The Angler Video Magazine | August 2026 ICAST Edition

TWATCH VIDEO Briar Patch Claims Title at 2026 Bay Point

Billfish Open

he 2026 Bay Point Billfish Open in Panama City Beach, Fla., just solidifed its reputation as one of the premier sportfishing events on the Gulf Coast. This year’s tournament featured an elite fleet of 86 boats battling for a massive $1.8 million total purse. Anglers faced highly competitive conditions, ultimately logging a nearrecord 191 total billfish releases and tags over the course of the event.

Briar Patch Takes the Big Prize

The biggest storyline of the weekend belonged to Team Briar Patch. Angler Brantly Adams and Capt. Corey Hurst lit up the weigh-in station by bringing a massive 582.5-pound blue marlin to the scales. The heavyweight catch secured Briar Patch the title for heaviest blue marlin and a staggering payout of $559,770.

Family Dynasty Dominates Catch & Release

While Briar Patch took home the heaviest single fish, Team It Just Takes Time dominated the competitive Catch & Release division. The crew secured the division title and a $210,285 payday, driven largely by stellar performances from the family’s youth; 16-year-old Leah Pratt claimed the title of Top Lady Angler, while 13-year-old George Pratt took home Top Junior Angler honors.

Top Gamefish Winners

The tournament also saw fierce competition in the gamefish categories, with massive hauls trading positions on the leaderboard right up until the final scales closed.

DOLPHIN (Mahi-Mahi): The crew of Kristan Michele, including Ignacio Sanchez and Capt. Dave Noling, took the top spot overall by bringing a 41.1-pound mahi-mahi to the scales. The team took home $60,660 for their multi-division dolphin sweep.

WAHOO: An incredible 74.3-pound wahoo weighed in by Field Office dominated the division, netting its crew a massive $104,000 prize after wowing crowds at the docks.

TUNA: Local favorite Relentless Pursuit, featuring Dennis Pasentine and Capt. Moose, led the charge to claim 1st Place Heaviest Tuna honors.

The record-setting participation and exceptional release numbers mark the 2026 tournament as one of the most successful iterations in Bay Point history.

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The 9” TZMAP9 and 13” TZMAP13 feature responsive, sunlight-readable multitouch displays powered by a streamlined version of the TZtouchXL operating system. These MFDs are equipped with a 300W/600W/1kW, single-frequency TruEcho CHIRP™ or dualfrequency CW Fish Finder, CHIRP Side-Scan capability (230kHz or 455kHz), and advanced chart plotting capability built around Furuno’s revolutionary TZ MAPS platform. With a free My TimeZero account, waypoints and routes can be easily backed up or retrieved from the cloud with just a few taps, ensuring critical data remains safe and secure.

Designed for simplicity while retaining advanced functionality, these units support Radar options such as the Solid-State Doppler DRS2DNXT and DRS4DNXT. They also offer integration with the TZ iBoat App and support AI Routing, helping boaters plan smarter, safer routes. TZMAP units come ready-to-navigate out of the box with pre-loaded,

official NOAA Vector charts for the entire coastal US. For a serious upgrade at an incredible value, optional TZ Maps charts can be purchased directly from the MFD. TZ Maps delivers customizable, detailed cartography built on a foundation of official hydrographic charts, high-resolution BathyVision™ bathymetry, satellite imagery, and community-sourced data. It’s the most intuitive and powerful charting system Furuno has ever offered, and it’s built right into every TZMAP9 and TZMAP13. Plus, your first chart purchased through the TZMAP

MFD is available at a special low introductory price of only $150an incredible price for the entire USA, or any other chart area. With details this precise and coverage areas this large, TZ MAPS is one of the most affordable chart options on the market.

From bay boats to kayaks and sailboats to cruisers, the TZMAP9 and TZMAP13 offer an accessible entry point into Furuno’s navigation ecosystem. These units are ideal for boats 16’ and up in need of essential fish-finding tools, cutting-edge charts, and affordable Radar options in a clean, stand-alone package.

MILES, MEMORIES & MONSTERFISH

By Capt. Michael Okruhlik

My son and I tried something new this summer—we took a two-week road trip, fishing our way through Louisiana and both coasts of Florida. We even squeezed in a World Cup game along the way.

Louisiana kicked things off with sight-casting redfish and catching trout on deep structure. It was Ethan’s first time seeing fish before they were caught, and watching him learn the difference between a mullet wake and a cruising redfish was pretty special.

From there, we headed to St. Pete, where the scenery and crystal-clear water were a complete change. We fished points and channels around the mangrove islands and, between everyone in the boat, landed a Florida Slam—redfish, trout, flounder and snook. Ethan’s favorite moment wasn’t even a fish. A huge nurse shark swam up to inspect the trolling motor while he was fishing from the bow in just a few feet of clear water!

Next came three days in the Everglades chasing giant snook. We found them too. Some made it to the boat, plenty didn’t, and every hookup was a battle. The real challenge was landing them before the sharks found them. Unfortunately, the sharks won at least three times. One thing that stood out at every stop was that all of our fish were

artificials—they’ll catch plenty of fish when given the opportunity.

Our next stop was the New Smyrna area on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. This time, my buddy wanted to fish with live bait. We worked docks, bridges and jetties for some of the biggest snook and redfish I’ve ever seen. The fish definitely knew where to hide, and with

all that structure, we probably lost as many as we landed. The final stop was kayak fishing, Ethan’s first time fishing from his own kayak. When he was younger, we shared a tandem kayak while he learned boat control and how to land fish from a rocking platform. About an hour into the trip, my buddy Will found some trout and waved us over. Ethan stopped short, made a cast off a grassy point, and I heard, “Dad, I have one.” As I paddled toward him, I could tell by the splash it was a good fish. Then he yelled, “It’s big!” By the time I reached him, he already had it in the net. The trout measured 28¼ inches and weighed 7.5 pounds. I couldn’t have been prouder, and seeing one of our Knockin Tail Lures in her mouth was the icing on the cake. On this trip, Ethan caught his biggest snook, redfish, and speckled trout. That’s a fishing trip we’ll never forget.

A big thank you to all my friends who helped make this adventure one to

Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor and owner of Knockin Tail Lures.

Smooth Sailing

Dometic Premier Film Reveals the Innovation Behind Award-Winning DG3 Technology

Dometic recently premiered “The Voyage,” a new documentarystyle film chronicling the development of its award-winning DG3 Gyrostabilizer. Featuring engineers, designers, and innovators at Dometic Marine, the film provides a behind-the-scenes look at how Dometic challenged conventional gyro technology to deliver significantly faster spin-up times, 40% lower power consumption, and broader accessibility for recreational boaters.

With their ability to counteract wave motion and reduce side-to-side boat roll by as much as 95%, gyrostabilizers have the power to make recreational boating more comfortable and enjoyable whether fishing, cruising, or relaxing on the anchor.

