Issuu

SARASOTA/BRADENTON/VENICE EDITION

FREE

Bull Reds

On Top!

Fly Fishing PRODUCT REVIEW PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL BOOTH VOLUME 24 â€¢ ISSUE 295

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

F R A N C H I S E

O P P O R T U N I T I E S

A V A I L A B L E

OCTOBER 2019

W O R L D W I D E

For over a century, a league of canned crusaders have been fighting to keep boats safe from barnacles, slime, algae and other aquatic evils that rob your boat of its true performance. With advanced know-how and unique capabilities, each antifouling is tailored to different conditions, and has the power to defeat fouling in all its forms. Micron WA is a water-based formula that’s powered with advanced Water Activated Matrix technology in to efficiently release active ingredients over time for valiant multi-season protection. Micron WA is easy to apply and clean up, making it ideal for boaters in all waters and regions. For super-powered antifouling protection and proven performance, choose Interlux®.

The hero your boat deserves!

All trademarks mentioned are owned by, or licensed to, the AkzoNobel group of companies. © AkzoNobel 2019.

interlux.com

10038/0919

™

FANTASTIC FALL SAVINGS There's plenty of fish to pull in this fall season and your Suzuki Marine Dealer has exceptional deals to get you out on the water. See your local Suzuki Marine Dealer for all the details!

INSTANT

SAVINGS

REP OWE R FIN AN

SAVE RIGHT NOW ON

SELECT SUZUKI OUTBOARDS

SIX YEARS OF PROTECTION

INSTANT SAVINGS

REPOWER FINANCE

3 Years Limited Warranty + 3 Years Extended Protection No extra charge.

Instant Savings on select models when you buy a new Suzuki Outboard. See your dealer for details.

Rates as low as 5.99% on new Suzuki outboards on approved credit.* [60 Months]

Gimme Six Extended Protection promo is applicable to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 10/01/19 and 12/31/19 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. Customer should expect to receive an acknowledgement letter and full copy of contract including terms, conditions and wallet card from Suzuki Extended Protection within 90 days of purchase. If an acknowledgement letter is not received in time period stated, contact Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. – Marine Marketing via email: marinepromo@suz.com. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings apply to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 10/01/19 and 12/31/19. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine. com. Instant Savings must be applied against the agreed-upon selling price of the outboard motor and reflected in the bill of sale. (Suzuki will, in turn, credit Dealer’s parts account.) There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 10/01/19 and 12/31/19. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2019 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

SZQ4Promo 8X10 CSTLANGLR 8-8-19.indd 1

OCTOBER 2019

NATIONAL

9/6/19 9:21 AM

NEW PRODUCT

Fly Fishing

REVIEW

Abel VAYA Vaya is Spanish for “GO!” as in go outside, go on an adventure or go fishing. Crafted by avid Colorado anglers, Abel’s VAYA series of fly reels introduces an allnew technical look and feel, paired with outstanding performance. The partially-ported VAYA frame offers the unique combination of minimized weight, incredible rigidity and just enough surface area to highlight Abel’s hand-anodized finishes, which are offered in numerous awesome colors and patterns, from flat black to brown trout, dorado and many more. Available in sizes 4/5, 5/6 and 7/8.

Filson Rugged Twill Compact Rod Case Filson has earned its reputation for sturdy quality construction and products that are overbuilt to handle the rigors sportsmen put their gear through. The Rugged Twill Compact Rod Case holds two 9-foot, 4-piece rods in their tubes with exterior pockets to hold reels and accessories. This lightweight yet durable case is perfect for days when you’ll need two rods and want to keep them safe when not in use. It’s constructed of water-repellant and abrasion-resistant 100 percent cotton Rugged Twill with brass hardware and bridle leather straps.

www.filson.com

Abelreels.com

Ross Reels Animas

Rod Vault ST Why waste time threading line through the guides? The vehicle-mounted fly rod storage solution from Denver Outfitter allows recreational anglers and professionals to arrive at their fishing destination with fly rods and reels intact, fully-rigged and ready to fish. Two roof-mounted aircraft grade anodized aluminum tubes hold two, three or four fully rigged fly rods up to 10’6 in length, and a locking reel housing area easily fits most fly reels. Protective polypropylene liners inside the Rod Vault eliminate rod on metal contact protecting guides and rod tips from abrasion. The Rod Vault was specifically over-engineered to keep valuable equipment safe in almost any circumstance. Stainless steel hardware ensures the RodVault will remain rust free no matter the fishing environment and fiberglass infused nylon construction protects the reel housing, mounting hardware and aerodynamic nose cone from UV degradation. Whether storing rods to fish before or after work or traveling across the country on an epic fishing trip the Rod Vault is designed to keep gear safe. Available in three models, the Rod Vault 2 holds two fly rods, the Rod Vault Original for three fly rods and the Rod Vault 4 holding four fly rods.

Ross Reels has taken the time-proven features that made the original Animas a guide favorite and introduced new machined features to bring the new Animas fly reel into the modern era of Ross. Proudly Americanmade in Colorado and weighing just over 4 ounces, the new Animas features a compositedisc drag system and an ultra-light canvas phenolic handle, which gets tackier when wet. A new troublefree spool release yields zeromaintenance performance, allowing the Animas to be ready for any fresh or saltwater excursion. The new Animas is available in sizes 4/5, 5/6 and 7/8.

Denveroutfitters.com 2

NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

www.rossreels.com

Return Of A

LEGEND!

Inshore, Offshore, Fish More!

SeaCatBoats.com

228-206-4042

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM â€¢ THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

NATIONAL

BLEED TRIM

SAFETY

Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Annual premium for a basic liability policy not available all states. Prices vary based on how you buy. *Available with comprehensive and collision coverage.

n! e p O w o N

State of the Art Marina in Ft. Pierce, Florida

Located on the Ft. Pierce Inlet, one mile from the ocean, ﬁnest deep-water inlet on Florida’s east coast, 13 miles from the Gulf Stream for some of the best ﬁshing in Florida!

Marina Amenities: 58 Slips Accommodating Vessels Up to 150 ft.

24-Hr. Security • Gated Dock Access Pump Out Stations • Ship’s Store • Bait & Tackle Shop Electric Service: 480 Volt – 100 amp-3 phase 240 Volt – 30-50-100 amp • 110 Volt – 20 amp

Resort Amenities: 35 Unit Hotel – Poolside, Waterfront and 1-Bedroom Apartments

Housekeeping Service • Cable TV • Free WiFi Laundry Facilities • Two Heated Pools Pet Friendly • Continental Breakfast Onsite Restaurant & Tiki Bar

WWW.DOCKSIDEINN.COM

EMAIL: INFO@DOCKSIDEINN.COM MARINA RESERVATIONS/INFORMATION (772) 201–5773 RESORT RESERVATIONS/INFORMATION (772) 468–3555

NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

SAFETY TRIM BLEED

There’s a reason they say, Curse like a sailor. That’s why we offer basic plans starting at $100 a year with options that won’t depreciate your watercraft and accessories*. 1.800.PROGRESSIVE | PROGRESSIVE.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM I OCTOBER 2019

NATIONAL

THE BAHAMAS: BEAUTIFUL, DANGEROUS

although great variability exists between the northern and southern islands. This variability is most easily seen on Andros, the largest Bahamian island, where pine forests dominate in the north and give way to more tropical vegetation in the south. The majority of The Bahamas are low lying, with about 80 percent of the islands less than 15 feet above sea level. This, along with the fact that the islands span a great distance in warm tropical waters, make them attractive to tourists, who flock in for beautiful beaches, friendly faces and fantastic fishing. The Bahamas are heavily reliant on tourism, and for many “Family Islands,” angling tourism is vital for their survival. Unfortunately, these geographical traits also make The Bahamas susceptible to flooding and damage from tropical storms and hurricanes. The expansive nature of the islands of The Bahamas is a mixed blessing. Being large means Bahamians are more likely to be impacted somewhere in the chain by severe weather, but it also means many areas will remain untouched. This was the case with Hurricane Dorian, which devastated the two most northern islands, Abaco and Grand Bahama, but left countless others unharmed. The impact from Dorian on Abaco and Grand Bahama is catastrophic, and the outpourings of aid a blessing. One of the best ways to help The Bahamas overcome this tragedy, and future events, is to help the tourism-based economy by travelling to untouched parts of the islands. The author with a Bahamian bonefish caught from Andros Island while fishing out of the Two Boys Inn with one of the many legendary Neymour For anglers, this is a great opportunity to fish new waters. If you have family of guides. never been, try Andros, the Exumas, Long Island, Bimini, Acklins Island, Crooked Island, Mayaguana, Inagua or many other fantastic destinations By Tom Karrow throughout The Bahamas. he Bahamas are roughly 700 islands and cays with an additionIn this time of need, take the opportunity to help The Bahamas and Baal 5,000 low-lying rocks. Only about 30 of the 700 islands are hamians by simply booking a trip and getting on the water. Grab your fainhabited, leaving hundreds of tropical islands for wildlife. The vorite rods, reels, lines and leaders, tie up some Gotcha flies and give it a go. chain stretches more than 500 miles from the Island of Inagua in the Tom Karrow, PhDc, MES, BES, BED, is nearing completion of a PhD in Gesoutheast, to the northernmost island of Grand Bahama, an economic ography and Environmental Management, focused on sustainability of The Bahahub for the islands. mian bonefishing industry through ethnography. He was a research fellow at the Situated off the southeast coast of the continental United States, University of The Bahamas and is sponsored by R.L.Winston Fly Rods, Nautilus the climate is dominated by warm tropical-like air and water currents, Fly Reels, FishPond Gear, Costa Sunglasses and Simms.

AND SIMPLY SPECTACULAR!

EXPERIENCE THE

FIGHT! Full Variable Speed Control Powerful Brushless Motor Retains Handle Function Digital Line Counter Auto Stop, 12/24VDC Compact & Sleek Design

855-HOOK-ONE 6

NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

B T L “ a r f

—

“I’’ve gotten many compliments on this watch. The craftsmanship is phenomenal and the watch is simply pleasing to the eye.” —M., Irvine, CA “GET THIS WATCH.” —M., Wheeling, IL

Back in Black: The New Face of Luxury Watches “...go black. Dark and handsome remains a classic for a reason” — Men’s Journal

I’ll Take Mine Black…No Sugar

n the early 1930s watch manufacturers took a clue from Henry Ford’s favorite quote concerning his automobiles, “You can have any color as long as it is black.” Black dialed watches became the rage especially with pilots and race drivers. Of course, since the black dial went well with a black tuxedo, the adventurer’s black dial watch easily moved from the airplane hangar to dancing at the nightclub. Now, Stauer brings back the “Noire”, a design based 27 jewels and handon an elegant timepiece built in 1936. Black dialed, assembled parts drive complex automatics from the 1930s have recently hit this classic masterpiece. new heights at auction. One was sold for in excess of $600,000. We thought that you might like to have an affordable version that will be much more accurate than the original. Basic black with a twist. Not only are the dial, hands and face vintage, but we used a 27-jeweled automatic movement. This is the kind of engineering desired by fine watch collectors worldwide. But since we design this classic movement on state of the art computer-controlled Swiss built machines, the accuracy is excellent. Three interior dials display day, month and date. We have priced the luxurious Stauer Noire at a price to keep you in the black… only 3 payments of $33. So slip into the back of your black limousine, savor some rich tasting black coffee and look at your wrist knowing that you have some great times on your hands.

An offer that will make you dig out your old tux. The movement of the Stauer Noire wrist watch carries an extended two year warranty. But first enjoy this handsome timepiece risk-free for 30 days for the extraordinary price of only 3 payments of $33. If you are not thrilled with the quality and rare design, simply send it back for a full refund of the item price. But once you strap on the Noire you’ll want to stay in the black.

Exclusive Offer—Not Available in Stores Stauer Noire Watch $399† Your Cost With Offer Code

$99 + S&P Save $300

OR 3 credit card payments of $33 + S&P

1-800-333-2045 Offer Code: NWT483-06

You must use this offer code to get our special price.

† Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.

