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VOLUME 26 • ISSUE 320

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NYMPHING FOR WILD

Chattahoochee

BROWNS

By Nick Carter

rifting between forested banks over bedrock shoals, it’s easy to forget where you are on the Buford Dam tailrace of the Chattahoochee River. This beautiful stretch of water snakes southwest through densely populated suburbs north of Atlanta, yet riverside development is limited. There are long stretches where this river feels like wilderness— where the sounds of the city are replaced by lapping oars and the soft swish of fly rods cutting air. Chris Scalley, owner of River Through Atlanta guide service, manned the

4 NATIONAL

NOVEMBER 2021

oars. He rowed and coached and again showed us the bounty of the “Hooch.” The Angler Magazine Atlanta co-publisher Bob Rice and I have fished with Scalley several times before. Our late-September trip was another good one. The river’s wild reproducing brown trout were active in cooling weather patterns, and they punctuated a steady catch of sleek and feisty rainbows. The Chattahoochee is one of the best tailwater trout fisheries in the Southeast. It is a success story for fisheries management. Georgia DNR stopped stocking brown trout in the river in 2005 after natural reproduction was discovered. Today, those beautiful butter-bellies still thrive. It’s a unique situation that has made this 30-mile-long stretch a destination fishery. The Hooch has produced a string of state-record browns, including the current nearly 21-pounder. But before you get geared up for 30-inch trout, realize that while monsters do exist in the river’s deep holes and log jams, they are not frequent catches. Over several trips with Scalley, it seems a pretty good day consists of numerous rainbows, a handful of browns in the 10- to 12-inch range and a fish or two in the 14- to 16-inch range. Of course, the opportunity for larger fish is always present. Early in our float, a wading angler hailed us over to show photos of a 20-plus-inch fish he had in his net earlier that day. It was proof the big girls were eating, and it inspired us to fish our triplenymph rigs more diligently. After bringing several 8- to 12-inch rainbow trout to hand, I hooked into our first brown, a gorgeous 15-incher that took the big black stonefly anchoring the rig. We went on to catch several more good browns and a bunch of rainbows. The bows preferred either the small Baetis nymph in the rig or an egg pattern Scalley called a Stormy Daniels. While fishing three nymphs at once might sound like a recipe for disaster, it’s actually quite simple. Under Scalley’s coaching, even beginners catch on to the looping lob it takes to cast such a rig. Once it’s in the water, nymphing with an indicator is a lot like the bobber fishing you did as a kid. You just float down the river and watch for a fish to bite. Those bites should be frequent over the next few months. Water temperatures remain consistent on the tailwater year-round, and fall and winter offer great fishing for wild browns. Contact Chris Scalley and River Through Atlanta through their website riverthroughatlanta.com, or call (770) 650-8630.

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MUD HOLE URTESY OF PHOTO CO

Tailing the Kingfish Migration By CAM Staff

PHOTO CO

“K ‘th be lo URTESY O

F ERIC MAR

EST

erhaps more than any other species, king Texas. Some of these fish push farther south mackerel are temperature driven. Kingfish into waters off Mexico’s Yucatan. Regardless of where you fish along prefer a temperature range of about 68 to 73 degrees, which is extremely specific, and it these migrations, kingfish are looking for the same conditions. They can be found on keeps them on the move. That magic temperature window also makes ledges, reefs, oil rigs and wrecks, wherever them easier to find. With today’s technology and there are baitfish. They like nearshore subscription services providing daily updates and offshore structure and color breaks on offshore conditions and currents, identifying where plankton-rich waters exist in the prime hunting grounds for kings can be a matter temperature range they prefer. Trolling or drifting are the most of checking your phone or tablet in the morning effective methods to target kings, and before you head out. It’s no surprise that general seasonal good live bait is the best way to hook migratory patterns take king mackerel to up with big ones. Blue runners, pogies warmer waters as cold fronts of fall arrive. (menhaden), pilchards, threadfin Tagging and genetics studies have shown that herring, any bait with some silver Atlantic king mackerel push south to waters off flash is good. Switching them out and Florida to overwinter. Their numbers this time keeping them lively is important. A of year thin out the farther north you go, yet fall heavy chum slick can do wonders for can also be the best time to catch big isolated bringing them up near the surface. Idle speed is about right for smokers off the coast of the Carolinas. Off South Florida, Atlantic kingfish pulling baits. Stagger depth and intermingle with Gulf kingfish during the winter distance from the boat. Bump the months. This winter mixing zone is primarily throttle into neutral and drift when around the Florida Keys, where the December the sonar shows good bottom or kingfish bite ramps up along with the action for bait. other species like sailfish and wahoo. For more kingfish tips, visit In the Gulf of Mexico, kings spend summer coastalanglermag.com. in the northern Gulf, with high densities tracked to waters off the mouth of the Mississippi River. KINGFISH RIGS In fall, they push south in two separate groups. Some fish move east and then south along the A mainline of 20- to 30-pound monofilament will suffice, but with all the teeth in Florida coast, where anglers intercept them as a king’s mouth, a wire leader is required. Depending on water clarity, go as heavy as the fish will they move down the coastline. allow, but keep it light enough for your bait to appear natural. The other group of Gulf kings moves west A 24-inch, single-strand wire of 40-pound test is a starting point. Go lighter in clear water or with the arrival of cooler weather. They run with smaller baits; go heavier in dirty water or if you’re fishing big baits. down the Texas coast to winter2021 off the south 6 NATIONAL NOVEMBER COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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NATIONAL 7

g n i fish

THE EVOLVING ART OF DAYTIME

d wor

ithin the last decade, swordfishing has steadily evolved from being exclusively a nighttime pursuit into a roundthe-clock affair. The ongoing pioneering of daytime swordfishing techniques leaves room for experimentation to perfect personal preferences within this art. A lot of work goes into going after just a single bite, and many variables are at play fishing in 1,000 to 2,000 feet. Then, factoring in tackle, crew and the inconsistent bite style of these fish, the best way to figure out daytime swordfishing is to go do it. Although you might see little sport in utilizing an electric reel, this type of fishing requires an incredible amount of teamwork. There’s always a job for everyone on the boat. Good communication is essential, not only to land fish, but also just to set the bait correctly. Rigging a bait for swordfish is more satisfying than buying one pre-rigged. It’s a chance to flex your creativity and experiment with different styles and baits. After all, you want more than one bait on-hand during a sword trip. Whether you go with the tried-and-true squid bait or hardier mahi- or bonita-belly strips, the most important factor is whether or not the bait spins. If it spins on the surface, it will spin worse at the bottom, and it must be modified or scrapped. Personally, I like a glow-in-the-dark squid skirt on any bait, not just for added movement and visual enhancement, but the skirt also streamlines the bait and compensates for rigging errors. Once you’ve sewn the bait, slowly troll it behind the boat to check for spinning. If your Franken-bait is straight as an arrow 8 NATIONAL

NOVEMBER 2021

By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon

on the surface, send it on down. Affix breakaway lights along the wind-on leader near the bait. About 100 feet up the leader, use rigging floss to create a loop where the clip for the weight will attach to the main line. The clip is attached to about 30 feet of lighter leader, in the 50-pound range, that is then affixed to a weight. Adjust weight to the current. A reasonable go-to is 10 pounds. Again, ensure you have extra weights on board before investing in a sword trip. The last thing you want is to get revved up over a bite, come up without a weight and have to scavenge a tool box for your heaviest wrenches to toss overboard. There are a few different styles of driving the boat for swordfishing that have proven successful. Regardless of the method you chose, the idea is to keep the weight from free falling and tangling the line. Keep tension on the line while it is going down, take up the slack, and relocate the bottom. Come up off the bottom 100 feet, or so, and continue that process as you drift over varied depths. Keep eyes on the rod tip the entire time, and find the happy medium between not blinking and not losing your mind. Swordfish might swipe the bait before committing to the hook, or they might hammer it. Sometimes they just start swimming to the surface with it. All the different bites look different on the rod tip. You might see the rod bounce with taps, get heavy and not bounce at all, or just completely go slack. Whether the bite is obvious or subtle, setting the hook or knowing when to reel up to check the bait is a matter of experience. Swordfish are counted like tarpon, where the overall bite count is included along with those landed. Don’t even bother fishing for swords if

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you don’t have patience or enough love of fishing to be okay with coming home skunked. It’s all hands on deck boating one of these very aggressive, potentially large fish. If you’re lucky enough to get a swordfish to the boat, you’ll find out very quickly which friends to invite back on the next trip. While the captain remains behind the wheel, ideally someone will be on the rod with another person unclipping the weight and pulling off the breakaway lights as the leader gets to the boat. Once all that gear has been removed, there is the matter of hand-leadering the fish, gaffing it, potential use of tail rope, and heaving that sucker into the boat. There are many ways to go about this, and many ways the fish could react. Swordfish are well known for stamina and can be quite dangerous to green gaff. Be prepared for the fish to get a second wind boatside. This is where communication and teamwork can make or break the experience. Go into a swordfish trip with everything you’ve got, but with the intent to relax and hang out. You might sit there all day without a bite, so bring people you enjoy the company of, and leave the “I’m-so-bored” guy at the dock. He is worse than bananas, anyway. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon fishes with Blue Magic Charters out of Marathon, Fla. Check her out her Instagram @CaptainQuinlyn, her website CaptainQuinlyn.com, or call (504) 920-6342.

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Goliath Grouper Recovering; Angler Harvest Proposed

4 FLORIDA

NOVEMBER 2021

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By CAM Staff

lorida has moved one step closer to allowing harvest of goliath grouper. In early October, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved a draft proposal to allow limited and tightly controlled harvest of the species. Don’t run out and stock up on heavy tackle just yet. A permit to keep a single fish will come with a hefty price tag, and anglers will only be allowed to keep a smaller one. These iconic fish, which grow to more than 800 pounds and 8 feet in length, have been protected from harvest in state and federal waters off Florida since 1990. The harvest proposal is at the beginning of the long road that leads to regulation change. The proposal, with changes, must now be brought back before the commission at a future meeting. If approved again, it would then enter into the public feedback and data gathering stage before a final public hearing in March 2022. Regulations changes would take effect in 2023, at the earliest. Here’s an outline of the limited season the latest draft proposal would create: • Goliath grouper season would run March through May. • A lottery system with a $10 entry fee would issue $500 permits to harvest one fish per person. • Only 200 total permits would be issued. • There would be a slot limit from 20 to 36 inches. • Harvest would not be allowed off Palm Beach County, the Atlantic

• Fi coast of the Keys and Dry Tortugas National Park. • There will be post-harvest requirements. Commissioner Robert Spottswood said limited harvest should help better determine the overall stock of the fish in the next three to five years. “This stock is rebuilding,” Spottswood said. “We’re hearing that it can easily sustain this very small harvest of fish. We’re going to learn something from it. And more importantly, we’re going to give some access that we can give safely and sustainably back to the stakeholders that own the resource.” Goliath grouper were in a bad situation prior to harvest restrictions put in place in 1990. There are numerous factors that make the species susceptible to overfishing. They are a desirable and easy target for anglers because of their size and because they inhabit shallow waters in comparison to other groupers and tend to gather in large numbers in predictable locations. Since the 1990 harvest ban was enacted, goliath abundance has increased, and that positive trend is expected to continue. A limited harvest, managed similarly to the existing alligator program, would provide both data and funding for goliath grouper research, while allowing expanded recreational angler access to the species. The 200 permits issued are not expected to impact the population or its growth. For more information, go to myFWC.com.

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Hialeah Angler Catches State Record Peacock

f all the non-native fish species that have established themselves in South Florida’s system of freshwater lakes and canals, peacock bass are the only ones that arrived legally. Butterfly peacock bass are a species anglers are glad to have, and Felipe Prieto, of Hialeah, caught a dandy out of a Broward County lake while fishing live bait after work. His 9.11-pound, 23 5/16-inch catch was recently certified by FWC as a new state record. Prieto’s big peacock bested a mark that has stood for nearly three decades. The previous state record of 9.08 pounds was caught back in 1993. It is not, however, the largest ever caught in Florida. FWC has record of a 12-pound, 25.5-inch peacock that was not submitted for state record recognition. That fish was not far off the current IGFA all-tackle world record, which weighed 12 pounds, 9 ounces and was caught from Venezuela’s Chiguao River in January of 2000. Peacock bass are native to South America, and they were intentionally introduced to Florida. The FWC stocked peacock bass in coastal southeast Florida canals in 1984 to help reduce the number of undesirable exotic fishes, especially spotted tilapia. An awesome new fishery was a side benefit of the stocking. Limited low-temperature tolerance normally restricts butterfly peacocks to Broward and Miami-Dade counties, but recent mild winters have allowed anglers as far north as Palm Beach County to enjoy catching this species. “The butterfly peacock bass is colorful, a lightning-fast striker and a hard fighter,” said FWC Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto. “Anglers from across the country travel here to catch a peacock bass, which only adds to the tremendous economic impact fishing has in Florida. This unique game fish is just one of the features that makes Florida, truly, the Fishing and Boating Capital of the World.”

6 FLORIDA

NOVEMBER 2021

To properly certify a new freshwater Florida state record, an FWC biologist must identify the species and an FWC employee must witness its weighing on a certified scale. Anglers can check the current state records at BigCatchFlorida.com by clicking on “State Record” and should notify the nearest FWC regional office if they believe they have caught a record fish. Anglers are encouraged to be prepared to provide a photograph of the fish on a scale with the weight legible, for expediting the initial verification of the fish species and potential state record status. Contact information for FWC regional offices can be found at MyFWC.com/Contact by clicking on “Contact Regional Offices.”

