PALM BEACH COUNTY EDITION
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GROUPER TIME!
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VOLUME 27 • ISSUE 326
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The Workingman’s Drum By CAM Staff
Young angler Hayes Grinnell did battle with this big black drum while fishing the Texas coast with Slinging Mullet Guide Service and Get Em Guide Service.
I
n some circles, black drum don’t get the respect they deserve. Maybe it’s their appearance? With weird chin barbells and a humped head, they hug the bottom, looking like the hunchbacked cousins of the sleeker redfish inshore anglers adore. Or maybe it’s their reluctance to take a lure? Black drum feed primarily by scent, and while you might catch one slinging a spoon, targeting them requires bait, which is more effort than plug and paddletail aficionados are willing to put forth. However, for anglers who aren’t too prissy to get their hands dirty, black drum have a whole lot to offer. They are the workingman’s drum, found nearshore and inshore throughout the Gulf of Mexico and up the Atlantic seaboard to New England. Black drum pull hard, with powerful bulldogging runs regardless of size. And they grow quite large, reaching weights well over 100 pounds. On top of that, they provide consistent action in a wide range of areas where they can be caught. Shore-bound anglers can target them from docks, bridges, jetties and piers, where drum hunt crustaceans around structure. Surf anglers often connect with them on quartered blue crabs cast outside the breakers. From a boat, passes and inlets are prime feeding grounds as is nearshore structure. Shallow-water anglers find younger specimens way up in the estuaries tailing like redfish for fiddler crabs in tidal creeks.
Their movements are seasonal, but as long as you’ve got bait, you can pursue black drum pretty much anywhere you choose. Like most fish, they bite best on a moving tide, when your bait’s scent disperses over a wide area. They’ll eat halved blue crabs, whole fiddler crabs or mud crabs with backs cracked to let a little scent out, and also live or dead shrimp or fresh cut bait. On the northern end of their range, anglers add clams, mussels and blood worms to the array of baits a drum will eat. As long as your bait is on the bottom and smelling like food, it’s likely to draw the attention of a drum. Rigging and gear are pretty simple. A classic Carolina rig with just enough weight to keep the bait on bottom will get the job done in most situations. Up in the creeks, where you’ll be doing more casting and maybe even sight fishing, baits can be fished on a jighead or even a simple hook with a split shot. Tackle in the 20-pound class is a good starting point, and it’s wise to beef up to pull big drum off structure. They do get big. The IGFA world record, caught in 1975 off Delaware, weighed 113 pounds, 1 ounce. Fish in the 40- to 50-pound range are regular catches across the drum’s range. Those big fish aren’t good to eat, though. The meat is often full of worms by the time fish reach weights heavier than about 15 pounds. Smaller drum are excellent table fare. For more information, go to coastalanglermag.com.
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IT’S GROUPER TIME AGAIN! By Capt. Quinlyn Haddon
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ay is finally here, opening grouper season for fishermen on the Atlantic Coast. For the past several months of the season closure, charter captains in the Florida Keys have been boasting incredible throw-back grouper catches. The reopening of this species enriches each fishing trip with an extra opportunity for a great fighting fish, which is also excellent tablefare. Grouper fishing can easily be peppered into a day of fishing by dropping a bottom rig down while yellowtail fishing, trolling lures or stopping offshore to deep-drop for snowy grouper while on the mahi hunt. While the fishery in the Keys may not be famous for its bottom fishing, there is no reason it shouldn’t be. Red, black and gag grouper are plentiful and close to land. Snowy grouper aren’t too far either, and can be reasonably reliable to target. Snowy grouper are found within 1,000 feet, and can be targeted with electric or hand-crank set ups. Electric reels are advisable when mahi season is in full swing, as to make quick work of the one-per-boat limit of snowy grouper. The trek offshore for a single fish might seem like a waste of time, but there is a little more to it. Snowy grouper can get quite large and yield impressively sized, excellent tasting fillets. There
are also the welcomed bycatches of rosies, barrelfish and tilefish while deep dropping in these areas. Furthermore, there should be ample opportunities for mahi fishing on the way to and from the spot. Another reason the electric reel is preferable is an 8-pound weight should be used to keep your bait on the bottom in the heavy current. Keep your weight as close to the bottom as you can and utilize a chicken rig, with multiple hooks along the leader, baited with just about anything. Continuously recheck the bottom to make sure it hasn’t gotten away from you, and bring a spare weight or two, as it isn’t overly difficult to lose one while fishing this way. Targeting red, black and gag grouper on the reef can be a little different than typical grouper fishing on the west coast of Florida. Heavy weights can easily get snagged on the rocky bottom in the heavy current, potentially making inexperience quite expensive in terms of lost tackle. There are also plenty of smaller reef fish waiting to pick apart your bait. Over-baiting can be a good tactic, but the most reliable way to bypass these conditions, is to simply freeline a live bait on a jighead. After breaking client’s hearts by releasing trophy grouper throughout the closed season, we are thrilled to be able to add these tasty critters to the icebox yet again. Right now is an excellent time to visit the Florida Keys and enjoy our full fishery. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon guides with Blue Magic Charters out of Marathon, Fla.
LURES
CASTING FAR: THE DYNAMICS OF LONG DISTANCE LURES
PATRICK SEBILE
I
’ve enjoyed fishing from the shore since I was a teen angler, and one thing that became obvious to me very quickly was there are numerous situations when casts are a tad bit short to reach targeted fish in specific situations. This is a constant truism when fishing from the bank, the beach, a pier or jetty, but it also applies to boat anglers. Quick, long casts are often required for fastmoving fish like tuna. Long casts are also useful when it’s necessary to keep the boat away from reefs, boulders and breakers for safety or to avoid spooking fish. Long ago, I began making sure to always have lures in my possession that
were especially efficient for reaching out long distances. These lures sometimes trade realistic swimming action for distance, yet there are also a few that find a balance between great range and great action. When you read the packaging of a saltwater lure, and especially a surffishing lure, it often mentions how good the lure is for longdistance casts— or how good it is supposed to be. The problem is, there is no scale. There is no quantifiable reference for comparing lures that honestly presents the real numbers of yards any given lure will deliver. Marketing promises do not
always translate into real performance. To make things more complex, there is theoretical and real distance. A lure that casts great on a parking lot with no breeze can turn into a disaster when casting into an onshore breeze at night, which are conditions many serious fishermen face in the surf. There’s no magic, and what makes some lures reach farther distances than others is a mix between their concept, their balance and, to a certain extent, the gear used to throw them when the goal is to reach a little bit farther than other anglers. This conversation is all about the physics that translates to longer casting distance for better fishing results. The key points that will help you pick the proper lures to do the job are shape, buoyancy, the position of weight on the lure, the total weight and sometimes extra appendages, such as side wings that really help a lure fly as far as possible. These elements are just a primer to a discussion on lures designed for distance. Next month, I plan to go in-depth on ways you can select lures that will truly help you cast super-long distances to reach fish other lures cannot. Arming yourself with a longcasting arsenal gives you an edge in catching fish, simply because you’ll be able put a lure in front of them.
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Legendary angler Patrick Sebile is a world record holder and an award-winning designer of innovative lures and fishing gear. Check out his creations at abandofanglers.com.
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Shiner Fishing for Giant Florida
LARGEMOUTHS
B
ass tournament anglers get excited about 20-pound five-fish limits, and a 30-pound tournament sack is a lifetime achievement for most. It takes a little bit more to impress hawg hunter Sean Rush. Rush makes a living guiding clients to trophy largemouth bass, mostly on Rodman Reservoir in north Florida. The best five fish haul his boat has seen weighed 61 pounds, 9 ounces. Think about that. That’s a more than 12-pound average. Rush said it was the best fishing day he’s ever witnessed, with two fish well over 13 pounds and the smallest of the five weighing a measly 11 pounds, 1 ounce. Most bass anglers across the country spend a lifetime seeking out a single 10-pound-plus largemouth. Rush’s anglers did five lifetime’s worth of trophy catching in a single day on April 26 of 2021. “And we probably lost between three and six fish that were that big or bigger,” Rush added after rattling off the astounding statistics. “Those guys were from New Jersey. They had never done any Florida shiner fishing before. I told them it was all downhill from there.” The downhill slide, however, is not too steep. Even a decent day using Rush’s techniques on Rodman produces results that would impress just about anyone. When it comes to catching big largemouths, he’s got several advantages over your average angler. Location is a big factor. Rodman is a 9,500acre giant bass factory. It is a 15-mile long stump field with a deep river channel running down the middle of it and the matted vegetation Florida
By Nick Carter
fisheries are known for. In more than three decades guiding, Rush said his clients have boated close to 1,000 bass better than 10 pounds. He landed 73 10-plus-pounders last year alone and has overseen the landing of eight fish on FWC’s TrophyCatch Hall of Fame list, which is for fish heavier than 13 pounds. He does 95 percent of his trips on Rodman. “If fishing is good, we commonly catch 30 to 60 fish a day,” he said. “The average size at Rodman is pretty solid. Usually we’ll have fish in the 8- to 10-pound class on the top end of that range.” Tactics are everything when it comes to catching fish like that. Live bait provides a huge advantage over the lures tournament anglers must fish. Rush fishes exclusively with live, wildcaught shiners, which he keeps lively in a huge bait tank on his custom-built, 22-foot Prodigy Razor. The tournament guys can keep their fiberglass glitter rockets. Rush’s sturdy aluminum boat is rigged out for the style of fishing he does, and it’s powered by a 150 hp Mercury with a power-assisted hand tiller. The tackle is also sturdy. Rush pairs heavy duty Daiwa 300 Lexa baitcasting reels with super heavy 7 ½- and 8-foot rods he said are essentially musky rods. He fishes straight 20-pound Berkley Big Game in green, which is thin enough for low visibility and strong enough to get the job done. He hooks his shiners through the tail above the anal fin with 3/0, 4/0 or 5/0 Eagle Claw 84s, which
are standard J hooks with a slight offset. In a typical spread, his anglers will work shiners under bobbers set 3 to 5 feet deep, and he’ll throw out one or two shiners on freelines to swim up under the vegetation. For big fish, he prefers shiners 7 to 9 inches long. Rush’s big-fish reputation has gotten around, so he stays booked 300-plus days a year. His favorite time of year is fall, before the December through February spawn. “It’s prespawn, the fishing pressure is lower and the fish are feeding up that time of year,” he said. “The fish are also big then. They look like gorillas.” Late spring and summer are also good, once fish settle back into normal patterns after the spawn. Most of the year he targets them around floating mats of vegetation and deep river bends. The exception is during the spawn, when bass push up on the flats. Rush does not bed fish, though. He’ll set up on mats near known spawning flats and try to catch big females staging. One more thing: don’t call Rush if you want to eat bass or have a trophy mounted. Rodman is managed under regular Florida regulations— which allow five fish, with one fish longer than 16 inches—but Rush’s trips are catch-and-release. “I’m up front and honest about it on the phone,” he said. “If they even talk like they want to keep one, I just won’t take them.” Contact Capt. Sean Rush and Trophy Bass Expeditions of Central Florida through the website at www.floridatrophybass.com.