With its new DG3, Dometic set out to overcome common obstacles to gyro ownership, delivering industry-leading spin-up and spindown times, greatly reduced energy consumption, electric actuators with active precession for faster response and better performance, and maintenance-free design.

The technology behind Dometic’s DG3 is so groundbreaking, it won both an NMMA Innovation Award at the 2025 Miami International Boat Show and the Dame Design Award at METS Trade 2025 in Amsterdam.

This new film shares how the Dometic Marine team overcame engineering and design challenges throughout DG3’s development. It also explains the “why” — how Dometic designers and engineers set out to make the benefits of gyro stabilizing technology accessible to more boats and boaters around the world.

The Voyage was filmed and produced in and around Dometic Marine’s design and manufacturing center in Vancouver, Canada — where many of the company’s award-winning boating products were designed, manufactured, and tested in one of the industry’s most

advanced facilities.

“We recognized early on that we needed outside-the-box thinking and bold adaptations of our core technologies to truly take gyro performance to a “Whole New Level,” said Dometic Marine Segment President Eric Fetchko. “For DG3 to be truly revolutionary in terms of spin-up time, power consumption, ride-smoothing performance, and durability, we had to achieve things that had never been done. This film takes the audience into our design room, factory floor and testing facilities as we create what will be the first of many gyro systems in the future,” added Fetchko.

To learn more about Dometic’s award-winnning DG3 technology, visit your nearest Dometic Marine retailer or go to www.dometic.com

TAMING

reef donkeys

By CAM Staff

TACTICS FOR REELING IN GREATER AMBERJACK

Fishing for greater amberjack—affectionately known as “reef donkeys” or “AJs”—is one of saltwater angling’s most grueling and rewarding challenges. These hard-fighting predators are famous for their sheer strength, blistering runs, and ability to test both angler and tackle to the absolute limit.

Greater amberjack are structure-oriented predators that primarily inhabit offshore waters. They congregate around deep wrecks, artificial reefs, oil rigs, and steep rocky ledges. Adult amberjacks can exceed 60 pounds, though common catches range from 20 to 40 pounds. Because they are competitive and aggressive, they often hunt in packs, making them highly receptive to fast-paced fishing tactics.

Due to the amberjack’s habit of diving straight into sharp structure when hooked, you cannot use light tackle. Anglers typically rely on heavy-action conventional or spinning gear. Use a heavy 6-foot (or shorter) rod paired with a high-capacity reel. The shorter length gives you better leverage to turn the fish’s head away from the reef. Spool up with a minimum of 50 to 80 lb. braided line, connected to a heavy 80- to 100-lb. monofilament or fluorocarbon leader.

Whether you are drifting over the deep wrecks of the Gulf of Mexico or fishing off the Atlantic coast, the two most effective methods are live baiting and vertical jigging. Live bait is often the most productive method for targeting the largest amberjacks. Prized baits include blue runners, hardtails, pinfish and cigar minnows. Rig your bait using a heavy circle hook (7/0 to 10/0 depending on the bait size) and drop it down into the lower third of the water column just above the submerged structure. Pro anglers often clip the tail of a lively baitfish so it doesn’t swim away too quickly, making it an easy target. If you prefer an active fishing style, heavy metal jigs (4 to 10 ounces) are incredibly effective. Butterfly jigs and traditional diamond jigs mimic the frantic movement of injured baitfish. Drop the lure to the bottom and rapidly reel it upward using a jerking, pumping motion. Amberjacks react intensely to speed and competition, so a fast, erratic retrieve often triggers a violent reaction strike.

Hooking an amberjack is only half the battle; bringing it to the surface is the real test! When hooked, the “reef donkey” will immediately bolt straight down toward the safety of the wreck or reef. If they reach the structure, your line will be sliced on sharp metal or rocks. You must apply heavy drag and use a “lift and reel” technique, steadily pumping the rod and winding quickly to force the fish upward.

To protect greater amberjack from overfishing, they are strictly regulated. These rules depend entirely on whether you are fishing off the Gulf Coast or the Atlantic Coast. The Gulf population is heavily managed due to low stock numbers. For 2026, recreational harvest in the Gulf opens for 43 days,

running from September 1 through October 14, 2026. Fish must be a minimum of 34” fork length (measured from the tip of the jaw to the center fork of the tail). Anglers are strictly limited to 1 fish per person, per day. Captain and crew on charter boats have a bag limit of zero. The Atlantic coast offers longer open windows but a different sizing scale. Harvest is open most of the year but features a mandatory spawning closure from April 1 through April 30.The minimum size drops to 28” fork length. The limit mirrors the Gulf at 1 fish per person, per day.

Before heading out, check your state’s licensing requirements and rules for specific reef-fishing gear to improve fish survival rates after release such as non-stainless steel circle hooks, dehooking device and a rigged, ready-to-use venting tool or descending device to safely handle fish experiencing barotrauma.

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Old-Florida Charm Meets World Class-Fishing

Tucked along the Indian River Lagoon on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Sebastian is a waterfront haven where anglers, adventurers, and coastal dreamers feel instantly at home. With its historic fishing legacy, unspoiled natural beauty, and breezy small-town vibe, Sebastian offers the perfect escape for those who live life by the tides.

For anglers, this is paradise. Cast into the legendary waters of Sebastian Inlet, where snook, redfish, tarpon, and grouper challenge even seasoned pros. Drift the tranquil St. Sebastian River, kayak the mangrove tunnels along the lagoon, or launch offshore for deep-sea excitement. Here, you can fish at dawn, surf by noon, and unwind with a waterfront dinner at sunset, all without ever losing sight of the coast.Beyond the rod and reel, Sebastian overflows with natural wonder.

Explore the region’s protected estuaries, spot dolphins skimming the lagoon, watch ospreys and herons hunt the shoreline, or stroll pristine beaches where the Atlantic breeze feels like a welcome Invitation. Pair that with live music, outdoor markets, charming shops, and waterfront lodging, and you’ve got a getaway that feels both laid-back and unforgettable. Enjoy this sneak peek video of the Chambers new Familiarization Tour Video for 2026, can you visit all of these locations in one day? Like and subscribe to their socials to stay up to date with the Sebastian River Area!

In Sebastian, history isn’t just remembered…it’s lived. Cast a line. Catch the moment. Discover Sebastian.

Working the Night Shift

Iremember the dog days of August as almost unbearable for myself and clients during the daylight hours. Some days on commercial trips we would put the fan on us and rest during the heat of the day and fish in the late afternoon and at night for a number of fish, including snappers and mackerel. The yellowfin and wahoo bite could sometimes be a pleasant surprise while king mackerel fishing under the lights. The first wahoo I ever caught from an anchored up boat was at night. It literally swam right to the boat and I was able to almost hand feed him. That was a gamechanging experience for me. This is where I learned how to catch live squid in numbers under the lights with a long-handled dip net and on the Sabiki. Cigar minnows and sardines would gather in huge swarms under the lights and, therefore, it would attract all the predators, not to mention the bite on the bottom and in the mid depth of the water column. The full moon of August is traditionally the best beeliner fishing of the year. A lot of the snappers spawn during the full moon of July and August; the mackerel too.