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Easy Pickin’s By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

all fishing can be the easiest and best fishing of the year. For me it is the flounder run, schools of trout and reds under flocks of gulls, and the prelim to giant trophy trout time. The fall flounder migration is definitely a staple of fall fishing, and I know that it goes on wherever flatfish exist. We do have a closed season for the first time, so be sure to check the regs wherever you plan to fish. Most states have changed flounder regulation in the last couple years. Not only are flounder easier to find when they travel though the passes in their voyage to their spawning grounds, they also feed aggressively as they follow baitfish out of the bays. When I focus on flounder, I change my presentation dramatically. I like to apply scent to my lures, which gives you a great advantage when it comes to catching flounder. A tandem rig is a popular method to utilize for flounder. Since flounder frequently ambush bait by burying themselves in the sand, I keep my lead lure in contact with the bottom at all times and give the lure a twitch with my rod using a sideways motion. If I am in a boat, I do this with my rod tip down, but while wading my rod moves to my side. Finding trout and reds smashing shrimp under feeding gulls can really get your heart pumping from the visual excitement. It can also provide nonstop fish on every cast. This is especially true in the fall, when it is more common to find larger trout schooling than in the other three seasons. When fishing the birds, I use a heavier jighead than I typically do. A ¼- to 3/8-ounce jighead works well. The more skittish the fish and birds, the heavier head I will use. I do this simply to increase my casting distance, so I can reach the schools sooner and stay farther away in an attempt to

not break up the schools or push them down. Using a durable soft plastic and smashing down the barb of the hook are helpful in maximizing the number of fish you can pull off each school. If you can keep the birds off of it, throwing a topwater might pull out some of the larger fish and add to the fun and visual stimulation of the entire event. By the end of fall, trophy trout become my main focus, and this continues through mid-spring. At this time, the water will have cooled considerably, and the majority of bait will have left the bays. Artifical lures will become a more reliable option for catching trophy trout. Enjoy this cooler weather, and spend some time on the water. This is a great time to introduce young anglers to the sport. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures and Controlled Descent Lures, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.

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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.

Trial Offer Details: Activate a new monthly subscription to either: (i) SiriusXM Marine Fish Mapping or (ii) SiriusXM Marine Fish Mapping and the SiriusXM Platinum audio entertainment plan on the same device, and receive your first (1) month free for each activated service (a savings of $99.99 on Fish Mapping and $22.99 on Platinum plan), 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 (currently, $99.99/mo. for Fish Mapping and $22.99/mo. for Platinum plan). Fees and taxes apply. You must cancel your subscriptions during your promotional period(s) to avoid future charges. Please see our Customer Agreement at www.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 canceled at any time. Subscription and hardware sold separately. Your Platinum subscription plan may be eligible for a multi-radio discounted rate if maintained on the same account as an activate full-price SiriusXM Marine Weather or Fish Mapping subscription package or other qualifying SiriusXM audio subscription. © 2021 Sirius XM Radio Inc. SiriusXM and all related logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and its respective subsidiaries. All rights reserved.

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f you’ve spent any time on a boat in sharky waters, there’s no doubt the tax man has taken his due from what you thought was going to be fish dinner. Racing sharks to get your catch to the boat is a part of fishing, and it’s a component of our fisheries that NOAA wants to look at a little closer. NOAA Fisheries is considering an exempted fishing permit (EFP) that would authorize the collection of fish with evidence of shark depredation on charter vessels in southeast Florida. The project seeks to collect fish carcasses with evidence of shark depredation and conduct genetic analysis to determine which shark species were responsible for the damage. If the EFP is approved, fish carcasses collected may be outside of the range of minimum size limit, bag limit, or seasonal closure regulations. Information collected would be useful in understanding the impact shark depredation has on the charter fishing fleet in South Florida. Researchers would work with specific captains who fish in federal waters between Sebastian Inlet and Jupiter Inlet, Fla. These charter vessels would continue routine fishing operations, and if a fish is caught that exhibits signs of depredation, the fish would be retained by the researcher, isolated from other catch, and transferred to Florida Atlantic University (FAU), Harbor Branch Laboratory when returned to port. Signs of depredation from landed fish include: fresh teeth marks and active bleeding; partially removed trunk tissue (scales, skin, and muscle); exposed musculature and/or internal organs; and missing fins. The skin and flesh exposed by the bite wound would be swabbed to identify depredating species from trace amounts of DNA left on prey remains. Researchers would retain a maximum of 240 individual fish distributed across the following species complexes during the study: snapper-grouper, dolphin-wahoo, and coastal migratory pelagics. Some samples collected may be under-sized, above the recreational bag limit, or caught during a closed season. Only the captain and crew aboard authorized charter vessels would be permitted to retain species with evidence of shark depredation that may be recreationally harvested out of season, or out of the authorized recreational bag limits or size limits. The EFP would be valid for two years during the course of the study. For more information, see www.fisheries.noaa.gov.

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Serving Hardee, Highlands, Okeechobee, Desoto, Glades and Hendry Counties

Welcome

to the November issue of the Angler Magazine

Featured in this issue

Pg. 2 The Big Cypress

Robert Fromhartz

Pg. 4 The Angler Profile – Tangie Neff Pg. 8 Fall Fishing means Trophy Time Capt. Steve Daniel

Pg. 9 Meet a “Guides” Guide Capt. Joey Burnsed

Pg. 10 Southwest Florida Fishing Report Capt. Debbie Hanson

Pg. 12 Lake Okeechobee Report & Forecast

Capt. Angie Douthit Pg. 13 Boca Granda Pass Capt. Dave Stephens Pg. 14 Kayak Report & Forecast Capt. Brian Nelli Pg. 15 From Florida to the Chick Capt. Norman Lee Pg. 16 Tips on Fishing Jerkbaits Capt. Debbie Hanson Pg. 17 Mentoring Young Anglers Ly Nguyen Pg. 20 Featured Article – Mark Rose Don Norton Pg. 28 I’m From Ohio Don Norton Pg. 30 What If Don Norton Pg. 36 So, You Wanna be a Captain? Chris Norton

staff

Don Norton Natalie Lopez Amy Norton Chris Norton

Publisher Graphics Distribution Technical Director

elcome to the November issue of the Angler Magazine – Okeechobee Edition. Last month we had our largest local section ever – and this month we have another 40-page issue. Not only is the magazine growing in size, but our coverage area has also increased. In addition to covering Highlands, Okeechobee, Glades and Hendry counties, beginning in Don Norton November we will be adding Hardee and DeSoto counties. Publisher The December issue will include distribution locations in these two new counties where you can pick up a copy of the magazine. Our Angler Profile this month features Tangie Neff, a Highlands County angler who is not only part of Corky & Tangies Bass Fishing Tour Guides, but she’s also providing bass and speck fishing opportunities, as well as pontoon boat rentals, with Poga Boats. For you folks who enjoy hiking, Robert Fromhartz provides some great insight into the Big Cypress Section and the Seminole Section of the Florida Trail. America First, Air Conditioning and Heating is still offering the Air Scrubber. If you’re concerned about COVID or other air-borne virus’, you may want to check out this amazing “Air Scrubber” that has been proven to reduce over 99.9% of all airborne virus. And finally, I know we have a lot of “Buckeyes” in Florida, so if you’re from the great state of Ohio, as I am, and even if you’re not, I hope you enjoy the article.

We want to hear from our readers! Reach out to us with your feedback, fishing adventures, and pictures!

Don Norton (863) 273-4998

Advertising opportunities available!

don@theanglermagazine.com

The Big

Cypress Section of the Florida Trail By Robert Fromhartz

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november 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

his section is 38.3 miles. I took this 2-section hike from the Florida Trail Assn. website. The first section is from the Southern Terminus in the Big Cypress Swamp below the Tamiami Trail (US 41). This section is the wildest and most remote section of the Florida Trail. Depending on the time of year, it might also be the wettest. The swamp north of the terminus is like no other hike in Florida. I’ve done part of this hike with a group of Florida Trail members about 10 years ago and we sloshed and waded through water all day. The trail reaches I-75 and the hiking becomes easier, following old roads. There is a daunting array of wildlife, including a gauntlet of big alligators. Covering more than a million acres, the Big Cypress Swamp is a rain fed system. It flows southwesterly and is a seasonal river, a few inches to a few feet deep and nearly 40 miles wide. The flow of water continues southwest nourishing the mangrove fringe along the Florida Bay. Winding deep into the wilds of the Big Cypress National Preserve, this is the most remote section of the trail in Florida. The landscape is likened to the savannas of Africa, but has pockets of rainforest like beauty enveloped in thick humidity. The swamp is home to the highest concentration of orchid and fern species in the United States. Even in the drier seasons you’ll probably be walking in water in parts of this hike.

The Seminole Section of the Florida Trail This Section is 56.2 miles This section takes you through the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation and a network of vast agricultural lands south of Lake Okeechobee. Hikers need a permit to hike through the reservation. Contact the Florida Trail Assn. for the application, and allow at least 30 days to get your permit. In the reservation you will hike past working cattle ranches and the renowned rodeo grounds. Established in the 1940’s, the reservation formalized the residences which the Seminole had here for more than a century. North of the reservation, you are in lands that look nothing like they did before 1909. These were the Everglades, a vast sweep of sawgrass prairies, tree islands, and pond apple thickets. Dynamited, dredged, and diked, it is now a landscape that isn’t real, just like the expanses of midwestern prairie turned to cornfields. Only Rotenberger Water Management Area at the Deerfence Canal provides a peek into how rich with birds and wildlife the region once was. Some hikers complain that this section is one long road walk, and indeed, you’ll be walking beside roads in the reservation and atop levees for the entirety of this section of the trail. The trail continues on the levees of the South Florida Water Management District on its way to Lake Okeechobee. You end up crossing US 27 at the John Stretch Park in Palm Beach County. There you will climb the levee that surrounds Lake Okeechobee, sometimes called, The Big “O”. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

november 2021

OKEECHOBEE 3

The Angler Profile

Tangie Neff

ot everyone starts fishing when they’re a kid. Some take up the sport as adults. A perfect example is our Angler Profile this month, Tangie Neff. Although she has become pretty well known in the bass fishing tournament circles around Highlands County, along with her husband, Capt. Corky Neff, she really didn’t get into bass fishing until around 2015 when she met Corky. Originally from Aberdeen, a small village on the bank of the Ohio River, Tangie met Corky Neff, a tugboat captain on the river. She started off fishing with a Zebco 33 spincast reel with 30-pound braid line. Not designed for Florida bass fishing, that didn’t last long before she graduated to a baitcasting rod and reel. Spending hours learning how to cast, flip and pitch, she soon mastered the art of a baitcasting reel, and began enjoying the great bass fishing trips with Corky on Lake Istokpoga. She learned early on, fishing for bass with Corky was pretty serious business. Corky is quick to recall one of their earliest trips on Lake Istokpoga. Not being that familiar with fishing in Florida, Tangie was quick to show up in a bathing suit, lathered up with her favorite suntan lotion. Corky referred to it as “oiling up.” Flipping the reeds, it didn’t take long for her to become covered in blind mosquito’s and other insects who make their home on the lake. Lesson learned. Initially, and for the first couple of years, she and Corky would travel between Ohio and Florida in three-week intervals during the winter. Three weeks in Ohio, then three weeks in Florida. Finally, in August of 2017, a month before Hurricane Irma struck Florida, they moved to Lake Istokpoga. The hurricane did a lot of damage in their area, but eventually the clean-up ended and together, they started Corky & Tangies Bass Fishing Tour Guides. Tangie has an arsenal of fishing rods now, all of them Reaper Rods. “We just love these rods,” Tangie said in our interview, quickly echoed by Corky. One of the questions I always ask is “what’s your biggest bass?” “I’ve caught a lot of really big bass, but for a long time, we just caught them and released them. It’s only been in the last couple of years that we got a scale and started weighing the bass, before releasing them,” Tangie said. “My PB (personal best) is 8 ½ pounds, caught on Lake Istokpoga on a frog.” “It was unbelievable! “I knew when I got the topwater strike that it was a big bass, and when I finally got it to the boat, I kept yelling ‘get my bass – get my bass.’ “We didn’t have a landing net with us so Corky reached over the side of the boat to grab the bass and the bass leaped out of the water and Corky caught it in mid-air!”

4 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

Tangie spends a great deal of time scouting the lake, along with Corky, to prepare for guide trips and tournaments. The pair have won more than their share of bass tournaments over the last few years. She also handles much of the “behind the scenes” items, like social media, bookings, Facebook and their website. Tangie has also started up a bass/crappie service called Poga Boats, where she takes clients out and also rents out the pontoon boat. “I love going out with clients to catch a bunch of specks, or as we call them upnorth, crappies. It’s a fun day!” Tangie has three children, Cameron, Brianna and Devon, and with Corky’s two boys, Justin and Taylor they have a pretty big family. She also has 2 grandchildren, Aria and Silas, with another, Brianna’s, on the way. I asked her about a funny story or a time that she would like to include in this story and she told me about a fishing trip they took in February, here in Florida, when she set her brand-new rod and reel down to help another angler. When she looked back, the rod was gone! It had slipped over the side of the boat in water that was probably 3-4’ deep. Without hesitation, Tangie lowered herself into the 65-degree water and felt around for the rod. Carefully moving her feet so as not to step on the rod, the 10 or 12 inches of muck made the job even harder. Just as she was ready to give up, she noticed her line snagged along the surface on some vegetation. Pulling the line back in she retrieved the rod and reel. “It was mighty cold water,” she said, “but I wasn’t about to lose that new rod and reel!” As a female angler, Tangie is most proud of how well she’s been accepted by the fishing community. “It means a lot to me,” she was pleased to say. She and Corky have a host of sponsors and companies they are proud to be associated with, including Reaper Rods, Bruiser Baits, Flat-Out Tungsten, Bass Addiction gear, Lake Placid Marine and Henderson’s Fish Camp. Her favorite style of fishing, and her favorite lure? Topwater frogs and swimbaits! Speck season is almost on us and bass fishing will be getting better and better as we approach the new year. So, whether you want to fish for crappies (speck’s) or bass, give Tangie and Corky a call at 606-584-0144, or email them at corkyff2014@gmail.com. www.nefftours.com.