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Monster Blue Cat Smashes Mississippi Record By CAM Staff
T
he Mississippi River near Natchez, Miss. has a history of producing giant blue cats. The most recent monster catfish, caught on April 7, weighed 131 pounds and absolutely crushed the existing state rod-and-reel state record. Eugene Cronley, of Brandon, Mississippi, had just set up in a 90-foot-deep hole downstream of Natchez. About five minutes after making his first cast, the big fish took the cut skipjack he was using as bait, according to a report in the Mississippi Clarion Ledger. “He hit the rod and started pulling drag,”
Cronley told the Clarion Ledger. “We had to untie the boat and float down the river. “I couldn’t move him. I’d pull on him and take in a foot of line and he’d pull and take 10 feet. I just sat there like I was hung up.” After a 40-minute fight on 30-pound line, the angler’s exhaustion made hauling the fish into the boat a chore. Cronley has caught 50-pound fish from the area before, and he didn’t
realize exactly how big this fish was until he put eyes on it. Then, it was time to start looking for a certified scale with the capacity to weigh such an enormous fish. Cronley’s fish waited on ice for three days before he was able to get a certified weight. Fish lose weight when they are out of the water. The Clarion Ledger reported that the fish had an initial weight of 138 pounds on uncertified scales. Even out of the water for three days, Cronley’s blue cat shattered the previous rod-and-reel state record of 95 pounds, caught from the Mississippi near Natchez in 2009. In 1997, a 101-pound Mississippi trophy record blue catfish was caught in the same stretch of river. The IGFA all-tackle world record for blue catfish is 143 pounds. It was caught from Kerr Lake, Buggs Island, Virginia in 2011. Cronley’s catch, if certified by IGFA, would possibly be a new 30-pound line class record. The 30-pound line class record stands at 111 pounds. It was caught in 1996 from Wheeler Reservoir in Alabama. For more Mississippi fishing records, visit mdwfp.com.
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Permit Monitoring Funded for Western Dry Rocks
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PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVE POWELL
ast year, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), initiated an annual total fishing closure from April through July at a popular fishing location off Key West known as Western Dry Rocks. Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) recently announced a $600,000 investment to monitor the effectiveness of the closure in protecting spawning permit. Western Dry Rocks is an area of reef and rock about 10 miles southwest of Key West that hosts large spawning aggregations of permit and various snapper and grouper species each year. Its proximity to Key West and the dependable nature of the fishery make it a popular spot for bountiful half-day trips. The intent of the closure, which bans fishing in a 1 square-mile area from April through July for seven years, is to protect populations of several species
by allowing them to spawn unmolested by anglers. Permit, yellowtail snapper, mutton snapper and gray snapper are all known to aggregate at Western Dry Rocks from April through July. These spawning aggregations, along with the swirling currents that sweep past Western Dry Rocks are thought to play a role in the distribution of fish eggs and larvae throughout the Florida Keys and up the Atlantic coast of southern Florida. BTT’s investment will fund a monitoring program for three years. “We can’t overstate the importance of this analysis for fisheries management and how appreciative we are to our partners at Bonefish & Tarpon Trust,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto. “Working together on this important research initiative helps to ensure Florida’s status as the Fishing Capital of the World.” FWC is requiring updates on regulation effectiveness at three, five and seven years, with a sunset clause at seven years if the closure is not meeting expectations. BTT scientists expect the spawning-season closure will have positive impacts on the behavior of permit at Western Dry Rocks, resulting in more relaxed schooling behaviors and enabling spawning fish to remain at the site longer. BTT will work with collaborators from previous permit research projects to test these predictions by comparing data collected at Western Dry Rocks (WDR) with data from other known permit spawning locations where fishing is allowed. “The monitoring will build on datasets that measured depredation, spawning permit aggregation characteristics, and permit spawning migrations at key spawning sites prior to the closure,” said Dr. Ross Boucek, BTT Florida Keys Initiative Manager. “By studying permit at WDR and comparing the WDR data to information gathered at other permit spawning sites that aren’t protected, we’ll be able to assess the effectiveness of a spawning season closure at WDR as a management tool.” The monitoring program will utilize acoustic telemetry, sonar technology and laser-mount underwater cameras to monitor permit spawning behaviors, estimate permit abundance and estimate permit size. The program will also employ methods previously used at WDR to determine rates of depredation at spawning locations that are still fished. For more information, visit myFWC.com.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF FWC TROPHYCATCH
PINK-TAGGED BASS OFFER BIG MONEY
T
here’s a whole lot of gift-card money out there for the lucky anglers who catch one of 10 pink-tagged largemouth bass that were distributed around Florida waters this spring. To celebrate the tenth season of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) TrophyCatch program, biologists stocked 10 trophysized largemouth bass with bright pink tags into 10 different freshwater fisheries. Each angler who catches and documents a pink-tagged bass will score a $5,000 gift card to Bass Pro Shops, $1,000 to shop at AFTCO, and secure a chance to win an additional $10,000. “Our freshwater biologists tagged 10 huge bass across the state – just about everyone is within a day-trip’s distance to fish for one of these tagged bass from a boat, kayak or even the bank. Now comes the fun part for anglers!” said TrophyCatch Director KP Clements. “Get out there and catch one! Tag, you’re it!” FWC’s TrophyCatch program is a valuable tool for freshwater fisheries research and management. It provides reward incentives to encourage anglers to catch, release and report trophy-sized (weighing 8 pounds or more) largemouth bass in Florida. The program develops public-private partnerships to protect trophy bass, promote fishing and support fisheries conservation programs. TrophyCatch anglers with approved bass receive rewards from program partners while FWC biologists learn more about producing and sustaining the best trophy bass fishery in the world. Here’s a list of the waters where pink-tagged bass are swimming: • Newnans Lake, Alachua County • Lake George, Putnam/Volusia counties • Lake Talquin, Gadsden/Leon counties • Lake Walk-in-Water, Polk County • Tenoroc Fish Management Area, Polk County • Lake Trafford, Collier County • Lake Istokpoga, Highlands County • Lake Griffin, Lake/Orange counties • Lake Rousseau, Levy/Citrus counties • Johns Lake, Orange County For more information, visit www.trophycatchflorida.com.
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ecently, federal fisheries managers approved cuts to cobia harvest in federal waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. At the May 4 meeting of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, FWC staff will recommend regulations for state waters that are consistent with the new federal regulations. The proposed rule would: • Increase the minimum size limit from 33 to 36 inches fork length in all state waters. • Reduce the commercial bag limit from two to one fish per harvester, per day for Atlantic state waters. • Reduce the recreational and commercial vessel limit from six to two fish per vessel, per day for Atlantic State waters. These regulations changes were spurred by a recent stock assessment that shows cobia are undergoing overfishing. According to the proposal, a substantial portion of Florida’s cobia harvest comes from state waters. Staff is recommending the commission adopt these new regulations without further hearing. For more information, go to MyFWC.com.
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Summer-Long Statewide Fishing Competition Launches May 28 F or the first time in the history of Florida STAR, CCA Florida, will launch the annual STAR competition presented by Yamaha with a Title sponsor. CCA Florida STAR is proud to announce West Marine as the Title sponsor of the 2022 competition. West Marine began its support of the STAR competition in 2016 and each year has stepped up to a greater level of sponsorship. For 2022, West Marine has chosen to title the competition in order to increase awareness of the company’s commitment to the conservation of our fisheries resources for future viability which is so important to the future of its business. The West Marine CCA Florida STAR competition kicks off on May 28, the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. The 101-day, summerlong event invites anglers and non-anglers to participate and win their share of prizes valued at almost $500,000, including boats, motors, scholarships and more. Launched in 2015, STAR focuses on conservation with its technology-based, catch-photo-release format. STAR’s dedicated smartphone app promotes the proper handling of species and allows participants to upload competition photos, eliminating the requirement to harvest or capture and transport fish. CCA Florida also uses data collected from the app to educate the public on the importance of protecting Florida’s marine resources. This
10 FLORIDA
MAY 2022
important data is also available to other conservation organizations and universities for use in their studies on conservation, habitat and stock assessments. “In the past seven years, it’s been amazing to see STAR participants support conservation by embracing the catch-photo format and picking up garbage during the annual competition” CCA Florida STAR Director Leiza Fitzgerald said. “Even more exciting is the participation of over 7,000 registrants annually and awarding more than $2.1 million in prizes, with $700,000 specifically awarded in youth scholarships.” The 2022 STAR competition is comprised of 17 divisions targeting 12 inshore and offshore species plus the cleanup of trash. STAR’s signature Tagged Redfish Division offers winners the choice of a Contender Boats 22 Sport, Pathfinder Boats 2200 TRS or Spyder Boats FX19 Vapor, all powered by Yamaha Outboards. For the first two youth anglers who win this division, prizes include two tiller boats powered with Yamaha Outboards, trailers, Minn Kota trolling motors and Humminbird electronics. The best opportunity to catch this year’s tagged redfish will be in Brevard, Citrus and Charlotte counties, STAR’s 2022 Destination Counties which each have eight tagged redfish in their coastal waters. There will be on average four STAR tagged redfish in every other coastal county of Florida for a total of nearly 170 released
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tagged fish. There is one tagged fish that is worth $50,000 cash. This special tag is sponsored by Alta Equipment Company. For offshore anglers, the Tigress Outriggers and Gear Tagged Dolphin Division offers one winner a $10,000 cash prize. The first STAR registrant and CCA Florida member who catches one of the tagged dolphin will win. These dolphin will be tagged and released in the coastal waters of Florida for STAR by the Dolphin Research program implemented by the Beyond Our Shores foundation. STAR is a family-friendly competition, and CCA Florida youth members (ages 6 to 17) can participate for free. Kids are encouraged to submit entries in the Youth Scholarship Division presented by Realtree Fishing for an opportunity to win one of 12 scholarships totaling $100,000. Other divisions include ladies, kayak, conservation, guides and many more. Since most division winners are determined by a random drawing, it is not about catching the biggest fish. Any size fish can win. Registration is open throughout the competition, but anglers who register before May 28 will be entered in the Engel Early Bird Drawings for weekly prizes. To register for STAR 2022 or receive additional information on divisions, prizes and more, visit ccaflstar.com or Facebook.