A lot of the snappers and triggers are not on the bottom, but will suspend in the water column, so I would recommend a level wind reel when fishing the water column to locate the depth of the largest

snappers. Descend your baits, slowly letting your thumb off the spool to release more line, one rod-length strip at a time. I like to use a double tackle with small pieces of squid and small circle hooks for this style of fishing. When you feel the first bite, click the reel in gear and barely come tight to it... sometimes you’ll have two at a time.

This is the perfect time to put a small snapper on the bottom, a snapper large enough to eliminate all the trash bites and attract only the largest grouper. The largest gag I ever caught was in August (at night)

TIM BAREFOOT

on a small pink snapper. Gutted it weighed in at 51 pounds, and so we estimated that it was probably 54 pounds.

August has a lot of opportunities. We just have to change tactics to take advantage of it, and the night shift is a great way to avoid the searing daytime temperatures and fill the box with organic groceries. This is also a good time to keep at least one person on the Sabiki, catching cigar minnows and sardines for future trips.

Considering the cost of a five-pound box of frozen cigars, it makes it worthwhile to jig up 15 or 20 pounds of cigs, sardines, squid and/or tinker macs. Keep them all in the live well until you’re ready to leave in the morning and chill the remainder of the livewell all at one time for the ride home.

Fish through the night and during the first couple of hours of daylight on the productive bottom and come home with a box full of fish! This is how to get the most out of an August trip. Load the box with plenty of ice when you get home, go inside, take a good nap and get up in the afternoon to clean and freeze the catch.

Learn more tips and techniques from Tim Barefoot at barefootcatsandtackle.com and on YouTube @timbarefoot5698.

POWER MEETS PORTABILITY.

Electric Outboard Motor

Building on the award-winning technology that shattered convention with its highly portable eLite, ePropulsion expands with the introduction of its kLite 750 — a powerful, silent, eco-friendly electric outboard motor contained in a lightweight and compact form factor ideal for recreational or fishing kayaks alike.

ePROPULSION ENTERS POWERED KAYAK FISHING MARKET WITH INNOVATIVE KLITE ELECTRIC OUTBOARD

Global leader in marine electric propulsion systems and services, ePropulsion Americas recently announced that it is entering the powered kayak market with the all-new kLite 750 electric outboard. Building on the award-winning technology that shattered convention with the highly portable eLite, the kLite 750 is powerful, but contained in a lightweight and compact form factor ideal for recreational or fishing kayaks alike.

Coming in under 15 lbs. with a 378Wh integrated battery, it is perfect for quick trips and carry-in access. Optional accessories allow third-party battery recharging while fishing or floating. Go Mode delivers 500W continuous power or double tap the mode switch for a 750W Sport Burst (60 seconds) to shoot rapids or punch through rips. Toggle to Fish Mode for refined low-end control to hit every laydown and pocket. The kLite operates in less than seven inches of water or it can be adjusted deeper for big water. The rudder-shaped design steers even when the throttle is off. It has a spring-tensioned mechanism that delivers up to 300W in reverse, ensuring the propeller won’t kick up and spook fish. The spring gives way smoothly on collision with underwater objects or rocks or manual lift.

A separated display keeps your eyes on the water. The sun-shaded color monitor mounts on console, deck, or track. The low-profile throttle tucks beside the seat without snagging clothing. Users simply snap motor onto mounting pin, connect steering lines and cables, and anglers are ready to fish in minutes. The unit includes a grab handle in case the mount blocks your kayak’s existing carry handle.

“When we showed our original prototype at ICAST last year, the interest was substantial,” Tom Watson, president of ePropulsion Americas. “The eLite has already been revolutionary for tenders and small craft, and we are confident that the kLite is going to take kayak anglers to new and exciting places.”

The kLite will be on display at ICAST 2026, in booth #1608, July 14-17,

2026, and will also be available for on the water demonstrations on July 14. Units will be available for purchase in August, 2026. .

For more information on ePropulsion or its revolutionary electric motors and accessories, visit www.ePropulsion.com or contact jeff.little@epropulsion.com.

By Andrew A. Cox

Memorable Trout Adventures ON UTAH’S GREEN RIVER

Irecently made a trip to Utah’s Green River fishing for trout. I came across a trip provided by a fly shop in Sacramento, Cali. that included reasonably priced lodging and guided fishing. My son accompanied me, and we decided to drive the 2,000 miles to Dutch John, Utah rather than flying.

I decided to take the northern route to Utah and return via the southern route from my home in west Georgia. Traveling through fifteen states over the course of the journey reinforced my awareness of the expanse and diversity of terrain within the United States. There continues to be wide expanses of open, undeveloped, agricultural and range land in this country.

The Green River is in the northeastern corner of Utah. The arid, mountainous, extremely rocky landscape has lowgrowing trees and plants. There are no extensive forest lands except on the higher elevations of the Uinta Mountains. The river flows through a canyon with high red colored rocky bluffs on each side. The area is noteworthy in its geological features that contain fossils from various geological eras to include dinosaur fossils.

On this particular trip, our party encountered high water that was unusual for this time of year. Our guides were challenged to locate fishable water. If fishing in the main river channel, the angler would take a boat ride down the 5 miles of fishable water in an hour or less, as the current was moving so fast. We fished eddies and slack water on the river edges.

Utah’s Green River is an area I would definitely like visit again to fish in better conditions. The river does receive a good deal of fishing pressure but is noted for an exceptionally large trout population.

Even with the less than desirable high water, each day we caught good numbers of fish, averaging around 12 to 15 rainbow and brown trout. My son had one exceptional day of fishing, catching in excess of 20 fish. It seemed he could not keep trout off his flies, catching trout on most drifts made with his fly rod. The average fish length was 15 to 18 inches. My son caught a 20-inch brown trout that I believe was the largest fish caught over the course of our three-day trip.

Our fish were caught on double nymph rigs with long leaders and strike indicators. Some fish were caught on cicada pattern dry flies, but these were few and far between with nymphs being more consistent in catching fish. The water seemed too high and fast for consistent action on surface flies.

Over the course of fishing with my son, I recognized that he has taken up many of my fishing techniques and style. His youth, physical agility, eyesight and reaction times allow him to be more skilled than I am at this stage in my life. However, I take pride in the fact that I still have some old angling tricks up my sleeve.

For the angler who also enjoys trave and exceptional trout fishing, there are many magnificent waters to sample in this country that we call home, and Utah’s Green River is well worth adding to the bucket list.