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Remo and Mark Beaver Fishing Lake June, Lake Placid, Headwaters Lake, Lake Istokpoga Ph: 863-655-0820 www.visitsebring.com/partners/ remo-and-mark-beaver-fishing

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■ CAPT. NORMAN LEE

Norman Lee Fishing Guide Service Fishing: Lake Chickamauga,TN / Lake Placid - Lake Istokpoga, FL Cleveland,TN Ph: 863-260-3474(FISH) normanlpm@yahoo.com

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november 2021

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november 2021

OKEECHOBEE 7

Steve Daniel

The Voice of Okeechobee Fishing Steve Daniel • 239.560.2704 • 863.885.2230

FALL FISHING MEANS TROPHY TIME

ell its that time of year when anglers start thinking about fishing for those trophy bass here on the Big O. This is the question I get the most this time of year, just what is the best way for me to catch a real trophy bass. The answer is shiner fishing. I’m going into detail about what my thoughts are about real shiner fishing. The most important thing is getting quality bait, which means getting the biggest shiners available. The next and most important part is where you are targeting those trophy bass. You have to be around them to catch them. There are many ways to fish live shiners. At this time the water levels on Okeechobee are about the same as last year so im going to educate everyone on just what I was doing last year which was a great year. Most of the big bass that my boat caught were around the pennywart mats and right now we have plenty of them to fish. When I first power-pole down on a mat I try to always fish the side the wind is blowing in on. The next thing I do is always use a big hook and hook the shiner in the back toward the tail. What this does is encourage the bait to swim toward and under the mat. Now when using big bait sometimes the bait will get in the way of a good hook up. The thing here is you have to catch that first bass which is nearly always the hardest one. When you finally get that first bass to come out from under the mat all the other bass that live under the mat will come to the outside to get into the action. That sound that is created when that first bass makes while fighting your rod rings the dinner bell for the other bass in the area. It has always amazed me how some loud noises can attract feeding bass. There some noises that will spook fish and other noises that will attract them and feeding bass will often get the party started. After you get them feeding hook the shiners in the nose, bass always take the bait head first and using big bait that will increase your hook ups. Bottom line use the biggest bait you can find and stay as far back from the windy side of the mats and make sure you feel the weight of the bass before you set the hook. Braided line also helps in feeling the bass on the hook. I’ve spoiled some of my clients over the years and they know what real shiner fishing is all about so I have to travel all around the lake to get the best bait I can get. Usually Jack Peterson at big water bait and tackle in Lake port has the kind of bait I need and having my Xtreme bait tanks in my Gilbert Chevy truck makes it easy for me to get bait and transport them to where the bass are biting the best. I have boat and will travel all around the big lake to put my people in the best areas on any given day. I’ve got a 12 gallon tank in my truck and a 100 gallon tank at my home to make sure I can get enough of the right bait for the job. It’s the filter system on these Xtreme tanks that makes it possible for me to get and store big shiners for days while trying to catch those real trophy Big O bass. Remember it’s all about the bait.

8 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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november 2021

OKEECHOBEE 9

Captain Joey Burnsed

Meet a Guides Guide Captain Joey Burnsed 239-472-8658 captjoefred@gmail.com Hank Burnsed, First Mate, Most Of The Time.

“Big” Charlie, Hank, & Big Snook, 6-22-14, Sanibel & Captiva Islands & Fort Myers Charters & Fishing Guide Service.

204 South Ridgewood Dr. Historic Downtown Sebring Sebring, FL 33870

’m Captain Joey Burnsed and I’m committed to delivering a great Sanibel & Captiva Islands fishing experience for you. Whether you’re a family with young children or very seasoned and experienced fishermen and fisherwomen, I’m focused on customer service and a safe, fun and friendly fishing trip. If there are fish out there, we’ll catch ’em! And the great blessing of Sanibel & Captiva is that there usually are fish biting somewhere! Captain Joe Burnsed Sr., my dad, and Laurel, my mom, raised me on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, and taught me all about fishing and shelling on Sanibel and Captiva. My dad had some significant health issues and passed away in the past year, but my mom and I are continuing to carry on the tradition! “Little” Charlie, My First Mate “The Rest Of The Time,” Hank is my dog and first mate (most When He Was A Lot Younger – But I Like This Photo. of the time). Charlie runs all our web & moble left rail on most pages of the web sites, or the operations and is my first mate when he is book online menu item in mobile and you can in Captiva. Charlie and Hank manage to get see availability and book a charter in a couple of along when they are on the boat just fine and clicks. there isn’t any tension about who really is the If I’m booked up on the calendar, call us “first” mate! because I often run a 3rd charter, either a kids We’re big advocates of catch and release, trip at midday for a couple of hours or a late particularly for snook, but pretty much for afternoon trip from 4-7 PM. We can also line most species. Only take what you are going you up with our other guides, Captains Josh, to eat, and a lot of fish are better off as sport Jimmy, and Lamar. fish, even if they are in season. Our motto is And one of these days, Charlie will also be let ‘em get bigger and catch ‘em again! taking folks out. Hank would like to, but he has The quickest and best way to book a a hard time steering the boat. The injustice of no charter is to book online. Just click the link opposable thumbs. in the previous sentence, the calendar on the Keep smiling!

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Captain Debbie Hanson’s

Southwest Florida Freshwater Report & Forecast Capt. Debbie Hanson shefishes2.com @shefishes2

ctober in Southwest Florida started out with slightly cooler, drier weather. The dip in humidity levels and water temperatures in the mid to low 80’s meant plenty of actively feeding fish in our small inland lakes and canal systems, particularly around the new moon on October 6th. The slightly cooler temperatures have fired up the topwater largemouth bass bite in our Southwest Florida canal systems from sunrise until about mid-morning. For the spinning gear crowd, topwater walkthe-dog lures or poppers (such as the Rebel Pop-R) in silver and black have been bringing on the most strikes during the first two hours of my trips. Fly anglers have been doing well with size 4 popping bugs in black and olive colors. I recommend using monofilament leader material when fishing topwater lures given the fact that mono is more buoyant than fluorocarbon. Mono will allow your topwater baits to run true on the surface. Plus, you’ll have the benefit of some stretch in case you have the tendency to jerk or react prematurely. When the topwater bite for largemouth slows down around midmorning, switch your presentations to Texas-rigged creature baits or underspin jigs (like Blakemore’s Swim-N-Runner) fished around the outside edges of reeds or bulrush. As water temperatures trend downward over the next two months, bass will start feeding more heavily in prespawn mode, which will mean better opportunities for bigger fish over 5 lbs.

Schooley Marine 863.634.9164 Troy Schooley

The peacock bass bite has been exceptional on both topwater and subsurface flies and lures over the past few weeks. This trend should continue until our evening air temperatures drop down into the 60’s, bringing an associated drop in water temperatures. Since Southwest Florida doesn’t have the benefit of a limestone aquifer to keep the canals and inland lakes at a more stable temperature, such as the Biscayne Aquifer does in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, our peacock bass in Southwest Florida don’t stay as active once cooler weather arrives. As we head into November, pay close attention to the days around the new and full moons with stable weather patterns. Those are going to be your best opportunities for big fish. Once we get our first cold front of the season, you’ll have to change up your tactics by downsizing and slowing down your presentations until the fish adjust to the transition. Debbie Hanson is an award-winning outdoor writer and freshwater fishing guide living in Southwest Florida. Hanson’s written work has appeared in publications such as Salt Water Sportsman Magazine, BoatUS Magazine, and USA Today Hunt & Fish Magazine. To learn more about her work, visit shefishes2.com or follow her on Instagram @shefishes2.

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OKEECHOBEE 11

Capt. Angie Douthit ’s

Lake Okeechobee Report & Forecast Capt. Angie Douthit 863-228-7263 www.southfloridabassfishing.com

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ake Okeechobee’s water level has been hovering around the 15-151/2 ft. Fishing around various parts/areas of the lake, I would say the condition of the lake is very good. The bass and crappie are moving into the shallows spawning in certain areas of the lake and the size and quality of both offer anglers lots of fun so now is the time to book your fun and productive time fishing on the big O. I specialize in artificial lure trips for bass and crappie and small live bait for bream is best. I do offer live-bait trips for bass fishing with wild golden shiners. If you only have a 4 hour window to fish, live-bait is the way to go. If you have 6 hours or 8 hours to devote to your day on the water, I suggest fishing with live bait and artificial lures or just artificial lures…all depends on what you, as the customer want to

do and your comfort level of fishing. I gear my fishing trips around my customers, their fishing capabilities, what they want to learn and enjoy their day on the water. Some popular techniques for catching bass here on Okeechobee are frogs; senkos; top water lures; flipping/pitching; shallow crank baits (outside grass edge); spinner baits; swim baits and swim jigs. A lot of what we’ll be using depends on the bite and of course customer’s preference. For the Speck (crappie trips) I specialize in the jigging technique with a 10 or 11 ft jig pole tipped with what they are biting best with. Jig fishing for specks is a LOT of fun. For those who don’t know how and want to learn, no problem, a quick 5 minute lesson and your good to go. It’s a lot of fun, and you go home with the best tasting fish that Okeechobee

offers. That’s why ALL the Northerners are here for the winter time. If you have a group of people, I can accommodate with another guide boat to help out. We can fish close together, so as to keep an eye on the competition or separate areas and compare our day at the end of the trip at the boat ramp and enjoy some interesting and fun stories….fishing Okeechobee makes lasting memories!! If you have any questions or concerns please contact me preferably by phone call. Call me old fashion but communication between both parties is way better than a text or email. By that method of contact it gives you a chance to ask questions and etc., and likewise for me as your Professional Guide.

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Captain Dave Stephens

Boca Granda Pass, Charlotte Harbor, and the Flats Report & Forecast Capt. Dave Stephens www.backbayxtremes.com 941-916-5769

rs are oup of guide her, so parate he trip resting makes ons or phone cation text or you a ise for

all has arrived here in South West Florida, the days are getting shorter the cold fronts are beginning to push further down south. This is the time of year when fish are in a transition from basking in the warm sun on the grassy flats, to getting ready for the colder days of winter. During the summer months our fish can be found on the lush grass flats all over Charlotte Harbor. As fall arrives and the water begins to cool a large majority of those fish migrate to deeper water for winter. On the top of that list would be Snook. It is very important for Snook to migrate to areas where they have access to deep water. Living in the sub tropics during most of the year our water temperatures are above eighty degrees. How ever during the colder months of winter it can drop down below sixty even at times into the fifties. Fortunately for us and the fish we have plenty of deep water for our fish to migrate to. There are two main rivers that flow into Charlotte Harbor. We have the Peace River and the Myakka River. Also we have miles of man made canals. When the mercury drops down to the cooler temperatures these are areas that our fish depend on for warmer water to help them survive during the winter months. Locating fish in these areas can be a little bit tricky. Most of the

year we look for mangrove shore lines with nice green bushes hanging over the shore lines, and good tidal flow. When trying to locate fish in their deeper winter haunts tidal flow is very necessary, how ever green mangrove over hangs are not. The main thing that people over look is the depth. Its like the old saying goes to catch fish you got to think like a fish. The main reason the fish have moved to these areas is for deeper warmer water. Once you have located deeper water you also need to slow down fish a little slower than you normally would. Often times fishing in deeper water the tidal flow can be a little stronger. Split shots work great for slowing your bait down to keep it in the strike zone longer. The great thing about fishing deeper water generally when you locate the fish there is a lot of them their. You might have to fish different areas. Once you start to learn and locate some of our deep water fish I’m sure you will have a great day on the water and keep the rod bent. If you would like to experience some of Charlotte Harbors finest fishing give me a call or send me an email. All of our trips are private and customized to fit you and your party’s needs.

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november 2021

OKEECHOBEE 13

Brian Nelli’s

Kayak Report & Forecast Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters 772-201-5899 www.tckayakfishing.com Brian@tckayakfishing.com

Inshore

ovember will bring on the cooler weather and give the fish some relief from the heat. Snook, bluefish and spanish mackerel should be on your radar. Kayak fishing the inlets, docks and seawalls will produce most of the inshore species. Live mullet is your best bet along with hair jigs and DOA jerk baits. The bluefish and spanish mackerel will start to show on the beaches and push in the inlets. Any shiny and quickly retrieved presentation should entice a bite from these toothy fish.

Offshore Northeast winds will start to push through this month making beach launches a little more difficult. Pick your days wisely and be prepared to get wet on launch and re-entry. Fish will start to move in shallow as the cold fronts push through. Look to target mahi, kings and sails in the 80-120 foot area trolling live goggle eyes and blue runners. Bottom fishing during this time is my favorite. Muttons and yellowtails will be lurking in the 60100’ reef patches. Frozen sardines, live mullet and frozen gogs on long leaders in the 40lb class will work best. Check us out Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for all the latest adventures my clients and I get into. See you on the water!