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may 2022
Boat Show Announces $300,000 Donation to Marine Life Conservation
t was anchors aweigh for the Palm Beach International Boat Show, as elected officials and event stakeholders gathered on the West Palm Beach waterfront for the show’s opening ceremony. The boat show also hosted an exclusive luncheon for business leaders in the Blue Heron Ballroom at The Ben, Autograph Collection, which featured a conversation with Jack and Gary Nicklaus. The inaugural “Charting the Course” Business Leadership Luncheon commemorated the 40th anniversary of the boat show, and brought together leaders from all sectors in order to build relationships and celebrate the economic impact of the marine industry. The event represented a collaboration between the Marine Industries of Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC), Informa Markets, and the Business Development Board of Palm Beach County. “We have a mission to promote the growth of the marine industry for the benefit of our members, the community, and the environment,” said Alyssa Freeman, executive director of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, before welcoming West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James to the podium. “We are so thrilled to have you in our city. The boat show is very important to our economy as West Palm Beach continues to grow and become more vibrant,” said Mayor James, as he thanked and congratulated the MIAPBC and Informa Markets. “We’re very excited about the impact this show has had on West Palm Beach, and we’re also proud to be environmental stewards,” said Andrew Doole, president of the U.S. Boat Shows Division with Informa Markets. He presented the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida with a donation of $300,000.
photo credit: Tracey Benson
“This effort is really about promoting habitat conservation and healthy waterways overall in the state,” said Andrew Walker, president and CEO of the Fish & Wildlife Foundation. At the luncheon, Jack and Gary Nicklaus were invited to the stage for a conversation and a Q&A about their family’s love of marine life and conservation, passion for fishing, and dedication to philanthropy. “The boating industry is one of the pillars of Florida’s economy,” said Jack Nicklaus. “It not only provides fun, healthy recreation, but also creates thousands of jobs. The future is bright and the opportunities are strong if all of us pull together to capture the tremendous potential that these great waters of ours have to offer.”
About the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County The Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County, Inc. (MIAPBC) is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1986. Their mission is to promote and protect the sound growth of the marine industry in Palm Beach County for the benefit and education of its members, the community, and the environment. The MIAPBC brings the community two annual signature events: the Palm Beach International Boat Show and the Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade. MIAPBC supports more than 40 local marine-related events and nonprofits that protect and promote the marine industry in Palm Beach County and beyond, with a portion providing scholarships to deserving students. Since its inception, the MIAPBC has donated over $2.5 million to local nonprofit organizations and scholarship candidates.
For advertising or other inquiries, please call 917.612.8275 or email ilene@coastalanglermagazine.com
Fishing the Palm Beaches
with Darcizzle
W
e have quite a diversity of species in our waters right now and May is feasibly the prime month to fish off the Palm Beaches! There are a multitude of factors as to why this is one of the best producing months of the year. High winds should diminish, and water temperatures will quickly rise a couple degrees to an average of 80°F, giving the offshore angler greater opportunities to fill their fish box! The winds this month will primarily blow out of the E/SE quadrant which will trigger some very large pelagics to move closer to our coast. This time of year will continue to produce a strong mahi mahi bite all the way through June, diminishing when the pelagics start moving further offshore. It’s a good idea for you to pay attention to the dolphin bite taking place off the coast of the FL Keys and Miami-Dade, because it will be a good indicator for what you should expect in our waters within a few days’ time. For the anglers that like to catch smoker kings, there will be a favorable morning bite in general. Typically, kingfish can be found in 90 to 120 feet of water from Boynton to Palm Beach Inlet. Trolling spoons or slow trolling live bait with down riggers are the best methods for targeting king mackerel. The blackfin tuna will be abundant too, with waters between the Breakers Hotel and the Lost Tree Club is a well-known hot spot. Try fishing with live bait in 100 to 180 feet of water with a steady current. The arrival of bait fish will start to show up in our waters this month. I’d suggest pulling out those Sabiki Rigs, attaching a bucktail jig or pyramid sinker to the end of it and catching some bait close to shore! Inshore should produce excellent fishing as well! Big jack crevalle are schooled up tightly and will eat any live bait within their strike zone. Tarpon will start to show up in the inlets and juveniles can be found in the bays and canals. Try using live bait, jigs, and lip divers to entice a tarpon. Snook should also produce plenty of exciting action; work artificial lures and flare hawks along seawalls, docks, and near structure. Finally, tournament season has officially begun with multiple events every weekend! Prepare yourself for heavy boat traffic on the weekends, especially on tournament days. Boating safety is always a primary concern for all water lovers alike. Be safe, follow YOUR dream, and keep on catchin’! please be sure to check out my youtube channel “darcizzle offshore” for fishing videos every week! www.youtube.com/DarcizzleOffshore
Giant 40lb smoker kingfish that I caught while fishing for mutton snapper... no wire needed! The circle hook caught him in the corner of the mouth perfectly.
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Boca Raton, Lake Boca Raton, FL - May 2022 High
Date
Low PM
ft
Rise
Set
1
Sun
10:21
2.2
11:00
2.6
4:41
0.2
4:45
0.0
6:41
7:53
2
Mon
10:59
2.2
11:38
2.5
5:20
0.3
5:21
0.0
6:40
7:54
3
Tue
11:37
2.1
5:59
0.3
5:57
0.1
6:39
7:54
4
Wed
12:17
2.5
12:16
2.1
6:37
0.4
6:35
0.2
6:39
7:55
5
Thu
12:56
2.4
12:56
2.0
7:16
0.5
7:15
0.2
6:38
7:55
6
Fri
1:36
2.3
1:39
2.0
7:59
0.5
7:59
0.3
6:37
7:56
7
Sat
2:20
2.3
2:27
2.0
8:44
0.5
8:47
0.3
6:36
7:56
8
Sun
3:06
2.2
3:20
2.0
9:33
0.5
9:39
0.3
6:36
7:57
9
Mon
3:57
2.2
4:18
2.0
10:24
0.5
10:34
0.4
6:35
7:57
10
Tue
4:50
2.2
5:19
2.1
11:17
0.4
11:33
0.4
6:35
7:58
11
Wed
5:43
2.2
6:19
2.2
12:10
0.3
6:34
7:58
12
Thu
6:36
2.2
7:16
2.4
12:33
0.3
1:03
0.2
6:33
7:59
13
Fri
7:26
2.2
8:10
2.5
1:32
0.3
1:55
0.0
6:33
8:00
14
Sat
8:15
2.3
9:01
2.7
2:30
0.3
2:46
-0.1
6:32
8:00
15
Sun
9:04
2.3
9:52
2.8
3:25
0.2
3:36
-0.2
6:32
8:01
16
Mon
9:53
2.3
10:43
2.8
4:18
0.2
4:26
-0.2
6:31
8:01
17
Tue
10:43
2.3
11:35
2.8
5:09
0.2
5:17
-0.2
6:31
8:02
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18
Wed
11:35
2.2
6:01
0.2
6:10
-0.2
6:30
8:02
19
Thu
12:27
2.7
12:30
2.2
6:55
0.3
7:05
-0.1
6:30
8:03
20
Fri
1:21
2.6
1:28
2.2
7:50
0.3
8:03
0.0
6:29
8:03
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21
Sat
2:17
2.5
2:31
2.1
8:47
0.3
9:02
0.1
6:29
8:04
22
Sun
3:14
2.4
3:37
2.1
9:44
0.3
10:03
0.2
6:29
8:04
23
Mon
4:12
2.3
4:45
2.2
10:42
0.2
11:03
0.3
6:28
8:05
Join Sea Tow Palm Beach \ 561-844-8056 seatow.com/palmbeach
24
Tue
5:09
2.3
5:50
2.2
11:37
0.2
6:28
8:06
25
Wed
6:04
2.3
6:49
2.3
12:03
0.3
12:31
0.1
6:28
8:06
26
Thu
6:54
2.2
7:41
2.4
1:01
0.4
1:22
0.1
6:27
8:07
27
Fri
7:42
2.2
8:29
2.5
1:56
0.4
2:09
0.0
6:27
8:07
28
Sat
8:27
2.2
9:13
2.5
2:47
0.4
2:54
0.0
6:27
8:08
29
Sun
9:09
2.2
9:54
2.6
3:33
0.4
3:35
0.0
6:26
8:08
30
Mon
9:50
2.1
10:34
2.5
4:15
0.4
4:14
0.0
6:26
8:09
31
Tue
10:30
2.1
11:12
2.5
4:54
0.4
4:52
0.1
6:26
8:09
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2 PALM BEACH COUNTY
MAY 2022
AM
ft
PM
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AM
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INSHORE & FRESHWATER
Fishing Forecast by Capt. Patrick Smith
W
elcome to the May inshore/nearshore forecast for Palm Beach County. May means a lot of things for South Florida. Nearshore the action should be fast with kingfish, bonita, blackfin tuna, and even some mahi. One of the best parts of our area is that you don't have to venture too far offshore to get in on the action. One of the best ways to put a variety of fish on the boat is to find small live baits and chum over the reef. When you start seeing boils from those baits getting eaten, either put one on a hook and freeline it, or throw your favorite lure or fly. Try to use tackle sufficient enough to land the fish quickly and prevent sharks from eating everything that you hook. Around the inlets you will find snook and most likely some big tarpon; the key is to get on them early before all the boats start running them over. Even then, the tarpon are known for being pretty finicky, where bump trolling a live mullet is your best bet to getting a bite. Freshwater fishing should be really good for the next couple of months with decent water temperatures and tons of bait around. Peacock and largemouth bass can be targeted in the Ida/Osborne Chain all day long with the best action being in the first half. The Everglades freshwater fishing will remain good until the rain starts and the water level starts to increase. Evening top water action at the Loxahatchee Refuge will be absolutely amazing; frogs, Zara Spooks, and prop baits are all great choices.
They call this a fun sized tarpon, and I would have to agree. Caroline and Andrew spent their spring break in Bottom Beach and caught lots of different fish.
Bob caught this really nice peacock on a 4-weight fly rod.
Capt. Patrick Smith www.swamptosea.com 561-503-0848
unior Angler Team
Hake fish caught in 800 feet of water, deep dropping off Jupiter.
H
by Christopher Sprague
ello anglers! I hope you all have been fishing a bunch lately! Now that winter is over and it's starting to heat up again, it's time to start getting out on the waters more! My dad and I were dying to get on the boat since we had been busy with both the Miami and Palm Beach Boat Shows. We decided to put the Nortech in the water one weekend and try our luck dolphin fishing and deep dropping. We headed straight out of Boynton and started the morning bird hunting. We were running around for around an hour when we finally found a nice log in the water and thought we were going to be in the money. Sadly, all that was on it were runners and no dolphin, which was odd. We wanted to get dinner, so we went to our deep drop spots for golden tile. Usually, these spots have a mud bottom since golden tiles like to burrow. We went to our main spot where we usually catch the most and set the rig down. After a few drops, we finally got a bite. We began the process and started bringing it up only to find that it was a hake fish. This was not the target species, but it still is quite amazing to eat. We kept dropping and found a small tilefish, however nothing like normal. After a few more drops, we called it a day and began our run back to the inlet. We had a long run, so we turned our radar on and tried to bird hunt. It was getting much rougher as time went on due to a storm coming in, however suddenly, we spotted a pallet. Near that pallet was a huge weed patch and a log. We thought that this was amazing, and we were going to be on a huge dolphin, how could you not in a spot like this?! We threw live bait out and a bunch of small dolphins came to the boat, none of which were legal. We then tried trolling around the area but with no luck and decided to avoid getting hit by the storm. We had an amazing time out there and came home with dinner!