Dr. Andrew Cox has been fishing the waters of Georgia, Alabama, and north Florida for over 40 years. He financially supports his fishing habits as a Professor at Troy University, Phenix City, Ala.

Forty-nine reservoirs stretch across the Tennessee Valley like a string of pearls. And for those who love to fish, those lakes are just as valuable. Whether it’s bass, crappie, walleye, or catfish, whether for sport, food, or just fun, you can find world-class lake fishing only hours away from any spot in the Tennessee Valley. From more than 11,000 miles of shoreline or while floating on more than 700,000 acres of water, residents and visitors will quickly learn why this area is considered one of the best fishing destinations in the U.S. and, some would say, the world.

Find Your Own Fishing Hole

Fishing from the shore can be restful and rewarding—and anyone can do it. All you need is a little intel about how to find a spot where the fish might be biting. Here are a few tips for successful shore fishing from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency:

• Fish are often swimming near the shore in the spring and fall. If you’re fishing from the shore in the heat of summer, do it in the evening or early morning—or even after dark.

• Fish near-unique features such as docks, logs, trees, rocks, or rocky areas; aquatic vegetation; or places where creeks enter the water.

• When fishing in moving water, look at the surface for boils and breaks—this means there is some underwater structure blocking the current, which could be the perfect hiding place for fish.

• Begin fishing (casting) close and parallel to the bank, then work your way outward (fan casting) toward deeper water.

• If you don’t get any bites, try switching baits. If this doesn’t work, move to another hole.

• Wear polarized sunglasses so you’ll be able to see fish as well as submerged objects more clearly. (Your eyes will also be protected from the tackle.)

If you love outdoor sports—boating, hunting, fishing—and the natural world, or if you just like to observe wildlife, build birdhouses, maintain a bird feeder or are just curious about the critters in your backyard, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is here to help enrich your outdoor experience. Visit us at www.tn.gov/twra/

Rfuture continues to look bright, as the halls of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. bustled with activity July 14-17 during the 69th exhibition of the world’s largest sportfishing trade show, ICAST 2026. Produced by the American Sportfishing Association (ASA), it is the venue where industry heavyweights and innovative newcomers roll out their best new gear for the coming year. More than 12,000 exhibitors, buyers and media from 78 countries converged to preview the widest array of fishing gear, tackle, accessories and apparel available in one location.

RECAP

Urchin Bait Box for Best Terminal Tackle and Best Specialized Tackle Management, respectively.

As in years past, the event kicked off on Super Tuesday with the ICAST Cup bass tournament at nearby Lake Toho for a fourhour bass fishing shootout, and the renowned big-bass factory did not disappoint. Team Lithium Battery Power, whose winning squad consisted of 18-year-old Toyota Series pro Dylan Quilatan, Don Mitchell, and Diane Cobbs, piled up an ICAST recordbreaking 96 lbs., 8 oz. on 18 scorable bass to win by more than 55 pounds. Their massive haul included three separate bass weighing in at over 8 pounds. Presented by Major League Fishing (MLF), the charity tournament raised proceeds for the Keep America Fishing advocacy program and featured a major historical milestone as anglers used bubbablade’s SCORETRACKER® LIVE for the first time in the event.

But most of the action went on indoors during the event the fishing world eagerly awaits every year. Sponsored by Fishing Tackle Retailer for a chance to be recognized with a “Best of Category” and ultimately the “Best of Show” honor, exhibitors at this year’s ICAST entered more than 850 new products into the show’s revered New Product Showcase, with 46 products submitted specifically to the inaugural New Product Showcase

First Time Exhibitor category. Out of 39 distinct categories evaluated by media and industry retailers, a surprising budgetfriendly option took the ultimate crown. The Zebco Rhino 30 6’6” Medium Spinning Combo by Rather Outdoors won both the Best Rod & Reel Combo and the prestigious overall Best of Show award, proving that accessible, durable gear still dominates voter appeal.

It’s worth noting that the urchin bait trend completely dominated the freshwater scene at ICAST 2026. These multi-legged, spiky lures mimic a tight bait ball of small baitfish when their dense tentacles quiver underwater. Major brands flooded the convention floor with variations. The trend hit the main stage when Rapala’s CrushCity “The CEO” won Best Freshwater Soft Lure. The craze was so massive it spawned its own dedicated accessory ecosystem. This included winners G-Ratt Baits’ Urchin Rig and BUZBE’s

Beyond the glitz of new gear, ICAST 2026 doubled as a crash course in the business of angling during the trade show’s new ICASTLive! These daily "Lunch & Learn" sessions weren’t just filler; they’re where sharp minds talked conservation, tackle retail, digital trends, and the shifting tide of global fisheries in tight, focused sessions. Experts were on deck this year to teach about artificial intelligence as well as untangling the ever-changing web of international tariffs.

Another major highlight of the event took place during the sold-out State of the Industry Breakfast, where Bill Dance was honored for his lifetime of service with the 2026 ASA Impact Award. In an incredibly emotional presentation, comedy and television icon Steve Harvey—the inaugural winner of the award—joined Johnny Morris of Bass Pro Shops onstage. Harvey kept the crowd in stitches but also shared a powerful tribute, revealing how watching Bill Dance Outdoors kept him alive by teaching him how to fish effectively during a period when he was homeless and living out of his car.

The Angler Video Mag team was onhand to cover the show and give you a firsthand look at some of the cool and innovative products presented this year. Check out our highlights, sightings and interviews from the show floor on the next pages.

FISHING LURES

Freshwater Soft Lure

Rapala CrushCity

“The CEO” 21 rapala.com

Saltwater Soft Lure

Rapala CrushCity IMPOSTER rapala.com

Freshwater Hard Lure

American Baitworks Co.