November bass'en

FROM FLORIDA

TO I

Capt. Norman Lee

THE

CHICK

t's now November and many anglers have already put their rods and reels away and have visions of Bucks with large racks on their mind instead of fish with large mouths. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, however fall bass fishing can be some of the most fun that you’ll ever experience on the water. When talking about November bass, understanding how the fish behave will most likely vary depending on what part of the Country you’re fishing. Largemouth Bass in Florida are going to behave in a much different manner then say, largemouth or smallmouth on the Tennessee River. With that being said, there are a few constants to keep in mind to help you establish a pattern, no matter what lake or state you're in. Once you find an area with fish, you should be able to catch bass in greater numbers because they tend to group up this time of the year. The first thing you want to look for is bait fish. Water temperature will play a big role here because the prey species are likely going to seek out warmer water since it provides more of the microorganisms for the bait fish to feed on. As the water temps continue to drop, the fish tend to move deeper and become harder to locate. Look for weed lines and creek channels going into deeper water. Bass will often use these areas for ambushing their prey. One fun fact about bass fishing in November is that it can be some of the best action you’ll find all year. If you catch one fish, odds are pretty favorable that there will be more hanging out in the same area. Slow down and work the spot over well, picking it apart before moving on. You always hear anglers using the phrase “match the hatch”. There is no other month more prevalent for matching the hatch, then the month of November. This means, trying to throw baits that closely resembles what the fish are feeding on. Most bass are going to feast heavily until the water temperature drops enough to put them in a sluggish state of mind. Reaction baits such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits and swimbaits in natural colors are always a good lure choice this time of the year. As the air and water temperature gets harsher, you will have to slow things way down. Fish will have a tendency to move to deeper water or start holding tighter to the bottom. This is when you switch to a jig, Carolina rig or a soft plastic bait that you could drop through thicker weed edges such as creature baits or soft stick baits “aka” do nothing baits, depending on where and what lake you're fishing at the time. Finesse techniques such as a wacky rigged worm or a Ned rig is a great bait selection for lakes like Chickamauga or other lakes of similar fashion. This technique closely resembles a minnow with its head down, feeding on the bottom. Most bass can’t resist gulping up a meal like this as it comes bouncing past them. When targeting bass on Florida lakes such as Okeechobee or Istokpoga,

the fish tend to move more towards the outside edge of weed lines with a little deeper water. I like to focus a little more on the thicker edges. The water temperature will usually be a degree or two warmer and an easier ambush point for a meal swimming by. One of the most productive ways to catch these fish is to flip or pitch, a fishing style designed for trying to drop your bait through and on top of where you think that fish is laying. It is a precise way of covering a lot of water at a lot slower pace. One of the most difficult parts of November bass fishing is just locating them. You need to forget what you were doing and how you were catching them in the spring and summer. Chances are, they will not be hanging out around the same areas. As the water temperature become cooler, the more you should pay attention to your lure size. The fish tend to become more lethargic and look for that easier meal that they won’t have to chase down. Now more than ever, you're trying to get that fish to react to the bait by putting or dropping it directly in front of your target. You always hear people talking about downsizing their bait which is a very accurate statement, but when doing so, the one thing most anglers don’t take into account is, when downsizing your bait selection, use a little larger weight. This will allow your bait to fall at a quicker pace in front of the fish creating a reaction bite that you would not normally get if the bait was to fall pass the fish at a slower more Suttle pace. Sometimes the littlest changes, such as weight size, bait selection or color selection could be the difference between having a good day on the water or struggling to get bit.

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OKEECHOBEE 15

Tips

on Fi s h i ng J erkbai ts for Fall Bass By Debbie Hanson

f you talk to most any avid bass angler, they’ll tell you that fishing jerkbaits following a cold front can be a formula for big bass success in clear water conditions. Jerkbaits are a productive option in clear water when temperatures drop because they allow you to cover a considerable amount of water quickly, while also being one of the best lures to use for eliciting a reaction strike from a sizable fish. When selecting a rod, go with a 7-foot medium-light graphite rod with a fast action tip. The extra length will help you achieve greater distance on your cast, and the fast action tip is key to obtaining the most action from your lure on the twitch or jerk portion of your retrieve. Once you have your rod selected and your gear ready, consider the five tips below when fishing suspending jerkbaits for bass.

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1. When the water temperature drops, look for schools of dying threadfin shad, and focus on fishing suspending jerkbaits in those areas. Threadfin shad are extremely sensitive to changes in temperature and dissolved oxygen. Whenever the water temperature quickly drops down into the 40 to 50 degree range, you’ll notice dying shad floating on or beneath the surface. These dying shad make an easy meal for a hungry bass, and jerkbaits are effective at mimicking the action of this popular bass prey. 2. Pay close attention to the level of water clarity because jerkbaits are visual baits. If the bass can’t see the bait, you’re not going to get as many strikes. Water with 18 to 24 inches of visibility is important when fishing jerkbaits. 3. Rapala’s Husky Jerk is an example of one suspending hard jerkbait that you can use when the water temperature drops down into the 48 to 55 degree range. There are many types of jerkbaits that are made by different manufacturers in the suspending jerkbait category, but the Husky Jerk is one of the most popular hard jerkbaits. When threadfin shad are the predominant forage, try a transparent body shad pattern to match the hatch. 4. Once you know where to fish and what to use, keep refining your retrieve until you get your lure down to the desired depth. Try jerking or twitching it a few times, then let it sit motionless for a couple of seconds. Keep repeating this technique until your lure comes all the way back to the boat. 5. If it happens to be a windy day, there will be a higher level of dissolved oxygen in the water and the bass will be more active. Try using a faster retrieve on windy days when fishing jerkbaits, and you’re likely to get more strikes. Remember that suspending jerkbaits are just one type of jerkbait that will work well in the conditions described above. There are other types of jerkbaits (hard and soft) that have been designed for different conditions. You can start by practicing with suspending models, then learn more about other types of jerkbaits and associated techniques.

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OKEECHOBEE 17

By Ly Nguyen

The Rewards of Mentoring Young Anglers

ovember for me over the past few years has been the Highschool/jr anglers trails getting into full swing. A few seasons ago a friend approached me about getting into being a captain in a local trail. Being my son was going into 8th grade that year I figured, “why not, it’ a chance to spend more time with him.” That first season was filled with very tremendous highs and lows. As any fisherman knows that is what makes it fishing. That first season gave me a rewarding feeling and sense of pride included with watching young anglers holding up their catches at weigh-in and seeing those smiles. It also included many moments throughout the events to teach humility, supporting each other and character building. As the captain, your anglers look to you for the proper areas to fish and how to fish them. When junior anglers are involved (8th grade and younger), captains assist by netting fish, retying lines, using the trolling motor and getting backlashes out of the reels. When a high school team is in the boat, you are more of a spectator and cheerleader. A fun component is that most all of the youth anglers I have encountered ask many questions and want fishing knowledge. This can lead to interesting talks on the boat. I have also found that through discussions about techniques and bait that the youth have things to teach as well. They seem to always know the newest brands and styles through modern technology. This at times updates proven techniques with fresher looks to the presentation. The easiest way to get involved is to start at the local level. These clubs focus on the bodies of water specific to your area. I believe that every county that this publication is circulated in has some sort of local youth program for that area. Because my daughter has watched her brother for a couple years now getting to go fishing. She kept asking when she was going to get to. She is in the 4th grade. This year is her first season with the Highlands County Anglers. This local club is well established and run. Giving the anglers a small taste of the excitement of going to the scales and feel of competition. These local clubs are the perfect way to get them involved without breaking the bank with entries and travel. They also help to instill good faith and character through sportsmanship. From the local level the next step of tournament fishing for the youth is the state level. This includes the B.A.S.S. Nations Highschool trail. The local and state

trails overlap somewhat but they do a good job of coordinating to avoid conflict. One of my biggest joys as a captain was at this level with my son. He and his partner won a tournament on the Harris Chain of Lakes at the junior level. That was a body of water that was unfamiliar to us. Working with him we formed a plan for the tournament. About an hour into the morning, he decided that what I was recommending wasn’t working. He fumbled around in his tackle bag and decided on a swim bait with an underspin. Two casts later he lands what ends up being the big bass of the day for that tournament. It was one of those proud dad moments for sure watching him cross that stage holding that fish and again a few hours later when claiming the hardware. We’ve also had the standard lows including fish shaking out of hands and back into the water after being caught. As well as, opening of live well and fish jumping out. Hopefully if you haven’t heard of these opportunities for your child or even yourself as a captain then this will make you check it out. Maybe you have heard of them but not been motivated to get involved. I’d love to say that is fully worth it! All clubs can always use willing captains to take and teach kids the hobby we all love. Some of the youngest and freshest faces on the professional trails are now coming through these events. Who knows maybe you could be giving pointers and shaping the angling mind of the next Kevin VanDam.

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OKEECHOBEE 19

Captain

Mark Rose T

here are lots of bass-fishing guides who will promise you a good time on the water and a chance to tangle with your favorite species of bass, but there are few personalities like Mark Rose. Mark grew up outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and like many boys in the mid-west, spent time fishing the creeks and ponds near his home. His father and grandfather loved to fish and he would often spend time with them around the second or third week in February, each year, in Ft. Myers, Florida. They loved bass fishing and he soon picked up their passion. Mark’s senior project in high school was a report on tournament bass fishing, which ultimately led him to fishing tournaments himself. Starting his own automotive detailing business after graduation, he began fishing local, and regional bass tournaments and eventually graduated to the Everstart Series, Costa and the FLW. Like many of his counter-parts, he soon found that traveling to and from the different tournaments, tournament fee’s and the on-the-road expenses were more than he could afford. In 2014, he moved to Erie, Pennsylvania, giving him better access to Presque Isle Bay, Lake Erie, where he began fishing for monster smallmouth bass. It was around that time that he made the decision to become a bass fishing guide, attending the Sea School in Naples, he soon received his six-pack, or Captain’s License and was certified to be a bass fishing guide captain.. His goal was to fish Lake Erie for half the year and then come down to Florida and fish Lake Okeechobee and surrounding communities during the other half of the year. But he soon found out, marketing and promoting himself was literally a full-time job in itself. That’s when he learned about Bass On-Line. Bass On-Line is Florida's Largest Fishing Guide Service and Outfitter, specializing in large-mouth, exotic Peacock Bass and Asian Snakehead fishing. Offering fishing vacation packages for style angler (families, couples, corporate groups and beginner). He met the stringent requirements of Bass On-Line and quickly found that he now had time to do what he did best, and that was taking people out fishing and providing enjoyable, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to catch smallmouth, largemouth and peacock bass. Mark now begins each year in Clewiston, Florida, providing guide trips on Lake Okeechobee, as well as peacock bass trips on Lake Ida, Lake Osborne and some of the canals in Naples. Then, sometime between April and May, he heads back up to Erie, Pennsylvania and begins the summer-long guide trips on Lake Erie catching smallmouth bass. As the weather begins to change, sometime around Thanksgiving, he’s back in Clewiston for the winter. Not many bass fishing guides can provide the opportunity to catch smallmouth, largemouth and peacocks, all in the same year by following Mark’s locations.

He ha

e Here’s what Bass On-Line has to say about Mark. Capt. Mark Rose is a full-time fishing guide on Lake Okeechobee and surrounding lakes. Do you want to explore catching fish right-a-way? Based in Clewiston, Florida, Capt. Mark is from Pittsburg, PA with over 20+ years of fishing experience. If you’re serious about exploring South Florida, then you need to book a trip with him. Captain Mark is a local who enjoys teaching others to fish. As a family man himself, he will put your whole family first. Everyone will enjoy a day out with him, that’s a guarantee. When you head out on the waters of Lake Okeechobee with Captain Mark Rose, you’ll have the fishing adventure of a lifetime! Hop on board his 22’ Ranger bass boat that can easily accommodate groups of up to 4 anglers on board and fishing at the same time. The boat comes equipped with full safety and navigational features so you can fish with peace of mind. A major highlight to fishing in South Florida is for trophy largemouth bass and peacock bass and Capt. mark can help you catch either or both. You can sight cast for peacock bass with artificial lures, all of which the captain will provide. Whether you want to throw grubs, drop shots, jerk baits, or topwater baits, you can have a fishing trip you’ll never forget – and don’t worry, you’ll know what all of these are after a trip with Capt. Mark. Capt. Mark will let you know about changing regulations for what you can and cannot keep if that is of interest to you. These are not a trip for filling up the freezer, but for catching the most popular sportfish in the country. When you explore the South Florida waters, expect tired arms from catching so many bass. All the rods, reels, and tackle are included in the price. Capt. Mark is sponsored by some top brands, so you know that this gear won’t let you down when going after big fish! You’ll need to buy a fishing license before the day of the trip, and are welcome to bring food and drink along. This can go into the captain’s builtin cooler. Book a trip today with Capt. Mark for an unforgettable day out with friends and family, read his amazing reviews to see what we mean. You can contact Capt. Mark directly with any questions you may have! Mark’s sponsors include Trokar, Eagle Claw, Simms, Costa, Steel Shad Lures, Gamma, Hotfish Baits, Fish USA, Galidas Grubs, Berkley, WOW Factor Fishing, Chevy/Cadillac McElwain Motors, and Ranger Boats. It’s your choice whether you fish with artificial or live bait. Mark will be happy to recommend the best choice for the location and species you’re after. And if you’re after a wall hanger, he can help you with that, having caught a 12.2 largemouth in Okeechobee in 2012 and a 7.11 smallmouth out of the St. Lawrence River in 2016.

Capt. Mark is married and has a 5-year-old son who shares his passion for fishing. His dates are filling up fast. Give him a call today at 724-333-3898. www.BassOnline.com www.markrosefishing.com https://bassonline.com/fl/fishing-guides/capt-mark-rose/

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OKEECHOBEE 21

Bass Tournament Schedule Lake Ariana ■ Saturday, November 6, 2021 City Ramp 2:00 PM Lone fishing club weigh-in, with 16 Anglers ■ Saturday, November 13, 2021 City Ramp 2:00 PM The Fishing Misfits weigh-in, with 50 Anglers

Lake Clay ■ Sunday, November 21, 2021 Lake Clay Drive East Side 2:30 PM LEE COUNTY BASS ANGLERS weigh-in, with 50 Anglers

Lake Istokpoga ■ Saturday, November 6, 2021 Istokpoga Park 3:00 PM AMERICAN BASS ANGLERS weigh-in, with 30 Anglers

november 2021 ■ Saturday, November 13, 2021 Istokpoga Park 2:00 PM The Big Show Bass Tournaments weigh-in, with 160 Anglers ■ Saturday, November 20, 2021 Istokpoga Park 3:00 PM REBEL BOY'S weigh-in, with 24 Anglers ■ Sunday, November 21, 2021 Istokpoga Park 2:00 PM REBEL BOY'S weigh-in, with 24 Anglers ■ Saturday, November 27, 2021 Istokpoga Park 3:00 PM AMERICAN BASS ANGLERS weigh-in, with 30 Anglers

Lake Juliana ■ Saturday, November 6, 2021 Lake Juliana County Ramp 1:30 PM Happy Hookers weigh-in, with 40 Anglers

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June in Lake Winter ■ Wednesday, November 10, 2021 H.L. Bishop Ramp 1:00 PM usabassin weigh-in, with 20 Anglers

Kissimmee Chain ■ Saturday, November 6, 2021 Camp Lester 3:00 PM Winter Haven Lunker Lovers weigh-in, with 48 Anglers ■ Port Hatchineha 3:00 PM Outcasts Bass Club weigh-in, with 66 Anglers ■ Port Hatchineha 3:00 PM Outcasts Bass Club weigh-in, with 66 Anglers ■ Sunday, November 7, 2021 Camp Lester 2:00 PM Tampa Pro Bass weigh-in, with 120 Anglers