4 PALM BEACH COUNTY
may 2022
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ECO ToURISM
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ne of the most enjoyable parts of what I do is sharing my love of the outdoors, wildlife, and nature with charter clients. Palm Beach County is home to a long list of species - plant and animal - that we can encounter on any given charter. Being able to see such a wide variety of species right in our own backyard is a real treat! We’re always on the lookout for creatures when on the water, and there are some that I get to see more than others. One of those is the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. The reason I get to see them so often is that I volunteer with a local group that conducts bottlenose dolphin research. The Palm Beach Dolphin Project is an outreach and scientific program run by the Taras Oceanographic Foundation, a locally based 501(c)(3) organization. Since 2017, Aqua Adventure Tours has provided boat access to the project’s scientific team for research into bottlenose dolphin populations along the coast of Palm Beach County. The researchers document the presence or absence of dolphins during each survey trip, along with weather and ocean conditions such as wind speed and direction, wave and swell heights, air and water temps, the presence of other sea life, and other factors. If dolphins are spotted during a survey, the research team records the location and then photographs the dolphins’ dorsal fins as they surface. Each dolphin has a uniquely shaped dorsal fin, so these photos are key to determining which dolphins are present on each survey. By comparing www.USHarbors.com
Boynton Beach, Lake Worth, FL - May 2022 High
Date
Low
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
1
Sun
10:48
2.6
11:21
2.8
5:30
0.1
5:41
-0.2
6:42
7:52
2
Mon
11:24
2.5
11:58
2.7
6:08
0.2
6:19
-0.2
6:41
7:53
3
Tue
12:00
2.4
6:46
0.3
6:56
-0.1
6:40
7:53
4
Wed
12:36
2.6
12:37
2.3
7:23
0.4
7:34
0.1
6:40
7:54
5
Thu
1:15
2.4
1:16
2.2
8:03
0.5
8:14
0.2
6:39
7:54
6
Fri
1:57
2.3
1:59
2.1
8:46
0.6
8:59
0.3
6:38
7:55
7
Sat
2:43
2.2
2:48
2.0
9:35
0.7
9:51
0.4
6:38
7:56
8
Sun
3:34
2.2
3:45
2.0
10:33
0.7
10:50
0.5
6:37
7:56
9
Mon
4:28
2.1
4:48
2.0
11:33
0.6
11:53
0.5
6:36
7:57
10
Tue
5:25
2.2
5:53
2.1
12:30
0.5
6:36
7:57
11
Wed
6:20
2.2
6:53
2.3
12:52
0.4
1:22
0.3
6:35
7:58
12
Thu
7:12
2.3
7:49
2.5
1:46
0.3
2:10
0.1
6:35
7:58
13
Fri
8:02
2.4
8:41
2.7
2:37
0.2
2:56
-0.2
6:34
7:59
14
Sat
8:50
2.6
9:31
2.9
3:26
0.1
3:43
-0.4
6:33
7:59
15
Sun
9:38
2.7
10:20
3.0
4:14
0.0
4:30
-0.5
6:33
8:00
16
Mon
10:26
2.7
11:10
3.1
5:02
0.0
5:18
-0.6
6:32
8:00
17
Tue
11:16
2.7
5:51
-0.1
6:08
-0.6
6:32
8:01
18
Wed
12:01
3.0
12:07
2.7
6:42
0.0
7:01
-0.6
6:31
8:01
19
Thu
12:53
3.0
1:02
2.7
7:36
0.0
7:58
-0.4
6:31
8:02
20
Fri
1:48
2.8
2:00
2.6
8:35
0.1
8:58
-0.3
6:31
8:03
21
Sat
2:45
2.7
3:02
2.5
9:38
0.2
10:03
-0.1
6:30
8:03
22
Sun
3:44
2.6
4:08
2.4
10:44
0.2
11:10
0.0
6:30
8:04
23
Mon
4:44
2.5
5:15
2.4
11:48
0.1
6:30
8:04
24
Tue
5:43
2.5
6:20
2.4
12:15
0.1
12:48
0.0
6:29
8:05
25
Wed
6:39
2.4
7:19
2.5
1:15
0.2
1:41
0.0
6:29
8:05
26
Thu
7:31
2.4
8:11
2.6
2:09
0.2
2:30
-0.1
6:29
8:06
27
Fri
8:18
2.4
8:57
2.6
2:57
0.2
3:14
-0.2
6:28
8:06
28
Sat
9:00
2.4
9:39
2.6
3:42
0.2
3:56
-0.2
6:28
8:07
29
Sun
9:41
2.4
10:19
2.6
4:24
0.2
4:35
-0.2
6:28
8:07
30
Mon
10:19
2.4
10:57
2.6
5:04
0.2
5:14
-0.2
6:28
8:08
31
Tue
10:57
2.3
11:35
2.5
5:42
0.3
5:52
-0.1
6:27
8:08
6 PALM BEACH COUNTY
may 2022
Moon
by Chris Thalmann
innumerable photos over many years, the researchers can now identify hundreds of individual dolphins just by the shape of their dorsal fins. Doing so is not quite as easy as it sounds. Depending on the number of dolphins, ocean conditions, the skill of the photographer and your captain, and how much the animals cooperate, a dolphin encounter can last anywhere from 30 seconds to 30 minutes. Occasionally dolphins are not spotted at all. But that’s very unusual. Generally, we’re rewarded by spotting at least a few on most surveys - sometimes quite a few! Spotting dolphins is the easy part. Each survey can generate thousands of photos which must then be carefully reviewed and sorted. This is detailed, meticulous work, best done on computers in a lab setting. I should note that the project holds a NOAA research permit. Without such a permit, the researchers would not legally be able to get as close to the dolphins as their work requires. Wild dolphins are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and you should never approach closer than 150 feet. The Palm Beach Dolphin Project is always looking for volunteers - to learn more about their work and volunteer opportunities, visit www.taras. org. And if you’d like more info on chartering with Aqua Adventure Tours, just visit our website. Hope to see you on the water!
Chris Thalmann - Owner Aqua Adventure Tours, Inc. 561-635-6899 www.aquaadventuretours.com
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ROADTRIPFISHING
Buddy Banana Kibosh By Keith Lozott Contributing Writer Typically, I don’t believe in superstitions, but after a recent fishing trip with my buddy Neil, I may be a believer!!! The morning started slow; I caught a small snapper and small snook. Neil was in skunk mode, so we decided to try a spoil island where I’ve caught some trout, snook, and a gag grouper on a prior trip. To our dismay it was dead as well. Just as we were about to exit stage left, Neil was working a topwater lure back to the boat when what appeared to be a large bull shark came up from the bottom and tried to hammer the lure. Unbelievably it totally missed the lure and disappeared. It was impressive to witness such a big specimen of a fish take a swipe at the lure. After the “Shark Week” experience, we continued to struggle so I decided to implement Plan C and move from the east side of the Indian River to the west side. I’ve had some nice fishing on the west side with trout, reds, and snook. We made our way across the river stopping at another spoil island only to be greeted with a jack attack. I landed several jacks and Neil hooked one that got off. His skunk was still intact but with jacks around I figured that would change. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. We used the trolling motor to quietly make our way towards the mangroves hoping to get a glimpse of a red, snook, trout, flounder, or any inshore species willing to bite. As we approached the shore, we noticed another bull shark working the shore and of course I had to make a cast or two at him, but he had no interest in my offering. We kept working the shore and finally it happened for Neil!!! He made a long cast and almost as soon as the lure hit the water, he was on with a nice fish, but we couldn’t see what it was. He started gaining ground getting it closer; enjoying the fight and then it happened! The fish came unbuttoned and at this point I was like dude, what did you do in a previous life to deserve this??? We made our way toward a dock that I know holds snook. I made a long cast and right then I was hooked up with a huge fish. It was a big snook; I got her to the boat, revived her, and released her to fight another day. Success! I said, “let’s go to lunch and call it a day”. I asked Neil if he was hungry and then he disclosed to me that he ate a banana for breakfast! Neil knows not to bring bananas on the boat (it’s bad luck), but it didn’t occur to him that the curse would remain in effect with it digesting in his stomach. Myth confirmed or was it bad luck? He should’ve brought his lucky rabbit foot!!! Keith Lozott The Fishing Realtor
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may 2022
Palm beach county 7
Targeting Mutton on the Reef
S
pring is my favorite time of year. It’s when all things swimming gear back up for the arrival of summer and what that brings. From spawning activities to migration patterns – everything changes for the better!
Pro Tip - When drift fishing the local reef system, we always put out free swimming unweighted baits on the surface. Dead baits – High quality dead bait is a must for successful bottom fishing. Here are some of my favorites:
And nothing heralds summer like increased fishing activity – especially bottom fishing. One of my all-time favorite fish to catch and eat here in Florida is mutton snapper, and this time of year brings big appetites and even bigger fish as plentiful local baits invade the reefs. This is your chance to score some quality fish and fresh bait is the ticket to success! Prepping for the day – Begin your preparation the night before by verifying wind, current, and tide conditions. This will help determine where to start your drift. Three keys to success: 1. Check weather, water conditions, and fishing forecast. 2. Map out target areas and anticipated direction of the drift. 3. Have a backup plan for when the target species won’t cooperate.
Fresh bonita strips - When you catch them – keep them! Cut into fresh strips, they make an awesome bottom bait. They also stay on the hook much longer than other cut bait. Frozen squid - Everything eats them but get the high-quality kind like Qualy Pak Squid Calmar. Boom! Jumbo live bait is synonymous with jumbo fish. This hefty 30” mutton fell for a goggle eye fished without a weight on a perfect day!
Miscellaneous fresh caught – Species such as ladyfish or large mullet can be cut up and used effectively for bottom bait.
Rods and reels – Make sure you have gone thru all your gear the day before. Check line guides, reel seats, line, and drag systems for trouble spots. Nothing is worse than losing a good fish to tackle failure. Have a good selection of spin and conventional gear rigged specific for the types of fishing tasks needed to cover the water column – top, middle, and bottom ranges along with slow trolling live baits. For bottom fishing live or dead baits, I use a conventional style reel like the Shimano Talica 16 single speed spooled with Power Pro 40lb braid in moss green. I then put on a top shot of 50 yards Momoi’s Hi-Catch mono line 40lb. This top shot allows for just enough “give” setting hooks and playing a large fish when using braid. Leader system – This is the single most critical factor to success or failure when bottom fishing. The leader I use specific to mutton is roughly ten feet in length (three pulls across the chest) of Seaguar 30lb Inshore Fluorocarbon leader material. This is attached to a SPRO 80 125lb barrel swivel. A barrel weight is attached to the running line above the swivel with a plastic bead between the weight and swivel to prevent chaffing. Weight choice will depend on water depths and current. Try to go as light as possible to maintain contact with the bottom and not get snagged. For hooks I use size 4/0 – 7/0 matched to the size of the bait. For pilchards I use a size 4/0 Owner SSW with Cutting Point (Model – 5311141) Live bait choices - Pilchards are a personal favorite bait for mutton, but don’t ignore using any bait that’s locally plentiful. Local bait choices include live sardines, threadfin, and mullet. Bring a Sabiki Rig in multiple sizes to catch bait native to the areas being fished. 8 PALM BEACH COUNTY
may 2022
Frozen sardines – An oily fish that everything likes to eat but again, try to find local fresh frozen or high-quality frozen bait.