Synch Fishing Artisan Wake & Crank 130 americanbaitworks.com

Saltwater Hard Lure

Shimano LEDGERUNNER fishshop.shimano.com

Wired & Skirted Lure

Z-Man Fishing Products

Chatterbait Elite EVO HD zmanfishing.com

FISHING RODS

Freshwater Rod

St. Croix of Park Falls

Triumph Freshwater stcroixrods.com

Saltwater Rod

Bull Bay Tackle Company

BANSHEE-BG bullbayrods.com

Rod and Reel Combo

Zebco Rhino 30 6’6”, 2-PC Medium Spinning Combo zebco.com

FISHING REELS

Freshwater Reel

Shimano Curado DC fishshop.shimano.com

Saltwater Reel

Daiwa 2026 BQ SW Spinning Reels daiwa.us

FLY FISHING

Fly-Fishing Accessory

Simms Fishing Products Scout SlingBack simmsfishing.com

Fly-Fishing Technical & General Apparel

Simms Men’s G37 Pro Stockingfoot Waders simmsfishing.com

Fly Tying Tools & Materials

Asghar Export Kampus

Premium Quality Fly Tying Kit icastfishing.org

Fly-Fishing Rod

St. Croix of Park Falls

Imperial Fly Rods stcroixrods.com

Fly-Fishing Reel

Loop Classic X Multiplier looptackle.com

FISHING TACKLE

Braided Fishing Line

Daiwa J-Braid Grand X8 Ocean Splash daiwa.us

Non-Braided Fishing Line

Seaguar BRWLR Monofilament seaguar.com

Terminal Tackle

G-Ratt Baits Urchin Rig grattbaits.com

Tackle Management

BUZBE Basic Deep Urchin Bait Box buzbe.com

Kid’s Tackle

Zebco Bottomland Spincast Combo zebco.com

Fishing Accessory

Rapala High Capacity Line Remover rapala.com

Cooler

Engel 3-Bottle Wine & Champagne Cooler engelcoolers.com

Custom Tackle and Components

BUZBE Magnetic Launch Pad buzbe.com

Cutlery, Hand Pliers or Tools

BUBBA Pro Series Gen 2

Electric Filet Knife bubba.com

FISHING LIFESTYLE

Men’s Technical Apparel

Simms Fishing Products

Challenger Suit simmsfishing.com

Women’s Technical Apparel

Fishewear Brookie

1/4 Zip Thermal fishewear.com

Extreme Weather

Technical Apparel

AFTCO Hydronaut Insulated

Jacket and Bib

aftco.com

Men’s Lifestyle Apparel

HUK Performance Fishing

Tide Point KC Printed Shirt huk.com

Women’s Lifestyle Apparel

AFTCO Women’s Overcast Sweatshirt aftco.com

Footwear

Hey Dude HEY20 Flip heydude.com

Eyewear

Bajio Sunglasses Concho

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On The HIGHLIGHTS, SIGHTINGS AND

Howie shows us the new stance180 from Newport Next-Generation Electric Motors.

Don Mitchell shows off the new Lithium Battery Power 12 Volt 120AH battery, lightweight and perfect for fishing! Also Don and crew won the ICAST Cup Bass Fishing Tournament! Riley Phillips discusses the latest with Bait Cave Customs including the new Zora!

Show Floor

INTERVIEWS FROM ICAST 2026

Channon goes over portable, thankless scuba diving systems from BLU3.

Eddie Phipps tells us about the latest with EzOn Bobber and how easy it is to set up!

On The

HIGHLIGHTS, SIGHTINGS AND

Jeff Leserra goes over the latest with Gator Pro Outdoors & gator hunting & fishing tools.

Show Floor INTERVIEWS FROM ICAST 2026

Joep Van Den Heuvel says “Insect bite? Just heat it!” — all from your smart phone!

Lincoln tells us about Epoch Eyewear. Great fishing sunglasses starting at only $25 in all different styles .

Jeff Little goes over the latest with ePropulsion product development including new products that will soon be available for inshore, offshore and more!

On The

HIGHLIGHTS, SIGHTINGS AND

Howard at Fishtek Marine introduces a new device that keeps dolphins away!

Chadwick Keller shows us all new safety lights from Guardian Angel Devices.

Show Floor INTERVIEWS FROM ICAST 2026

Garren Johanson goes over the latest waterproof outdoor bluetooth speakers from Turtlebox.

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Chris Doyle tells us about the latest from Johnny Jigs, including new reels, spools, jigs and more.

On The HIGHLIGHTS, SIGHTINGS AND

Bebe Dalton Harrison, President of Women in Angling, talks about all the great things going on in the organization to inspire, empower and connect lady anglers!

Annabella Revas goes over the latest with Chasing Fin Apparel, tshirts, hats and more!

Kolt Ringer shows us the latest in Aqua-Vu cameras for under your boat—and a new dash cam!

Show Floor INTERVIEWS FROM ICAST 2026

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Sheepshead Fishing 101

CAPT. MIKE SMITH

Sheepshead are one of those fish that seem like they are everywhere in Florida. That is because they actually are everywhere in Florida. You can catch them 30 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico when they are spawning. You can catch them in the grass flats; around mangrove roots; around oyster bars; around dock and bridge pilings; off the beach; around inlets

and seawalls; and even in freshwater rivers that empty into saltwater.

Sheepsheads were the fish that got me hooked on saltwater fishing when I was 5 years old. My father would take me to the mangrove mud flats to catch fiddler crabs.

Once we had a bucket of crabs we would use our cane poles to catch a stringer full

of sheepshead around the mangrove roots and oyster clumps. The point of this story is that anyone can catch a sheepshead, even a 5-year old.

PRO TIP: Their favorite food is a fiddler crab, but fiddlers are not readily available to most people. Get some if you can.

If you don’t hace access to fiddlers, the easiest way to catch sheepshead is to target them wherever they are with a #2 sized J hook and a small piece of shrimp. You will want to use an extremely light 8 to 10 pound fluorocarbon leader because they have excellent vision and can be spooky.

Why do we use such a small hook for a big sheepshead? The reason to use such a small hook is because they are the best bait stealers in the sea. They use their humanlike teeth to nip little bites of your bait until only a bare hook is left. A small hook will increase your hook up ratio.

You also have to keep a tight line or you will never feel them stealing your bait. I like to reel the line in very slowly to make them commit to a more aggressive bite. Make sure to set the hook hard.

Why do we like to catch sheepshead? We like to catch sheepshead because they are excellent fighters and have a very light and non-fishy tasting meat.

A sheepshead is very difficult to clean because they are extremely bony. But it is worth the extra work because of their delicious meat. They are an excellent candidate to fillet and release into the grease.

Where is the best place to find sheepshead? The best place to look for sheepshead is dock and bridge pilings. They are always around those pilings using their super hard teeth to crush barnacles, oysters and mussels that are living on the pilings. All in all, sheepshead are a fun fish for the whole family to catch. You only need some frozen shrimp and a cane pole to have a blast and fill a stringer full of delicious fish.

Florida allows a generous 8 fish per person limit at the time of this article. Make sure to check your regulations in your area to stay out of trouble.

Go get ‘em.

Capt. Mike Smith, owner of Fish Your Ass Off Charters, is an inshore fishing guide who has been fishing the inshore waters, oyster bars and grass flats of Florida for more than 40 years. Reach him at (561) 339-2317, email: contact fishyourassoff.com or visit fishyourassoff.com.

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FLORIDA

SPINY LOBSTER:

MORE THAN JUST A TAIL

Florida summers are starting to really heat up and outdoor enthusiasts like me are diving headfirst into Scallop and Lobster season. Scallop season is already in full swing and lobster season opens August 6 and runs through March 31, 2027. If you love seafood table fare now is the time to start planning your harvest.

