharks lurking

in the back of their mind. But whether of curiosity, anxiety or excitement, these thoughts generally center on shark behavior. When they think of sharks, few divers relate those thoughts to a need for conservation. The shark conservation course aims to change that. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) maintains the “red list” of species threatened with extinction. Of the 1,000 or so shark and ray species, over 30 percent are on that red list. Unfortunately, it’s a downhill trend. In 2019, the IUCN increased the threat level of both the great hammerhead and scalloped hammerhead from “Endangered” to “Critically Endangered” (their highest threat classification) and jumped the oceanic whitetip two levels to “Critically Endangered” from its 2015 ranking of “Vulnerable.” The shark conservation course includes a morning classroom session, followed by a two-tank charter dive in the afternoon. “The course revolves around creating diver awareness of sharks, the threats they face, and the conservation initiatives that strive to protect them,” said Jillian, Pura Vida Divers’ Director of Training. “Students will learn about these themes during the classroom session, along with details about local shark species. Once students have a baseline understanding of sharks as a whole, they’ll learn more about why shark populations are declining and what they can do to make a difference.” After the classroom session, students will head out on two dives. The dives are planned to maximize the chance of shark encounters in a natural setting. “The course is tailored to local shark species, which divers will aim to see and study during the specialty dives,” Jillian said. “Typically, these dives take place at deeper sites—the 70- to 90-foot wrecks and reefs—since that’s where we tend to see more sharks. Since winter is prime shark season, we’re usually lucky enough to see sharks on most dives. As we drift along the reefs or wrecks, students will find and identify different shark species, observe their natural behavior, and identify potential threats.” Nitrox is recommended, though not required, for these dives. If you aren’t enriched-air certified yet, ask about that, too. Contact Pura Vida Divers at (561) 840-8750 and see their website at www.puravidadivers.com.

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Gyotaku G yotaku is a Japanese art form that replicates a catch with a print made from the actual fish. Gyotaku artists can produce a beautiful representation of your catch at a fraction of the cost of traditional taxidermy, and the final product might also compliment your home better than a giant 3D mount. Even better, you can attempt this art for yourself. While providing the satisfaction of catching and memorializing the fish yourself, if you’re quick enough with the process, you can still enjoy eating it. You will need: • A fish • Acrylic paint and paintbrushes • Paper towel • Rice paper or cloth After a long day on the water, the last thing you’ll want to do is start painting a fish. The sooner you get to a print, the better the final product will be. However, it is fine to leave your catch on ice overnight or even freeze it. If you freeze it, make sure it’s as flat as possible and its fins aren’t squished. Fins damage easily when shoved up against the back of the freezer. When you’re ready to start, the first step is to dry the fish. Open all the fins and dry out all the crevices. The drier the fish is, the more readily it will receive paint and transfer it back to your canvas. Next, use rolls of paper towels to prop open and extend the dorsal, pelvic and anal fins and tail. Use bits of paper towel shoved into the gills to give them depth in the final product, as well as propping up the pectoral fin for the same reason. Consider colors of the fish for your paints as well as for which color

16 FLORIDA

FEBRUARY 2021

By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon

paper or cloth you want to use for the background. Then cut a manageable sized piece. Typically, white or black backgrounds produce the best outcome. Apply paint directly to the fish while standing above it. Keep in mind that you want to achieve a two-dimensional image. If you paint too far over the top of its head or too far under its belly, your final image will look obese. This is especially important to keep in mind with rounder fish, like tuna. Have fun with all the details, and don’t forget the eyeball and even small amounts of paint on the teeth. Next, lay the cloth or paper over the painted fish and rub your fingers over it, starting from the center and working to the edges. Be delicate and thorough, touching every ridge on every fin, every contour, every scale and every tooth you painted. Slowly peel off the paper or cloth, let it dry, and then touch up the details. Any fish works for this process, but ones with more pronounced scales, like a snapper, produce a much more detailed print. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Reel Lucky Fishing Charters out of St. Petersburg, Fla. Contact them at (504) 920-6342.

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Impressive IGFA

By CAM Staff

2020 World Records R

ecords are made to be broken, and with so many species and line-class records out there for anglers to chase, the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) is constantly updating its records. Here’s a quick look at some of the most impressive IGFA records caught and confirmed in 2020.