Ancillaries – To hold my terminal gear I use a two-bucket system – one smaller bucket that sits inside the large. The large bucket is lined with premade leaders and assorted pliers and knives while the smaller is filled with the essentials for the day. Terminal gear such as elastic bait bands, hooks, barrel swivels, weights, beads, leader material, mono running line, etc. are all kept convenient in this two-bucket system. Extras are stowed in a tackle box if needed. I’ve found this the quickest way for redeploying broken leaders when the bite is hot.
This fish still has a live pilchard in its mouth. Mutton love pilchards!
Another nice mutton caught on fresh cut bait just after a late season cold front. The long fluorocarbon leader helps fool these wary fish.
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
On the reef - Drift fishing with a parachute is a productive way to bottom fish the edge of the inshore reefs. I like to set the chute to control the drift, then target the deeper end of the reef as the larger mutton snapper will typically break away from the smaller fish and head for deeper water once they reach a certain size. I’ve caught my biggest snapper fishing waters in the 150’ – 180’ range along with some nice sailfish, mahi, and tuna. You may get fewer bites, but almost all will be quality fish. As an added bonus, there will be fewer sharks to contend with. If nothing is happening, I tend to move in tight to the shoreline on the inside edge of the reef. Somewhere in the 60’ – 80’ foot range and avoid the middle of the reef as this area can be prone to sharks. The key to fishing the deeper water is fishing a tide that with the chute deployed keeps you moving at roughly one to two knots. Much faster and it will be tough to hold bottom. CONTINUED on page 12 >>
2022
Saturday May 14th
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To register, visit CoxScienceCenter.org or call (561) 832-2026.
Cox Science Center and Aquarium 4801 Dreher Trail N, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
May 12th Captain's Party
Prizes & awards for anglers, Lady anglers, & Junior anglers
May 14th Fishing Derby & Weigh In at Old Key Lime House
Boat Registration — $250 Up to 4 anglers!
May 14th Kids Fishing Derby May 15th Awards Ceremony & BBQ at Lantana Recreation Center
SPonSorShiPS avaiLabLe For more details contact the staff at Lantana Chamber Office 561 - 585 - 8664 info@lantanachamber.com
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PALM BEACH
IN & O F F SHORE
Fishing Forecast by Capt. Weston Russell
M
ay is here May is the and so are best time for the fish! This fat blackfin! is the time of the year when the seas start to calm down and the pelagics start migrating north. Smoker kingfish will move in and cruise the 80ft reefs. A live gog or blue runner will get the job done. The big kings eat big bait. We have landed 50lb plus kingfish on 5lb We post almost every day, and if runners. Bump trolling a couple big you see dolphin on our page, know baits will produce big fish. Don’t be that those fish are heading north. surprised if a wahoo comes into the You may have to take a day off work spread. Good luck! For the offshore and fish ASAP. This info doesn’t last anglers, May is a good time to land long. Another option is blackfin big migrating dolphin. Trolling tuna. We caught some nice fish last or live bait will get them to the May off the Breakers Hotel out in hook. Keep an ear on the reports 200ft of water. They love the smaller to the south. If you don’t know any live bait, like sardines or threadfins. anglers fishing south, link up with Light leader is a must, fluorocarbon Reel Intense Charters on FB or works best. Tight lines! Instagram...Reel Intense Fishing.
www.USHarbors.com
Palm Beach, FL - May 2022 High
Date
Low
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
1
Sun
10:01
2.7
10:34
2.9
4:03
0.1
4:14
-0.2
6:40
7:53
2
Mon
10:37
2.6
11:11
2.8
4:41
0.2
4:52
-0.2
6:39
7:54
3
Tue
11:13
2.5
11:49
2.6
5:19
0.3
5:29
-0.1
6:39
7:54
4
Wed
11:50
2.4
5:56
0.4
6:07
0.1
6:38
7:55
5
Thu
12:28
2.5
12:29
2.3
6:36
0.5
6:47
0.2
6:37
7:56
6
Fri
1:10
2.4
1:12
2.2
7:19
0.6
7:32
0.3
6:36
7:56
7
Sat
1:56
2.3
2:01
2.1
8:08
0.7
8:24
0.4
6:36
7:57
8
Sun
2:47
2.2
2:58
2.1
9:06
0.7
9:23
0.5
6:35
7:57
9
Mon
3:41
2.2
4:01
2.1
10:06
0.6
10:26
0.5
6:34
7:58
10
Tue
4:38
2.2
5:06
2.2
11:03
0.5
11:25
0.4
6:34
7:58
11
Wed
5:33
2.3
6:06
2.4
11:55
0.3
6:33
7:59
12
Thu
6:25
2.4
7:02
2.6
12:19
0.3
12:43
0.1
6:33
8:00
13
Fri
7:15
2.5
7:54
2.8
1:10
0.2
1:29
-0.2
6:32
8:00
14
Sat
8:03
2.7
8:44
3.0
1:59
0.1
2:16
-0.4
6:31
8:01
15
Sun
8:51
2.8
9:33
3.1
2:47
0.0
3:03
-0.5
6:31
8:01
16
Mon
9:39
2.8
10:23
3.2
3:35
0.0
3:51
-0.6
6:30
8:02
17
Tue
10:29
2.9
11:14
3.2
4:24
-0.1
4:41
-0.6
6:30
8:02
18
Wed
11:20
2.8
5:15
0.0
5:34
-0.6
6:29
8:03
19
Thu
12:06
3.1
12:15
2.8
6:09
0.0
6:31
-0.4
6:29
8:03
20
Fri
1:01
2.9
1:13
2.7
7:08
0.1
7:31
-0.3
6:29
8:04
21
Sat
1:58
2.8
2:15
2.6
8:11
0.2
8:36
-0.1
6:28
8:05
22
Sun
2:57
2.7
3:21
2.5
9:17
0.2
9:43
0.0
6:28
8:05
23
Mon
3:57
2.6
4:28
2.5
10:21
0.1
10:48
0.1
6:27
8:06
24
Tue
4:56
2.6
5:33
2.5
11:21
0.0
11:48
0.2
6:27
8:06
25
Wed
5:52
2.5
6:32
2.6
12:14
0.0
6:27
8:07
26
Thu
6:44
2.5
7:24
2.7
12:42
0.2
1:03
-0.1
6:26
8:07
27
Fri
7:31
2.5
8:10
2.7
1:30
0.2
1:47
-0.2
6:26
8:08
28
Sat
8:13
2.5
8:52
2.7
2:15
0.2
2:29
-0.2
6:26
8:08
29
Sun
8:54
2.5
9:32
2.7
2:57
0.2
3:08
-0.2
6:26
8:09
30
Mon
9:32
2.5
10:10
2.7
3:37
0.2
3:47
-0.2
6:25
8:09
31
Tue
10:10
2.4
10:48
2.6
4:15
0.3
4:25
-0.1
6:25
8:10
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KAYAK FISHING
Fishing Forecast by Capt. Brian Nelli
Palm Beach County. If launching further south look at places like Spanish River Park to gain access to the Intracoastal Waterway.
o
Offshore
Jeff with a giant kingfish.
Glenn with a nice sailfish.
May starts the run of bigger blackfin tuna off our coast. 20-30lbers are common and can be taken on live bait as well as trolling plugs and dropping vertical jigs. During this time, mahi will also be in larger numbers and closer to shore. Large kingfish will be making their way to their spring/summer areas off our coast. Trolling live goggle eyes, pilchards, and blue runners will put fish in the fish bag. Don’t be afraid to fish shallow during this time of year. 60-180 feet of water should be in your range.
Freshwater
Inshore
May is one of the best times of year in South Florida. Snook, tarpon, trout, jacks, and reds will be looking for mullet pattern baits like Super Spooks, large swimbaits, and jerk baits. If you are finding mullet in the area you are fishing, whip out a super spook or large swim bait. If you are finding glass minnows use a D.O.A. Jerk Bait or Shad Tail. Mangroves, docks, and seawalls with current nearby will be the places to target. Launching the kayak at places like John D. MacArthur State Park and Snook Islands will give you access to some great areas to target snook, tarpon, and jacks in Northern
Warmer weather means the clown knifefish will be more cooperative. Peacock and largemouth bass will be heading towards their beds to spawn if they have not already. Look to sight fish the bass along the banks and docks. Throwing a small jig or D.O.A. Shrimp in their bed to annoy them will get them to bite. 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!
Wayne with a solid peacock bass.
Capt. Brian Nelli Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters 772-201-5899 www.tckayakfishing.com Brian@tckayakfishing.com
CONTINUED from Targeting Mutton >>
choices and deploy. When multiple people are fishing, each should have a different bait ranging from live to fresh cut to frozen. Rig each accordingly using the appropriate hook size to match the bait. The use of differing baits will determine what the fish are biting. For dead baits I use a Mustad size 4/0 Beak Hook (92671-NI). These hooks are slightly offset, and I use either a single, double, or triple rig depending on the size and shape of the bait.
Two surprise guests include a warbler and a squirrel fish.
Any slower and you will not effectively cover the reef, so time your tides accordingly. Getting started - First, we deploy two rods on the surface using spinning gear and no weight. My three favorite baits for this are sardines, pinfish, and goggles. All three will swim for the bottom therefore covering the majority of the water column. Next deploy a piece of cut squid or bait on a rod by the parachute. Fish such as mahi are curious and will often come to investigate and can be a bonus when bottom fishing. Now decide on who will fish the various bait 12 PALM BEACH COUNTY
may 2022
For live baits I use a single SSW style hook usually in a 4/0. Fish are hooked thru the nose or thru the head behind the lip. On larger fish I use a rubber band rigged hook. Use only enough weight to keep your bait in contact with the bottom. Allow the line to free spool with thumb only pressure and scope out as you drift along the reef. Once the line has scoped too far away from the boat to maintain contact with the bottom, reel in to check your bait and drop again. When free spooling to the bottom, maintain light pressure on the spool. When targeting mutton, it is important to wait for the hard hit. When a fish starts taking the bait - wait! Allow the smaller initial taps and strike only when the rod tip doubles over. Once the fish is solidly hooked, it will run for the bottom. Use a pumping motion to work it up thru the water column. About mid-way, you will feel the fish give up. Now is the time to steadily reel and quickly to avoid getting sharked. Once at the surface either hand line or net your fish. Pro Tip – When releasing fish, puncture the swim bladder with a needle as needed. Check current regulations in your area for size limits and seasons and enjoy your success on the reef! Nothing beats a fresh cooked fish dinner – especially a mutton! Mark Ambert, marksgonefishing™ Author – Avid outdoorsman, sportswriter, and photographer. Follow me at www.marksgonefishing.com or contact me at marksgonefishing25@gmail.com
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Recycle your old boat supplies.