I wanted to kick off this article talking about one of my favorite things to hunt and eat, which is the Florida spiny lobster. This year while filming Let’s Take it Outside I have teamed up with the Live Wildly Foundation, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to keeping “Florida Wild” through major conservation efforts all over the state. In this article and episode, Michelle Yepez and I planned an episode based on conservation in the Florida Keys, and Michelle made sure to include a segment on spiny lobster. Once the date was set we all headed down to the Florida Keys to have some oneon-one time at the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute in Monroe County. Initially I was a bit skeptical about filming a segment just about the spiny lobster, but the more I learned about this species, the more fascinated I became. I did not realize what a complex and interesting creature the spiny lobster was; honestly, I just thought about them as dinner. So let me share a few keys facts about our spiny lobster that you may not have known.

One of the most interesting facts that Michelle and I found out is that spiny lobster “pee through their faces.” To be more factual, they have specialized nozzles located near their eyes that excrete urine. Lobster urine contains pheromones, which lobsters use to communicate with each other during both fighting and mating rituals. Lobsters use this “peecommunication” to establish dominance during fights and to attract mates, particularly during mating rituals when the female needs to signal her receptiveness.

Spiny lobsters are nocturnal and emerge from their hiding spots during the night to forage on crabs, clams and other invertebrates. They also have two large antennae that are

used for fighting and defense, and the smaller ones are mainly sensory organs that can detect chemicals and movement in the water. That explains a lot because every time I try to swim up to one, they know that I am there well before I even get close. As a spiny lobster grows, they molt and lose its hard protective exoskeleton. To harvest a spiny lobster they must have a carapace length of at least three inches; this indicates the lobster is roughly two years old and has reached maturity.

Regardless of whether you are a beginner or expert lobster harvester, one of the most important things is location and knowing how to find the sometimes-elusive bugs. One of the important things about Florida spiny lobster is they are nocturnal, so that does make them easier to catch during the day. Popular lobster hangouts are ledges, patch reefs, holes, big coral heads, sunken boats and just about any type of structure where the lobster can hide. A lot of seasoned “pro’s” have their secret spots and many of these gems can be found in shallow water. I have limited out of lobster in 3-feet of

water in Key West. A tell-tale sign to look for is their antennae sticking out; like I said, they use these extremely sensitive appendages to detect danger and if touched they will then start to go deeper into their hiding places. Once you locate a set of antennae, take your tickle stick (a lightweight rod used by divers to coax a lobster out of a hole or ledge) and place it behind the lobster to gently urge them out and slowly walk them into your net. Once they are in your net grab the excess material to quickly close the net or they will do the “tail dance” and be gone. The great news is you can use the same equipment from scalloping to lobstering—just add a tickle stick, gloves, and a lobster bag and you’re good to go.

Scalloping opened in July on the West Coast of Florida and it includes three of my favorite things—part snorkeling, part treasure hunting and part eating. Each year we gather our masks, fins, snorkels and scallop bags and head offshore to what some call “Florida’s largest Easter egg hunt.” *Tip: I suggest purchasing the items you need before heading to your

scallop location; sometimes they tend to run out of gear, so it might be hard to get last-minute items. One of the remarkable things about scalloping is it can be enjoyed by the entire family, all ages, with mild exercise and it is a wonderful way to spend a family day. In general, when scalloping you will be in about 4- to 6-feet of water, swimming along the top until you see your treasure. Once you know what to look for while scalloping it will become easy because scallops don’t move extremely fast, so they are easy to grab. A good snorkeler can spot scallops usually lying on top of the sea grass or they may be along the grassy, sandy edges just hanging out. I have noticed that they tend to hang in small groups, so before you dive down look for other scallops in the area and see how many you can get in one dive.

Scallopers can harvest a total of 2 gallons of scallops each (in the shell) or 10 gallons maximum per vessel. Make sure you have a valid Florida fishing license if you are required to have one, and you’re going to need a 5-gallon bucket to measure your catch. I recommend after harvesting your catch put them in the live well, if you have one; if not, keep a towel over the water-filled bucket to keep them fresh. Another helpful hint for beginners is to wear a long sleeve PFG shirt while in the water as your back can get pretty sunburned. I learned the hard way. Be careful out there, make sure you have your “Diver Down” flag and it is best to have someone stay on board the boat to keep a watch and ward off boaters that may get too close. There have been some serious incidents in past years and injuries caused by careless boaters; don’t trust that other boaters know practical boater safety.

For the spiny lobster, an important reminder is to have your measurement gauge attached to your tickle stick. Remember, they must be measured in the water. The lobster’s carapace must be larger than 3 inches; this means the lobster is at least two or three years old and has reproduced at least one season. To measure the lobster, place the end of your gauge between the horns and

the other at the end of the carapace; if it is under 3 inches release and keep looking. Again, use a dive flag, put it UP when diving and take it DOWN when underway. Divers must stay within 300 feet of their dive flag and 100 feet if you are diving in a channel, however I don’t recommend swimming in channels.

And know your limits. Each lobster hunter is only allowed 6 lobsters per day; please do not double trip during the day. Be sure to have your fishing license and your lobster stamp so you don’t get a fine or ticket. Go to www.myfwc.com and you can get it online and fast.

Lobster and scalloping are a lot of fun and can provide great memories with your family and friends—but only if you come home safely. If you are looking to make it easy, book a local charter guide; they have the lobster and scallop locations dialed in and you don’t have to worry about towing or launching a boat. Be sure to check your safety equipment on your boat before you go, keep a lookout on the vessel while swimmers are in the water and make sure the person in operation of the vessel is the designated driver for the day.

If you love “Real Florida” and want it preserved forever, do me a favor and go to the Live Wildly Foundation’s website and make the pledge to help preserve “Real Florida.” This is not a donation request; Live Wildly wants to protect “Wild Florida” for us and our future generations. There is so much habitat being developed in Florida right now and many of us don’t know what we can do to help. I understand. Now we have a voice that is working daily to change how Florida responds to developments and works to protect “Wild Florida.”

I hope you’ll enjoy watching this episode, just to give you a glimpse of what the Live Wildly Foundation is all about. Get more information at livewildly.com and, of course, please subscribe to my YouTube channel for a lot more action outdoors. I’ll see you out on the water, and remember, Florida is the best place to “Take it Outside” and “Live Wildly,” especially this summer.

Misty Wells is an award-winning Florida-based outdoor personality, producer, and host of the fishing and adventure “Let’s Take it Outside” television show, which airs to 220 million on the Discovery Channel, Wild TV, Outdoor Channel and other networks. As a prominent outdoor writer and conservationist, she is founder of “A Reel Future,” a non-profit devoted to teaching the passion of fishing and conservation to foster children—4,000 children and counting. Visit MistyWells.com and AReelFuture.com to learn more.