Stauer

14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. NWT483-06 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

Rating of A+

27-jewel automatic movement • Month, day, date and 24-hour, sun/ moon dials • Luminous markers • Date window at 3’ o’clock • Water resistant to 5 ATM • Crocodile embossed leather strap in black fits wrists to 6½"–9"

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

NATIONAL

HIGH PERFORMANCE TRAILER COMPONENTS TORSION AXLE WITH REMOVABLE SPINDLE

■ Built-in forged brake flange ■ Replaceable spindles reduce down

time and expensive axle replacement ■ Stainless steel wear sleeve eliminates corrosion and provides a longer seal/ bearing life

■ 100,000 mile or 6-year

Pregreased with Lucas Oil Products Marine Grease

limited warranty ■ “No Touch” lubrication system ■ No maintenance required www.dexteraxle.com

Take a

ROD BUILDING CLASS

Houston, TX

Clark, NJ

Charlotte, NC

Baltimore, MD

Orlando, FL

Chicago, IL

San Antonio, TX

San Diego, CA

WWW.MUDHOLE.COM/CLASSES

MUDHOLE.COM/TURNKEY 8

NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FLORIDA

NIGHTTIME

SNOOK

TAC T I C S

By John Saporito

ike many predatory fish, snook are more active under cover of darkness. In fact, fishing at night might be the single biggest thing you can do to increase your odds of connecting with quality snook. Night fishing is, however, a much different game than fishing under the sun. When the sun goes down, many snook leave their daytime habitat and head into shallow water to hunt. They can often be found in the shadow lines around piers and bridges, and may be holding tight to

shore in canals and bays. Many anglers are stunned to come across snook that are right at their feet as they fish shorelines at night. Snook make this move because the darkness gives them both a sense of security and a feeding advantage over their prey. It’s important, therefore, that you be cautious when stalking these fish. Move quietly and be careful not to produce any vibrations that will reach the fish and scare them away. The night is generally much quieter than the day, and clumsy movements are likely to be picked up by wary snook. In addition, you should never shine a flashlight on the water you will be fishing. This is a surefire way to doom your chances of hooking up. Although fish may be attracted to consistent light sources—such as lampposts on bridges and docks—erratic, unpredictable lights will spook them in a hurry. The lure types and colors you choose should be different from what you carry in your daytime arsenal. Snook switch from using the color-sensitive cone cells in their eyes to using their rod cells, which are honed to capture silhouette and profile rather than color and fine detail. It’s a good practice to choose your offerings accordingly. Dark lures, especially black and purple, are deadly at night. For a snook looking up from below, a dark lure will stand out well against the night sky, which is bright compared to the water beneath it. The more contrast you provide, the easier it is for these gamefish to find your lure. Baitfish and other prey items will also actively feed in the darkness, and swimming plugs are extremely effective at night as a result. Lures with rattles and those that produce enticing ultra-sonic vibrations will do well for you, as snook favor audible cues and vibration detection by both their inner ear and lateral line in the absence of color vision. A word of caution to those who choose to pursue snook at night: Although your catch numbers may increase dramatically, night fishing can be a dangerous game. Always have a fishing buddy with you and be extra careful around slick surfaces such as seawalls, jetties and rock pilings. Be sure to have your phone charged in case of emergency—and also to take photos of your trophy snook before you release it. John Saporito is a lifelong fisherman and student of the seas. Visit him online at guerillaangling.com and follow on Instagram @guerilla_angling

Since Since 1990 1990 world’s world’s finest finest compact compact power power boats boats

AT HOME IN FRESH & SALT WATER ALIKE Super Stable • Unsinkable • Comfortable Dry Ride WE PUT THE FUN BACK IN BOATING!

call for special show pricing

1-833-CraigCat (272-4422)

w w w. c r a i g c at. c o m COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

CHEECA LODGE ALL AMERICAN BACKCOUNTRY TOURNAMENT

ar heroes will compete with world-class anglers at the Seventh Annual Cheeca Lodge All American Backcountry Fishing Tournament Nov. 7-9, 2019 at Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada, Fla. In honor of Veteran’s Day, the event invites two war heroes to join the tournament inspired by 41st President George Bush, who frequented Cheeca and the Florida Keys to pursue his love of fishing. Proceeds from the tournament benefit the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, a non-profit organization whose mission is to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon and permit fisheries and habitats through research, stewardship, education and advocacy. “The All American Backcountry Fishing Tournament is part of Cheeca Lodge’s iconic legacy,” said Paul Burke, of Cheeca Lodge & Spa. “We’re excited to partner with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust and to welcome Bruce Melnick, a former American astronaut and retired U.S. Coast Guard officer, who will fish the tournament.” All American anglers fish on a guided charter boat or their own boat

with a licensed guide. They compete for trophies and awards for releasing five different species of inshore fish: snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon and permit. Individual and team trophies will be awarded for fly, general tackle/spinning/conventional and artificial lure divisions. Live bait is permitted in the general tackle division. Tournament entry fee is $1,500 per angler, offering two social events with dinner and beverages for four people, including the angler, guide and one guest each. Also included is a daily continental breakfast dockside at World Wide Sportsman, boxed lunches for anglers and guides and a gift bag per person. Social events will be held at the Cheeca Lodge & Spa, a sportsman paradise renowned for barefoot elegance, with fishing departing from nearby World Wide Sportsman. This first-class tournament will kick-off on Thursday, Nov. 7 with a cocktail reception, rules meeting, patriotic banquet on the beach and live auction. Competitive fishing hours are from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 8-9. The tournament culminates on Saturday with an awards ceremony and banquet, where anglers can mingle with fishing celebrities such as world-famous fly angler, Stu Apte. Awards for Individual Grand Champion, Individual Runner-Up, Grand Champion Team, Runner-Up Grand Champion Team, Champions in the Fly, Artificial and General Tackle Divisions and Best Photo will be presented. New for 2019 is a Friday evening reception and presentation by Bruce Melnick from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Cheeca, included in the entry fee. While the tournament’s social events are included in the tournament registration, social-only tickets for the public are available in limited quantity by calling (305) 517-4512 or e-mailing lthornhill@cheeca.com to reserve. Social tickets are $70 for Thursday’s kickoff dinner and auction; $25 for the reception with Bruce Melnick and $95 for Saturday’s Awards Banquet. Cheeca will also host the 30th Annual Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament Jan. 24-26, 2020, the second leg of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship.

For more information, visit www.cheeca.com/all-american, www.cheeca.com/presidential or call (305) 517-4512.

Smart Cellular Coverage

G l

The ideal solution for solving cellular coverage issues

Approved for use on

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

www.cel-fi.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

PALM CITY YACHTS 872 N. Federal Hwy. Lantana, FL 33462

www.pcylantana.com (772) 220–3000

2901 Gran Park Way Stuart, FL 34997

www.palmcityyachts.com (772) 220-3000

2019 NauticStar 32 XS

2019 NauticStar 28 XS

256,000

128,500

2019 NauticStar 25 XS

2019 Legacy 2602

87,500

89,500

*Plus Registration, Tax, Freight & Prep

GUARANTEED 5.99% lowEsT PRICE! As low As

UP To 50% oFF!

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

**5.99% Financing W.A.C. All Prices are plus applicable sales tax. Limited quantities at these prices. Installation includes Suzuki Rig Kit, SS prop & labor. ***Applies to select Suzuki motors.

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

***

Does Age Matter?

Photo by Zachary Nolan Divers swim over the deck of the Ana Cecilia.

By John Lidington pril, 1968—a time early in Palm Beach County’s history of artificial-reef-building. The Mizpah floats about a mile off of Singer Island. That’s a problem. She’s supposed to be on the bottom 200 feet below, but refuses to sink. More holes are cut in her hull, and eventually she goes under. During that prolonged descent, the Gulf Stream has intervened, pushing her into shallower water. She lands upright on the sand, less than 100 feet down. Fast forward to July, 2016. About 150 yards south of Mizpah’s position, the Ana Cecilia is set to become the next addition to Palm Beach County’s artificial reef system. Her interior has been stripped of potential snags, and doors and hatches have been removed to allow access to her interior. The goal is to attract divers and fish. Unlike Mizpah, Ana Cecilia slips swiftly beneath the waves to her resting place 85 feet below.

The two ships’ proximity makes it easy to explore both on a single dive. That’s my plan as I ready my gear aboard Pura Vida Divers’ boat Sirena. I want to see just what 50 years of immersion does to a wreck. Similar in size (Ana Cecilia, 170 feet; Mizpah, 185 feet), the ships were sunk with outer structures intact and rest in the same environment. The big difference? Mizpah has been submerged 48 years longer. As the current carries me swiftly along the bottom, I see the Ana Cecilia’s bow emerging from the blue. She looks like a wreck should look—a ship on a journey that was interrupted. Encrusting sponges, hydroids and bryozoans are taking hold, but paint still shows in a few spots. Swimming through her open interior, I can imagine refloating her, scrubbing her and proceeding to port. Mizpah offers a very different experience. She’s now a true bottom feature. Most of her superstructure has collapsed. Marine growth is luxurious and includes gorgonians and cup corals. While both wrecks have plenty of fish (including goliath groupers), Mizpah’s increased growth attracts greater variety. Comparing the two, it’s obvious that wrecks don’t last forever. They create homes for marine life for a long, long time. But there’s a limit to how long a wreck will offer divers safe, easy penetration. Fresh wrecks keep the dive scene vibrant. To this end, the Palm Beach County Diving Association is working with Palm Beach County Environmental Resource Management to sink a new wreck every year for the next three years. To help fund this program, they host an annual Artificial Reef Fundraiser, which will take place on Saturday, Oct. 5 at Loggerhead Marine Life Center in Juno Beach, Fla. Tickets can be purchased at Pura Vida Divers, at any other PBCDA member, or online at https://divepbc.com/events. To check out these wrecks for yourself, give Pura Vida Divers a call (561-840-8750) or make an online reservation through their website at www.puravidadivers.com. For a well-researched history of the Mizpah, check out Walt Stearns’ article at https://xray-mag.com/blog/diving-mizpah.

CAN YOUR SKIFF GET YOU ACROSS THE BAY TODAY?

 Smooth ride and greatest comfort  Longest lasting boat on the market  Most Stable, Best Finish, Best Value

FEAR NO CHOP

GEN III 1720

IMPROVED FOR ANGLERS 239-574-7800 www.ActionCraft.com

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

Don't just buy a name, get a great boat facebook.com/ActionCraftHighPerformanceFishingBoats

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

ACTION CRAFT CAN

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM â€¢ THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

Pelagic Rockstar Ready To Rock Central America’s Richest Offshore Tourney is Jan. 10-12 out of Quepos

ith more than half a million bucks on the line, the Pelagic Rockstar Offshore Tournament will descend upon Marina Pez Vela in Quepos, Costa Rica Jan. 10-12 in what promises to be Central America’s richest fishing tournament. The Pelagic Rockstar is a fish all day, party all night kind of affair. With 60-plus boats expected to compete for more than $500,000, it is serious offshore competition. Back at the docks, it’s a massive party featuring multiple marina-side bashes and live rock ‘n’ roll. In the world’s premier offshore waters of the Pacific, target species for the tournament are sailfish, blue marlin, black marlin, striped

marlin, tuna and dorado. During last year’s Rockstar, fishing was off the chain. The fleet released a staggering 424 sailfish and marlin, while the weigh station was kept busy with piles of big yellowfin tuna and dorado. The Pelagic Rockstar kicks off Friday, Jan. 10 with check-ins, happy hour at Marina Pez Vela’s Pura Vida Beach Club and a Captain’s Meeting followed by the Kick-Off Party Extravaganza and Concert. On Saturday, Jan. 11, the tournament procession will depart Marina Pez Vela at 6:30 a.m. to stage at the starting line for the customary 7 a.m. shotgun start. Day One weigh-ins will be from 3 to 6 p.m. The Docktail Party and music begin at 4:30 p.m. Tournament Day 2 is lines in at 7 a.m., lines out at 3 p.m. The awards ceremony and farewell bash concert begin at 7 p.m. General Entry is $3,500. All-In is $17,500. Save $500 with early bird registration before Dec. 1 and get a free Official Tournament Apparel Package. Gather your crew and head on down to Quepos for “Costa Rica’s Funnest Big Game Fishing Event.” For information and to register, go to www.pelagictournaments.com.

NEW

DER HOL OLES E N I D L PING P YAR O HAL ELESC T FOR

Z-30 TOP GUNS™ RELEASE CLIPS CARBON FIBER OUTRIGGER POLES HALYARD LOK-UPS™

SERIOUS SPORTFISHING HARDWARE 6

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

ruppmarine.com | 772-286-5300

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

LARGEST SELECTION OF PELAGIC PRODUCTS IN THE WORLD

PELAGIC STUART SUPERSTORE NOW OPEN 218 SW Federal Hwy, Stuart, FL 34994

SUNGLASSES

BOARSDSHORTS AND PERFORMANCE TOPS

P: 772.206.3366

WOMENS

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM â€¢ THEANGLERMAG.COM PELAGICGEAR.COM

TECHNICAL BAGS AND GEAR I

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

2020 23 Ultra $51,595 2020 21 LS $36,995

w/ Yamaha 150HP

• • • • • • • • • •

Power Grip Steering Wheel Maxiflow Recirculation System Saltwater Washdown AM/FM Bluetooth Radio Hydraulic Steering w/ Tilt Helm Console Livewell W/ LED Light Bow Cushions B Ultra Leaning Post Hull Color Small Stripe - Electric Blue Aluminum Tandem Trailer w/Brakes

2020 21 LS Dual

• Power Grip Steering Wheel • SS Bow Rails • Bow Cushion • Maxiflow Recirculation System • Saltwater Washdown • AM/FM Bluetooth Radio • Hydraulic Steering w/ Tilt Helm H • Hull Color Small Stripe - Royal Blue • Sunbrella Bimini Top • Continental Aluminum Tandem Trailer w/ Brakes

$41,500 Suzuki 150HP w/SST Prop

• Suzuki 200HP w/ SST Prop • Molded Hard Top • 70 QT Cooler Seat • Electric Flushable Head

• Saltwater Washdown • AM/FM Bluetooth Radio • Complete Hull Color • Aluminum Tandem Trailer w/Brakes

2020 17 LS

2020 19 LS

• Sunbrella Bimini Top 90” Volt Trolling Motor Plug $33,500 •• 24Maxiflow $26,895 Recirculation System G2 • Hull Color Small Stripe - Evening Sky w/ 90HP Evinrude • Aluminum Tandem Trailer w/ Brakes

• Power Grip Steering Wheel • Maxiflow Recirculation Both Livewells • Console Livewell w/ LED Light • 24V Trolling Motor Plug • Ultra Leaning Post w/ Evinrude 115HP H.O • Hull Color Small Stripe - Seafoam • Continental Aluminum Tandem Trailer w/ Brakes

2020 JVX20 $22,895

w/ 90HP Suzuki

• Pedestal Seat w/ Base • Console Livewell w/ LED Light • Saltwater Washdown • Power Grip Steering Wheel • Velcro Rod Savers (2 Sets) • Maxiflow Recirculation System • 24V Trolling Motor Plug • Hull Color Small Stripe - Black • Continental Aluminum Trailer

• Pedestal Seat w/ Base • Velcro Rod Savers • Console Livewell w/ LED Light • 24V Trolling Motor Plug • Hull Color Small Stripe - Cabernet • Velcro Rod Savers (2 Sets) • Maxiflow Recirculation System Maxi • Continental Aluminum Trailer

2020 JVX18

$22,500

w/ 70HP Yamaha

2019 JVX16

• Hull Color Full Side - Royal Blue • Console Livewell w/ LED Light • 24V Trolling Motor Plug • Velcro Rod Savers (2 each) • Rear Deck Padded Swivel Seat w/ Base • Maxiflow Recirculation System • Continental Aluminum Trailer

$18,795

w/ 60HP Suzuki

Jon Boats 2020 1236 2020 1436LT 2020 1542 2020 1448 2020 MV1648 NCS

2020 JV 15 Tiller

$23,295

2020 V14 15” - $3,395 2020 V16 15” - $3,695

• 25HP Suzuki PT&T • Continental Galvanized Trailer

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

-- $915 $925 -- $1,795 $2,295 - $2,740

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Tr re

For Ce Thi imp clo

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU SAW A 2-STROKE BMW

Clean 4-Stroke Technology is All We Do

Be Socially Responsible

GO GREEN - Suzuki Repower

Trade-in your dirty, uncivilized, oil-burner for an environmentally responsible, clean, quiet, efﬁcient Suzuki 4-stroke! For a limited time, when you purchase a new Suzuki outboard from an authorized Mastry RePower Center you will receive a Special Trade Allowance for your dirty and outdated 2-stroke outboard. This is Mastry’ s commitment to help keep our waterways clean as well as making it easier for you to improve your boating experience with an up-to-date quiet, efﬁcient 4-stroke outboard. Contact your closest Mastry RePower Center for the details of this Exclusive Mastry RePower Center Offer.

suzukirepower.com

1-800-545-4574

Get civilized with a new Suzuki 4-stroke outboard!