Find your nearest drop-off at SWA.org/HCRC Boats and vessels are accepted at the landfill for a fee after all fuels, flares, batteries and other hazardous materials are removed by the owner or hauler. Removing under-floor fuel tanks, when possible, is recommended. Boats will be inspected by SWA staff prior to disposal.
PBC Residential Disposal only. For commercial disposal, call 561-687-1100. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
may 2022
Palm beach county 13
JUPITER inlet inshore FISHINGFORECAST Fishing Forecast by Capt. Craig Korczynski
Capt. Craig
JUPITER INLET INSHORE
H
By Craig Korczynski Contributing Writer appy Mother’s Day! May
offers great fishing for the Jupiter and Palm Beach Happy Thanksgiving to all anglers! Cool fronts start to Teaming bring comfortable area. with fish,weather. anglers can Water temperatures will start to cool down and predator fishplenty begin to into back bays, expect of push rod bending action. Snook fishing heats up this canals, and coves. theyaction startalong to migrate Snook fishing in Jupiter and Palm Beach will offermonth anglersas steady seawalls, toonlocal passes and beaches mangroves shorelines, and channel edges. Sight fishing the flats is another option forfor spawn.3” Snook canpresented be seen those who enjoy watching the bite. A D.O.A. C.A.L. 3”upcoming Shad or D.O.A. Shrimp cruising near sea walls and docks in in the right spot gets the drag screaming. Romeo with search of food. D.O.A. Ernieiswith a big linesider.for snook fanatics; Night fishing a great alternative target dock Live lightsbaits withand a D.O.A. a shark. C.A.L. 3”plugs. Shad Tail on a 1/8-ounce Shrimp, Deceiver Flies, live shrimp, crank baits, and top water jig off head in fishing their for vicinity Fall weather drives tarpon into back bays and canals eringcasted excellent the will get your drag screaming. silver king. Tarpon are prevalent inside the ICW, mangrove shorelines, docks, and deepBait schools in our localpinfi area, Charles with passes. Live shrimp drifted with the tide is the best bait, otherwill baitsbelike mullet, sh,and Father and son tag team, Logan and Matt. this is the time for top water action. a tarpon. and greenies work as well. Artificial enthusiasts, the deeper passes offer plenty of shots on Rapala Skitter Walks worked over D.O.A. Bait Busters or D.O.A. C.A.L. 3” Shad in Arkansas glow or alewife with a jig head. open flats and near heavy structure causes for some explosive action. If you have never experienced Tarpon this time of year range from 10 to 60 pounds. top water action for snook, I recommend you try, there is nothing like it. The snook will range in size November offers great action for big jack crevalle from on the5 ICW ways. Jacks will to 20 water pounds. pounce on Rapala Skitter Walks or live bait in the vicinityTarpon of seawalls, “silverdocks, king”or areopen a great target for anglers looking for explosive strikes and acrobatic jumps. water flats. The jacks are schooling fish averaging 5 toTarpon 25 pounds. Battling jacks onICW, lightlocal inlets, and beaches. can be found in the tackle or fly is something an angler will never forget, come experience the tussle yourself. Live baits like mullet or pinfish work great. Artificial baits Well, that is the fishing report for the Palm Beach like andthe Jupiter area. I hope you D.O.A. TerrorEyz andallD.O.A. C.A.L. 3” Shad Tail in Capt. Craig Korczynski enjoyed, so get out there and get hooked up. Tight Lines! pearl and melon back will get the drag screaming. PhlatsInshoreFishing.com Well, that is the fishing forecast for May. I hope 561-644-4371 Captain now Craigget Korczynski everybody enjoyed, out there and experience the Visit us on Facebook and Instagram 561-644-4371 • phlatsinshorefi shing.com thrill of drag screaming action. Tight Lines! Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & YouTube
Dan with a snook.
www.USHarbors.com
Jupiter Inlet, south jetty, FL - May 2022 High
Date
Tom with
Low
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
1
Sun
9:33
2.6
10:06
2.8
3:14
0.1
3:25
-0.3
6:40
7:54
2
Mon
10:09
2.5
10:43
2.7
3:52
0.2
4:03
-0.2
6:39
7:54
3
Tue
10:45
2.4
11:21
2.6
4:30
0.4
4:40
-0.1
6:38
7:55
4
Wed
11:22
2.3
5:07
0.5
5:18
0.1
6:38
7:56
5
Thu
12:00
2.5
12:01
2.2
5:47
0.7
5:58
0.3
6:37
7:56
6
Fri
12:42
2.4
12:44
2.1
6:30
0.8
6:43
0.4
6:36
7:57
7
Sat
1:28
2.3
1:33
2.1
7:19
0.9
7:35
0.5
6:35
7:57
8
Sun
2:19
2.2
2:30
2.0
8:17
0.9
8:34
0.6
6:35
7:58
9
Mon
3:13
2.2
3:33
2.1
9:17
0.8
9:37
0.6
6:34
7:58
10
Tue
4:10
2.2
4:38
2.2
10:14
0.7
10:36
0.6
6:33
7:59
11
Wed
5:05
2.3
5:38
2.3
11:06
0.4
11:30
0.4
6:33
7:59
12
Thu
5:57
2.4
6:34
2.5
11:54
0.1
6:32
8:00
13
Fri
6:47
2.5
7:26
2.8
12:21
0.3
12:40
-0.2
6:32
8:01
14
Sat
7:35
2.6
8:16
2.9
1:10
0.1
1:27
-0.5
6:31
8:01
15
Sun
8:23
2.7
9:05
3.1
1:58
0.0
2:14
-0.7
6:31
8:02
16
Mon
9:11
2.8
9:55
3.1
2:46
-0.1
3:02
-0.8
6:30
8:02
17
Tue
10:01
2.8
10:46
3.1
3:35
-0.1
3:52
-0.9
6:30
8:03
18
Wed
10:52
2.8
11:38
3.0
4:26
0.0
4:45
-0.8
6:29
8:03
19
Thu
11:47
2.7
5:20
0.1
5:42
-0.6
6:29
8:04
20
Fri
12:33
2.9
12:45
2.6
6:19
0.2
6:42
-0.3
6:28
8:05
21
Sat
1:30
2.8
1:47
2.5
7:22
0.2
7:47
-0.1
6:28
8:05
22
Sun
2:29
2.6
2:53
2.5
8:28
0.2
8:54
0.1
6:27
8:06
23
Mon
3:29
2.6
4:00
2.5
9:32
0.2
9:59
0.2
6:27
8:06
24
Tue
4:28
2.5
5:05
2.5
10:32
0.1
10:59
0.3
6:27
8:07
25
Wed
5:24
2.5
6:04
2.6
11:25
-0.1
11:53
0.3
6:26
8:07
26
Thu
6:16
2.5
6:56
2.6
12:14
-0.2
6:26
8:08
27
Fri
7:03
2.5
7:42
2.7
12:41
0.3
12:58
-0.2
6:26
8:08
28
Sat
7:45
2.5
8:24
2.7
1:26
0.3
1:40
-0.3
6:25
8:09
29
Sun
8:26
2.4
9:04
2.7
2:08
0.3
2:19
-0.3
6:25
8:09
30
Mon
9:04
2.4
9:42
2.6
2:48
0.3
2:58
-0.2
6:25
8:10
31
Tue
9:42
2.4
10:20
2.6
3:26
0.4
3:36
-0.2
6:25
8:10
14 PALM PALM BEACH BEACH COUNTY COUNTY 14
NOV.2022 2021 may
Moon
Novice & Experienced a big Anglers Of All jack. Ages Welcome
All Bait, Rods and Tackle Included! No License Required!
SAILING DAILY AT 7AM Located at Causeway Cove Marina, 601 Seaway Dr., Fort Pierce
For Reservations, Call (772) 766-0191 or Visit: FortPierceFishing.com
To see pictures of tournaments and events email 57LDBryant@gmail.com for link
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on the range One of the biggest selling points of this cartridge is it’s cheap to shoot.
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The Ever Popular Little 22
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ne of the most popular and to a degree, one of the most underrated cartridges out there is the great little 22LR. Since the day of the metallic cartridges this was one of the first. This little round can do everything from target practice to small game hunting, and yes even personal protection. It does it all with little to no recoil and it is the cheapest form of ammunition out there. The 22 shines above them all on the range for target practice and training new shooters. Old timers who have been shooting since they were old enough to pull the trigger go to this as their main range firearm as well. With little noise and almost no recoil, it’s the best for the novice to learn on. Another aspect of this round is the cost for those range trips. The ammunition can run as low as $3.99 for a box of 50 rounds compared to the $20.00 to $25.00 for other calibers for your time at the range. The round is perfect in the woods for small game hunting. It brings a challenge to the spot and stalk squirrel hunter or the person who just wants to sit back against that fallen tree and look up into the treetops for them. The 22LR can make you a better marksman in the long run. It’s perfect for bringing that new hunter into the sport as well. The 22LR is the most popular training firearm in hunter education courses country wide. Try to use your 22 rifle on a running rabbit and you will find out just how good you really are. With the advancements in ammunition the 22LR can also be used for selfdefense. Now, this may not be the best choice, but it certainly is better than nothing; 3 well placed shots from a 22 is better than 3 misses with something bigger. There are a number of high velocity self-defense 22 rounds out there that are light years ahead of the previous ones your grandfather used. The different types of 22 firearms are endless as well, from pocket sized carry guns to full blown serious Olympic style target guns. The same can be said for the rifles as well. From that $200.00 Ruger 10-22 to the Anschütz bolt action target rifles, there is something for everyone and every budget. Don’t overlook this great little round. It’s been around forever for a reason and is still one of the most popular purchases made today. Every serious shooter, hunter, or defense minded individual should have at least one, if not two.
PBKC - Your Entertainment Destination Poker • Table Games • Off track betting • Paddock Dining • Exciting Events
IT’S OUR BIGGEST KENTCUKY DERBY FEST IN PBKC HISTORY! THE BEST PARTY SOUTH OF CHURCHILL DOWNS! It’s PBKC’s biggest Kentucky Derby party ever celebrating horse racing’s biggest race of the year, the 148th running of the Run for the Roses, the Kentucky Derby. PBKC is Palm Beach County’s only location to watch, wager and win on this historic event. On Saturday, May 7th, enjoy the Kentucky Derby with thousands of your closet friends on two huge outdoor screens, along with Trackside Food Trucks, BBQ, Prize Giveaways, Mint Julep Stations, and Live Music from Local Bands!