JUDY LANGENHOVEN Giant African threadfin inhabit waters of the Atlantic coast of Africa and grow quite large. The IGFA all-tackle world record weighed more than 122 pounds. Last July, Judy Langenhoven used a McCarthy paddletail and 30-lb. test to land a 93-pound,11-ounce behemoth from Angola’s Kwanza River. It took her more than an hour to subdue the beast, which set a new Women’s 30-lb. line class record.

JULIETH CASTRO SANCHEZ

RAY YAMAO A big brown trout from Japan might be the most impressive salmonid record from 2020. Angler Ray Yamoa caught the monster 26-lb., 10-oz. brown on Aug. 8, while trolling an Ora Minnow plug on Japan’s Lake Shikotsu. Averaging 870 feet deep, Shikotsu is a 30-squaremile caldera lake that maintains stable temperatures year-round thanks to volcanic influence. It is most famous among anglers for salmon, but it obviously grows big trout, too. Yamoa’s giant brown trout set a new 30-lb. line class world record.

EMILY ROSE HANZLIK

How’d you like to haul up something like this on your next bottom-fishing trip? Julieth Castro Sanchez was jigging a Williamson jig out of Esterillos Oeste, Costa Rica when a giant Pacific cubera snapper yanked on her line. The big snapper weighed in at 70 pounds, 8 ounces, which was good enough for a new Women’s 50-pound line class record. The all-tackle world record, caught off Costa Rica in 1988, weighed 78 pounds, 12 ounces.

Hanzlik is a 15-year-old fishing fanatic with 29 IGFA world records to her name. In 2020, she tallied two records that have already been accepted by IGFA, and her third of the year was still pending at presstime. Last June was good to Hanzlik. On June 12, she set a new women’s 20-lb. line class record with a 22-lb., 6-oz. grass carp from the canals of West Palm Beach, Fla. Then, on June 23, she set the junior class record for jack crevalle at 32 lbs., 10 oz. The jack crevalle Hanzlik is holding in this photo is a pending record. If accepted by IGFA, this 35-lb., 6-oz. jack will be a new women’s 50-lb. line class world record. Hanzlik caught it fishing from the shore in West Palm Beach. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BTT

The Deal With

WESTERN DRY ROCKS

bout 10 miles southwest of Key West, Western Dry Rocks is an area of reef and rocks known for large spawning aggregations of permit and various snapper and grouper species. Its proximity to Key West as well as the dependable nature of the fishery make it a popular fishing spot, especially for charter captains and private anglers in search of

bountiful half-day trips. Over the past few months, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Resources Commission (FWC) has been mulling a seasonal closure at Western Dry Rocks to allow some of these spawning aggregations to go unmolested by angling pressure. Most recently, FWC held workshops and gathered public input on a proposal to close fishing at a 1-square-mile area at Western Dry Rocks from May through June for the next five years. This time period is the heart of the season when several species congregate to spawn in a relatively small area, which leads to the kind of spectacular fishing that can do damage to overall populations. Western Dry Rocks is a unique environment where it is thought these aggregations play a role in supporting fish populations throughout the Florida Keys and up into nearshore waters of South Florida. Swirling ocean currents collect fish eggs and larvae and carry them northeast up the coast, where they are deposited. Also, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) has conducted tagging studies, which show permit from throughout the Lower Keys travel up to 50 miles to the annual aggregation at Western Dry Rocks. FWC data shows angler effort absolutely centers around known aggregation areas, which makes sense. Numerous Keys fishing guides are understandably unhappy about the prospect of a closure. Permit, yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper and gray snapper are all known to aggregate at Western Dry Rocks from April through July. Other species, such as black, Nassau and gag groupers, aggregate at Western Dry Rocks during the cooler months, and they are already protected by seasonal bag limits. BTT has called out for an even longer, four-month closure from April to July at Western Dry Rocks, to encompass the entire spawning season for permit. Permit harvest is already closed throughout the Keys from April through July; however, BTT studies show up to 39 percent of hooked permit at Western Dry Rocks were eaten by sharks before they made it to the boat. “When spawning aggregations are protected, the predictable outcomes are more abundant fish populations with a greater abundance of larger fish in the surrounding area,” reads the BTT press release. At presstime, FWC was collecting public input prior to taking action on the proposal for a seasonal closure at Western Dry Rocks.