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

LLEBROC UPS THE ANTE WITH THE NEW SV SERIES

lebroc Industries, a name synonymous with high-quality seats, has once again raised the bar for the marine industry. The SV Series will be unveiled at IBEX and The Fort Lauder-

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

dale Boat Show this fall and will quickly become the industry standard. With new stitching patterns and colors combinations, the SV Series is comparable to the cockpit of a Lamborghini. No matter the style or design of your boat, Llebroc will rise to the challenge and ensure your vessel is both stylish and comfortable. From helm chairs to bench seats and leaning posts, Llebroc is capable of designing and installing the very best seating available. Based out of Texas, Llebroc Industries has a long-standing tradition of working with any vessel big or small. From bass boats to yachts, they are equipped to handle any project no matter how big or small. One of the latest projects was outfitting the 45-Foot tender of an Ocean Alexander. “I love e ver yt hing I do, and that’s why we work on e ver yt hing no matter how big or small,” said Greg Carman of Llebroc Industries. This attitude has helped Llebroc Industries develop a brand that is a thoroughbred of design, comfort, and stability. You can see Llebroc seating and helm chairs throughout the marine industry. From Viking Yachts to Boston Whalers, every boat company is looking to have the best quality boat and that is why they turn to Llebroc for their seating. So, if you are in the market for a new seating set up on your vessel, be sure to stop by Llebroc Industries and talk to Greg Carman. You won’t be disappointed. For more information, go to www.llebroc.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

llebroc_

Make Your Trip...

Unveiling the SV Series at the FLIBS and IBEX IBEX - Booth 3-638 FLIBS - Booth 418

Feel Like This. Toll Free: 800-284-5771 or visit us online at

www.llebroc.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM â€¢ THEANGLERMAG.COM

llebroc_FP_0218.indd 1

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

1/16/18 9:07 AM

LLGF Fishing Fever Tourney Oct. 18-20 Islamorada, Florida Keys

Ladies, Fish Friday & Sunday on inshore or offshore charter boats - win prizes! We will team you with others No experience or boat necessary Learn about Fishing from Pros on Sat. Only $125 incl. 2 parties, Fishing Additional

www.ladiesletsgofishing.com

FISH & FISHING

ON THE MOVE MARK SOSIN

t happens every year. No one really knows whether it’s shorter days, a slight drop in water temperature, or something else that triggers baitfish and predators to gather in schools and start moving south. This annual migration in September and October provides some of the best fishing on all coasts. Whether you prefer trolling baits or casting into the schools, success depends on getting an offering in front of the fish without frightening the schools into diving for sanctuary. The problem is, when you discover a school of fish, you are seldom alone. Instead of approaching the fringes of the school, boats race toward the fish at full throttle. The perfect position is on the seaward side of the school just off the forward edge and moving slowly with the school. If you’re trolling, this puts your baits where they can be seen easily. Casters can work the edges of the school, working their offering close to the main body and in the direction the fish are moving. In real life, it seldom works this perfectly. Boats tend to continuously jockey for position, while trollers move right through the middle of the school, forcing fish into the depths. Most of the action takes place when predators find a school of baitfish and begin to feed. Often gulls and terns

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

squawking overhead tell anglers there is action below. When the big guys aren’t feeding, it’s much harder to find them. You just have to keep studying the water’s surface until you see signs of fish. Baitfish have a habit of moving into an inlet and holding there for a period. Most of the time, you won’t see the action of breaking fish, but where there is prey, you can bet predators are nearby. As an angler, check every inlet carefully at this time of year. It could make your day. Whether you are retrieving a cast or trolling, baits should be moving in the same direction as the predators or not much of an angle to either side. Fish are not going to leave the school and chase something in the opposite direction. They will ease out of the main body, but they are going to maintain the direction of the school. Keep in mind that predators focus on one victim at a time. By working your offering on the edges of the school, but moving it in the same direction, it becomes an easy meal for them. For the surf fisherman, if you are working an area where mobility is possible, it pays to work up and down the beach until you find a school of bait or predators. Remember that casts must allow a retrieve in the direction the school is traveling. A single fish seldom goes against the direction that the main body is moving. This is the time of the year when coastal fishing can be spectacular. Take advantage of it. For more from Mark Sosin, visit

CAMFISHING.COM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

TRES NIÑAS TOURS CENTRAL-PACIFIC

COSTA RICA

Creating Great Memories

Inshore Fishing

Coastal Crawl

Whale Watching

Offshore Fishing

25 and 27 ft. Dusky Center Console Boats

Take Your Pick!

Marina Pez Vela in Quepos or Los Suenos Resort and Marina LOS SUENOS

36 foot Customized Luhrs Express

DREAM II

32 Foot Customized Luhrs Express

“One of the Oldest Established Professional Charter Operations in Costa Rica” Professional Crews • Professional Rods Reels And Gear

WWW.TRESNINASTOURS.COM

Cell: (506) 8305-0041 Office: (506) 4700-3384 U.S: (561) 427-1306 • U.S: (561) 427-2137

info@tresninastours.com

BIG TROUT OR EASY TROUT ON THE NANTAHALA DH

Editor’s Note: In honor of delayed harvest trout regulations opening across the Southeast, here’s a look at one of North Carolina’s best. This description of the Nantahala River between Murphy and Bryson City is an abbreviated excerpt from the book “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.”

By Nick Carter

easy or difficult as you make it, although frequently the water gets quite high with winter rains. Don’t let heavy flow and a little bit of a stain deter you. Murky water combined with the right nymph or streamer can be the right combination to fool big fish that see a lot of flies. And there are some big fish. North Carolina does a great job of sprinkling trophy-sized individuals in with its stockings. For years, the Nantahala DH was a destination location for me before a move to Graham County just a few miles from the river made it a back-up plan. At the time, I was a wild trout snob. I can’t count the times I drove past easier fishing and larger fish to hike into remote streams where 5-inch fish were the norm. I don’t regret that. It was fun. What I do regret since moving away from Graham County are the Wednesday afternoons I had off work when I passed on the opportunity to fish the DH. I did, however, fish it a lot. What I learned was the fishing can be ridiculously easy for numbers after a stocking, but the better fish require a little work. The river can also be downright difficult once the fish wise up. Showing them either something natural or something out of the ordinary can be productive. Patience is also a virtue. Moving quickly and picking off the eager feeders is a good way to land a bunch of standard hatchery fish. Moving slowly and stealthily, watching the water and carefully picking your casts helps for those larger fish. In a place where almost all the fish come to hand with lip piercings, there are individuals that become reluctant to eat. Egg patterns, Buggers, mop flies and flashy nymphs get the most attention after a stocking. But bugs will be on the water, with winter stones, blue winged olives, midges and maybe some small caddis popping off in sunny spots during winter. Come spring, the river is a riot of bug activity, and dry fly fishing gets very good. At any given time, there might be black and tan caddis, small dark stoneflies, yellow sallies, midges and a variety of mayflies on the water.

ith special regulations calling for catch and release, sin“Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia” includes maps, GPS gle-hook, artificial only October into June, a nearly 4-mile stretch of North Carolina’s Nantahala River is very popular access points and detailed descriptions of the region’s best trout fishing. this time of year. There is easy roadside access and wading can be as It is available on Amazon, at fly shops or by contacting the author at nsc8957@gmail.com.

Looking For A Cabin Getaway? www.

boats.net

CALL FOR YOUR LOCAL DEALER

252-235-2461

Serving the Coastal Communities of Southwest Florida

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 1

appy October everyone! I’ve got something a little different this month. I wanted to share a great little fishing story about su r rou nd i ng yourself with good people that share the same passion for fishing. It started with my birthday, which was back in Aug. and fell on a We d n e s d a y. Two of my good fishing buddies Will and Jared asked me what my plans were for my birthday, I told them I’m definitely going tarpon fishing! Its my favorite fish to catch and I

by Capt. Justin Napior can’t get enough. I had my boat ready to go after work when my buddy Jared called and said I’ve already got my boat in the water, just meet us at the ramp! I thought to myself, awesome! Its rare I get to go on s o m e o n e’s b o a t . O bv i ou s ly, I offered to toss in gas money and help clean the boat after, that’s just proper etiquette. So, I get to the ramp, Jared has the boat ready and my buddy Will shows up after running a charter that day

with a live well full of bait! I felt spoiled at this point, I just had to hop on the boat and fish! The first spot we stopped at we found the perfect size tarpon rolling. Most were around the 30lb mark, we call those “fun size”. After a few small reds and snook, I hook up on a nice tarpon! He comes flying out of the water doing back flips and all three of us start yelling like kids! After a fun fight we land him and I got my birthday tarpon. Jared was prepared with the birthday hats for the picture! I must have had the birthday luck on my side that evening because we ended up having a killer night of fishing! Landing 6 tarpon, big tripletails, redfish, snook and Jared completing the

grand slam with a nice sea trout! After about a dozen tarpon in the air, it was getting late and we left them chewing. What a night fellas. Moral of the story,

surround yourself with good fishing buddies! You can follow Will on Instagram @ willbearinthewoods and you can follow Jared @bbc_Ini_ charters. Till next time tight lines everybody!

Capt. Justin Napior can be contacted at jnapior@gmail.com or 239-682-7101. Follow on IG @jnapior67.

2 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

Kayak Fishing by Eric Henson

always like to call this month’s article “The Hunt for RED October”. There are a couple of reasons why. First, it is generally one of the best months to fish for them and second, they are one of my favorite inshore fish to target. Redfish are the ultimate fish! I’ve caught them everywhere from super fresh water to pure saltwater. I’ve seen them feeding in water so shallow that their bodies are halfway out of the water and also in the deep ocean waters. The way their mouths are located almost on the bottom of their face with huge crushers in their throats helps them take down their main diet of crustaceans, but don’t be surprised if you see them slurping a decent size fish off the top of the water. This time of year, huge

schools of bull redfish are here and on the prowl for their next meal. The majority of these fish will be over slot but are very fun to target. Some of the newer schools that are coming in from offshore will be a washed out lighter grey color and the schools that have been here for a little bit will be a beautiful bronze color. When you see a large school of these fish coming at you, it will literally turn the water a bronze reddish color. A lot of the bigger fish in the upper 30’s – upper 40’s will be a little beat up looking from spawning. Be careful to release them because these are our big breeders. Right now, I am targeting them on the grass flats. The baits that I like to use to target these schooling fish: First thing in the morning throw a top-

water plug like Yo-Zuri’s 3DB Pencil. Then as the sun comes up, start throwing soft plastics like the Monster 3X shrimp or the X-Tail. Trust me these fish can feel you and see you coming from pretty far away and once they know you are there, fishing for them can become very frustrating. So make sure and take a stealthy approach! Of course, live bait is good as well. Some days

these fish will be feeding like Piranhas, eating anything you throw in front of them and some days they can be quite finicky. None the less it is an amazing site to see a school of reds the size of a football field coming at you. Until next time... Tight lines and Tight knots out there!!!