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
9:30AM - PBKC Gates & Mutuel Windows Open 12PM - Trackside BBQ & Bars Open 12PM - Food Trucks Open 12PM to 3PM - Music by Sippin’ Fire 12:30PM to 2:30PM - 95.9 True Oldies Handicapping Contest 2:30PM to 5:30PM - Balloon Artist Karl Koppertop 3PM to 3:45PM - Kentucky Derby Hat Contest with Virginia from the KVJ Show 3PM to 5PM - Live Remote with 97.9 WRMF 3:30PM to 6:30PM - Face Painting by Pinky the Clown 4PM to 8PM - Music by Spred the Dub 6:30PM - Live Broadcast from Churchill Downs *Advance wager on the Kentucky Derby Friday, May 6 (Gates open at 9:30am) *Paddock Restaurant Kentucky Derby Tickets $40 (includes lunch) 561-683-2222, x199 *Purchase official Kentucky Derby Souvenirs *Kentucky Derby post time (approximate) - 6:57pm
Band Links: Spred the Dub https://www.spredthedub.com/ Sippin’ Fire https://www.facebook.com/SippinFire/ Contact: Theresa Hume, thume@pbkennelclub.com 561-683-2222 x120 Jeff Prince, jprince@pbkennelclub.com 561.683.2222 x126
h c a e B Palm B O A G A R R D B Jesse with a largemo
uth he caught on La
Jeff caught this 40 plus lbs. monster jack in Delray Beach from the surf on a top water plug.
Get social & tag us in your photos! @ facebook.com/ CoastalAnglerPalmBeach
ke Ida, Delray.
Mike caught this 30lb. bla ckfin tuna using a live gog gle eye in 120 feet of water, north of the Lake Worth Beach Pie r on Capt. Willie’s Charters.
Pete Moccia caught this jumbo jack taken from the surf on a Robert's Ran ger.
Julian with an 18lb. blackf in that helped win Jr. Angler at Jupiter Billfish Classic Tournament.
Bragging is good! Send us your catch photos with details: Who, When, Where, With What, etc. to Ilene@CoastalAnglerMagazine.com
Get the latest news and updates!
@ coastalanglermagpalmbeach
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FWC CONSIDERS STATEWIDE REDFISH MANAGEMENT CHANGES
A
t the May 4 meeting of the Florida Wildlife Resources Commission, staff plans to propose several changes that will alter the way redfish are managed statewide. This initial presentation is a first step that seeks to obtain approval to publish the proposed rule changes and begin public workshops for stakeholder engagement. Here are the proposed rule changes: • Modify the redfish management regions • Prohibit captain and crew from retaining a bag limit during for-hire trips • Reduce the off-the-water transport limit from 6 to 4 fish per person • Increase the bag limit for the Big Bend region from 1 to 2 fish per person • Reduce the 8-fish vessel limit in each of the proposed management regions: » Panhandle, Big Bend, Northeast: 4 fish » Tampa Bay, Sarasota Bay, Charlotte Harbor, Southwest, Southeast: 2 fish • Only allow catch-and-release fishing for redfish in the Indian River Lagoon region Along with altering bag limits, these rule changes would allow FWC to utilize smaller regional units and annual reviews to evaluate redfish fisheries using six metrics: habitat, harmful
Figure 1. Proposed redfish management regions.
algal blooms, escapement, relative abundance, fishing effort and stakeholder feedback. A summary of the proposed changes reads: “Anglers primarily target redfish inshore, so an angler’s redfish fishing experience is closely linked to local environmental conditions as well as local fishing effort. Given this link and stakeholder feedback in support of a new management approach, the FWC is using a new approach that incorporates a holistic review of ecological and human factors. Applying the new approach, staff
evaluated the nine proposed management regions (at left) and prepared the first Annual Reviews.” Jumping out ahead of the proposal, CCA Florida has issued a call to its members to oppose the increase in bag limits from one fish to two in the new, smaller Big Bend region, which would stretch from Wakulla County to Pasco County. The current region covers this area, but also includes Escambia County. CCA Florida commended FWC for its other management redfish management efforts. These rule changes will be introduced at the May 4 FWC meeting beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center in Gainesville. The meeting is open to the public. For more information, see the “Commission Meetings” link at MyFWC.com.
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Captain's Party at Space Coast Harley Davidson 5:30pm - 8:00pm Lines in the water at 9:00 pm
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SUNDAY, MAY 15 Awards Ceremony & Ticket Drawing at Grills Riverside in Melbourne 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
The 2022 Central Florida Shootout features a weekend of fun, from the Captain’s Party to the Awards Ceremony & Angler Ticket Drawing. OVER $20,000 in cash prizes will be paid out for the Tournament! Award categories include 10 different species, a general entry category, as well as entry categories for Lady Anglers and Juniors. You can also purchase tickets ($50) for a chance to win a brand new 2022 Avid Magnum w/Yamaha VF250 V MAX SHO, aluminum trailer, and T-Top VALUED AT $70,000. Winner will be drawn at the Awards Ceremony. You do not have to fish in the tournament to participate in the drawing.
Buy Tickets and Register Online at:
CentralFloridaShootout.com 16 FLORIDA
MAY 2022
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LIONFISH REMOVAL EVENTS MAY 8-15 M ay is Lionfish month in Florida. In a continuing effort to raise awareness and combat this invasive pest that populates Florida reefs, there’s a host of activities centered around Destin this month. The 2022 Lionfish Removal and Awareness Day Festival will be held May 14-15 at HarborWalk Willage in Destin. The two-day festival includes lionfish tastings, fillet demonstrations, conservation and art booths, an interactive Kids’ Zone and more. For more information on the festival, go to FWCReefRangers.com. The Emerald Coast Open, the largest lionfish tournament in the world, will be held in conjunction with the Lionfish Festival. With big cash prizes as well as tens of thousands of dollars in gear prizes, divers will compete for most, largest and smallest lionfish. There will also be raffles for gear. Pre-tournament runs through May 12. The tournament will be held May 13-14. Final weigh ins will be held at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar in Destin at 11 a.m. on May 15. Registration is $100 at emeraldcoastopen.com. May 8-14 also brings on Emerald Coast Open Restaurant Week, when the chefs of Destin-Fort Walton Beach’s featured 18 FLORIDA
MAY 2022
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restaurants will highlight lionfish in unique and delicious dishes. Here’s the daily line-up of featured restaurants: DEWEY DESTIN’S - MAY 8 CRAB TRAP DESTIN - MAY 9 HARBOR DOCKS - MAY 10 LA PAZ - MAY 11 BROTULAS - MAY 12 AJ’S SEAFOOD & OYSTER BAR - MAY 14
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Trophy Regs Sought for Fellsmere WMA
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PHOTO COURTESY OF PAUL MACINNIS
he Florida Fish and Wildlife Conser vation Commission will seek final approval for regulations changes to facilitate management for trophy largemouth bass at Fellsmere Water Management Area, also known as Headwaters Lake, in Indian River County. Fellsmere, which was designed to become a trophy bass fishery when it was impounded more than a decade ago, is already renowned as a trophy bass fishery. It is believed custom regulations will help the fishery grow bass 15 pounds and larger. Special regulations for Fellsmere would include catch and release of all largemouth bass and circle hook requirements when fishing live bait greater than 3 inches in length. These measures were previously approved at the December 2021 meeting of the commission. FWC staff will request final approval at the May 4 meeting of the commission in Gainesville.
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REPORT YOUR COBIA CATCH
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PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. CEFUS MCRAE
f you catch a Florida cobia, scientists want to know. FWC is researching reproduction and movement of cobia in Florida waters, and anglers are being asked to help by reporting their cobia catches through September. Cobia along Florida’s coasts have been fitted with conventional dart tags and surgically implanted with acoustic transmitters. Data collected by acoustic receivers along the coasts allows researchers to track cobia movements and learn more about the spawning migrations of the Gulf and Atlantic stocks. Scientists are also working with the public to sample the reproductive organs of harvested cobia. This data will allow scientists to determine if and where cobia are spawning along Florida’s coasts. If you catch a cobia from now until September, call (561) 882-5975 to arrange for a biologist to meet you and get a $50 reward. Fish must be kept whole or filleted with the carcass and organs intact on ice. If you catch a tagged cobia: • For the purpose of this study, harvest of tagged cobia is discouraged. • Photograph the tag. • Record the tag number, fork length, date and general location of catch. • Release the fish in good condition with tags still intact.Call (561) 8825975 to report the cobia and get a reward and shirt. Releasing tagged cobia will allow researchers to continue gathering valuable data. If you harvest a tagged cobia: • Report all information listed above for tagged cobia. • Return both the internal acoustic transmitter and plastic dart tags to: Attn: Jim Whittington Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Tequesta Field Laboratory 19100 SE Federal Hwy. Tequesta, FL 33469 The internal acoustic transmitter can be found implanted just inside the body cavity on the underside of the fish. This will provide valuable information to researchers. E-mail questions to Joy.Young@MyFWC.com or Jim.Whittington@MyFWC.com.
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n Illinois angler broke the Missouri state record for paddlefish in March. He snagged a 140-pound, 10-ounce paddlefish at Lake of the Ozarks. It beat out the previous record— set in 2015 at Table Rock Lake—by just one ounce. Record-breaking angler Jim Dain, of Pittsfield, Ill., was on a family fishing trip and almost decided not to take the boat out because of shifting weather conditions the day he caught his monster fish. “The forecast was calling for storms, and then it changed to no rain, so we went out, but it just kept getting colder,” Dain said. “We weren’t having much luck, but decided to fish for another hour. So we took another turn, and that’s when the drag on the reel started. It felt like a tree was on the line!” Paddlefish are an interesting target for anglers because they are filter feeders and will not take lures or baited hooks. The most popular method for catching them is to troll large, un-baited treble hooks to cover water and hopefully snag one. “We got 16 one-gallon bags of meat out of this catch,” laughed Dain. “We’ve fried it, grilled it and made paddlefish tacos the other night. We’ll be having paddlefish for a while!” Missouri’s paddlefish seasons run March 15-April 30 on its major paddlefish snagging waters: Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, Truman Lake and their tributaries. There is a minimum length limit of 32 inches. The paddlefish season for the Mississippi River is March 15 through May 15 with a fall season of Sept. 15 through Dec. 15. For more information, see the Missouri DNR website at dnr.mo.gov.