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lounder regulations on Florida’s Atlantic coast will be tightened as part of a package designed to restore flounder numbers. Both increased size limits and reduced bag numbers were approved at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s December meeting. The regulations changes become effective on March 1, 2021. A stock status update suggested the flounder fishery statewide has been in a general declining trend in recent years and is likely overfished and undergoing overfishing on the Atlantic coast of Florida. Other south Atlantic and Gulf states have also reported declines in flounder populations and have been making their own regulation changes. Changes include: • Extend all FWC flounder regulations into federal waters. • Increase the minimum size limit from 12 inches to 14 inches total length. • Reduce recreational daily bag limit from 10 to five fish per person. • Establish an Oct. 15 – Nov. 30 recreational closed season. • For commercial harvesters using allowable gear: Establish a commercial trip and vessel limit of 150 fish from Dec. 1 – Oct. 14, and 50 fish from Oct. 15 – Nov. 30. • Modify incidental bycatch limit for commercial harvesters using non-allowable gear from 50 pounds to 50 fish per trip. • Create a federal waters trawl bycatch limit of 150 flounder per trip from Dec. 1 – Oct. 14, and 50 fish per trip from Oct. 15 – Nov. 30. Learn more about flounder regulations at MyFWC.com/Marine.

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elebrate the fight against invasive lionfish at the seventh-annual Lionfish Removal and Awareness Festival May 15-16 at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar in Harbor Walk Village, Destin. Activities will include fillet demonstrations; family-friendly games and activities; art, diving and conservation booths; and the world’s largest lionfish spearfishing tournament, the Emerald Coast Open. Satisfy your taste buds by visiting any of the participating locations of Lionfish Restaurant Week May 10-14 to try this delicious invasive. The event is currently seeking vendors for the festival and divers for the tournament. Booth space is being implemented to abide by COVID-19 guidelines and allow for social distancing. Learn more by visiting FWCReefRangers.com. Divers interested in competing in the Emerald Coast Open lionfish tournament should register at EmeraldCoastOpen.com. The tournament is currently seeking sponsors and volunteers. The state’s 2021 Lionfish Challenge removal incentive program will begin May 21 and continue through Labor Day, Sept. 6. More details on how to get rewarded for your harvest is coming soon to FWCReefRangers.com.

22 FLORIDA

FEBRUARY 2021

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FLORIDA 23

Catch A Florida Memory Closed On Banner Year

ast year was record setting for the state’s Catch a Florida Memory program. The FWC angler-recognition program sent out a thank you to nearly 1,400 program participants who have sent in more than 15,000 submissions for recognition of about 2,800 achievements over the years. One headline-making fish in 2020 was a monster catch coming out of the 2020 Pelagic Shamrock Shootout in Palm Beach in March. The first fish to hit the scales in the tournament was a 194.8-pound big eye tuna caught by Team HYJENX. The species didn’t qualify for the tournament, but it did qualify Anthony Beau Kelly and his fishing buddies for a Florida state record. The monster tuna measured 71 inches in length. Catch a Florida Memory also recognized three new additions to their Grand Slam Tier 1 list. Grand Slams require anglers to catch three specified species in a 24-hour period. There are nine different Grand Slams anglers can pursue for different habitats and styles of fishing. Those appearing on the Grand Slam Tier 1 list must achieve three Grand Slams. Richard Brundage, John Dobbins and George Saridakis landed on the Tier 1 list in 2020. Dobbins qualified with several Family Grand Slams, a Bay and Estuary Grand Slam and multiple Inshore Grand Slams, while Saridakis got on the list with a Reefs and Rubble Grand Slam, an Inshore Grand Slam and a Family Grand Slam. Brundage made the list, with an Inshore Grand Slam, Family Grand Slam and Shoreline Grand Slam. Adam Ball and JD Malone became the second and third anglers to ever reach the Saltwater Fish Life List 50-Fish Club, which is quite an achievement. The two anglers have landed some special catches like Malone’s bull red drum earlier this year and Ball’s yellowfin tuna from back in 1986. It was a

24 FLORIDA

FEBRUARY 2021

This 194.8-pound state-record big eye tuna was caught during the 2020 Pelagic Shamrock Shootout.

spectacular adventure for both anglers to reach this milestone. Lastly, Catch a Florida Memory saw countless anglers reach the Life List 10-Fish Club in 2020. This is exciting because it shows new anglers catching a diverse array of saltwater species, not just the same few. In fact, the over 5,200 fish that were submitted in 2020 by nearly 700 different anglers reached close to 1,000 achievements. Find out how to participate by visiting CatchaFloridaMemory.com. Follow the action at the Catch a Florida Memory Facebook page.