Shannon Crivello Salon owner/Cosmetologist

(863) 763-0973

1505 FL-78 Okeechobee, FL

a salon that meets all your family’s needs

3605 Sebring Parkway Sebring, Florida 33870 highlands County

Business # 863-402-4605 sdunn298@gmail.com flippinoutsalon

www.flippinoutsalon.com

Camp Lester 3:00 PM Winter Haven Lunker Lovers weigh-in, with 48 Anglers ■ Friday, November 12, 2021 Camp Lester 2:30 PM KBS Seniors weigh-in, with 20 Anglers ■ Saturday, November 13, 2021 Colemans Landing 3:00 PM SMC Bass Club weigh-in, with 76 Anglers Grape Hammock Fish Camp 3:00 PM Performance Bass Anglers weigh-in, with 50 Anglers ■ Sunday, November 14, 2021 Grape Hammock Fish Camp 2:00 PM Performance Bass Anglers weigh-in, with 50 Anglers ■ Saturday, November 20, 2021 Camp Mack Resort 3:00 PM Angler House Club weigh-in, with 104 Anglers

Lake Kissimmee ■ Saturday, November 13, 2021 Shady Oak Park 3:00 PM Bass Assassins weigh-in, with 10 Anglers

Marion, Lake ■ Saturday, November 13, 2021 Bannon's Fish Camp 2:30 PM Pepin weigh-in, with 60 Anglers

Medard Reservoir ■ Saturday, November 20, 2021 Medard Park Boat Ramp 3:15 PM North Tampa Bass Club weigh-in, with 20 Anglers

Lake Okeechobee ■ Thursday, November 4, 2021 Scott Driver Park 12:00 PM Old Farts Tournament weigh-in, with 27 Anglers ■ Saturday, November 6, 2021 Roland & Mary Ann Martin's Marina 3:00 PM BASS BUSTERS weigh-in, with 200 Anglers ■ Sunday, November 7, 2021 Roland & Mary Ann Martin's Marina 3:00 PM BASS BUSTERS weigh-in, with 200 Anglers ■ Thursday, November 11, 2021 Scott Driver Park 12:00 PM Old Farts Tournament weigh-in, with 27 Anglers 24 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

■ Saturday, November 13, 2021 Clewiston City Park 2:00 PM FLPD Team Bass weigh-in, with 20 Anglers Roland & Mary Ann Martin's Marina 3:00 PM Bay Area Bassmasters weigh-in, with 90 Anglers Scott Driver Park 2:00 PM Bass Assassins of Polk County weigh-in, with 40 Anglers Scott Driver Park 3:00 PM Macdill Bassbusters weigh-in, with 50 Anglers ■ Sunday, November 14, 2021 Clewiston City Park 3:15 PM South florida Elite Team Series weigh-in, with 60 Anglers J & S Fish Camp 2:00 PM South Florida Bass Busters weigh-in, with 12 Anglers Roland & Mary Ann Martin's Marina 2:00 PM Bay Area Bassmasters weigh-in, with 90 Anglers Scott Driver Park 1:00 PM Macdill Bassbusters weigh-in, with 50 Anglers Scott Driver Park 2:00 PM Bass Assassins of Polk County weigh-in, with 40 Anglers

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

18 Indian Prairie Canal Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing

LAKE OKEECHOBEE

19 Okee-Tantie Recreation Area - C. Scott Driver Park - Boat ramp, marina, bank fishing, bait, fishing license, guide service, ice, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, showers, camping

R A M PS

Jaycee Park Free - Boat ramp, bank & pier fishing, water, scenic viewpoint, picnic tables 2 Nubbin Slough Free - Bank fishing, scenic viewpoint ■ ■ Saturday, November 20, 2021 3 Henry Creek Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing 4 Roland & Mary Ann Chancy Bay Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, equestrian access 5 Port Mayaca North Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, scenic viewpoint Martin's Marina Port Mayaca South Free - Bank fishing, scenic viewpoint 3:00 PM 6 Canal Point Picnic Area Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, Roland Martin Marine picnic Center shelters Series with tables & grills

Wednesday, November 24, 2021 Public Ramp / Placid 1 View Drive 1:00 PM usabassin weigh-in, 19 with 20 Anglers to Arcadia

r ive

Go ve rn

m en t

Cu t

2nd Point

721

r orm e ea W ov C g B ch Bi ea B Pond Canal Recreation Area

Dyess Ditch Cana

Lakeport Fisheating Creek

Fisheating Bay

Chancy Bay

ll Vi

LAKE OKEECHOBEE

Bird Island

Fisheating Creek

Whidden Pass

Iron Stake Hole

rva

Monkey Box

tio

’s Cu an m ush ts o or cT Sp r M ld (o O

Moonshine Bay

Fine Brice Pass

ho nS

Dynamite Pass

an’sX boiler chr wreck Co Pass

re H av

en C ana

Moo

Turner’s Cove

Old

Tobias Avenue

Blue Hole

13 12

Moore Haven

Gator Hole

Observation Island

iver

720

to LaBelle

Pahokee

The Water Tank Glades Airport

West Wall Coot Bay

27/80

ross Rocky Reef

The Vee Grass Island

Iron C

Joe Moore Hole Mayaca Cut

720

Calo

King’s Bar Shoal

Horse Island

Dup Barree

Harney

tche

Clewiston

West

Road

ut Pa m ss

Belle Glade

nal

St.

Botto

27/80

South Bay

North New River Canal

i C a

NW 1st Avenue

Bay

Hooker Highway

Lake Harbor

Torry Island

715

’s B

South Bay

Pass

nie

Ritta Island

The

Win

Industrial Canal

■

Morgan

Kreamer Pelican Bay Island

East Wall

■ Saturday, November 6, 2021 - Boat ramp, boat rentals, marina, 7 Pahokee Marina/Campground camping, bank & pier fishing, cabin rentals, water, restrooms, pool Public Ramp / Placid 8 Paul Rardin Park Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, picnic shelters with View Drive 10 tables & grills, water, restrooms, scenic viewpoint 3:00 PM Tournament directors have until the day before their tournament to schedule or make 9 Slim’s Fish Camp - Guide services, bait & tackle, RV & camping, marina changes to their tournament exemption. This exemption allows the tournament South Florida19 Bass 13 to have JohnClub Stretch Park Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, Moore Lock & from Dam Free participants anHaven exemption fish -length limits, but not bag limits, while participating in the All fish shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, weigh-in, with 20picnic Anglers Banktournament. & pier fishing (south sideareof required river) to be handled as stipulated in scenic viewpoint, play area, dump station 11 Clewiston City Park Free - Boat ramps, Saturday, November 13, 2021 bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables Public Ramp / Placid & grills, scenic viewpoint 12 Alvin Ward Park Free - Boat ramp, bank View Drive 7:00 PM & pier fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, play area

15B

ha osa

3rd Point Tin House Cove

441

■ Sunday, November 28, 2021 Public Ramp / Placid View Drive 18 3:00 PM usabassin weigh-in, with 20 Anglers

to Sebring

15A

Eagle Bay Island

1st Point Trail 1st Point

l na Ca

Peace River ■ Sunday, November 21, 2021 Lettuce Lake Park 3:15 PM Mr B's weigh-in, with 28 Anglers

Hog Island

Buckhead Ridge ie air Pr

LD3

710

L50

Okeechobee

Creek

n dia In

■ Sunday, November 21, 2021 Roland & Mary Ann Martin's Marina 2:00 PM SOUTH PASCO BASSMASTER weigh-in, with 44 Anglers

Lake Placid

Taylor

Brighton Indian Reservation

Roland & Mary Ann Martin's Marina 4:00 PM SOUTH PASCO BASSMASTER weigh-in, with 44 Anglers

to Ft Pierce

441

sim Kis

weigh-in, with 400 Anglers

to Yeehaw Junction

to Sebring

H Cr e n r ee y k

Nu Sl bb o u in gh

B O A T

lls

the permit, while everything possible to ensure a live release. Any dead fish are 14 doing OldtoSportsmans VillageasFree normally provided a charity, such a homeless shelter. More information about to Ft Lauderdale Boat ramp, bank fishing,tournament picnic tables exemptions can be found here: black (largemouth) bass fishing https://myfwc.com/license/freshwater/bass-tournament/ Many of the bass 17 15 Dyess Ditch Canal (Bare Beac Fisheating Creek Free - Boat ramp, tournaments are coordinated through local fishing clubs. Reach out to the group bank fishing bank fishing specified for additional information. Weigh-ins are typically open to the public. 18 16 Indian Prairie Canal Free - Bo Harney Pond Canal Recreation Area Free 27

Boat ramps, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, raised scenic viewing platform

South Florida bass rattlers weigh-in, with 20 Anglers

Okee-Tantie Recreation Area marina, bank fishing, bait, fishin shelters with tables & grills, wa

■ Sunday, November 14, 2021 Public Ramp / Placid RV sites rentals • Cabin rentals • Boat rentals Bait & Tackle Shop • Tavern • Live Music Sat & Sun View Drive Family, pet and motorcycle friendly 9500 SW Conners Hwy, Okeechobee, FL 7:00 PM Mon-Thur 12 Noon – 8:00pm • Fri-Sun 10:00am – 10:00pm south florida bass rattlers (772) 597-4455 www.JandSFishCamp.net weigh-in, with 20 Anglers WWW.COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/okeechobee • THEANGLERMAG.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM CAM_OKEE_0117.indd 5

november 2021

OKEECHOBEE 25

JANUARY 20

Tournament

Winners

Troy Thorlton - 10.7 lbs

Mike Lamere & Norm Riggles

Jason Walkup & Joe Conley

Send your tournament results and pictures to

don@theanglermagazine.com 2021

John Anderson - 9.3 lbs

Jamie Stephens

Tim Mikula & Matt George

Mickeys Bait and tackle • Tackle of every make and brand • Live bait

Geary and susan adaMs - Owners

cell ph# 863-634-5826 | e-mail - sagadams@centurylink.net

401 HWY 27 Moore Haven, FL | 863-946-3100 26 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

We work on all models of outboards

863.634.3878 camsmobilemarine@gmail.com

Arnie Lane

Calan Hawkins

DJ Buckholdt & Tony Stoner

Barry Hughes

Choose Your Speed in Sebring Just 60 miles south of Orlando is a natural park system that wows with outdoor wonders. Visitors fall in love with our nature trails great for hiking and biking, nearly 100 freshwater lakes, fishing piers, cycling paths and picturesque picnic areas. Home to Highlands Hammock State Park and Archbold Biological Station. Request a FREE Visitor Guide: VisitSebring.com or call (800) 545-6021.

rge

VISIT SEBRING_2020.indd 1

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

november 2021

1/20/20 11:54 AM

OKEECHOBEE 27

I’m from Ohio Ever been to Ohio?

Yes, there is a huge state between Pennsylvania and Indiana and it is called OHIO. It has some beautiful cities, and is also full of many, many small towns and abundant farm land which we call “Rural Ohio” and a lot of folks call it home.

THE RULES OF RURAL OHIO ARE AS FOLLOWS: So, listen up City Slickers!

Pull your droopy pants up. You look like an idiot! This is Ohio, not Chicago!

So, every person in rural Ohio waves. It’s called being friendly. Try to understand the concept.

Turn your baseball cap around straight …. your head isn’t crooked!

Let’s get this straight; it’s called a ‘dirt road.’ No matter how slow you go, you’re going to get dust on your brand- new Lexus. Drive it the speed limit or get out of the way. I drive a pickup truck for a reason.

If that cell phone rings while an 8-point buck and 3 does are coming in, we WILL shoot it out of your hand. You better hope you don’t have it up to your ear at the time.

Yeah, we eat meat, taters and homemade pie. You really want sushi and caviar? It’s available down at Jim’s bait shop.

The ‘Opener’ refers to the first day of deer season. It’s like a religious holiday when everybody calls in sick and all the deer disappear.

They are cattle. Think of them as ‘live steaks.’ We realize they may smell funny to you. They smell like money to us. Get over it. If you don’t like waiting for them to cross the road, I-70 and I-77 go west and south …. use em’.

So, you have a $60,000.00 car …. okay, we’re impressed. We have a $250,000.00 combine, to harvest soybeans and corn, that we only drive three weeks out of the year.

10. We open doors for women. That applies to all women, regardless of their age. 11. No, there’s no ‘vegetarian special’ on the menu. You can order steak or chicken. Or, you can order the Chef ’s Salad and pick off the 2 pounds of ham and turkey. 12. When we fill out a table, there are three main dishes: meats, vegetables, and breads. We use three spices…salt, pepper and ketchup. Oh yeah…we don’t care what you folks in Chicago call that stuff you eat…it ain’t real chili! 13. You bring ‘coke’ into my house….it better be brown, wet and served over ice. We drink Pepsi.

Up to 75% off retail prices! You never know what you’ll find.

• Firearms • HD TVs • Laptops • DVD Players • Tools • iPods • Gaming Devices • Jewelry • Guitars • Fishing Poles

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Wonder why were called Wild Side? Look behind the Red Door to find out...

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14. You bring ‘Mary Jane’ into my house, she better be cute, know how to fish and hunt, drive a truck and have long hair. 15. The Ohio Buckeyes and high school football are as important here as cops, firemen, teachers and nurses. 16. Yeah, we have golf courses…. But don’t hit the water hazards….it spooks the fish. 17. Colleges? We have them all over the state. We have Ohio University, Ohio State College, Community Colleges and Vocational schools. They come outta there with an education plus a love of God and this great country. 18. Turn down that blasted car stereo. That thumpity-thump crap ain’t music anyway. We don’t want to hear it any more than we want to see your boxer shorts (refer back to number 1). 19. Four inches of snow ain’t a blizzard…..it’s a flurry. Drive in it like you got some sense, and if your Lexus gets stuck, sit tight! This ain’t your big city! Worst case, you may have to live a whole day without your croissants and Starbucks pumpkin spice latte. Anyway, pickup trucks with snow plows will have you out in a few hours. 20. In rural Ohio, we believe in Mom, Apple Pie and the American Flag! Don’t mess with em.’ 21. If you’ve never been here, come visit our friendly folks and enjoy our spectacular scenery…..lakes, farmlands, great fishing and hunting, wineries, museums and lots of history. Just leave your politics at home. 22. By the way, if you want to talk to God while you’re in Ohio…..it’s a local call.