PHOTO BY PATRICK DOLL
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CoastalAnglerMag.com/contest 14 NATIONAL
MAY 2022
FLEXIBLE LIMIT
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PROPOSED FOR MAKOS
OAA Fisheries has proposed establishment of a flexible retention limit for shortfin mako sharks with a default limit of zero in commercial and recreational highly migratory fisheries. This measure follows a 2021 approval to ban mako shark harvest in the North Atlantic in 2022 and 2023 in a decision handed down by the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). ICCAT’s juridiction is over highly migratory species, like sharks, which cross international boundaries. NOAA’s flexible retention limit would fulfill ICCAT’s recommendation, while allowing flexibility if conditions change. During the fishing year, NOAA Fisheries could increase the shortfin mako shark retention limit from the default, or subsequently decrease the retention limit, for the commercial fishery, the recreational fishery, or both, based on regulatory criteria and retention allowed by ICCAT. Strict conservation measures have been on the table for mako sharks since 2017, when a stock assessment indicated the species was being overfished. Annual take from both sides of the Atlantic ranged between 3,600 and 4,675 tons, mostly caught with commercial gear. ICCAT warned that catches must be kept below 1,000 tons to rebuild the population. Off the U.S. east coast, Atlantic shortfin mako sharks are found from New England to Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico from Florida to Texas, and in the Caribbean Sea. For more details or to comment on the proposal, see www.fisheries.noaa.gov.
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t’s tarpon time, and as big fish flood the channels, bays, flats, beaches and passes up the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, every angler with a monster silver king on the bucket list hopes to get a piece of the biggest show on water. Most of the time, all they’ll get is the aerial show. Whether it’s a thrown hook from a head-shaking leap, a sharp gill plate that cuts the line, or a big hammerhead that makes the line go slack, hooking a big tarpon is a lot easier than putting hands on one. Studies have shown less than 40 percent of hooked tarpon make it boatside to have their photo taken. Here are a few tips to help you turn a hook-up into a great release photo.
TARPON FIGHTING TIPS By CAM Staff
1) Bow to the King:
If you have any interest in tarpon at all, you’ve heard this one already, but let’s just get it out of the way for those who don’t know. When a tarpon jumps, stop reeling, drop your rod tip and point it at the fish. When the fish is doing all its head shaking and tailwalking, a slack line doesn’t provide as much leverage to throw the hook. When the fish lands, lift the rod tip back to about 45 degrees and reel quickly to take up the slack.
2) Predict the Jump: Watch the fish’s behavior and you can often predict when it will go airborne. A hard run usually culminates with a big jump. Also, when you see the line angling up, it means the fish is headed to the surface. Pay attention and you won’t be caught off guard.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPT. JEFF MAGGIO
3) Go Hard on Them: Tarpon are big and powerful. If you don’t break their spirit quickly, they just might break yours. Use heavy tackle and do everything you can to get them in quickly. Use an anchor buoy to quickly unhook and chase fish down. This allows you to gain line and maintain the upper hand. By adjusting the drag, you can let the fish tire itself out more quickly. Start with the drag lower in the early stages of the fight, when the fish is still making long powerful runs that can break the line. As it begins to tire from running and jumping, start ramping up the drag pressure and continue pumping and reeling. If you’re good enough, palming the reel allows you to manually control drag pressure without committing to a higher setting. This can save you if a fish has a sudden second wind. Keep the heat on a big fish from start to finish. If it runs to the right, swing your rod to the left and vice versa. By keeping constant pressure against the direction the fish is trying to go, it is sometimes possible to convince them to give up.
4) Don’t Feed the Sharks: Sharks always seem to show up when there’s tarpon fishing going on, and it’s a pity so many big tarpon end up getting sharked on the end of a line. When sharks show up, ethical anglers pull lines up and move. Reeling in half a fish is worse than reeling in no fish at all. If a big shark shows up during the fight, clamp down on the drag and try to break the line. For more, go to coastalanglermag.com.
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THE SCREEN TELLS ALL
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Tim Barefoot
s you should know by now if you read my articles or subscribe to my YouTube channel, I like to fish for everything with fins. From offshore in 300plus feet of water to creeks, there is one thing that makes us more effective now than we were years ago: electronics! When I was very young, we went to the very first mark off the beach and loaded up on sea bass, gray trout (weakfish), flounder and whatever else would bite a crude chicken rig with cut mullet. Those days are gone. Now, we have evolved to using the most advanced electronics available to locate and stay on fish. We’ve got side imaging and live imaging technology, which is not (almost) cheating, to… screw it… It’s cheating, and I’m doing it. I love a gag grouper like Peter loved the Lord, and I also like to fish for bass as well as drum, trout and snook. Electronics like side scan make me dangerous. They are the difference between being close to a good place on a ledge or wreck versus being ON THE SPOT. It’s now possible to see whether you’re close to a stack of baitfish or on it. The stack of bait is the key to catching instead of just soaking baits. Look for the giant stack of bait, because that is what holds
predators, bottom fish below and pelagics above. For example: The video link at the end of this article as well as the blue photo on this page are a prime example of electronics telling us what’s below us and how deep. The marks near the bottom are African pompano and other bottom fish. The marks in the 100-foot range are blackfin tuna. The other photo is of crappie in a creek. I was watching them in real time using Garmin LiveScope. Regardless if you’re fishing in 300 or 15 feet of water, having the correct electronics will make a huge difference. We rely on our fishing instincts to catch fish. I’m a believer in the “cleanest” terminal tackle being the most effective tackle. The most important thing of all, though, is to position your boat on top of fish. For this, proper electronics have become essential. Check out barefootcatsandtackle.com, and watch this video https://youtu.be/qGzW6QFZHKE on using electronics offshore.
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MAY 2022
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Making Memories M
ay is a great month to take or introduce a child to the sport of fishing. The summer crowds haven’t arrived, the weather is tolerable, and there should be a nice breeze to keep it comfortable. If your child is already catching more than you, this is a great time to teach them some new techniques or how to use a new lure. Jetties, piers or docks are great locations to target this month, and sheepshead can be an entertaining target for the beginner. They can be corporative, and a nice trophy for a child. At times, they can be easy to catch and will provide a solid fight for the saltiest of anglers. Sheepshead love structure. Focus your attention on the most barnacle-encrusted structure you can find. At times you can hear them munching on those barnacles! If it is legal in the area you are fishing, scraping barnacles off the structure is a great way to chum for sheepshead and really gets them fired up. Small live or fresh dead shrimp are great, readily available bait. Small jacks, croaker, pinfish and whitting are also good options to give young anglers a strong tug and a good time. Once again, live and dead shrimp are a good choice to lure in these aggressive feeders. Beach fronts, jetties and structure are good areas to target them. If your child is up for a challenge and wants to learn something new, like my 11-year-old, May
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
is a good month to explore. With optimal water temperatures that keep fish aggressive, May is ideal. My son and I were in our favorite local tackle shop one day, and he picked up a custom painted lure and showed it to me. The owner, Mike, had painted these and they are renowned for catching big trout. My son had never fished one, but wanted to learn and catch a big one! For a few weeks, every time my son walked into the lure room and saw the Corky hanging on the rack, he would say, “Dad let’s go fishing.” He wanted to use the lure from Mr. Mike and catch a big trout. When we finally had a chance to hit the water, conditions were not ideal. We went to learn how to work the lure, if nothing else. My son did accomplish catching his first fish on a Corky. Even though it was not the big trout he planned on, it gave us a good laugh and memories that will last forever. This photo shows his first fish on that style of lure… the first of many I am certain. Go grow up little pinfish. Hopefully the next time we meet you are in the belly of a big trout! Take a kid fishing, leave the electronics at home, and everyone will have fun learning something from each other!
The Return of a
PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures, Controlled Descent Lures and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
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Offshore,
conversations. Satellite phones are an option but are cost prohibitive for most of us. Luckily, the satellite network has created a new choice with two-way texting devices like the Garmin inReach Mini, which I find offers a great mix of features, affordability, size and peace of mind. All these devices require a subscription plan, but most are affordable and allow you to pause them during off seasons. There are several manufacturers and options on the market, and they have many different features. Some have built-in keypads for easy composition of messages, but that makes the size larger. Most will pair with your cell phone, making it simple to create and send messages. They all also have SOS buttons that send a distress message along with your location to a communication center. Like EPIRBs and PLBs, they will continually transmit your location to By Will Schmidt search and rescue, helping them to find you quickly. Unlike the others, you are notified when your SOS is received. You can also communicate the nature of your emergency and answer vital questions from rescuers via text. The small size and waterproof rating means you can clip these devices to a life vest and continue sending and receiving information should you need to abandon ship. Furthermore, you can send non-emergency messages to check in with others. The inReach Mini allows you to create three preset messages that can be quickly sent and have unlimited sends on each of their data plans. This is a great feature for sending useful updates and non-emergency messages such as: “Just checking in, everything is fine.” Or “Everything is ok, but we are running late.” Other features many of these devices offer are waypoint navigation, tracking and weather reports. If navigation features are of primary importance to you, a larger device with a bigger screen might suit you better. Since mine is a backup navigation device, the connection to my phone is sufficient. I can even pair my inReach with my chart plotters to quickly send and read messages while underway. Whether you travel offshore, into the backwoods or to a remote island ith technology helping us get farther away from shore, it is lodge, if you want the ability to summon help or just check in at home when imperative that we have a reliable way to communicate with others. off the grid, these satellite devices offer great usability in an affordable easyIt’s not unheard of for people to take a bay boat 40 miles offshore to-use option. where VHF might not be heard. While Emergency Position Indicating Will Schmidt is a seasoned tournament angler who has been writing Radio Beacons (EPIRB) and Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) are a great about fishing from more than two decades. way to request assistance in an emergency, they lack the ability for two-way
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IT MIGHT JUST BE CRAZY ENOUGH TO WORK! Berkley played a pretty good gag for April fools that likely sent a group of very specialized anglers to the store looking for a product that doesn’t exist. The company, which produces scented and flavored artificial baits, announced the release of the Berkley PowerBait Noodling Glove. “Infused with PowerBait, this glove is designed to give noodlers a way to successfully wrangle catfish and give the fish a flavor so good, they’ll never let go,” read the press release. Berkley went on to tell sportsmen the following: Originally designed to withstand the fight of giant catfish, the team at Berkley Labs quickly discovered that the PowerBait Noodling Glove can be effective on more than just catfish. Extensive field testing proved that the PowerBait Noodling Glove increased angler catch rates for bass, trout and other species. The team even tested the glove with local hunters and found it’s just as effective in luring white-tailed deer as it is in luring catfish. There is nothing that can’t be caught using the PowerBait Noodling Glove. The Berkley PowerBait Noodling Glove may also get its time to shine on the bass tournament trails this year thanks to Berkley Pro Angler John Cox. Cox says, “The way I fish is very similar to noodlers; they go down the bank and look for holes. Well, I go down the bank looking for a 5 or 6 pounder either on a bed or chasing bluegill. So, when I heard about noodlers using the Berkley PowerBait Noodling Glove, I thought ‘Hey, this might work really well for me.’ Noodling is definitely not for just catfishing anymore. That was a pretty good one, Berkley.
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