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ulf of Mexico anglers have a couple new reasons to be excited as we head into the spring and summer fishing seasons. NOAA is looking at loosening regulations for both Gulf red snapper and gray triggerfish. That should help fill some coolers for bottom-fishers who’ve found it’s sometimes tough these days to catch anything other than snapper and triggerfish. New catch level recommendations for red snapper are expected in time for

the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council’s April 2021 meeting, which should provide time for adjustments prior to the traditional summer peak in recreational snapper fishing. This good news is the result of a massive study called “The Great Red Snapper Count,” a $10-million, congressionally funded, independent stock assessment initiated in 2016 and conducted by 21 scientists and 12 institutions across the Gulf. The Great Red Snapper Count showed red snapper are far more abundant than previously estimated using the Southeast Data, Assessment, and Review stock assessment process that has been used to all but shut down snapper seasons over the last decade. The Great Red Snapper Count estimates that for 2-year-old-plus red snapper there are 23 million off Texas, 29 million off Louisiana, 10 million off Mississippi and Alabama, and 48 million off Florida. It also showed that large fish are comparatively more abundant in the western Gulf than the eastern Gulf. NOAA’s plan is to integrate the Great Red Snapper Count’s findings into its interim analysis for Gulf red snapper. It is worth noting that even though anglers and researchers are seeing more and larger red snapper, the spawning potential of the population is still below the original target of NOAA’s rebuilding plan. Adjustments to the state-specific catch limits are being considered to account for the harvest monitoring programs used by each state. Loosened restrictions on gray triggerfish are being considered following an interim analysis, using video surveys to estimate abundance, that showed the stock size has been increasing, especially in the eastern Gulf, and that catch limits can be increased. The Gulf Council’s Scientific and Statistical Committee recommended increasing the gray triggerfish acceptable biological catch limit to 456,900 pounds whole weight, which allows an increase in the gray triggerfish annual catch limit. Action is expected prior to the end of the 2021 recreational fishing season. The Council is also considering modifications to the gray triggerfish recreational fixed closed seasons and will consider that action in a separate framework action that will also address changes to the vermilion snapper recreational bag limit.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FEBRUARY 2021

NATIONAL 13

TIPS FOR DIALING ’EM IN

By Nick Carter

here’s no mistaking it when a monster striped bass blows up on the surface. At a slow troll just after first light, you can almost feel it’s going to happen. Behind a planer board, the stinger-hooked gizzard shad begins to struggle. Anticipation goes through the roof as the bait flees for its life. “When you see that big shad get exploded on, it’s like a bowling ball dropped out of the sky,” said Shane Goebel, of Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service. “The planer board streaks across the water, and it’s on! There’s really nothing else like it.” Goebel has watched this scene take place hundreds of times while guiding the mountain lakes that straddle the Georgia/North Carolina border. He knows what it takes to boat striped bass in the 30- to 40-plus-pound range. Here are Goebel’s tips for dialing in the big-fish bite: 1) Fish Trophy Striper Season: Giants are caught year-round, but fate favors the uncomfortable angler. When the water is cold, baitfish and big stripers are forced into the shallows in search of warmer water. They push out of the main lake and into the backs of creeks and rivers, where big fish are more predictable than when they’ve got the whole lake to roam. 2) Offer Them Everything: By putting out a large spread of different baits, you’re more likely to troll a preferred meal past that big girl’s nose. Goebel fishes as many baits as the confines of a 14 NATIONAL