Eric Henson is the owner of Casting Kayaks LLC. a guided kayak fishing company out of Sarasota Florida. He specializes in inshore light tackle or fly fishing from Tampa Bay to Charlotte Harbor. To book a guided fishing trip with Eric check out his website www.CastingKayaks.com or give him a call at 941-504-1349

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 3

Anna Maria Island Adventures

by Capt. James Vadas

ishing around Anna Maria Island has been great! We have been catching a ton of mangrove snapper, Spanish mackerel and grouper. I have been fishing the artificial reefs, mostly on the south side of

of the skyway bridge on a recent trip. We noticed storm clouds building to the north of us. However, we got a little distracted by the awesome fishing. The dad reeled in a nice cobia and as he held the

Tampa Bay and Egmont Key. The weather can be volatile this time of year so, if the weather is questionably safe to allow going offshore in the Gulf, we can stay inside of Tampa Bay with a bunch of great fishing spots and the ability to see a storm moving in from a distance to prevent being cut off with no safe route around the storm. Except there was this one time. Well, I’ve been caught in a storm quite a few times, but I fish almost every day in a tropical climate

fish up for a picture, I noticed the whole Skyway Bridge was gone, completely covered with storm clouds. I said, “Wow great fish! We gotta go now!” Almost immediately pouring rain, fierce winds, thunder, and lightning. I had zero visibility, using only GPS to navigate towards a small bridge on the causeway to take shelter. My guests are huddled right next to me under the T-top. The mom overheard me praying while I was driving the boat. She said, “Should I be

so that’s a part of life. Paying attention to the storm clouds moving in every direction is important. I was fishing with a family of 4 a few miles east

worried that you’re praying?” I said, “No, not at all. I prayed for you all to catch a bunch of fish before your charter and you did, so I’m sure we

4 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

Complete Trailer Repair will be ok.” I parked the boat under the bridge and called my partner Captain Scott check in with him we were safe. Scott was just a few miles away. He got caught in the same storm and didn’t see it coming because he was fishing right next to the mangroves in Miguel Bay, without a vantage point to see the storm. So please make it a point to keep your eye on the weather moving in every direction and have all the marine safety equipment aboard, especially an EPIRB, GPS, or some kind of emergency satellite location device. I have an ACR ResQlink; it retails for $349 and does not require any subscription. October is a great time for fishing redfish. It’s a beautiful copper and gold-colored fish with a spot or spots on its tail, also known as a red drum. They can be found nose down, tailing in the murky ankle-

deep backwater or near the passes, wherever there’s food, water clarity and salinity don’t bother these fish. Huge schools of spawning redfish have been spotted from the air near Anna Maria Island. They will spawn a few times out in the Gulf between September and November. Redfish do not migrate, they remain here all year. I always look for schools of mullet when targeting redfish, as they seem to hang out together. Redfish seem to bite better on a falling tide. We use cut bait ladyfish, mullet, crabs, or live pinfish. Some of the artificial baits include pumpkin seed color soft plastic or a gold spoon. They are an absolute blast to catch! They pull hard and will test your tackle. The bigger redfish are nicknamed “Bulls”. When you hook one, you’ll know why. Tight lines and God bless. Yours Truly, Captain James

• Parts & Installation • Aluminum Welding & Fabrication 2425 Manatee Ave East - Bradenton, FL

941-746-6369

M-F: 8am-5pm Sat: 8am-12pm Sun: Closed

www.aandatrailerhitchcenter.com

Since 1965

Capt. James Vadas, owner/operator of Living Water Charters on Anna Maria Island, FL can be reached at 941-812-1245. You can also find him: https://www. livingwatercharters.com https://www.facebook.com/LWCfishing/ https://www.instagram.com/livingwatercharters/ FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 5

Fishing with Joe by Joe Sheaffer

pending most of my fishing time in shallow water has presented a few challenges for me. I primarily fish in 2-3 feet of water, but many of the fish are shallower. They can be very skittish and many times are very aware of my presence.

Being able to present a lure from a long distance can be the difference between struggling and a great day catching fish. When I made the move to SW Florida from Northern Virginia, I assumed that I could convert much of my bass fishing gear to inshore equipment. While there is some crossover for some of the equipment and techniques, it started to dawn on me that I was a bit under gunned, as I struggled to consistently catch inshore fish. 7 foot casting and spinning rods just didn’t allow me to make long and accurate enough casts. I started using 7’6 to 8’, medium to mediumheavy fast action spinning rods. 2500-3000 series spinning reels, spooled with 10-15 lb. braided line. Using this equipment has allowed

me to make much longer and accurate casts and I have definitely been able to present my lures to many more fish. Yes, I still use casting outfits for plugs and shorter spinning

outfits for skipping baits under mangroves and docks. Fishing shallow water, longer casts equal more opportunities to put my lure in front of more unsuspecting fish. I’m often asked, “How do I catch fish in certain areas, Joe, I’m using the same lures in the same areas with no luck”. I have fished with a few friends, I’ll catch fish and they struggle. The difference, almost every time,

6 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

I’m able to make much longer casts because of the equipment I’m using. Today’s fishing rods and reels are lighter, stronger and technically more advanced than their predecessors. Braid is a game changer, strength, small size, not to mention sensitivity, allows for much longer casts. There are many affordable, quality rods and reels, and braid that won’t break the bank. Check out your local bait and tackle shops, ask your local experts for help picking a combo that works best for you. Making longer casts on the flats, working parallel to mangrove islands, and being able to reach a group of schooling fish without spooking them, gives an angler many more chances to catch fish. It has made a big difference in my success as an inshore fisherman. Do you need to use only longer rods and braid? No, but having the right tool for the job can increase your opportunities to catch inshore species.

Just Kickin’ Back

by Capt. Philip Watson

ctober is the start of one of my favorite fishing patterns, as the water is cooling, the offshore bait is moving, and the fish are getting fat for the winter. You will also start to see wrecks and springs stack up with kingfish and black fin tuna, shallow ledges fill up with grouper and snapper, and the hogfish start to really eat. In October you will typically see a beautiful weather pattern of blue skies and calm seas right before the cold fronts start to ramp up. This perfect combination will allow for perfect fishing days, targeting multiple fish species. Our adventure for this month is with my good friends of What the Fin Apparel, Keaton Hinze and Drew Horton. The original plan was to run 60+ miles for gags and monster gags, but the weather wasn’t letting us. So,

we waited for some weather to pass and pushed out about 25 miles to a couple wrecks. Unfortunately, that spot was loaded with sharks and every grouper or snapper that was hooked was immediately eaten. The tax man was out in full force! We were able to catch a couple yellowtail snapper, bonito, and bar jacks in between shark feedings; we weren’t going to let them ruin our good time. We also hooked up to a couple jumbo sized lemon sharks and a

goliath grouper who put up a good fight. Our next spot was at a few 6’-8’ ledges that typically hold some fun sized amberjacks. We started with the bottom bite, reeling in the mangos and yellowtails, and eventually the AJ’s started to rise as well. We started free-lining pinfish on jig heads with 60lb fluorocarbon leaders and they were loving it. Every bait sent back was eaten, from pinfish to squirrelfish. We ended up having one of those days where you run out of bait!

At one point in the day, we had the amberjacks so thick under the boat that Keaton jumped in to film some of the underwater action. Lastly, we stopped on a piece of hard bottom to try and pull up a red grouper or two and ended up catching a couple of lanes, vermilions, and porgies. Thankfully we ended with a bang, as the weather turned again, and we had to quickly pull anchor and head home. Great friends and good fishing made an excellent day of fishing.

Just Kickin’ Back Charters offers Offshore and Nearshore fishing, as well as Sunset Cruises, Egmont Key Trips, and EcoTours around Anna Maria Island, FL. You can book your adventure with Capt. Philip Watson, owner/operator, by visiting www.justfishfl.com , calling 941-226-1100, or on FB www.facebook.com/justfishfl.

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 7

It’s All About the Kids

by Chasten Whitfield

his month, I decided to take some me time and go fishing for tarpon with some friends. I am going to be fishing a new body of water to me in Flamingo, FL which is on the south side of Everglades National Park. We launched our boat early morning before the sun rose and headed to our first destination. When we got close we could actually smell the tarpon in the air, which had a smell very different than I ever experienced. As soon as we stopped you could hear them rolling on top of the water, which is such a beautiful sound to listen to, let alone

actually see once the sun came up was so very cool. I had never caught tarpon on artificial bait, so I was very new to all of this. We saw a couple tarpon roll

and I threw right in front of them and started to work my bait across the water. I missed one tarpon, but I did manage to get a nice little snook. We noticed the tide started turning so we decided to move up towards the mangroves where we saw more tarpon rolling. We threw crank baits with the bills ripped off so they would float a little bit and we caught at least seven tarpons. I must have missed at least twelve others, but I was more excited to feel so much better about using artificial bait now. We made another move to a grass flat before the sun got too hot, as it was a little bit after noon now to catch a redfish to get my inshore grand slam. Some thunder clouds started forming above us, so we knew we had a limited amount of time. Off in the distance we could see tailing redfish, so we moved that way casting out to

these fish like crazy, hoping we could hook one before the storms fired up. We were trying to get them to eat anything as we were chasing these fish down like crazy. We hooked up with one but sadly lost it after a couple seconds into the fight. Then we hear a crack at thunder and saw a flash of lightning and knew that was our cue to leave. I tried one more cast just to see what happens and believe it or not, I hooked up on a redfish just as the storms started. We landed this fish got some cool videos and pictures of it and took off towards the boat ramp. My day off with friends helped me get my first inshore slam with artificial bait. I am super excited!

Chasten’s mission is to help kids of all ages, especially girls, become comfortable anglers while teaching positive life skills, thoughtfulness, doing what’s right for the right reasons, and choosing to stay active outdoors. It’s not about what you look like or outside appearance, what matters is what’s inside.

The Heat Is Here - Get Under The Shade!

Extend your T-Top's shade for the front and back of boat with our patented carbon fiber tubular pole system that uses your existing rod holders. Run between 20-40 knots with Stern Shade Up!

SUMMER SPECIAL SAVINGS

1715 8th Ave. West Unit S2, Palmetto, Florida 34221 Nanette Hultgren 941-773-2410 | shellbackcanvasllc@gmail.com 8 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

CALL NOWVE TO RESER

BLACKSTICK R

Kitchen

The Captain’s

Gourmet Grilled Seafood Dish — Feeds a Family of Four for Under $30!

Seafood is often thought of as a light summer meal, but this one is especially delicious to grill out on the boat or in the park this fall as the temps cool off. Chef Travis at the Blue Turtle in downtown Punta Gorda served this gourmet meal for a few of us recently, and we begged him to share his secrets! We love how quick, easy, and compact his recipe is to prepare. Enjoy! Grilled Mahi-Mahi, Zucchini & Mushrooms with Asian Slaw — Served with a Cilantro Ginger Aioli (Garnish Plates with Sriracha) 6 oz. Mahi-Mahi (per person) Season with salt and pepper. Grill on medium-high heat 4-5 minutes on each side. To make triangle grill marks, rotate halfway on each side. Tip: Catch your own fish or maybe pick up fresh seafood at E & L Clam House in Charlotte Harbor! Large Mushroom (per person) Zucchini (per person, sliced lengthwise twice to make spears) Season both with oil, salt & pepper, and then grill 3 minutes on each side. Tip: Marinate zucchini in soy sauce, brown sugar, cilantro, and garlic to enhance flavor for at least 25 minutes prior to grilling.

Cilantro Ginger Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise ½ cup chopped cilantro 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar 2 tbsp soy sauce 2 tbsp minced ginger 2 tbsp minced garlic 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp sriracha 4 tbsp honey Whisk all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate. Can make the day before and it will keep for 5 days.

Asian Slaw

2 carrots, peeled and grated 1 red onion peeled and sliced thin ½ head red cabbage sliced thin 2 bunches green onion, chopped Combine ingredients into bowl and add dressing.

Dressing for Asian Slaw

¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium) ½ tsp fish sauce 4 tbsp honey Fresh squeezed juice of one large orange Whisk together in a bowl and then add to slaw. Toss and let sit covered in refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.

Creative Services

Marketing | Photography | Graphic Design Events | Custom Copper Works The Captain’s Kitchen Photography: Betsy Williams

For more delicious meals, make your way to the Blue Turtle for dinner. Visit their website at PURVEYORS OF HOSPITALITY

BlueTurtlePG.com to see their menu and special events.

Boat & RV Services Repairs | Maintenance Remodel | Interior Design

Andrea Powell Ambrose 239.560.3010

Andrea@LiveFishPlay.com

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 9

3806 U.S. 41 North Palmetto, Florida 34221 941-722-1980

CORTEZ October/2019

27°28’N 82°41’W

3113 1st Street, Bradenton, FL 34208 941-746-6020

PORT MANATEE October/2019

27°38’N 82°34’W

DREAMS

REALITY

DISCOVER THE BOSTON WHALER OF YOUR DREAMS Every Boston Whaler is designed for ultimate load-and-go readiness. With their combination of reliable power, durable construction, and easy cleaning, Boston Whaler takes on rough saltwater with ease while providing family-friendly comforts. From ultimate fishing machine to a beautiful, dry cruise to dinner, Boston Whaler has something to suit your boating needs.

Contact us to schedule an appointment with your Authorized Boston Whaler Dealer. Two convenient locations to serve you. MarineMax Venice: (888) 538-4052 | MarineMax Cape Haze: (888) 714-7324 | marinemax.com

10 VEN-84008 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/ BW Coastal Angler Ad-7.6325x5.0125.indd 3

3/27/19 8:11 AM

VENICE INLET October/2019

4419 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34293 941-493-0025

27°7’N 82°28’W

SARASOTA BAY October/2019

855-347-4544 www.FishLight.com Underwaterfishlight.com

27°20’N 82°33’W

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 11

Offshore with Capt. Tom

by Capt. Tom Bailas

his month we would like to share some of our family-favorite fish recipes with everyone. Most of what we eat is what we catch or harvest. Our meals consist of fish and venison mostly. There is nothing better than enjoying the fresh fish you catch or some fresh venison from a white-tailed deer, from the hunting season to feed our entire family. We have a family friend that has owned restaurants his whole life. He recently shared his most popular recipe dish with us while we were in the Keys catching mahi and tuna. It is called “Grouper Fromage” and was served in his fine dining restaurant for years. He shared it with us and we decided to make it with our fresh Mahi instead of grouper and it was amazing. You can use any type of fish and here is the amazing recipe. Fromage: • (equal parts) I used a cup of each to make for 4 -6 servings • 1 cup of sour cream • 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese • 1 cup of mayonnaise Stir together in a bowl and it becomes like a paste. Place the filets on a baking sheet and add a little seasoning on the fish or salt and pepper. Take the paste and top the fish with it, keeping it thick on top. Don’t rub it in. Bake on 400° for

about 25-30 minutes. The paste should turn a light brown on top. For additional taste and looks: Add sautéed onions, tomatoes and peppers and put on top of it. We also enjoy eating fresh sesame seared Blackfin tuna as well. My favorite way of making it is as follows: Take olive oil and pour it on a plate. Dip your tuna steaks into the oil on both sides, then sprinkle blackened seasoning on all sides. Have black and/or white sesame seeds on another plate and cover both sides of the steaks. Then throw the tuna steaks into a hot skillet, on high heat, for about 60 seconds on each side. (You are only searing the outside and leaving the inside rare.) Remove them and use a fillet knife to cut the steaks into thin slices. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi! This makes a great appetizer, or you can serve it with jasmine rice as a meal. I hope you enjoy these recipes as much as we do! Remember to always follow state and federal regulations. Be courteous of other boaters and keep only what you can eat. Charter fishing from Venice, FL is home to some of the best fishing anywhere! You can reach Capt. Tom at 941-587-2028 or at www.tntfishingchartersvenice.com or follow on FB @tntchartersvenice specializing in Family Friendly Fishing Adventures.