Land one of these and Get Fishing Sooner

John Deere equipment brings the power, performance and productivity, so you get more time to land a trophy. We’ll help you land the right machine with special offers making it an even better catch. Stop in and leave tasks in your wake.

By Britt Stoudenmire

STAY ON TOP FOR SUMMERTIME RIVER SMALLIES

The late-summer months are an overlooked window to catch big smallmouth bass that have been lazily lying in the middle of the river after a long spawning season. The insect hatches and emergences that occur throughout the day including mayflies, damsel flies and my favorite, the cicada, spur feeding frenzies and create an excellent opportunity to throw topwater lures and flies.

One of my favorite lures to target topwater smallies during this period is the Pop-R. I make long casts with a 6-foot to 6-foot, 6-inch G.Loomis medium-action rod with a Shimano Stradic 2500 C4+ reel spooled with 20/6 Power Pro braided line. On entry into the water, I let the bait dead drift for about five seconds before working it erratically back to the boat. I target current seams, eddies, corner pockets and any type of structure or current break in the middle of fast water. It is important to continue working the bait with the same cadence, even if a fish is crashing behind it. Once you feel the rod load, reel into the fish and swing the rod back. Once hooked up, keep the rod—and fish—down in the water. Many big fish are lost while trying to pull the fish up to get a look at it.

on your buzzbait and do not touch him with the hook, a quick follow up with a soft plastic will often garner an immediate bite from the same fish.

Another one of my favorite topwater presentations is the buzzbait. I will target the

same areas as above using a slightly stouter medium-heavy setup to drive the hook home. The key to the buzzbait is to get the bait up on the surface as soon as it hits the water. I favor a straight, steady retrieve, reeling just fast enough to keep the bait on the surface. When a fish eats it, allow him to load the rod before setting into him with a hard hook set. I favor longer shafted buzzbaits for better hook-ups, as I don’t use trailer hooks because of the damage they can do to smallies. If you have a blow up

If you like to fly fish, summer’s slower, less-busy water often presents the perfect scenario to fly fish for big smallmouth. My favorite presentation for smallies on the fly is dead-drifting cicada bugs. Big smallies are addicted to these “dog days” dying cicada bugs and the easy meal they present, and we sight cast to these fish that often eclipse 20” or more. This technique has produced some of my clients’ and my personal best fly-rod fish. When dead drifting cicada bugs aren’t working, several other presentations can produce explosive strikes. Any popper in the size 4 to 6 range can attract smallies. When they strike, remember to strip up the slack line and into them before raising the rod tip hard to drive home the hook. If fish aren’t responding to the popper, another option is a slider-style fly. When stripped, the fly will dive slightly beneath the surface giving a darting and diving action. The Sneaky Pete is a good example, and this type of presentation can be deadly.

Britt Stoudenmire owns and operates New River Outdoor Co. who guides on the New River in Southwest Virginia. newriveroutdoorco.com.

43,000 acres of legendary fishing from trophy bass, to world class sauger. A true Bill Dance Signature Lake.

Located on the Tennessee River where Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi meet, Hardin County is a premier southern destination built for anglers. While the area offers endless outdoor adventure, the true heartbeat of Hardin County lies in its world class waters, rich history, and deepfried southern traditions.

Sitting idyllically on the banks of the river is Savannah, the county seat and the proud “Catfish Capital of the World.” This historic town is home to friendly family parks, historic homes, and the roots of authentic southern comfort food. For the ultimate post fishing feast, head to nearby Hagy’s Catfish Hotel Restaurant. Perched right on the riverfront, this legendary hot spot has been serving up baskets of golden hushpuppies and pristine fried catfish to locals and traveling anglers for over 80 years.

For those visiting to bend a rod, the opportunities are endless. Whether you prefer targeting catch on the main lake, working the current below the dam, slipping into a secluded cove, or casting from the bank, fishing is big business in the area. Explore Pickwick TN has rolled out the red carpet for the sport, consistently recruiting major tournament circuits like BASSMASTERS and Major League Fishing to these fertile waters.

On the shore of Pickwick Lake sits Pickwick Landing State Park. Featuring a recently renovated lodge, full-service marina, championship golf course, and convenient boat rentals, it serves as the ultimate launchpad for a weekend on the water. Boaters coming off the lake can grab a bite at the restaurant located within the Lodge or tie up to enjoy great local pizza, burgers, or flavorful BBQ around Pickwick. The Pickwick area is so deeply tied to the water that it has become an ideal retirement destination for anglers looking for pristine lakefront properties or quiet acreage with rambling creeks.

Summer Bass Patterns

By Copper State Tackle Pro Angler Joey Bloom

As summer settles in and water temperatures rise across the country, bass anglers are faced with a changing fishery. The shallow-water feeding frenzies of spring begin to fade, and largemouth bass transition into more predictable summer patterns. Understanding where bass position during the hottest months and selecting the right presentations can make all the difference between a slow day and a memorable one.

I believe one of the biggest mistakes anglers make during the summer is failing to adjust to bass movement. As the water warms, bass become more structure-oriented. They’re in search for comfort, oxygen, and easy feeding opportunities.

During the summer months, bass often position around offshore ledges, creek channel swings, brush piles, submerged vegetation, docks, and deeper points. Early in the morning and late in the evening, fish may move shallow to feed, but as the sun climbs higher, many bass seek deeper water or heavy cover to escape the heat.

One of my favorite ways to target these summertime bass is with Bait Cave Customs Cave Club floating worms. Their buoyant design creates a natural presentation that continues to attract strikes even when fish become less aggressive.The drop shot rig is one of the most productive techniques during summer. By rigging a Bait Cave Customs 4” Flat Worm above a weight, anglers can keep the bait suspended just off the bottom where bass can easily see it. This presentation excels around deep brush piles, offshore structure, and schools of fish hiding in grass clumps. The subtle action of this floating bait often triggers bites from bass that ignore more aggressive presentations. When targeting deeper structure, I frequently reach for a Carolina rig. A Cave Hog floating plastic trails behind the weight, gliding naturally above the bottom while covering large amounts of water. This technique is especially effective on offshore points, shell beds, and channel edges where bass congregate during the heat of summer.

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For anglers fishing grass lines, docks, or scattered cover, a Texas-rigged remains a staple. The weedless design allows fishermen to work through heavy cover while the bait’s buoyancy creates a more lifelike posture when paused. Many summertime bites occur when the bait is sitting still, making the floating action a major advantage.

Flipping and pitching heavy cover is another key summer pattern. Bass often bury themselves in thick vegetation, boat docks, and shaded cover to escape direct sunlight. I rely on a Cave Cricket when punching through mats or flipping isolated targets because the bait maintains an enticing action even after reaching the bottom.