FEBRUARY 2021

creek allow. He might run a couple planer boards out each side of the boat, a couple freelines off the stern and a couple of balloon baits way in back. He staggers distance and depth to cover water both horizontally and vertically. Goebel fishes a mix of baits, too. Big gizzard shad and rainbow trout are big striper baits, but when blueback herring are the predominant forage, he’ll fish all three at the same time. You never know which bait will get hit. 3) Stay With the Baitfish: You’re probably sick of hearing this, but… “find the bait, and you’ll find the fish.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BIG OL’ FISH GUIDING SERVICE

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Goebel starts cold mornings in the backs of the creeks looking for baitfish. When he sees what he likes, he deploys his spread and works from the shallows out to the creek mouth as the day advances to follow the movement of baitfish and stripers. On some lakes, diving birds are a dead giveaway. Keep binoculars on the console to scout for gulls. Also, especially on warmer days, don’t be afraid to drop downlines if you mark bait deep in a creek mouth. 4) Keep a Pitch Rod Ready: Goebel keeps lightweight spinning rods rigged and ready with Flukes and Redfins. Those casting rods come in handy when feeding breaks loose on the surface. It’s quicker and easier to cast lures to visible fish than it is to steer a trolling spread over them. And nothing beats fighting a big striper on light tackle. Check out Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service at bigolfish.com.

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ome days you battle the fish. Some days you battle the elements. Some days you battle both. You know the kind of day. The one that’s chilly, windy and choppy, with spray everywhere. But you’re determined to stay out until you get a few hits. These are the times GILLZ gear was made for. Innovative gear, with performance in every stitch, is designed with a single goal: for you to be able to fish better, longer and harder— in total comfort! Take the Pro Series Full Zip Storm Fleece. Engineered with air pockets embedded in the fabric, it provides insulation and temperature regulation while keeping the hoodie lightweight. This soft, warm hoodie can handle light rain, boat spray and features four-way stretch comfort, three zippered front pockets, a rear key pocket, and is fully lined. The Waterman Pant is ideal on cooler days. Extensively field-tested on the ocean, these pants are made with heavy-duty polyester, yet are amazingly lightweight and durable. Add a quick-dry, stretch fabric for maximum comfort, UV 50+ sun protection, water-repellant coating, security zipper pockets, and these may become your favorite fishing pant. Whatever the conditions, GILLZ has www.gillz-gear.com the gear.

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FEBRUARY 2021

NATIONAL 17

TACTICS FOR TOUGH DELAYED HARVEST TROUT E By CAM Staff

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ven in the depths of winter, there is trout action to be found on delayed harvest (DH) streams where state agencies stock trout heavily under catch-and-release regulations. DH stretches offer high densities of trout that grow progressively wilder through winter into spring. And while stocked trout are renowned for their gullibility, they can also be difficult at times. Bill Stranahan, a veteran guide with Southeastern Anglers has a few tricks up his sleeve for catching DH trout. Bugger Time: “Wooly Buggers are so important this time of year,” Stranahan said. “You’re looking for that reaction strike. Swing and strip. Keep it moving.” Olive and black are perennial favorite colors whenever and wherever, and for winter fishing he prefers smaller Buggers in sizes 6 to 10. The primary DH stretches he fishes are Tennessee’s Hiwassee tailrace and the Tellico River, which is a freestone. They are very different fisheries, yet swinging and stripping Buggers is pretty much universally productive. Get Down On It: If catching numbers of fish is the goal, nymphing is normally the best tactic. When the trout are less active—especially when they’re holed up in deeper, slower runs during a cold snap—it might be the only way to catch fish. The key to catching fish in these conditions is depth. Trout won’t move far to feed when they’re hunkered down, so getting your nymphs down to them is imperative. Stranahan likes a weighted Pat’s Rubber Legs, or a similar heavy stonefly nymph in sizes 6 to 10. It’s a big buggy-looking mouthful, and it’s also a great anchor fly to fish in tandem with other nymphs. Depending on what the fish want, the Pat’s could be fished below “junk food” like a Squirmy Worm, a mop or egg pattern, or flashy attractor nymphs like a Rainbow Warrior or Lightning Bug. Or, if trout want something more natural, the Pat’s could anchor a small black stonefly nymph, a Hare’s Ear or a Prince. Again, depth is the key, so Stranahan likes a good sliding indicator that’s easy to adjust. Judge the depth of each hole, and try to get your anchor fly to drift just off the bottom. Headhunting: “Depending on how froggy you feel as an angler on a given day, you can go out running and gunning with big streamers,” Stranahan said. On a large tailwater or in deep holes on a smaller stream, big streamers have a way of turning the biggest fish. A big Zonker, a Swimmin’ Jimmy, a Zoo Cougar or one of Kelly Galloup’s other articulated patterns make a commotion when fished on sinking line. You’re trying to get their attention. If you don’t get chased in one hole, switch something up and move until you find what’s working. Sticking to the plan is important, though. You’re hunting a few fish large and aggressive enough to eat a raucous fly. Check out Southeastern Anglers at www.southeasternanglers.com.