28 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

W M U

M c r 2 t p i I k s u

aWard Winning

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Win a Savage Model 110 Ultralite! .308 with Accutrigger and Accufit Stock Systems

ts bulle y n a ! ow m ntainer h s s Gue in this co are

Come try your luck at Boom Boom’s!

and check out our wide selection of guns and ammo

Contest Rules

Must be 21 or older to qualify and be able to pass a background check. Must guess exact number to win grand prize. Closest to correct number will win $100 store gift card. Contest ends November 26th, 2021. In the event of a tie we will hold a drawing to declare the winner. Winner must be the person to take possession of the prize (no substituations). Must fill out form completely (all fields of information entered) Number must be written clearly and legibly. Illegible, unclear guesses will be considered null and void. Nobody knows the amount (completely random amount, various calibers and sizes). Count performed until the end date of the event to ensure no unfair advantage is given.

863-402-2112 330 US HWY 27N Sebring, FL 33870 Open Monday - Friday 10am - 5:30pm Saturday’s 10am - 2pm

What if? What if you slept, and what if in your sleep you dreamed, and what if in your dream you went to heaven and there plucked a strange and beautiful flower, and what if when you awoke you had the flower in your hand? Ah, what then?  Samuel Taylor Coleridge 

’ve been a bass fishing guide for the last 30 years, and as many of you know, I've taken out some pretty strange folks over the years . I’m also a bit of a dreamer. Combined with my passion for writing about fishing, I’ve often wondered, what would it have been like to fish with Elvis Presley, or Sylvester Stallone? Or, maybe Johnny Cash? Ummmmmmm. So, starting with the December issue of the Angler Magazine, I’ll be launching a new column called What if. I’m not going to tell you who will be joining me on these fantasy bass fishing guide trips each month, but for next month I’ve decided to fish with someone who’s been my idol since I was a kid. Maybe this caricature will give you a hint. So “slap some bacon on a biscuit, and let’s go! We’re burnin’ daylight.”

Istokpoga State Park on Route 98

4651 US Highway 98, Sebring, Florida 33876 30 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

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Get Towing Before You Get Going SPECIAL OFFER > UNLIMITED TOWING JUST $99 (NORMALLY $165)

When you need a tow, Capt. Chris Day and crew of TowBoatU.S. Lake Okeechobee have your back!

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november 2021

OKEECHOBEE 31

9 Hooker Highway Access Point Free - Bank fishing, scenic viewpoint scant parking 10 John Stretch Park Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, scenic viewpoint, play area, dump station 11 Clewiston City Park Free - Boat ramps, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, scenic viewpoint 12 Alvin Ward Park Free - Boat ramp, bank & pier fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, play area 13 Moore Haven Lock & Dam Free - Bank & pier fishing (south side of river) 14 Old Sportsmans Village Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, picnic tables 15 Fisheating Creek Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing 16 Harney Pond Canal Recreation Area Free - Boat ramps, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, raised scenic viewing platform 17 Dyess Ditch Canal (Bare Beach) Free - Boat ramps, bank fishing 18 Indian Prairie Canal Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing

LAKE OKEECHOBEE

19 Okee-Tantie Recreation Area - C. Scott Driver Park - Boat ramp, marina, bank fishing, bait, fishing license, guide service, ice, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, showers, camping

Taylor

15A

er Riv

l na Ca

2nd Point

rm ar o ve Bech W Co Big ea B Area Harney Pond Canal Recreation

Fisheating Bay

rva

Iron Stake Hole

tio

en C an re H av

441

Moo

Turner’s Cove

Observation Island

Gator Hole

Moore Haven

iver

The Ritta Island

9500 SW Conners Hwy, Okeechobee, FL Mon-Thur 12 Noon – 8:00pm • Fri-Sun 10:00am – 10:00pm

(772) 597-4455 www.JandSFishCamp.net

32 OKEECHOBEE

CAM_OKEE_0217.indd 5

Torry Island

ottom

Lake Harbor

B Bay

LUNKERS SPORTS GRILLE RV sites rentals • Cabin rentals • Boat rentals Bait & Tackle Shop • Tavern • Live Music Sat & Sun Family, pet and motorcycle friendly

South Bay

27/80

South Bay

North New River Canal

Pass

NW 1st Avenue

Road

Kreamer Pelican Bay Island

East Wall

Moore Haven Lock & Dam Free Bank & pier fishing (south side of river) Old Sportsmans Village Free Boat ramp, bank fishing, picnic tables Fisheating Creek Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing Harney Pond Canal Recreation Area Free Boat ramps, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, raised scenic viewing platform

Morgan

441

715

Hooker Highway

441

11 Clewiston

West

Glades Airport Coot Bay

’s B nie Win

Pahokee Marina/Campground - Boat ramp, boat rentals, marina, camping, bank & pier fishing, cabin rentals, water, restrooms, pool Paul Rardin Park Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, scenic viewpoint Slim’s Fish Camp - Guide services, bait & tackle, RV & camping, marina John Stretch Park Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, scenic viewpoint, play area, dump station Clewiston City Park Free - Boat ramps, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, scenic viewpoint Alvin Ward Park Free - Boat ramp, bank & pier fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, play area

27/80

The Water Tank West Wall

Industrial Canal

717

Pahokee

to LaBelle

ross Rocky Reef

The Vee Grass Island 720

tP a

Iron C

Joe Moore Hole Mayaca Cut

ee R

i C a

13 12

Canal Point

Blue Hole

720

Sand Cut

Old

Tobias Avenue

an’sX boiler chr wreck Co Pass

Fine Brice s Pas

Moonshine Bay

h nS

cie

Port Mayaca

LAKE OKEECHOBEE

Whidden Pass

Monkey Box

St.

ge la Vil t) u ’s an h C s ou cT rM m

Dynamite Pass

to West Palm Beach

441

o Sp

atch

Chancy Bay

Horse Island

Bird Island

sah

710

l Dyess Ditch Cana

rts

o Calo

King’s Bar Shoal

721

Dup Barree

Fisheating Creek

15B

3rd Point Tin House Cove

to Sebring

1st Point Trail 1st Point

Lakeport Fisheating Creek

441

Hog Island

Buckhead Ridge ie air Pr

Eagle Bay Island

n dia In

LD3

H Cr enr ee y k

L50

710

Creek

Brighton Indian Reservation

Okeechobee

e me sim Kis

to Arcadia

m en

to Ft Pierce

441

ern

to Yeehaw Junction

to Sebring

Go v

Jaycee Park Free - Boat ramp, bank & pier fishing, water, scenic viewpoint, picnic tables Nubbin Slough Free - Bank fishing, scenic viewpoint Henry Creek Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing Chancy Bay Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, equestrian access Port Mayaca North Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, scenic viewpoint Port Mayaca South Free - Bank fishing, scenic viewpoint Canal Point Picnic Area Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills

R A M PS

Nu Slo bb ug in h

BO A T

to West Palm Beach

Belle Glade

nal

St.

lls

l 880

to Ft Lauderdale

17 18 19

Dyess Ditch Canal (Bare Beach) Free - Boat ramps, bank fishing Indian Prairie Canal Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing Okee-Tantie Recreation Area - C. Scott Driver Park - Boat ramp, marina, bank fishing, bait, fishing license, guide service, ice, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, showers, camping

Moe's Kitchen Food Truck

Dine in - Take Out - No Delivery

863-763-1900 4825 US 441, Okeechobee, Florida

november 2021 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM WWW.COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/okeechobee • THEANGLERMAG.COM

561-891-2356

Cooked fresh to order FEBRUARY 2017

OKEECHOBEE 5

1/16/17 8:54 PM

g Creek Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing nd Canal Recreation Area Free - Boat ramps, bank fishing, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, restrooms, raised scenic viewing platform

ch Canal (Bare Beach) Free - Boat ramps, bank fishing irie Canal Free - Boat ramp, bank fishing

ie Recreation Area - C. Scott Driver Park - Boat ramp, marina, bank fishing, bait, fishing license, guide service, ice, picnic shelters with tables & grills, water, showers, camping

LAKE IS TOKPOGA 17

823

Lorida

Istokpoga Park Boat Ramp 64

98 Grassy Island

Elliott's Canal 17

17A

Henderson's Fish Camp

Trails End Fish Camp

Lake Istokpoga 17

823

27 98

Big Island

Mossy Cove Fish Camp Bumblebee Island Rutledge Canal

Sylvan Shores

Long Island

S-68 Spillway

621E 821

821

Windy Point Boat Ramp

Performance Marine 1130 US 27N, Lake Placid FL 863-465-2814

310 US 27S, Lake Placid FL

863-465-2335

730 US 27N, Lake Placid, FL

863-232-5661

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 2021 WWW.COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/okeechobee • THEANGLERMAG.COM november FEBRUARY 2017

CAM_OKEE_0217.indd 7

OKEECHOBEE 33 7

1/16/17 8:54 PM

Pick Up a Copy of The Angler at 100+ Local Supporting Companies Lake Placid

Highlands County Avon Park

America First ......................... 2153 SR 64W Big T Tires................................ 1109 W Main Auto Options.............................. 106 E Main Dutchers Diner........................ 1012 US 27S Huston Dodge Jeep Ram..... 1600 US 27S Turner Furniture...................... 2900 US 27S Wild Turkey Tavern................ 2751 US 27S Florida Tire Terminal............... 2400 US 27 Maryland Fried Chicken.........904 W Main Taylors Food Mart........................ 3 US 27N Hendricks Store.....................202 E Main St Market 27...............2951 US Highway 27N Pure Grit.................... 309 West Main Street Ace Hardware....................415 Main Street NAPA.......................... 126 West Main Street Walmart................................... 1041 US 27N Avon Park Pawn & Gun...........937 W Main Palmer Electric..........................415 W Main Layes Tires............................. 1092 Locke St Olympic Restaurant.................504 US 27N Sebring Boom Booms.............................330 US 27N Adams Barber Shop.................... 2848 27S Golf Hammock Restaurant........ 2222 Golf Hammock Dr YMCA.................................. 100 YMCA Lane Caddy Shack Restaurant..3122 Golf View Alan Jay Ford................................ 3201 27S AG Center...................... 4509 George Blvd Watering Hole Restaurant.... 6813 US 27S Flippin Out Salon.. 3605 Sebring Parkway Food for Thought...........................315 27N Chamber of Commerce.............227 US 27 Flash - Games & Toys................311 US27N Glisson Feed Store................... 4525 US 27 Custom Prints................. 1085 Lakeview Dr Walmart................................... 3525 US 27N The Barber Shop...........................241 US27 The Print Shop............... 1086 Lakeview Dr Marty's Barber Shop............. 2340 US27N Captain Hawk Designs............ 6940 US27 Kubota - Ridge Equip............... 6820 US27 Mussellman's Appliances..... 4230 US27N Alan Jay Chevrolet..................441 US 27N Alan Jay Ford.......................... 3201 US 27S Alan Jay Nissan.................... 1700 Flare Rd Mussellman's Appliances.... 4230 US 27N Highlands Flooring............... 2306 US 27N Pinch a Penny............................ 189 US 27S Matt's Barber Shop................ 5367 US 27S Hammock State Park ........................................ 5931 Hammock Rd

34 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

Admirals Cove.............................. 1345 27S Boaters World...........................730 US 27N Henderson's Fish Camp.35 Henderson Rd Lake Placid Feed...................... 417 US 27S Lake Placid Marine......................310 US27 Performance Bait & Tackle.. 1130 US 27N Performance Marine............. 1130 US 27N Smoke Shack....................... 280 E Interlake Holiday Inn Express.....608 S Lakeview Rd Tractor Supply......................... 60 Plaza Ave Anytime Fitness............ 138 Lake Ridge Dr Do it Best Hardware...........190 Plaza Ave Spring Lake Sebring Airport............ 130 Authority Lane Seven Sebring Raceway Hotel...................150 Midway Dr Lorida Trails End........................... 4232 Trails End Freds Bar................................. 4971 US 98 Gator Shack............................ 4651 US 98 Basinger Cracker Trail Store ...................................18084 US 98 CR 7-A

Okeechobee County Okeechobee

Chamber of Commerce...........55 S Parrott Lightseys Restaurant..........10435 SR 78W Garrards............................. 4259 S Hwy 441 Fast Break............................1505 Hwy 78W Okeechobee Fishing Headquarters................. 5286 SW16th Ave Center Mass The Gun Range................... 1934 Center St The Gun Shop....................... 2020 S Parrott Skull Hill Archery.................. 1505 S Parrott OK Corral Gun Club.............9449 NE 48 St Tire Kingdom..............................1595 SR70 Eli's Western Wear.................907 NW Park J&S Fish Camp...... 9500 SW Connors Hwy Lakeshore Marine..........2117 Hwy 441 SE Lunker Sports Bar & Grill.......................... 4825 Hwy 441 S Okeechobee Airport..2800 NW 20th Trail Pier II Motel......................2200 Hwy 441SE Quail Creek Plantation..................... 12399 NE 224th St Taylor Creek RV Resort....................2995 US Hwy 441 SE Days Inn..............................2200 US 441 SE

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Glades County Lakeport

Aruba RV Resort.....1073 Old Lakeport Rd Big Water Bait and Tackle.........................1027 Martin Blvd Lakeport Bait Shop.............. 14296 E SR78 Twin Palms RV Resort..... 15259 East SR78 Duck Pub..................... 1037 Lakeport Plaza Glades RV Resort........ 1682 Indian Hills Dr Joey's Pizza ...................................699 N 27 Mickeys Bait & Tackle................401 US 27 Buckhead Ridge Sunoco...............14th St & Buckhead Ridge Palmdale Gatorama.............................. 10665 N US27 Fisheating Creek Outpost.......7555 US 27

Hendry County Clewiston

Jolly Rogers Marina................... 1095 E 27 Roland Martin Marina....................... 910 E Del Monte Ave Roland Martin Tackle Shop.............. 920 E Del Monte Ave Clewiston Lake O RV Park...... 194 CR 720 Clewiston Chamber of Commerce.....................109 Central Ave Clewiston Inn......................108 Royal Plam Kelly Tractor......................801 E Sugarland Sonny's BBQ......... 1030 W Sugarland Hwy Best Western............ 1020 West Sugarland

Labelle Labelle Ford Service Center....................850 S Bridge St Handy Neighborhood Store.........................................378 Bridge St LaMonarca Barber & Beauty Salon......................... 200 N Main Miller Bait & Tackle.................. 303 Old Country Rd 78 White's Furniture & Appliances....................... 1060 S Main St Labelle Ranch Supplies.....281 S Bridge St Kiwana's Thrift Store.........155 S Bridge St East Coast Marine.............721 N Bridge St

Hardee County (Coming Soon) Wauchula Bowling Green Zolpho Springs

DeSoto County (Coming Soon) Arcadia

If you can't find a copy, call me, I always have extra's

I am looking for a business partner! Do you love to fish or hunt?