12 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

Sarasota Fishing

Capt. Matt Fueyo

t’s hurricane season and some of our favorite vacation destinations are being destroyed. Some islands are lucky and others will face destruction for months and years to come. One island that has remained “lucky” is Siesta Key. We are fortunate to remain unscathed in years past and can only hope that our luck will continue. Whether it be the Indian burial grounds or Zeus catching some rays on our pearly white sand beaches...as a fisherman I’ll take it!! Tourism is a year-round happening here in sunny Siesta Key and even though the streets are not as crowded as they are during Spring Break, we still have some travelers. One of our favorite travelers happens to be Mr. or Mrs. Redfish! These drag pullers have a different

attitude than the rest of the bay species we target. These guys put their head down like Mike Alstott, the A-Train, and bolt towards the mangroves. No jumping, no head shaking like the snook, just a brute fighting for what he thinks is his life. The Red Drum or “Redfish” to most fishermen, is a great tasting fish that yields a good amount of meat within the slot limits. These fish are protected in our area and the restocking programs have done a phenomenal job in the replenishment of a depleted resource. Local and state agencies are working to keep these fish abundant in our region and have put a closure on them until 2020. Companies like Reel Tight Fishing Charters, Mangrove Charters, Catch Sarasota

Fishing Charters and Capt. Nate Fishing Charters all agree that the closure is necessary and “it wouldn’t hurt our feelings to keep it closed!” Why wouldn’t you want to be able to put this fish on the table for your guests? Well that’s a simple answer. I want to catch fish! Our guests want to catch fish! Our kids want to catch fish and you get the idea! Our fishery has rebounded since last year’s Red Tide/

Blue Green Algae outbreak and we want to see it continue to thrive. Our livelihood depends on it and we hope that everybody makes a conscious effort to do their part and help sustain our nature’s beauty. The next few weeks of fishing will be awesome. As our waters begin to cool, the bite will pick up. Bait is plentiful and as the old timers always say “match the hatch.” We use a 12’ ¼” mesh Barracuda Cast Net to catch our bait. That is a large net for most anglers, but we generally have 3-5 anglers on the boat, so a ton of bait is necessary. 7’ medium/ light rods for pulling those spunky redfish out of the mangroves or docks. 25- 30# fluorocarbon leader is a must! Be ready for the ride of your life if you hook a big one!

Capt. Matt Fueyo is the owner of Reel Tight Fishing Charters, 1265 Old Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242. Providing offshore and inshore charters with a focus on conservation and teaching. Guests of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Our captains are professional and our goal is to make sure your family and friends are having the time of your lives and catching fish! You can reach us through our FB page, https://www.facebook.com/reeltightfishingcharters/ or website, https:// www.reeltightfishingcharters.com with any questions or to book a charter.

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 13

LOCAL BUSINESSES

14 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

AT YOUR SERVICE

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 15

16 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 17

18 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

FACEBOOK.COM/COASTALANGLERMAGAZINESARASOTA/ | OCTOBER 2019 | SARASOTA / BRADENTON 19

The Best Angler Photos From Southwest Florida!

Lily DeFreitas of Alva had a great day catching reds, snook and snapper.

This redfish made it fun fishing in the rain for Jordan Hall.

This beautiful redfish put that smile on Dalton Ribka.

Cameron Smith & 6yo son Myles landed this snook on a Penn Battle 1000!

Tyler with his first redfish, out with Capt. Johnny Knottingham.

Nice Charlotte Harbor red, caught by Willie Armstead.

Cameron Smith, Ted Jimenez, Brian Macshowing off their day’s fun.

Kenneth Dougherty carefully handling a sailcat.

James Sillett caught this 44” 36# snook at the Matlacha Bridge.

Photos submitted Courtesy of Coastal Angler Readers and Contributing Writers 20 SARASOTA / BRADENTON | OCTOBER 2019 | COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/SARASOTA/

FREE

Snapper pens! Season O + Smoker Kings

IODUCNT SUSNGLAISSDES REEVIE:W

NEW PR

.C OM I D E RMLAG O R L D W NG LE A B L E W TA LA S A VA I CO AS U N I T I E O P P O R T

TERS ACTION CHAR

TESY OF DISTR PHOTO COUR VOLUME 24

ALABAMA ADDS THREE-DAY FALL RED SNAPPER SEASON

hose looking to fill the freezer with tasty red snapper will have a few more days in Alabama thanks to a three-day fall season announced for the weekend of Oct. 4-6. The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will open an additional three-day private angler recreational season for red snapper at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 4 until midnight on Sunday, Oct. 6. The possession limit is two fish per person with a minimum size limit of 16 inches total length. Anglers are reminded that as of Sept. 1, 2019, any angler age 16 and older must have a Reef Fish Endorsement to possess any species of Gulf reef fish. For more information about the Reef Fish Endorsement, visit www.outdooralabama.com/saltwater-fishing/saltwater-reef-fish-endorsement. Landing estimates are derived from mandatory angler reports submitted through Alabama’s Snapper Check Program. Anglers are reminded that greater amberjack is available for voluntary reporting through the Snapper Check app. Detailed red snapper landing information from the 2018 and 2019 seasons is available at www.outdooralabama.com/saltwater-fishing/ exempted-fishing-permit.

• ISSUE 292

JULY 2019

I S E F R A N C H

Florida Coastal Angler Franchise Locations Now Available MIAMI • FLORDIA KEYS OKEECHOBEE The Coastal Angler Magazine Franchise systems enable individuals with no prior publishing experience to publish a credible and profitable localized version of our award winning magazine. If you love the outdoors, there’s nothing better! What we’re offering is a proven method to generate income in a field that you’re passionate about.

For more information visit www.franchise.coastalanglermag.com

888-800-9794

Tampa’s BIGGEST

BOAT SHOW OCTOBER 25-27, 2019

NEW ! DATES

TAMPA CONVENTION CENTER

Find your boating fun at Tampa’s ONLY in-water boat show! • Hundreds of new boats • The latest in marine accessories, engines & electronics • Boating and fishing seminars, on-water education and more!

TampaBoatShow.com #TampaBoatShow COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

fly away

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM â€¢ THEANGLERMAG.COM

TAMPA BAY WATCH SEEKS VOLUNTEERS U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Tori Long

ampa Bay Watch is seeking volunteers for two upcoming programs designed to restore lost habitat in Tampa Bay waters. The first, slated for Oct. 3-4, will install an oyster shell bar on the shoreline of MacDill Air Force Base from 9 a.m. to noon on each day. The goal is to prevent further erosion of the shoreline and improve water quality through natural biological filtration. Oyster bars also make excellent habitat for gamefish. The second project, being conducted on weekday mornings of October 2, 15, 21 and 23, needs hard workers to help build oyster domes at the Marine Center in Terra Verde. The project involves pouring marine-friendly concrete into a fiberglass mold to create oyster domes and taking apart the molds that were previously poured. This project is physically demanding in requiring bending, crouching, and some heavy lifting. It is entirely on land, and the domes will be installed at a later date to provide hard structure for oysters to grow. Oyster communities help stabilize shorelines, provide hard bottom habitats for fish and wildlife resources, and promote water quality improvements in the Tampa Bay ecosystem. For more information and to register for these events, go to www.tampabaywatch.org.

PERFECT FILLETS!

Sheri Daye

fter all the time, effort and determination it takes to land that beautiful fish, you don’t want to compromise the quality of your dinner by improper handling at the end. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years: 1) Dispatching/ bleeding: Whether you are fishing or spearfishing, try to minimize the amount of time the fish is under stress, as this can produce lactic acid which affects taste. Dispatching as soon as possible is humane and helps maintain quality. Bleeding also helps, especially for raw consumption. Spearfishermen can do it in the water, but if you don’t want to attract sharks, you Sheri Daye with a big Keys wahoo. can also do it on the boat. Cut the throat and place it in a bucket of water for a few minutes or use scissors and cut the gills. 2) Icing: Make sure you have plenty of ice, two pounds for every pound of fish. Saltwater ice is best if you can get it, and crushed

ice is optimal because it covers more surface area. Heat and air are the enemies, so ice your fish immediately. If you don’t plan to fillet soon, remove the guts and gills and fill the cavity with ice before burying it in the cooler. Drain and replace ice often to ensure fish stays cold and is not sitting in water, which will cause the fish to get mushy. 3) Filleting: When the flesh is chilled and firm, cutting is much easier, and a razor sharp knife makes quick work of filleting. After filleting, try not to rinse the meat, as water degrades the fillets and produces a breeding ground for bacteria. If you keep your knife clean, don’t puncture the gut cavity and you bled your fish beforehand, you should not have to rinse fillets. If the fillet is exposed to water, dry it promptly with paper towels. 4) Refrigeration: Fish can be stored in your refrigerator at 40 degrees for about three days. Wrap the fish in plastic-wrap and place in crushed ice. It is still best to store fish surrounded by crushed ice because the cooler you can keep it, the better. 5) Freezing: Store in the freezer at 0 degrees or lower. Lean fish (snapper or grouper) will keep for about six months. Fatty fish (salmon, tuna and mackerel) will keep for about three months. I like to vacuum-pack fillets. Vacuum packers are relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and available at Target. Fill pre-cut bags with fillets and follow the directions on the vacuum packer. This keeps fillets airtight to prevent freezer burn. 6) Thawing: The safest way to thaw fish is in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. Plan to cook immediately after thawing. Do not thaw fish at room temperature, and never refreeze fish. Sheri is a world-record holder, host of Speargun Hunter, and producer of “The Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo” in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Follow “Sheri Daye” and “The Blue Wild” on Facebook and Instagram.

See more from Sheri Daye at:

https://coastalanglermag.com/sheri-daye/

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

UPGRADE YOUR MECHANICAL CONTROLS

1O 0 % FF

PUR HAS C

N � ME

N THIS

FOR �

T IO

Increase your boat’s value Perfect for most engines End-User friendly installation Emergency "get home" option Up to 4 stations + 1 handheld ABYC, CFR, CE, ISO, and Type Approved

• • • • • •

Seatech Marine Products U.S. Distributor for KE Electronic Engine Controls 2608 Shelter Island Dr. San Diego, CA 92106 • 866.456.1379 • seatechmarineproducts.com

L ions ted!! Old Florida Waterfront Charm Re-Discovered L A F vAt ccep The Perfect Vacation Getaway for Fishing, Boating and Outdoor Enthusiasts eR ing A s e R Be now

Accommodations are nestled on 6 lush tropical acres of pristine waterfront directly on the Indian River Lagoon. As you make your way down the one lane road you will truly be stepping back in time. Your hosts Kim and Robert Pruitt have re-captured the very best of Old Florida charm with modern conveniences and services to make your stay truly memorable and unforgettable.

• Cable TV, Hi-Speed Internet • Boat Trailer Parking on site w/ Water and Power • 2 miles to the Ft. Pierce Inlet • 12 miles to the Gulf Stream • Water Taxi Service Available

• Fully Furnished 3 Room Cottages w/ Fully Equipped Kitchens • 250 Foot Dock w/ Covered Guest Area • Laundry, BBQ Grilles • FREE Ice / FREE Guest Dockage • FREE use of our Kayaks

All ReseRvAtions of 28 DAys oR longeR Receive A 50% Discount on AccommoDAtions Offer valid through 2019. Rates subject to change.

3011 N. Indian River Dr., Ft. Pierce, FL 34946 www.indianriverlagoonwaterfrontcottages.com Reservations and Information: (772) 349-2206 Nightly • Weekly • Monthly • Seasonal Rates Available 16

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

100% Merino Wool Beanies

100% Merino Wool Beanies Inspired by life out of doors tilley.com

Inspired by life out of doors | 100% Merino Wool Toques Tilley.com Inspired by life out Beanies of doors 100% Merino Wool

tilley.com tilley.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM â€¢ THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

NOTHING IS OFF LIMITS FROM A KAYAK Photo courtesy of Justin Ritchey

By FWC Staff ayak fishing is a growing sport, and it’s easy to see why. Kayaks are nimble, less expensive than most motorized boats and provide access to places even the best casts from land just can’t reach. But those who love the sport1say kayak fishing is more than just Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 a quick and less expensive way to get on the water.

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

“You are more in tune with what is going on,” said avid kayak angler Tony Hart, who runs YakOutlaws.com, a website dedicated to kayak and SUP angling. “The slower approach gives you an opportunity to take in more. It’s almost as though you become a part of what’s around you.” “Because you are so low in the water, there is this sense of vulnerability when you start fishing, but you also have this feeling of freedom and accomplishment, blood, sweat and tears,” said Justin Ritchey, who has been kayak fishing for more than a decade. “I’m very passionate about it, it’s a huge part of my life.” Like many kayak anglers, Hart and Ritchey got into kayak fishing for similar reasons: they loved fishing and didn’t have access to a boat. Ritchey got his start in college with two-person rental kayaks. He would ask classmates to foot the rental fee. Ritchey would provide the car, fishing gear and knowledge. Hart was fishing from a dock in Jacksonville when he noticed fish off a point too far for him to reach casting. “That’s when two young guys paddled by and I thought, that’s the smartest thing in world,” said Hart. “The next weekend I got two kayaks.” What often gets people into kayak fishing is the ability to access places they can’t reach from shore. “You can go anywhere you want with no stress of a motor breaking down or electronic failure,” Ritchey said. “And because you are quiet, you can often get closer than boat anglers can get.” Some might think kayaks are great for seatrout and redfish, but they can also be used for monster tarpon and sailfish. While what you catch within paddling distance will vary according to where in Florida you are fishing, if you can catch it, your kayak can take it. “Being able to catch every species from a kayak is personal goal of mine,” said Ritchey, who has personally caught sailfish, blackfin tuna, mutton snapper, kingfish and tarpon from his kayak. “In a boat, when a fish takes a lot of line, you have less control. In a kayak, you might be getting towed, but you are never too far away from the fish, which allows you to get the fish in much faster.”