18 NATIONAL

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201667_DOA_7.14_CAL ad_Coastal Angler_3.75x5.indd 1

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 7/14/20 4:22 PM

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20 NATIONAL

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E-Z ANCHORING Applies to Pontoons

PART II

ebuting the Hinged Pontoon Anchoring Solution and Retractable Tritoon Anchoring Solution at Pennsylvania’s Lake Youghiogheny, E-Z Anchor Puller president Aaron Knopp and system installer Don Snyder spoke about and demonstrated the ease-of-use of these two permanent solutions. Underneath the crossmembers of a 24-foot Playbouy pontoon, a Hero EX-1 drum anchor winch was paired with the Hinged Solution, while the Retractable Solution was retrofitted to the 24-foot SouthBay tritoon sporting the Hero EX-2. Read on to discover the similarities and differences between these two innovative solutions that anyone can install! Aesthetics: The difference between the two is a matter of visibility; the Hinged protrudes ever-so-slightly underneath the deck in order to lift and drop the river anchor out of the water, whereas the Retractable remains completely invisible until it slides out from underneath the boat to release anchor, rode and chain in one sweeping motion. While some prefer to see the river or mushroom anchor lifted and held by the Hinged, a waterproof, wifi camera is also available so the operator can watch their Hero EX-1, EX-2 or Patriot EZ-1 deploy the rode from their smartphone. Mechanics: Each system’s operational differences lie within hollow-tube raceways. While the Hinged system has a folding bow roller that lifts when the anchor makes contact, the Retractable system has an internal spring that compresses with deployment and retrieval. Installation: For the Hinged solution, place the bow roller head so it protrudes slightly from under the deck. Keep trailering in mind, and plot where the best-suited location is in tangent when trafficking your boat to and from the water. The sleeve of the hollow raceway, which is immediately connected to the hinged bow roller’s head, is placed directly on the edge of the bullnose/front of the decking bracket that secures the square hollow raceway

Scan the QR code with your smartphone to watch the full review of the Hinged and Retractable solutions’ performance, installation, drum winch stats and more.

to the vessel’s crossmembers. For the Retractable, install the raceway 10 to 12 inches from the front of the boat. Both solutions have four drilled holes at the opposite end of the solution (the drum winch end) to allow for further flexibility when mounting to the crossmembers of the boat. Hardware: Both solution kits come with a universal underside mounting plate with pre-drilled holes for the winch selected. Elongated slots are designed to fit any crossmember, no matter how close or far apart they may be. Additional mounting hardware includes required mounting brackets, hex bolts, lock nuts and flat washers. Both solution raceways have several predrilled holes to correctly locate the included mounting tabs and brackets to the crossmembers, and both can be powered by the Hero EX-1, EX-2 or Patriot EZ-1. The drum anchor winch of choice is sold separately.

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NATIONAL 21

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ake parking your boat or RV trailer easier than ever with Parkit360’s new Transformer 15K Trailer Dolly. Optimized for today’s rigorous moving standards, the allnew low-profile design easily fits underneath any ball-mounted, fifth wheel or gooseneck trailer. The Transformer 15K is built strong and secure to safely move up to 15,000 pounds on firm grass, packed gravel, and 4 to 6 percent inclines. Controlled by an all-new rechargeable wireless remote, the Transformer 15K now includes Intelligent Speed Control (ISC), a mainstay feature on the Force ISC 5K and 10K dollies. Switch between high and low speed anytime, anywhere at the press of a button! With a gradual start and stop to every movement, get your trailer into position without putting strain on your hitch or cargo. Mount the remote on the dolly’s handle, or control it from a distance! This lightweight controller fits in the palm of your hand or in your pocket when you’re on the go. Micro-adjust your trailer’s position at the source of those trouble areas like tight door frames, corners and trees within a range of 50 feet or more! Every Transformer package includes two 12V U1 Interstate Batteries and an internal battery charger for self-contained power that’s always ready to work. Plug your trailer’s electric or surge brakes into the dolly for added safety and control. Move your trailer with ease and get in PARKIT360.CA and out of storage faster than ever!