Guided Fishing Tours Available

937-217-8076

Catch some bass and crappie with experienced guide Tangie Neff!

Or you can rent her pontoon!

y! a d e h t r fo n o o t n o Rent a p

I’m looking for a capable, motivated individual who shares my passion for the great outdoors and is interested in building a successful business. I’m looking for a working partner who is capable of selling advertising, helping to distribute magazines and assist in layout and design of a monthly magazine. A small investment or sweat equity would be required. If you’d like to be part of a fast-growing business, this could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for. No college required. No age, sex, race or religious restrictions. Experience helpful, but not required.

i’m looking for someone who shares my vision and isn’t afraid to work. If that person is you, call me at 863-273-4998. I’ll set up a meeting..

(863) 273-4998 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

november 2021

OKEECHOBEE 35

So, you want to be a Captain? By Chris Norton

Whether you are looking for a new career in the marine industry, expanding your power boating skills or learning to sail for the first time, Chapman School of Seamanship can provide you with world class training.

H ABOVE & BELOW: Capt. Corky Neff with clients

ow often have you daydreamed about being a licensed captain and having your own bass fishing guide service? If you answered multiple times, you’re not alone. Every bass fisherman at one time or another has thought about starting a bass fishing guide service, being their own boss and spending every day on the water, doing what they love to do. Well, it doesn’t have to be a dream. You can make it become a reality with the Chapman School of Seamanship. Being a captain in charge of a vessel, with paying passengers does require a USCG license, better known as the OUPV NC (Operator of an Uninspected Passenger Vessel Near Coastal less than 100 GRT) also known as the six-pack, especially if you will be taking out paying passengers. The OUPV NC allows you to take up to 6 passengers 100 miles off US waters in any vessel up to 100 GRT. The OUPV NC sea time requirement is 360 documented sea days with 90 days in the last 3 years and 90 days of the 360 days Near Coastal (not more than 100 miles offshore from the US and its possessions). The minimum age is 18 years old. If you are not a US citizen, then you must hold a Permanent Resident Alien card (Green Card). There are four exams you must pass for the OUPV NC credential: • Rules of the Road • Deck General/Safety • Navigation General: Near Coastal • Navigation Problems: Chart Plotting Chapman School of Seamanship offers a license prep and test class for OUPV NC less than 100 GRT which is eight-days (64 hours) and USCG approved. Once the exams are passed, you have 365 days to submit your application to the USCG for your Merchant Mariner Credential before they expire. A completed, signed, and notarized application must be completed along with a medical, physical and drug test. You must also obtain a TWIC card (Transportation Workers Identification Credential) and Adult First Aid/CPR. These also go with the application and your certificates to the USCG for review for the issuance of a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Once you receive your MMC, it is valid for five years. So, you can make your dream a reality at Chapman School of Seamanship. Check it out.

Phone: 772-283-8130 @ChapmanSchool on Facebook www.chapman.org 36 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

In Remembrance of

The Brave 13

We support our veterans.

Who Lost Their Lives August 26th, 2021 Gone and never forgotten Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz 20, of St. Charles, Missouri

Marine Corps Sgt. Johanny Rosariopichardo 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum 20, of Jackson, Wyoming

Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole L. Gee 23, of Sacramento, California

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, California

Marine Corps Cpl. Hunter Lopez 22, of Indio, California

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui 20, of Norco, California

Marine Corps Cpl. Daegan W. Page 23, of Omaha, Nebraska

Navy Hospitalman Maxton W. Soviak 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio

Marine Corps Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez 22, of Logansport, Indiana

Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss 23, of Corryton, Tennessee

Marine Corps Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas

After taking a year off for Covid...

We’re back! 2021

October 16

November 13

January 15

2022

February 19

Captain Joe Gruny Bass FishinG Guide Headwaters • Lake Ida • FLorIda evergLade MIaMI • Lake okeecHobee

et speCies: tarG

LarGemouth December 18 March 19

& peaCoCk Bass

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november 2021

OKEECHOBEE 37

The Braggin’ Board Submit your pictures to The Angler Magazine don@theanglermagazine.com (863) 763-2248

Paige 5286 SW 16th Ave. Okeechobee, FL

JP Dean den Gregory Cade Pugh & Cam

Geoff Balog

Nick Diaz

Send your pictures to us!

You could win $25! on an American express gift card We will be picking a photo winner every month. It could be you! Just email your photo along with your name and a little bit of info about the photo.

Email Don at don@theanglermagazine.com

Camden Gregory Cade Pugh, Corky Neff, and

The Road to Better Hearing and Maybe Better Fishing too.

40 OKEECHOBEE

november 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. GREG MCKEE

Big or small, we have toys for all this holiday season!

THE LURE OF THE

Re-Discover Old Florida

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By Rex Hannon

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Kingfish Lodge includes a wide screen TV and bar for small gatherings Sailfish House features a wide covered wrap-around porch for larger groups Boat Trailer Parking on site w/ Water and Power 250 Foot Dock w/ Covered Area FREE Ice / FREE Guest Dockage TRAVEL Cable TV, Hi-Speed Internet Cover Your Vacation 2 miles to the Ft. Pierce Inlet with Travel Insurance 12 miles to the Gulf Stream Laundry, BBQ Grilles and FREE use of our Kayaks P R O T E C T I O N

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NOVEMBER 2021

was always destined to be a fisherman. I recall watching childhood heroes fishing exotic places on Saturday morning fishing shows and dreaming I would be one of the fortunate anglers to make experiences like those a reality. I watched Flip Pallot fly fishing the Everglades. I saw legendary Capt. Billy Black on the deck of the Duchess off Walker’s Cay. For a young man from up North, Florida was Mecca if your passion was sportfishing. Imagine the excitement when my wife and I had the opportunity to make a life-changing move. It was only natural that we chose Florida. We wanted somewhere with mild winters and a small-town feeling that was close enough to major attractions. We decided the Jensen Beach/Stuart area was perfect. Not to mention that Billy Black and the Duchess call Stuart home. I have since met this man. He is not only a great captain and fisherman, he is a very genuine and kind man. The fishing is all that I imagined. Lake Okeechobee is a short drive to the west, the Florida Keys are just a few hours south, and the Indian River Lagoon is our new backyard. The Treasure Coast has wonderful offshore fishing, where mahi and sailfish are much sought after. The annual glass minnow run sends anglers roaming beaches in search of tarpon and snook. Most days it does not disappoint. If you turn on the television during “Shark Week,” you’ll undoubtably see mention of the shark migration through South Florida. It boggles the mind just how many sharks cruise the waters here. But, the granddaddy of them all is the “mullet run.” There are very few area anglers who don’t await this time of year like a youngster on the night before Christmas. The Indian River Lagoon comes alive, as everything eagerly devours this bountiful baitfish. This area has a wide variety of quality fishing, something for everyone, regardless of target species. The Indian River Lagoon needs no introduction. This world-class fishery has a long and storied reputation and is on the bucket list of any person dreaming of snook, trout and redfish. When the topic of Mosquito Lagoon comes up, visions of monster redfish and goliath trout come to mind. The IRL produced one of the most impressive catches in recent history when in 1995 angler Craig Carson, of Orlando, caught the heaviest spotted seatrout ever recorded. The 17-pound, 7-ounce beast was pulled from a backwater cove in Fort Pierce. It’s been a few years since we made the move to follow my dreams of fishing. The Treasure Coast has certainly lived up to its name. I cherish every outing in this beautiful and diverse environment. And, even after all the years, after all the places I have been fortunate to visit, I still have species left on my bucket list. I can think of no better place to pursue those fish than Florida. For more from Rex Hannon, go to www.coastalanglermagazine.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

TAMPA BAY REOPENS FOR SNOOK, TROUT AND REDS

WC reopened recreational harvest of snook, redfish and spotted seatrout in Tampa Bay on Oct. 12. This ended the temporary catchand-release-only regulations that were implemented July 16, due to the impact of red tide. This applies to all Florida waters of Manatee County north of State Road 64, including all waters of the Braden River, and all tributaries of the Manatee River, excluding all waters of Palma Sola Bay; all Florida waters of Hillsborough County; and all Florida waters of Pinellas County, excluding all waters of the Anclote River and its tributaries. Learn more at MyFWC.com/Marine by clicking on “Recreational Regulations.”

16 FLORIDA

NOVEMBER 2021

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

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REGS CHANGING FOR ATLANTIC SPOT/CROAKER

t its October meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved the creation of new regulations for spot and Atlantic croaker in state waters from the Florida-Georgia border through Miami-Dade County. The following changes for the Atlantic coast of Florida will go into effect Dec. 1, 2021: • Establish a daily recreational bag limit of 50 fish per person for each species. • Establish the following commercial vessel limits Spot: 2,200 pounds. Atlantic croaker: 1,200 pounds. There have been recent coast-wide declines in abundance and harvest of spot and Atlantic croaker. The approved changes are part of a coast-wide, multi-state conservation strategy for Atlantic stocks of these species.

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View the Commission meeting agenda and documents at MyFWC.com/Commission. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

NOVEMBER 2021

FLORIDA 17

LIFE IS A BEACH November is a Great Month for Beach Fishing By Richard Matteson

ooling weather and longer nights make November one of the hottest beach fishing months of the year. Early November still features the occasional late run of mullet trying to catch up with the main waves that already moved through. Yes, the mullet runs are mostly in October, but warmer weather patterns have extended the runs into November. Look for birds and bait. There are many beach accesses in Martin and St. Lucie counties. If fishing on the Treasure Coast, try different beach accesses between the St. Lucie and Ft. Peirce inlets. Deeper water beach areas have been producing bigger and more fish. Some of the deeper water accesses are Bathtub Beach (walk to the inlet point), Tiger Shores, Walton Rocks and Ft. Pierce Inlet point. Either side of high tide seems to be best (incoming high or outgoing high). There are still lots of tarpon schooling and large snook, and the bite is hot the whole month. In midDecember and January, the patterns change and both snook and tarpon are harder to catch. Try freelining a 6- to 8-inch mullet or croaker just past the trough and working the outside of the trough during the day. Early morning or evening, fish are closer to the shore and use the trough as their bait freeway. The trough

is a deep channel carved out by the closest waves (first breakers) and is usually 1 or 2 feet deeper than the sand line. For large fish, use 20- to 40-pound braid (white) with a 40-pound fluorocarbon leader. Besides freelining live bait, try using a jig with a 4-inch paddletail or a silver crocodile-style spoon (1 oz.). Yo-Zuri shallowdiving crankbaits (white) and topwater (Zara Spook/Skitterwalk) will also work for schooling fish chasing bait. November is also the month when mackerel, pompano and bluefish begin their southward migration. They start showing up around the mullet run, and by the end of November are regularly caught off our beaches. Mackerel and bluefish like shiny fast-moving lures like spoons, while bluefish can also be caught on cut bait. Both have teeth, so be prepared to have your leader cut! Pompano usually can best be caught on live sand fleas or red Fishbites. The mackerel bite is best in a small boat around the inlets or in the bull-shark reef area, but surf fishermen can have hot mackerel action, too. In the morning, the bite is usually near the trough when bait is present. Later in the day, make long casts with silver or gold spoons. Good luck! May your days be filled with leaping fish and tight lines. Richard Matteson is a long-time contributor to Coastal Angler Magazine and staff writer for the Stuart Rod and Reel Club.

NOV. 13

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BAIT

Tim Barefoot

t some point you have to realize the where these schools of bait truth about what really holds fish in went, the reds and gags went a certain area and why they show up with them. Find the bait; find the fish. during certain times of the year. Nowadays, I go to the same areas of “good For example, November is the first “cold” month of the year, and that signal is felt by the bottom,” and I look for stacks of beeliners to fish massive schools of cigar minnows, sardines and on. I have written about this before, but when the inshore baby beeliners (vermillion snapper). you find big stacks of bait, catch one of the baits They are programed to “ball up” for one reason and put it right back down. It increases your or another. The fish anglers are searching for get odds of catching what you came for. Granted, more gags, the same signal, scamps and red and they key in grouper have on these schools been caught of bait. Gags on frozen cigar are now well minnows than established on all the other nearshore ledges baits combined, for their annual but that was spawning run, then, and this and it is not is now. Thirty coincidence years ago, there these are the were so many same traditional grouper it was areas where the a competitive bait stages. atmosphere At one on the bottom, point in my without all bottom-fishing the little dink evolution, I snapper and fished stacks junk bites. That’s of bait on slick why frozen flat-sand bottom On the graph, a stack of bait marks not connected cigar minnows that we referred to the bottom indicates beeliners, cigar minnows worked so well. to as “trash and sardines. Grouper will be under or near a Now, you have piles.” These school of baitfish like this one. to think a little stacks of bait bit, and put baits were miles away from ledges and wrecks, but they held grouper down that attract the target species, instead of and big snapper just the same. These were giant everything down there. A grass grunt or pinfish stacks of cigs and sardines that were constantly as big as your hand will eliminate all the trash followed by red and gag grouper. No matter bites, and zoom in on the grouper. Nothing is

1 LOCATION

JUNE 2020

PHOTO CREDIT: ANDREA WHITAKER COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

a better vehicle to the bottom, creates a better “illusion,” and is a cleaner tackle than plugging one of these live or butterflied baits onto a Decoy Jig. If you find a stack of beeliners, you need to put some effort into catching some of these beeliners, butterflying them and sending them right back down. You’ll feel all the “junk bites” down there ripping chunks out of your bait, but that’s OK. Be patient. When you get the real bite, there will be no question, and it’ll be worth the wait. Check out Capt. Tim Barefoot at Barefootcatsandtackle.com, where there are videos highlighting his tips, tackle and techniques.