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FLY FISHING

There are two schools of thoughts regarding bite-proof tippet. One school favors the soft, stainless-steel leader when fishing toothed game fish. The other school leans to the single-strand stainless-wire leader. Let’s compare the two.

BUILD THE PERFECT SALTWATER LEADER AND BITE TIPPET The basic fly leader is the saltwater fisherman’s most important connection between him and the fish. Tied incorrectly, it will place the angler at a distinct disadvantage when casting, especially under windy conditions. Simple in its design, the saltwater fly leader can meet the demands in almost every saltwater fly fishing situation. A leader’s length varies depending on conditions, but a 9-foot leader will work in most situations. A “4-3-2 combo” works well, as it allows the fly to roll over as it is cast. Creating this leader is fairly simple. First tie a two-turn surgeon’s loop of 40- or 50-pound soft monofilament at the fly line’s terminal. Then join the sections of your leader with blood knots, applying saliva to the knots to guarantee a solid connection. Take care to test the strength of each knot as you complete tying them. 4 feet of 40# soft mono 3 feet of 30# mono 2 feet of 20# mono Best Material for a Wire Leader When you fly fish in saltwater, there will be times when you deal with toothy critters like barracudas, sharks, needle fish, mackerel and numerous other fish sporting “ivories” capable of severing the heaviest monofilament and fluorocarbon leaders. It is the savvy saltwater fly fisherman who has learned to attach a bite-proof tippet to his fly line.

Soft Stainless Steel Wire Soft stainless wire is a good alternative to single-strand wire. It works well on smaller saltwater gamefish like Pacific barracuda, bonito and other toothy critters the fly rodder will encounter in many nearshore fisheries. The best attribute of the soft stainless wire is you can tie a loop knot in it rather than going through the time consuming process of making the haywire twist commonly used with single-strand wire. Single Strand Wire The second option, and my personal preference, is the single-strand stainless wire leader. The wire is tough, able to stand the raking teeth of a shark far better than its softer counterpart. Also, the advantage of using this type of leader is its small diameter. Like a piece of dental floss, it fits nicely between the fish’s teeth. As the battle rages, the wire does not wear against razor sharp teeth, giving the advantage to the angler in a difficult and prolonged fight. If your choice is the single-strand wire leader, the most commonly used knot is the reliable haywire twist. Although there are tools to assist you in the tying of this knot, I recommend the “old school” method you will find in numerous books and pamphlets, many currently available at your local fly shop.

For more Bowman, go to

CAMFLYFISHING.COM

It’s a Family Party! Fishing & Cruising PONTOON BOATS SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED & BUILT FOR

CONSTANT USE IN SALTWATER & YEAR ROUND BOATING!

Offering 3 Distinct Series of Family Fun Pontoon Boats Beachcomber Coastal Series For use up to 10 miles Offshore with 28.5” hulls - True catboat performance

Fiesta Series

River Lakes & Coastwise Waters up to 2 miles from shore with 24” hulls

Sunray Series

Lakes, Bays, Rivers and Coastal Shore La boating with 24” hulls

Fiesta Marine Products, Inc. 11016 State Road 52 | Hudson, FL. 34669

727.856.6900 | www.fiestaboats.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

ELITE SERIES TO OPEN SEASON AT ST. JOHNS RIVER B.A.S.S. photo by James Overstreet

n Feb. 6-9, the Bassmaster Elite Series will begin its 2020 season with an event on the St. John’s River out of Palatka, Fla. Last year’s tournament on the St. Johns was one of the most exciting in history, with Rick Clunn weighing a 34-pounds, 14-ounce sack on Championship Sunday to complete an amazing come-frombehind win with 98-14. That final-day bag included two bass over 9 pounds. The big-fish factory is an apt location to launch a 2020 schedule that was designed for fans who love watching professional anglers catch big bass. With the St. Johns event, the world’s best professional bass

fishermen will embark on a journey that spans six states and nine events on some of the most storied fisheries in the sport’s history. “This year, we unveiled the mantra ‘Big Bass. Big Stage. Big Dreams.,’” said B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin. “Fans will have an opportunity to see our anglers compete on some of the best big-bass lakes in America.” On Feb. 14-17, the Elite Series will shift focus to a location that has yet to be announced. The Bassmaster Classic takes the stage in March, when the Super Bowl of Bass Fishing descends upon Alabama’s Lake Guntersville, with weigh-ins and the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo taking place in nearby Birmingham. When regular season Elite competition resumes, B.A.S.S. will take a trip down memory lane with a return to Alabama’s Lake Eufaula on April 2-5. B.A.S.S. hasn’t visited Eufaula since 2006. But the lake on the Alabama/ Georgia border has been the site of 18 major B.A.S.S. events, dating back to 1968. The fourth Elite Series event will be in Manning, S.C., on the Santee Cooper Lakes. Lakes Marion and Moultrie, which have been on fire recently. A BFL event held on the Santee Cooper Lakes in March was won with five bass that weighed just over 30 pounds. The next fishery on the schedule is known for producing big crowds— the Sabine River in Orange, Texas. The 2020 event will be held May 29-June 1 and could challenge the fan attendance record of 36,200. The site for the Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest will be announced at a later time. But the dates have been tentatively set for June 5-9 — just before the Elite Series makes its New York swing. That swing begins with a trip to smallmouth fishing’s holy country, the St. Lawrence River in Waddington, N.Y., on July 23-26. The 2019 Elite Series event on the river was won by Georgia pro Micah Frazier with an average of more than 20 pounds of smallmouth each day. The pros will then head to Plattsburg, N.Y., for an event at Lake Champlain on July 30-Aug. 2, where Vermont angler Bryan Labelle won with an average of almost 20 pounds of largemouth per day in 2018. With the Bassmaster Angler of the Year title and numerous Bassmaster Classic berths hanging in the balance, the Elites will finish their season in Macomb County, Mich., at Lake St. Clair on Aug. 20-23.

• TINY HOUSES • SALE • PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDINGS • SAVE • PORTALBE BUILDINGS • SALE • CARPORTS • SAVE • CALL NOW • SPECIALS • SALE • DOG KENNELS • SALE •

OUTDOOR STRUCTURE END OF SEASON SALE.

RENT TO OWN PAYMENT OPTIONS OPTIONAL PORCH

$500 Off DOOR DOUBLEW/ 12X24PLAYSET TUBE SLIDE KIDS +Tax 00/MO+TAX AS-LOW-AS AT$81. STARTING $66.98/MO

WIND LOAD RATED UP TO 155/MPH

DOG KENNEL STARTING AT

$49.00/MO +Tax

Approved Credit. Restrictions Apply. WithWith Approved Credit. Restrictions MayMay Apply.

With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

20X21 DOUBLE CARPORT

18X31 BOAT PORT

KEEN’S BUILDINGS 2 STORY SHED PAYMENTS STARTING AT $275/

MO + Tax

With Approved Credit

$0 DOWN

FINANCING

LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

Financing Disclaimer:

WE BUILD ON SITE PORCH IS OPTIONAL GREAT FOR A WEEKEND CABIN CUSTOMIZE YOUR NEW BARN TODAY!

MADE IN THE USA FREE SETUP & DELIVERY CUSTOM DESIGN OPTIONS WIND LOAD RATED FOR FL & GA

LIVE OAK (Corporate Office) P: 386-364-7995

CHIEFLAND P: 352-490-5028

LIVE OAK SUPER CENTER P: 386-364-1548

MASARYKTOWN

620 W. Howard St. (Hwy 90 W.)

211 72nd Trace

2495 Young Blvd. P: 352-797-2291 568 S. Broad St.

PERRY

P: 850-223-1939 2320 Hwy. 19 S. Byron Butler Pwky

Subject to credit approval. Fixed APR of 3.99% for 84 months. For each $1,000 financed, 5 payments of $3.33 followed by 79 amortized payments of $14.41. Subject to credit approval. Fixed APR of 11.99% for 84 months. For each $1,000 financed, 5 payments of $9.99 followed by 79 amortized payments of $18.36.

AS-LOW-AS $35.19/MO +Tax With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

AS-LOW-AS $42.02/MO +Tax With Approved Credit. Restrictions May Apply.

WAYCROSS

P: 850-223-1939 2203 Memorial Drive Waycross, GA 31501

MILITARY

DISCOUNTS

KEENSBUILDINGS.COM View our inventory online.

Subject to qualifying credit approval. Interest is billed during the promotional period but all interest is waived if the purchase amount is paid in full within 12 months. Financing for GreenSky® consumer loan programs is provided by federally insured, federal and state chartered financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender or familial status.

• RED IRON BUILDINGS • SALE • PLAYHOUSES • SAVE • STEEL BUILDING • SALE • PORTABLE BUILDINGS • CUSTOM SOLUTIONS • CALL NOW • SPECIALS • SALE • GAZEBOS • SALE •

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

GAG GROUPER OPEN IN

FOUR-COUNTY AREA

Is Your Boat Getting Rocked By High Insurance Premiums?

We’re Florida natives and avid boaters who have the experience necessary to dial you in. From PWC and small boats to large yachts, we have you covered. FWC Photo

he Gulf of Mexico gag grouper recreational season opened on Sept. 1 in state waters off Franklin, Wakulla, Jefferson and Taylor counties, Fla. The season will remain open through Dec. 31. The season for all other Gulf state and federal waters is June 1 through Dec. 31. The minimum size limit for gag grouper is 24 inches total length and the daily bag limit is two fish per harvester within the four fish aggregate bag limit. Charter captains and crew have a zero bag limit. If you plan to fish for gag grouper in Gulf state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel, you must sign up as a Gulf Reef Fish Angler prior to your fishing trip (renew annually). To learn more, visit MyFWC. com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations” and “Gulf Reef Fish Survey” under “Reef Fish.” Sign up today at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. Learn more about grouper regulations at MyFWC.com/Marine by clicking on “Recreational Regulations” and “Grouper” under the “Reef Fish” tab.

We also have policies for marine contractors and boat yards.

Call us foR a quote todaY!

RICK GIBBS – AGENT

408 S. Andrews Ave., Suite #205, Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33301 954-678-2668 |

www.lmufl.com

LCD GAUGE RESTORATION

Dark or Faded Displays? Cracked or Damaged Lenses? Unable to Find Replacements?

Before

Have No Fear, GAUGE SAVER is Here! Reel in the memories. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, Martin County is a fisherman’s paradise. Ocean, lake and river ecosystems are home to more than 800 species of fish, from the ever-popular sailfish and snook to largemouth bass and perch. Forget your gear? Visit one of

After

VISIT US AT

GAUGESAVER.COM FOR MORE INFO

We restore these brands AND MORE!

Martin’s many bait and tackle shops or outdoor retailers. Inshore, offshore, saltwater or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.

DiscoverMartin.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

FLORIDA

ONGOING BTT I

PERMIT PROJECTS

Photo by Tom Purves/flickr

Bonefish & Tarpon Trust’s Project Permit has reached a major milestone of 150 permit tagged with acoustic transmitters in south Florida since March 2016. Scientists track the movement patterns of tagged fish for up to five years, providing important information on habitat use and spawning locations. This information is essential to guide permit conservation efforts, and data from Project Permit have already influenced permit harvest regulations, such as the expansion of the permit harvest season closure in the Special Permit Zone (SPZ) to include the month of April. Recently BTT Collaborating Scientist Dr. Jake Brownscombe tagged 14 permit on the flats of Biscayne Bay with fishing guides Capt. Augie Moss and Capt. Carl Ball. Project Permit would not be possible without the help of the dozens of fishing guides who generously donate time and expertise to catch and tag fish with BTT scientists. Currently BTT is also seeking information on juvenile permit to gain a better understanding of the habitats that support the juveniles and sub-adults. For permit in the Keys, abundant newborns form 1 to 3 inches can be found on sandy beaches. Adults and larger sub-adults greater than 15 inches live on the flats or reefs and wrecks. However, fish between 4 and 14 inches are surprisingly rare. These 4- to 14-inch fish might be absent because the habitats they use are becoming degraded, and as a result, there are less of that size. Or, scientists haven’t yet looked in the right places for them. In either case, BTT seeks to identify the habitats these fish are using to restore them if they are unhealthy, or protect them so permit have a place to grow into adults. Report sightings and catches of permit in the 4- to 14-inch range to Florida Keys Initiative Manager Dr. Ross Boucek. Email Dr. Boucek at ross@bonefishtarpontrust.org.

MTRADING A R IPOST NE

Family owned 3 generations!

All locations open on Sundays: 9am-3pm

We price match! Parts in stock! 1-day shipping in FL!

LARGEST SELECTION OF MARINE ENGINE PARTS IN S.W. FLORIDA

FORT MYERS

Lone Star Drum Winch GX2 $1459.00 Helm Pads

We customize your cooler!

NEW ITEM Grizzly Coolers 20qt, 75qt, 100qt,165qt Priced from $174.99 to $424.99

Fish Rulers

Tigress Rod Holder Inserts assorted sizes in black or white.

SeaDek Products in stock

www.marinetradingpost.com 22

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Serving SWFL Since 1985

Sheet Material

15600 San Carlos Blvd. Unit 170 Fort Myers, FL 33908 239-266-3530

NORTH FORT MYERS

1156 N. Tamiami Trail North Fort Myers, FL 33903 239-900-1563

NAPLES

989 S.Airport Pulling Rd. Naples, FL 34104 239-315-7676

PORT CHARLOTTE

4694 Tamiami Trail Port Charlotte, FL 33980 941-613-4329

BOAT INSURANCE SINKING YOU?