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FEBRUARY 2021

NATIONAL 23

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*56252177 * LIMIT 3 - Exp. 3/3/21*

ITEM 63750/56810/63181 shown

61%

130 Piece Tool Kit with Case

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Compare to Game Winner FSGWHE1030 $24.99

(4522)

Rapid Pump® 3 Ton Steel Heavy Duty Floor Jack

1499

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(1116) 1 SELLING JACKS IN AMERICA

(2535)

1199

SUPER COUPON

YOUR CHOICE OF 7 COLORS

630

SUPER COUPON

(7151)

$ 99 $ 99 13

Side tray sold separately.

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ITEM 69269/97080 shown

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19999

23999

LIMIT 1 - Exp. 3/3/21*

(1878)

Hot Dog

Compare to Porter-Cable PCFP02003 $98.62

*56231627 * LIMIT 1 - Exp. 3/3/21*

1899

ITEM 60637 61615 shown

59%

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30", 5 Drawer Mechanic's Cart

56208312

SUPER COUPON 0.50 cal. Metal Ammo Can

SUPER COUPON

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*56208312*

ITEM 64008/64011 shown

52%

(5605)

29 Piece Titanium Drill Bit Set

Contents not included.

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56231627

SUPER COUPON

3 Gallon, 100 PSI Oil-Free Air Compressors

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ITEM 64520

(4565)

5499

158

Compare to Stack-On SS-16-MB-E $438.70

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ITEM 56862

56214959

Case contents and locks not included.

Tan

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*56209438 * *56214959 * LIMIT 4 - Exp. 3/3/21* LIMIT 4 - Exp. 3/3/21* 56209438

(828)

YOUR CHOICE OF COLOR

73%

Compare to Go Green Power GG-113-30LPOP $14.99

Exp. 3/3/21*

Model 9800

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$ 99

56203480

Waterproof Protective Rifle Cases

$ 99

3999

*56203480*

SUPER COUPON

250 Lumen Pop-Up Lantern

CA DOJ Compliant

LIMIT 3 ITEM 61319/64073/64145/63958 shown

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(4480)

$ 99

60%

$ 89

Compare to Energizer HDB32EH $15.98

*56338012*

SUPER COUPON

40" x 72" Moving Blanket

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89 ¢

Wheel kit and battery sold separately.

Compare to Honda EM6500SXK2AT $2,929

34999 $

2,279

ITEM 63969/63968 CALIFORNIA ONLY

27999

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(5636)

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SUPER COUPON

Compare to Pratt Retail Specialties HDMOVBLAN $9.98

64999 699 $

WHILE SUPPLIES LAST

66%

10 Gun Electronic Security Safe

(972)

Less Than 30¢ per Mask

$ 99

Swivel Lens Headlamp

(373)

9000w Max. Starting Extra Long Life Gas Powered Generator

YOUR CHOICE OF COLOR

$ 99

(4614)

SUPER COUPON

SAVE 94%

4 AMP High Frequency Battery Charger/Maintainer

$ 99 $ 3999 Save $

ITEM 61297/63476/61840 shown

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*56328352* 56328352

LIMIT 1 - Exp. 3/3/21*

Compare to Snap-on EEBM500A $111

ITEM 63350

Use Online & In-Store

*56329809* 56329809

LIMIT 3 - Exp. 3/3/21*

Pricing, promotions, and availability may vary by location and at www.harborfreight.com and are subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to limit quantities. “Compare to” advertised price means that the specified comparison, which is an item with the same or similar function, was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. Although we make every effort to assure that our prices and products are advertised as accurately as possible, we are only human and in the event an error is made, we reserve the right to correct it.

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