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NOVEMBER 2021

FLORIDA 21

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CITY OF BOCA RATON'S 43RD ANNUAL

Holiday Boat Parade Saturday, December 18, 2021, 6:30PM INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY Delray/Boca Line South to Hillsboro Bridge Boats of all sizes will light up the Intracoastal Waterway for the City of Boca Raton's annual holiday celebration on the water. The parade starts at the C-15 Canal (Delray/Boca line) and travels south to the Hillsboro Bridge. The public viewing area is at Red Reef Park - space is limited, so plan ahead.

BRIDGE OPENING TIMES (estimated): 6:50 PM: Spanish River 7:20 PM: Palmetto Park 7:30 PM: Camino Real Bridges will be in the UP position for approx. 45 minutes.

For more information, or to enter YOUR boat, call (561) 367-7073 or visit MyBoca.us./SpecialEvents.

Hooker Electric introduces the finest white polyethylene tuna tubes currently available.

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Fiberglass Tuna Tubes WITH GEL INSERTS

Hooker Electric Tuna Tubes are offered in four different sizes. They can be ordered individually as removable live well tubes, on deck removable case, or transom-mounted tubes. The gel inserts allow your baits a healthy recovery.

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W LO AS

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alking Liberty Half Dollars, or “Walkers” as they were called, led a coin renaissance in the U.S. that was in large part inspired by President Teddy Roosevelt’s 1904 comment that U.S. coinage was “artistically of atrocious hideousness.” During the first two decades of the 20th century, every circulating coin denomination in the U.S. got a new look. The front of the Walking Liberty Half Dollar features Adolph Weinman’s Walking Liberty design of a confident Miss Liberty striding toward the sun and the dawning of a new day, draped in an American flag, carrying laurel and oak branches representing peace and strength.

Design Used on the Best-Selling Coin Ever!

This design proved to be so beloved that it was chosen for the Silver Eagle Silver Dollar series back in 1986, a coin that has been the best-selling coin in history! The Walking Liberty’s back depicts a bold eagle with spread wings perched on a rocky crag from which grows a pine branch, a symbol of strength. Together the two images perfectly portrayed the dual message that

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TIPS FROM A PRO

FLIPPING HEAVY GRASS FOR FALL BASS

time or two until I get a bite or two in an area. Once you know there are fish around, slow down, make very precise flips and work the bait up and down multiple times with each cast. I flip and pitch with a craw-style bait. If the water has a good stain, black and blue colors are a must. If you’re working with cleaner water, TYLER WOOLCOTT green pumpkin or brown variations usually do the trick. When you are dealing with pressured fish or fishing in colder conditions, downsize and flip a creature bait like the 13 Fishing Lunch Bug. When the ith fall upon us, it’s time to bring out the big sticks and heavy braid. One of my favorite techniques weather is stable and you are around aggressive fish, flip a full-sized to target bass is flipping and punching grass, and fall is a creature bait like the 13 Fishing Invader. great time to do it. Fish seek heavy cover Flipping/ Punching Gear and vegetation to feed up on forage and get warmth under matted grass. This presents It is important to use the correct the opportunity to place your bait right in equipment to get your bait into the grass front of them. and then winch fish out. I like a 13 Fishing Flipping and pitching grass can be hard 7’9” Heavy Fast Envy Black rod paired to learn, but once you get the hang of it, it up with a Concept A 8:3:1 reel. The long can be one of the most exhilarating ways to heavy-action rod gives you power to get catch a bass. I live in Florida, where grass a hook into fish and then get them out of is always prevalent. It has taught me a few grass. Pairing that rod with a fast-gearthings about how fish position in fall, and ratio reel allows you to make lots of flips I’ve been able to use this knowledge all and to pick up line quickly. over the country. Heavy braided line is imperative. I Seek out either a clean edge or patches like 65-pound Seaguar Smackdown braid of grass that are isolated away from in grey. I use a Woo! Tungsten weight expansive areas of grass. These areas between 1 and 2 ounces, depending on concentrate fish in targetable places and the thickness of the grass. Hook size varies give you the highest probability of getting depending on the size bait. I use between a your bait in front of a hungry bass. 3/0 and a 5/0 Hayabusa FPP Straight HD When flipping, cover as much water as hook. possible until you run into a group of fish. Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament Fish tend to group up in the fall, and this is angler and guide. Check out his website at also true with fish in the grass. I like to flip www.tylerwoolcottfishing.com. fast, only pumping the bait up and down a

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Whether you take your boat out to the lake or the ocean, your 4-stroke outboard needs ECSTAR Suzuki Semi-Synthetic Engine Oil so it can run long and strong. ECSTAR features special additives that protect the engine in harsh salt and fresh water environments, advanced detergents that keep engine parts clean, and viscosity index improvements that help the engine start in cold conditions. No matter where your next boat ride takes you, go confidently with ECSTAR.

RUN LONG. RUN CLEAN. RUN STRONG.

Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-Approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. Suzuki, the Suzuki “S” ECSTAR and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. © 2021 Suzuki Marine USA, LLC.

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StyleCraft and A&M Introduce Versatile, Premium Fiberglass Hull Pontoon Boats

ptimum durability and performance are the design achievements for an all new line of pontoon boats named Style Craft Boats. These premium fiberglass-hulled pontoon boats result from a partnership between Billy Chapman and John Hemken, and they are only available through factory direct sales. Chapman, pioneer of Amazon peacock bass fishing and creator of the Floating Suite mobile lodge, and Hemken, with over 25 years of perfecting new and innovative production and owner of A&M Manufacturing, are designing several models of pontoon boats. Flagship of the line is the Fun Slide boat, a 28-foot pontoon craft built on Bulldog hulls with a 10-foot-wide main deck and upper deck featuring two water slides. The 22- and 26-foot Outfitters are recreational tritoons with multiple floorplans for family fun and fishing built on Riptide hulls. Outfitter pontoon boats also feature multiple deck boxes with cushion seats, and much more. StyleCraft Boats also offers three different kit boats, allowing the DIYer to finish out the boat to their liking. The Kit Boat includes fiberglass hulls and heavy-duty aluminum C-channel floor beams ready for assembly. The StyleCraft Boats Tuff Boat is a workboat created for the rigors of heavy-duty operations. A deck boat that can be configured for any task, the Tuff Boat can be outfitted with a crane, welder and anything else a work boat

might need. StyleCraft works with the owner to determine the right size pontoon boat for the work at hand. All StyleCraft Boats are built by A&M Manufacturing and feature a heavy-duty set of fiberglass hulls measuring from 30 feet to 53 feet in length. The deck is built with marine-grade composite that is fiberglassed, gelled and webbed. No wood is used in StyleCraft Boats. Each boat can be configured with an outboard engine. More models will be introduced. The Fun Slide boat and Outfitter series are equipped with a Humminbird Helix GPS depthfinder, anodized aluminum railing and Phifertex rail coverings, upgraded custom upholstery with hydraulic steering and steering wheel on a fiberglass console. A&M Manufacturing is the contract manufacturer of Elite Craft leisure boat, hand built from fiberglass but with the regal look of real mahogany wood. Elite Craft boats have been built for over 30 years. For more information about StyleCraft Boats, visit stylecraftboats.com.

TRAVEL PROTOCOLS RELAXED FOR BAHAMAS INTER-ISLAND TRAVEL

ffective Immediately, the requirement for a travel health visa for inter-island travel within The Bahamas has been removed. Other important updates include: • Vaccinated persons travelling inter-island from New Providence and Grand Bahama will now only be required to produce a negative result of a rapid antigen test of the type approved by the Ministry of Health, and if non-vaccinated, travelers are required to produce a negative result of the RT-PCR test at the point of embarkation to the operator of the airline or vessel on which they are travelling. • For persons travelling inter-island from any other islands of The Bahamas, only a negative result of an antigen test of the type approved by the Ministry of Health is required. • The requirement for secondary testing for inter-island travelers is now removed. Curfew times have also been relaxed to 11:59 p.m. to 5 a.m. on New Providence and Paradise Island, Grand Bahama, Exuma mainland, Abaco mainland, Bimini and North and South Eleuthera, including Harbour Island. For entry into the U.S., beginning Nov. 1, 2021, all adult foreign nationals traveling to the United States will be required to be fully vaccinated, with limited exceptions. Additionally, unvaccinated U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents who return to the United States will be required to provide proof of a negative test result taken within one day prior to their departure. For more information on US requirements, visit https://bs.usembassy.gov/ covid-19-information. For full Bahamas Covid Protocols & Requirements for Boaters, visit www.bahamasmarinas.com/procedures-and-protocols.

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olor mutations occur in a variety of wildlife species—albino whitetail deer, black (melanistic) coyotes and yes, piebald catfish. To witness, and especially catch, one of those unique creatures, however, is rare. Yet it happened recently for Rocco Mansueto on the Tennessee River. Mansueto was fishing in late September with Capt. Joe Jellison, a guide working with Scenic City Fishing Charters in Chattanooga, Tenn. Capt. Jellison also produces the popular YouTube Channel, Chatt Cats Fishing. Capt. Jellison routinely fishes on the Tennessee River near Chattanooga. His clients had already enjoyed a successful day, including a 27-pound blue caught by Rocco’s brother, Phillip, when Rocco hooked up again on a respectable catfish. When they fought the fish close enough to the boat to see it, Capt. Jellison, who has boated thousands of catfish, said he was awestruck. “Piebald catfish are quite rare. There’s one-in-a-million chance of getting one,” said Capt. Jellison. “They are actually blue catfish with a genetic mutation. I told Rocco many (or most) fishermen will fish their whole life and not catch a piebald catfish.” Piebaldism is the absence of melanin-forming cells (melanocytes) in certain areas of the skin. It is different from albinism, where all cells lack the ability to produce pigment altogether. Hence, piebald creatures do not have the pink eye characteristic of albinos. The piebald gene is often hereditary. Another Scenic City Fishing guide, Capt. Sam Simons, caught a similar fish in 2019. While it appeared to be a totally white albino, it did not have the characteristic pink eye, hence was probably a piebald as well. At the time of the catch, Capt. Jellison was drifting chicken breast as bait in the Tennessee River current, what Scenic City guides refer to as their “light tackle technique.” They use standard spinning gear and relatively light line (10-pound mono or 20-pound braid), which allows the bait to drift more naturally. Even though they use light tackle, the technique sometimes produces big catfish—up to 50 and 60 pounds. However, trophy-sized catfish are not as rare, or as cherished, as a once-in-a-lifetime piebald. Mansueto released his rare piebald catfish back into the river in hopes someone else might someday have the same experience he did. Richard Simms is an outdoor journalist and owner/guide at Scenic City Fishing Charters in Chattanooga, Tenn. Check them out at www.sceniccityfishing.com.

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719-POUNDER WINS BLUEFIN BONANZA L ocal captain Pete Speeches, of Scarborough, Maine, and the crew of Backstabber, brought a giant 719-pound bluefin tuna to the scale to win the Third Annual Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza out of South Portland, Maine. They took home their second consecutive Casco Bay Cup. It was a fretful year for the Bonanza, as proposed restricted fishing days threatened to scuttle the event. Then, an 11th-hour category closure forced postponement of the three-day tournament from early August to early September. Despite the tremendous inconvenience to all, and a less-than-favorable forecast, the boats set out and didn’t disappoint. First to the dock on Day 1 was Endorfin with a 511-pounder. Keith Jordan, of the Bailey and Bella, quickly set the bar higher with a fat tuna that weighed 700 pounds on the nose. Speeches was hot on his tail, arriving at the scales just 20 minutes later with what would eventually prove to be the tournament winner. He was preceded by Mitch Napalitano’s 598-pounder, moving Mitch down to a third-place position, at least temporarily. Perennial frontrunner Kurt Christensen and the Molly Jane came in with a 373-pounder with Wasabi, High Anxiety and Lion’s den bringing in fish of 478, 311 and 440 pounds, respectively. Forecasted high winds and thunder showers kept many boats off the water on Day 2, but Backstabber—vying for the cumulative-weight prize—landed their second, a 467-pounder followed by Bailey & Bella’s 582-pounder. Bounty

Hunter II, one of the smaller boats in the tournament went way offshore and after a five-hour battle managed to wrangle in a 422-pounder, and made the scales before they closed. Despite challenging conditions, the crew of Molly Jane showed their mettle, bringing in a 632-pounder to open Day 3 that would ultimately hold up in the top five. Hot on their heels was Bailey & Bella with a 646-pounder that would take fourth place and secure the overall cumulative weight. The final fish was ANUT’s 698-pounder, which moved them back into third place. In the end, over $18,000 in prize money was handed out, including a top prize of $7,500 and the Casco Cup for the largest fish. More importantly, the Bluefin Bonanza raised enough money to ensure that 14 students, two from each of Maine’s seven community colleges, will receive scholarships next year. The Bonanza will also be able to fulfill their endowment to the Foundation for Maine’s Community Colleges, ensuring there will always be scholarships in the future. Furthermore, a new endowment will be established with the University of Maine’s School of Marine Sciences and the Gulf of Maine Research Institute to support vital bluefin tuna research that will ensure the resource and the fishery remain sustainable. For more information, check out the Casco Bay Bluefin Bonanza on Facebook, visit www.bluefinbonanza.org or email bluefinbonanza@gmail.com.

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