SAVE

50%Insurance

up to

SINCE 1992

•••

on Boat

Get the

LOWEST Rates!

BOATS & JETSKI From:

$37,000 $75,000 $100,000 $250,000 $500,000 $264/yr $474/yr $586/yr $2,975/yr $5,985/yr

GET A QUOTE! (888) 977-4500 (954) 785-5000

• • •

BoatInsuranceFlorida.com Bradley Insurance Group

Covering Boaters throughout the south since 1988

Your #1 Source for Boat Insurance

"Probably the best fishing pliers in the world."

- Solid Titanium - Super Halo Hinge - Titanium Cobalt Cutters - Genuine Leather Sheath 5.5"

6.5"

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

7.5" I

FLORIDA

COAST GUARD APPROVED COURSE & EXAM

www.adamsmarine.com To Reserve a Spot Call: Toll Free 877-447-1950 Email: info@adamsmarine.com

Refinishing

Refurbishing

Helm Chairs Fighting Chairs Step Boxes Tables & More Kritical Marine, Inc. 1500 Australian Ave., Unit #6, Riviera Beach, FL | 561-662-5853 24

FLORIDA

OCTOBER 2019

JOIN

ONLINE

• Regional Reports • Featured Articles • Fishing Tips • Giveaways

www.COASTALANGLERMAG.COM

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FLY FISHING’S

WARMWATER REVOLUTION By Nick Carter

here’s a brutish undercurrent gaining momentum in fly fishing. Whether it’s river-run striped bass, muskie or carp, long-rodders are targeting freshwater’s most powerful fish. Here are a few destinations where you can get in on the action. James River Photo courtesy of Matt Miles Muskie, Virginia The James River is one of the few rivers in the east that supports a fishable wild muskie population. Guide Matt Miles eagerly pointed out that most of the fish they catch, the 35- to 42-inchers, were spawned wild in the upper James. He said the monster 50-inchers might have originally come from the hatchery, but they still prowl the river, ready to give anglers the adrenaline rush of a lifetime. Between Iron Gate and Lynchburg, Va., more than 80 miles of the James are considered muskie water. The relatively shallow pool and riffle habitat is uniquely suited to hunting freshwater’s biggest, toothiest fish with a fly rod. But muskie fishing isn’t for everyone. Casting waterlogged, 14-inch-long streamers on sinking lines with 10- and 11-weight rods is a workout. Doing it all day in hope of a single take requires mental fortitude. Peak muskie season is October through mid-March.

Saluda & Congaree River Striper, South Carolina Each spring, South Carolina striped bass go on the move. From the Santee-Cooper Lakes between Columbia and Charleston, fish run some 60 miles up the Congaree and arrive in Columbia to spawn in April. By early May they push into the lower Saluda, where they spend the summer in the cold-water refuge of a 10-mile stretch of tailwater. Jake Howard, of Saluda Valley Guides, tapes his thumbs during the June through August heart of the striper season because they become raw from lipping fish. He told of huge numbers of stripers and said 60-fish days are possible for anglers who can lay out line with a 10-weight rod and 350-grain sinking lines. The standard fish weighs 4 to 8 pounds, but 20-, 30- and even 50-pounders are caught each season. Catawba Chain Carp, North Carolina More than 15 years ago, Capt. Paul Rose left the Texas coast with his flats skiff in tow. He settled in the North Carolina Piedmont, far from the salt marshes he loves. But he found a new passion in the clear Catawba River lakes between Asheville and Charlotte, N.C. In the shallows, he watched carp tailing like redfish. The fishing style that arose is a lot like sight casting to bonefish. Rose poles anglers over clear-water flats, searching for pods of carp rooting and feeding. Many clients hire Rose to practice before a trip to the Bahamas. They return because carp are so much fun. Fish from 3 pounds up to 20 pounds call for a 6- or 7-weight rod. The peak season on impoundments like Lake Norman and Lake James runs from May through September. Nick Carter is the author of “Flyfisher’s Guide to North Carolina & Georgia.” It is available on Amazon.com, and autographed copies are available by emailing the author at nsc8957@gmail.com. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

NATIONAL

FRESHWATER

Catch More Memories

Electronics Box/ Lockable Storage Life Jacket Storage Bag Folds for Storage

Weather Protection Rocket Launchers Integrated Grab Rails

FishLight.com

More Than Just A Folding T-Top • Universal for any center console 24-50” wide • Many options to customize your T-Top • Install it yourself or by a Fishmaster dealer • Folds twice for storage, low clearance, or HOA compliance

FISHMASTER.COM/ANGLER

877-777-8693

Fishmaster Angler Ad.indd 1

NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2019

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

3/25/2019 10:23:58 AM

MASSIVE BROWN TROUT SETS MISSOURI RECORD

THE Perfect

Hydraulic Trim Tabs

• Designed for heavy saltwater use • 8 sizes to choose from boats 20’ - 50’ • Standard equipment in names like Contender, Yellowfin, SeaVee, Fountain, Military, & More

Pairing!

Photo courtesy of Lilleys’ Landing Resort & Marina

Led Positon Indicator

n enormous 40-pound, 6-ounce brown trout caught at Lake Taneycomo in southwest Missouri is a new state record and just a couple pounds shy of the IGFA all-tackle world record. Bill Babler, a veteran fishing guide from Blue Eye, Mo., caught the monster brown on Sept. 4 using a pink Berkley plastic worm. He caught it on 6x tippet, which equates to less than 4-pound test, making his catch 2 ounces heavier than the current IGFA 4-pound line class record. The previous state record, set just seven months, weighed 34 pounds, 10 ounces. It was also caught at Lake Taneycomo. Babler told the Springfield News-Leader he’d only been out fishing for a few minutes when he caught his new state record. “As soon as I set the hook it came to the top and I knew we had a good fish on,” Babler told the newspaper. “We positioned the boat in an unobstructed area. It was pulling drag pretty good!” Babler attempted to keep the behemoth alive in an aerated tank, but unfortunately the trout died before it could be released. Fisheries Biologist Shane Bush said the fish was eight or nine-years-old. For more information on Missouri state-record fish, visit the MDC website at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z3t.

1025 TAB Shown with optional Garmin Panoptix

• Accurate LED position of tabs drives, fuel & more

• Reads N2K or Analog • Gateway to N2K Devices

sales@livorsi.com • www.livorsi.com

847-752-2700

Don’t Suffocate Your Boat with Shrink Wrap!

WINTERIZE WITH A HIGH-QUALITY CARVER BOAT COVER!

CARVER BOAT COVER

SHRINK WRAPPING

A rugged, breathable Carver boat cover is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than shrink wrap. When properly supported and secured, a Carver boat cover will outperform shrink wrap, help prevent mold and mildew, and provide accessibility to your boat...year after year. Stop throwing money in the landfill every Spring.

Carver covers are on sale now at select retailers! Visit CarverCovers.com COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

NATIONAL

Ultimate Control For Saltwater Fishing Boats The Dometic Group Introduces New Optimus Electric Steering Actuator

altwater anglers who fish aboard today’s large center console fishing machines and other high-performance outboard powered boats will soon be able to experience a new level of precision steering and vessel control. The Dometic Group is introducing its new Optimus Universal Electric Steering Actuator. Incorporating proprietary technology and several new components designed and manufactured by Dometic, this new actuator is built exclusively for use with its Optimus Joystick and Electric Power Steering Systems. About the same size as the Dometic Tournament Cylinder, the Optimus Electric Steering Actuator mounts directly on the outboard in place of the present hydraulic cylinder. With its powerful drive train, integrated proprietary position sensors and embedded electronics, it eliminates the need for separately mounted hydraulic actuators used in the Optimus Joystick and EPS systems. This means no more Pump Control Module, no more hydraulic pump, no more hoses, hydraulic cylinders and fluid, and no more purging the system. “We are continually inventing ways to make boat building more efficient and boating more enjoyable,” said Eric Fetchko, President of Dometic Marine Americas. “Once again, we have taken marine steering to the next level. You have my word that we will never stop innovating and solving industry problems.” In terms of performance underway, ease of installation and seasonafter-season reliability, the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator will provide substantial benefits to boat builder and skipper alike. With the present system, the signal from the Optimus electronic helm goes to the Pump Control Module, which activates an electro-hydraulic steering system. Even though it is “by-wire,” hydraulic fluid is still pumped through hoses and into the steering cylinders on the outboard(s) which act on the tiller arms of the outboards to move left or right. With the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator, the electronic helm signal goes directly to the actuator which instantly moves the outboard. The “brains” of the Pump Control Module, including ECM, rudder position circuit and CANbus communication, have been

NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2019

transplanted into the new Optimus Electric Steering Actuator itself. Steering power is delivered by a proprietary high-torque high-efficiency brushless DC electric motor, designed and manufactured by Dometic, and a patented compact roller-screw drive system, also a proprietary Dometic design. Both the motor and power train reside within the steering actuator. In terms of steering performance, skippers will sense a marked improvement in handling. Steering response will be immediate, smooth and precise, thanks to this robust, industry-leading drive train that provides unparalleled performance and system rigidity when needed most. Programmable steering settings, including adjustable speed-sensitive lockto-lock turns, adjustable speed sensitive wheel effort, and speed-sensitive rudder angle limits to ensure safe steering, continue to be available, now without the need for any extra components. Installation of the new system is a snap, with just three CANbus connections plus power. Twin, triple and quad outboard installations will be set up similar to the present design, with Optimus Electric Steering Actuators controlling adjacent outboards via tie-bars. In addition, the new Electric Steering Actuator will interface with compatible autopilot systems in the same manner as the present Optimus systems. Dometic’s SeaWays Autopilot and SeaStation GPS Anchoring functionality are also built in. The Dometic Optimus Electric Steering Actuator exceeds all applicable marine standards, including NMMA, ABYC, CE and SAE electrical and environmental requirements. The actuators are maintenance free, except for regular greasing of the steering ram via installed zerk fittings. Over 100,000 hours of rigorous testing during development assures safe and reliable performance under harsh salt and freshwater conditions, all in keeping with Dometic’s proven reputation for superior quality. To learn more, visit seastarsolutions.com

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

ew ng

is ry cy or, ed ed ve ry he de r. ng ill be ng ty

He’ll typically kick the morning off with redfish encounters in depths of 2 feet or less. As the sun grows stronger, he’ll probe docks and structure looking for summer flounder before finishing off with feisty seatrout in feeder creeks. “I’m thinking this season will be a special one if we don’t get smacked by any major storms,” said Collins. “There’s tons of bait around already, and it’s been a long time since I’ve seen as many mullet as we have this year. Crabs and small menhaden are abundant, too. Plus we have tons of shrimp; everything loves shrimp.” By Tom Schlichter Collins targets early morning reds around oyster bars, oyster reefs and oyster rocks in water that is generally hip-deep or less. He’ll work shoal areas and Seatrout: Dale Collins puts a fare even dig into the grass on White Oak Sound, White Oak River and the area on a pretty Oak River area sea trout. Photo courtesy of Do or Die surrounding Swansboro with a 7-foot, 6- to 10-pound class Star Seagis rod. His Charters, Swansboro, N.C. lure of choice for the reds is a Skitter Walk SW11 in a golden mullet pattern that always seems to bring surface thrills. Backing off the edges and working near docks and structure, he’ll switch to a ¾-ounce white Spro bucktail tipped with a 4-inch Berkley Gulp! pearl-white shrimp for the flatties. “For the reds,” disclosed Collins, “I keep a second rod rigged with a Z-Man soft plastic or Gulp! Jerk Shad impaled on a weedless screw-style hook. If a redfish blows up on the topwater but misses, I immediately send the soft plastic his way. He’ll slam that as soon as it starts to sink.” For flounder, Collins hops his bucktail about a foot at a time, but it’s vital you actually feel it strike bottom on the drop. “Most hits come as the lure falls, and if you don’t feel it hit bottom it’s probably in a fish’s mouth,” he said. “Strike immediately, because those flounder spit a lure out quickly once they realize it’s a fake.” As for the specks, Collins recommends getting on them as soon as possible. “You’ll find the biggest fish arrive first,” he said. Throw a Mirrolure MR 17 or ou’ve got to love fall’s promise here in North Carolina,” said Capt. Dale 18, or try my personal favorite: a Zoom Golden Bream on a 1/16-ounce jighead. Collins, of Fish or Die Charters (www.fishordiecharters; 252-422- Man can that lure catch some fish! Just work it slow and allow time for it to get 4236) in Swansboro, North Carolina. “The water temperatures are down deep. If you think you are fishing slowly enough, slow down a little more.” starting to cool and there’s plenty of red drum, flounder and big seatrout in our bays and creeks. Indeed, it’s my favorite time of year to fish around here.” If you’d like to fish the Swansboro area on your own, Collins suggests Collins should know. He’s built a reputation putting fares on big fish in launching from Cedar Point Wildlife Ramp near Dudley’s Marina (https:// skinny water in this area west of Morehead City and separated from Pamlico www.dudleysmarinanc.com; 252-393-2204) in Swansboro. For overnight accommodations Best Western Plus (252-393-9015) is right near the launch. Sound on the southern side of Cape Lookout.

SWANSBORO, NC: FALL ROCKS WITH REDS, FLOUNDER AND SEATROUT

le gs, ble kble eel gle ow

us ill ng he ot c’s re

all nd re via ng nd on

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

OCTOBER 2019

NATIONAL

SIGHT CASTING TO LOUISIANA’S BIG BULL REDS ON THE FLY

Photo courtesy of Michael Booth Jr.

t’s no secret that the Louisiana coast is an inshore angler’s dream. A seemingly endless tangle of interconnected waterways, with big salt lakes, canals, grass, oysters and mud flats make the bayous south of New Orleans the No. 1 destination in the world for redfish. Places like Grand Isle, Cocodrie, Venice, Delacroix and Hopedale are the destinations for redfish anglers seeking out some of the best fishing on the planet. The region is filthy with reds, and targeting big bulls with a fly rod is the ultimate thrill. Angler Michael Booth Jr. and his buddies, many who are local captains, have made a practice of sight fishing these monsters. Instead of working the grass to find individual bulls or pods of slotsized redfish, they move out deeper on the big lakes in search of

schools of big bulls, which usually hunt in the 3- to 4-foot depths 100 to 200 yards off the grass. “The weather has to be good for a couple weeks beforehand for the water to be clean enough to see them,” said Booth “When we go out looking for schools of big fish, we start about 20 yards out and pole that line until we figure out where the reds are holding that day. Then they’ll usually all be in that same area.” On certain special days, when a strong northeast wind and a low tide suck the water out of the marsh around Hopedale, those 4-foot depths become 2 feet and spotting fish is easy. “Those big bulls will all be belly crawling with their backs out of the water,” said Booth. But normally, finding fish means looking for the telltale dark triangles of tails and fins or fish pushing water as they chase bait and root for crabs. Booth said a good pair of green-mirror glasses with amber lenses makes it easier to distinguish the shadows and colors of a big redfish in tannic-stained water. Once you find them, tempting them to eat a fly is a matter of trial and error to find the fly and retrieve they want on a given day. Booth prefers fishing on top, and a size 2 Surface Seducer Double Barrel popper is the hot bait at the moment. Booth likes purple, gold, chartreuse, black and combinations of those colors. Sometimes, when the fish aren’t feeding as actively, Booth said he’s forced to fish something that sinks. A size 2 shrimp pattern with extra large dumbbell eyes becomes the bait of choice. Again, purple and chartreuse work well, as do more natural tan or olive patterns. A 10-weight rod, floating line and a 50-40-30 leader with 12 to 18 inches of 16- to 20-pound tippet are in order. Booth said he’s seen days that brought 10 fish over 20 pounds to the rail and others when a single 40-pound red was reason for rejoicing. “Any day you’re able to catch a 20-plus-pound bull red on a fly is pretty awesome,” he said.

26"

• 98 • 10 • We

COMP

BLUE ITEM

20V EXT 1/2"

• 4.0

www.ratchetjacket.com

BUILT TOUGH TO PROTECT YOUR STUFF #ratchetjacket

COMP

SNAP $

MODEL: CTB818

A GIFT FOR THE MAN THAT HAS EVERYTHING

WEA PRO

• 50 13 5-1

COMP

PELIC

Flounder, Whale, Dolphin, Tuna, Military designs...

910-622-1012

20% OFF CODE: ANGLER 14

NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2019

Coastal Carolina Cutting Boards 301 US Hwy 17 S, Suite 9 • Holly Ridge, NC 28445 www.cccboards.com

COMPA

BIG R $

MODEL:

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

hft_coas

SUPER COUPON 1,000+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com

Customer Rating

SUPER COUPON

26" x 22" SINGLE BANK EXTRA DEEP CABINETS

CE YOUR CHOIRS OF 6 COLO 9

31999 $2999 $

• 9800 cu. in. of storage • 1000 lb. capacity • Weighs 175 lbs.

SAVE 1,450

COMPARE TO

SNAP-ON $

MODEL: KRA4008FPBO

Item 64434, 64432, 64162, 56104, 56105, 56106

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

20% OFF

WITH ANY PURCHASE

SUPER BRIGHT LED /SMD WORK LIGHT/FLASHLIGHT

• Super-Strong, Ultra-Lightweight Composite Plastic • Magnetic Base & 360° Swivel Hook for Hands-Free Operation • 3- AAA Batteries (included) • 144 Lumens

ANY SINGLE ITEM*

ALL IN A SINGLE SUPER POWERFUL LIGHT COMPARE TO

*79323017 * 79323017

ITEM 63878/63991 PERFORMANCE $ 52 64005/69567/60566 MODEL: W2364 TOOL 63601/67227shown

1,750

*79323142 * 79323142

SUPER COUPON

FREE

OVER 5,000 5 STAR REVIEWS Customer Rating

Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, safes, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Central Machinery, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Diamondback, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 2/3/20.

*79322822 * 79322822 Cannot Cannotbe beused usedwith withother otherdiscounts discounts or or prior prior purchases. purchases. Original coupon must be presented. Valid Valid through through 2/3/20 2/3/20 while while supplies supplies last. last. Limit Limit 11 FREE FREE GIFT per customer per day.

SUPER 7 FT. 4" x 9 FT. 6" COUPON ALL PURPOSE/WEATHER 3 GALLON, 100 PSI OIL-FREE RESISTANT TARP AIR COMPRESSORS • Air delivery: Customer Rating

.50 CAL METAL AMMO CAN

SUPER COUPON

900 WATT MAX. STARTING 2 CYCLE GAS POWERED GENERATOR

Customer Rating

0.6 CFM @ 90 PSI

YOUR CHOI

NOW

$299

$ 78

COMPARE TO

BLUE HAWK

MODEL: BG8X10-Y

SAVE $ 99 65% 4

ITEM 69115/69121/69129/69137/69249/877 shown

HOT DOG

ITEM 61615/60637 95275 shown Customer Rating

COMPARE TO

PORTER-CABLE

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

9862

MODEL: PCFP02003

$229

COMPARE TO

SNAP-ON $ 85

724

MODEL: CT8850PDB, CTB8185BK, CTC720

COMPARE TO

POWERSMART

12610

MODEL: PS50

ITEM 63024/63025 shown

16 $

12499

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

SUPER COUPON

1 SELLING JACKS IN AMERICA

29 PIECE RAPID PUMP 3 TON STEEL TITANIUM HEAVY DUTY LOW PROFILE DRILL BIT SET FLOOR JACK

SUPER COUPON

250 LUMEN POP-UP LANTERN

Customer Rating

NOW

$1 0

COMPARE TO

MODEL: DW1369

SAVE 83%

ITEM 5889 62281/61637 shown

Customer Rating

• Weighs 78 lbs.

NOW

SAVE $90

$499

NOW

COMPARE TO

$9999 $10999

TEQ CORRECT $ 99

189

MODEL: T830018Z

ITEM 56618/56619/56620/56617 shown

COMPARE TO

$ GO GREEN POWER

1499 SAVE 66%

$ 99 ITEM 64110

*79325980 * 79325980

*79327161 * 79327161

*79327316 * 79327316

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

*79328109 * 79328109

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

10 FT. x 20 FT. PORTABLE CAR CANOPY MECHANIC'S GLOVES

WEATHERPROOF MODEL 9800 Customer Rating PROTECTIVE RIFLE CASE • 50-3/8" L 13-5/8" W 5-1/8" H

Customer Rating

NOW

99 $1 09 $ COMPARE TO

PELICAN

Customer Rating

26999

MODEL: DOUBLE RIFLE

SAVE $ 160

ITEM 64520 Case contents and locks not included.

10 GUN ELECTRONIC SECURITY SAFE

AVAIL. IN SM, MED, LG, XL, XXL

• CA DOJ compliant

99 $9999 $599 $4

SAVE $99 COMPARE TO

SUPER COUPON

NOW

14999

SUPER COUPON

SHELTER LOGIC

199

MODEL: 23522

119

ITEM 63054/62858 shown

COMPARE TO

VALEO $ 99

MODEL: 25521

34999 N9OW999 $2

Customer Rating COMPARE TO

STACK-ON

SAVE 66%

564 57

MODEL: SS-16-MB-E

ITEM 62434, 62426, 62433, 62432, 62429, 64178, 64179, 62428 shown

SAVE $ 264

ITEM 64008/64011 shown

Contents not included.

*79328215 * 79328215

*79329926 * 79329926

*79330218 * 79330218

*79330381 * 79330381

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

SUPER COUPON

• Boom extends from 41" to 61-3/4" • Crane height adjusts from 73-5/8" to 89"

COMPARE TO

BIG RED $ 99

MODEL: 11674699

W 99 NO 99

239 1 89 SAVE 110 $ $

ITEM 60388/69514 shown

1500 WATT DUAL TEMPERATURE HEAT GUN (572°/1112°)

Customer Rating

BLUE HAWK $ 99

MODEL: 77280

SAVE 70%

ITEM 69505/62418/66537 shown

$ 99

Customer Rating

500 LB. CAPACITY STEEL CARGO CARRIER

Customer Rating

NOW

COMPARE TO

SUPER COUPON

72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET

2 TON CAPACITY FOLDABLE Customer Rating SHOP CRANE

299

1499

*79325879 * 79325879

DEWALT $ 14

ITEM 63537/64195/63852 shown

ITEM 63750 56810/63181 shown

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

269

MODEL: FSGWHE1030

SAVE 52%

*79325535 * 79325535

SUPER COUPON

99 9 0 1 $ SAVE

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

• 4.0 amp hour battery

NOW

GAME WINNER $ 99

NOW

Customer Rating

*79325373 * 79325373

Customer Rating

SAVE $494

$1 1 99

COMPARE TO

SAVE 59%

• 5 hour run time @ 50% capacity

NOW

9 $399

PANCAKE

ITEM 69269 97080 shown

*79324442 * 79324442

20V LITHIUM-ION EXTREME TORQUE 1/2" IMPACT WRENCH KIT

5999CE

$999

COMPARE TO

BLACK+DECKER $ 06

MODEL: HG1300

SAVE 64%

ITEM 35776/62340/62546/63104/96289 shown

COMPARE TO

HIGHLAND $ 99

MODEL: 1394500

SAVE 50%

NOW

9 $399 $5999

ITEM 69623/66983 shown

*79330396 * 79330396

*79331499 * 79331499

*79331528 * 79331528

*79332139 * 79332139

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

LIMIT 2 - Coupon valid through 2/3/20*

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM I NATIONAL 15 was At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means thatI the OCTOBER specified comparison, 2019 which is an item with the same or similar function,

*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 2/3/20.

hft_coastalangler_1019_M-REG163332.indd 1

advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

9/3/19 12:37 PM

10 CIGARS +HUMIDOR

only $19

99*

160 value! $

You’ve landed in cigar heaven! Take advantage of this amazing offer from America’s biggest cigar retailer, Cigars International. Ten premium handmade cigars from industry giants like Rocky Patel, Gurkha, Toraño, and many more. That’s worth the price of admission alone, but I’m also including a gorgeous, 40-capacity desktop humidor. The whole package is worth $160, but it’s yours right now for just $1999.* That’s nearly 90% off MSRP! Accept no imitators.

Visit: www.CigarsIntl.com/SA7744 Enter the complete web address or search keyword: SA7744

1-888-244-2790

Mention code SA7744 | Item #: CA62-SP Includes 1 each of: HC • Mark Twain • 5 Vegas • Amati Ramón Bueso • Bahia • La Perla Habana • CAO • Gurkha • Toraño + 40-Capacity Desktop Humidor

FREE 16

NATIONAL

OCTOBER 2019

40-CAPACITY DESKTOP HUMIDOR

*Plus $499 s/h. Purchase may be subject to state or local sales tax where applicable. First-time purchasers only. One per customer. No sales to anyone under the age of 21. We do not ship to Utah or South Dakota. For more information see www.CigarsIntl.com/SHIP. Offer expires 11/15/19.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

Field Dress For Success

The hunt for the perfect outdoorsman knife is over. There’s only one tool you need: the Whitetail™ Hunting Knife—now ONLY $49!

he consummate outdoorsman never goes on deep woods hunting trips without the essentials. Not just the basics for every hunting trip, but the items he’s come to depend on over the years. Our new Whitetail™ Hunting Knife will quickly become your go-to blade for every expedition. The Whitetail™ is a premium fixed-blade hunting knife that’s perfect for skinning. With the Whitetail at hand, you’ll be ready for field dressing in only seconds, and you’ll never need a separate gut hook tool ever again. The Whitetail™ boasts a mighty 420 high carbon, full tang stainless steel blade, meaning the blade doesn’t stop at the handle, it runs the full length of the knife. According to Gear Patrol, a full tang blade is key, saying “A full tang lends structural strength to the knife, allowing for better leverage ...think one long steel beam versus two.” The comfortable handle is made from pakkawood—moisture-resistant and more durable than hardwood. If hunting is your life, then the Whitetail™ Knife was designed to make your life easier. With our limited edition Whitetail™ Hunting Knife you’re getting the best in 21st-century construction with a classic look inspired by legendary American pioneers. What you won’t get is the trumped up price tag. We know a thing or two about the hunt–– like how to seek BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this out and capture an outstanding, collector’s-quality knife that won’t cut heavy duty sheath! into your bank account. This knife can be yours to use out in the field or to display as the EXCLUSIVE art piece it truly is. But don’t wait. A knife of this caliber typically cost hundreds. Priced at an amazing $49, we can’t guarantee this knife will stick around for long. So call today! Stauer® 8x21 Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in Compact your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the craftsmanship. Binoculars If you don’t feel like we What customers are saying -a $99 valuecut you a fair deal, send it with purchase of about Stauer knives... Whitetail™ Hunting back within 30 days for a Knife complete refund of the êêêêê item sale price. But we “Good value. Great looking. believe that once you wrap Sufficiently sharp. Overall your fingers around the an “A” purchase and Whitetail’s handle, you’ll I ordered three.” be ready to carve your own — B. of Maryland niche into the wild frontier.

FREE

Whitetail™ Hunting Knife $79*

Offer Code Price Only $49 + S&P Save $30 PLUS Free Stauer Compact Binoculars

1-800-333-2045

TAKE 38 % OFF INST ANTLY! When you use

your

INSIDER OFFER CO DE

Your Insider Offer Code: WHK291-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.

Stauer

® 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. WHK291-01

Burnsville, Minnesota 55337

www.stauer.com

Not shown actual size.

*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.

Rating of A+

• 5 ¼” 420HC stainless steel blade • Full-tang design with gut hook • Pakkawood handle with brass pins • Bonus heavy duty nylon sheath

Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary ®

1782-18B Coastal Angler.indd 1

12/19/18 3:50 PM