Summer bass can get conditioned to seeing the same presentations day after day. The floating

plastics from Bait Cave Customs give fish a different look and allow the bait to stay in the strike zone longer. That’s often the difference between getting a bite and getting ignored. By focusing on deeper structure, shaded cover, and offshore feeding areas while utilizing versatile floating plastics through techniques like drop-shotting, Carolina rigging, Texas rigging, and flipping, anglers can consistently catch more bass throughout the summer months. When the temperatures rise, understanding bass behavior and matching it with the right presentation is the formula for success.

Follow Joey Bloom on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube at Joey Bloom Fishing.

Pack Out More™ : A Simple Shift That Changes Everything

For years, I’ve spent time on rivers, streams and backcountry waters that most people will never see. Places that feel untouched. Wild. Worth protecting.

But over time I started noticing something that didn’t belong.

Discarded fishing line.

Sometimes it’s barely visible—caught in a branch or wrapped around a rock. Other times it’s impossible to ignore. Tangled, drifting, or worse…impacting wildlife that never should have encountered it in the first place.

The truth is, most anglers don’t leave it behind intentionally. But it’s there. And if you spend enough time on the water, you’ve seen it.

I know I have.

For a long time, I did what many of us do. I noticed it… and kept fishing.

At some point, that changed.

I stopped asking if it was my place to do something about it—and started asking if it was my responsibility.

That shift is what led to Pack Out More™.

It’s not complicated. It’s not about perfection. It’s about a simple idea: If you enjoy the water, leave it better than you found it.

One piece of line. One piece of trash. One small decision at a time.

Because movements don’t start with big moments. They start with small actions

By Joe Woody

that people choose to repeat.

And when enough people make that choice, something bigger begins to take shape.

A new standard.

A new kind of angler.

To make that action easier, we created the Leader Eater™—a simple, purposebuilt tool designed to help anglers remove and safely collect discarded fishing line and small debris while they’re on the water.

If you’re ready to be part of this shift, you can learn more and get yours at PackOutMore.com

Because this only works if enough of us decide to start.

Be

Part of the Shift

Pack Out More™ starts with a simple decision—one piece at a time.

The Leader Eater® was built to make that decision easier, giving anglers a simple way to remove and safely collect discarded fishing line and small debris while on the water.

AUGUST CUBERA FISHING

When the August full moon rolls around in the Florida Keys, it is prime time to target one of the hardestpulling, meanest fish on the reef: the Cubera snapper, aka “El Diablo.” These fish are big, powerful, and known for absolutely wrecking tackle if you are not ready.

In Key West, Captain Kody Michael is one of the guys to know when it comes to getting after them. His company, Reel Guides, helps connect anglers with solid, trusted captains throughout the Keys, making it easier to find the right guide for the trip you want to take. Whether someone is looking for a serious reef trip, a trophy fish, or simply wants to fish with a captain who knows the area, Reel Guides helps point anglers in the right direction.

Cubera fishing is not your average snapper trip. One of the go-to baits is live lobster, which makes it some of the most expensive bait fishing you can do. But when a giant Cubera eats, it is worth every dollar. Around the full moon,

these fish get fired up, and the bite can be violent. This is not dropping down and hoping for a nibble. This is waiting for a freight train to eat a live lobster and try to take everything with it.

The Bean Sportfishing crew has had some wild Cubera trips in the Florida Keys with Capt. Kody, including one caught on stand-up gear using a PENN International VIS. That 65lb fish was a battle from the second it ate, and it showed exactly why Cubera snapper have such a reputation. They are strong, dirty fighters that know how to use the reef against an angler.

It has also been done on “The Bean Pole,” Bean Sportfishing’s real mini-rod under 36 inches, which was ridiculous, sketchy—and unforgettable. Catching a Cubera on proper stand-up gear is hard enough. Catching one on a tiny rod is a whole different kind of chaos.

Check out Bean Sportfishing TV on YouTube, @beansportfishing, to see the live lobster bites, full-moon madness, and cubera fishing action in the Florida Keys. It is one of the coolest fisheries the Keys has to offer, and definitely one of the most intense.

For more real-world fishing action in the Florida Keys, follow all of deGruchy’s adventures at @bean_sportfishing

WEDNESDAY

WHERE THE COASTAL & OUTDOOR INDUSTRIES

This September, Surf Expo returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando from Wednesday through Friday, September 16–18, 2026, keeping its 50th anniversary celebration going with three days of product discovery, networking, and real business opportunities.

For Retailers: Your Ultimate Sourcing Destination

The shift smart buyers already understand is that consumers don’t shop by category—they shop by how they live. A fishing trip, a beach day, a weekend camping escape, or everyday coastal living all reflect the same mindset: products need to work together across moments. Surf Expo brings these connected lifestyle categories together in one place, helping you build assortments the way your customers buy.

Thousands of qualified retail buyers from across the U.S. and beyond attend Surf Expo to

source new products, connect with established and emerging brands, and gain insight into the trends shaping the next season. From major volume buyers to independent shop owners, this is the marketplace where retailers discover what will drive sales in the months ahead. From Shoreline Outdoor, Surf and Swim to Coastal Gift & Decor and more, Surf Expo spans the full spectrum of coastal and lifestyle retail. Instead of fragmented buying, you’ll discover complementary products side by side— making it easier to cross-merchandise, identify assortment gaps, and build more cohesive, profitable offerings.

For Coastal Angler readers, Shoreline Outdoor is where it all comes together. Sitting at the intersection of coastal and outdoor living, this category covers everything your store needs across boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, and camping—products designed to move seamlessly from land to water. The natural overlap with surf, swim, and coastal

lifestyle categories creates opportunities to expand your assortment without losing focus on your core angling customers.

For Brands: This Is Where Growth Happens

If your brand lives in the fishing, boating, outdoor, or coastal lifestyle space, Surf Expo puts you face-to-face with the buyers who matter most. The show floor is intentionally designed to spark partnerships, connecting you with a focused, qualified audience of retailers actively sourcing for the seasons ahead.

This crossover audience is your advantage. Buyers walking the Shoreline Outdoor aisles also stock surf, resort, swim, and gift—meaning retailers discover your products you might never reach through traditional channels. For five decades, Surf Expo has helped brands break into new markets, both domestically and internationally. If you’re ready to grow, this is the marketplace where it happens.

Learn more and register at surfexpo.com.

REDS & SCALLOPS

By Capt. Gavin Shores

AUGUST FISHING IN CITRUS COUNTY,

FL

Istill wake up every morning wondering if I’m still dreaming. Ever since I was a child watching my favorite fisherman on television after school, I wanted to know how I could make fishing more than just a passion, but a career. After spending time in other jobs that never felt like they were for me, I bit the bullet and began working as a swim guide for a manatee tour company. This way I could gain sea time for my captain's license. Once that was accomplished, I went to running manatee tours and airboat rides full time to earn the money required to buy my boat and all of my gear. Finally, fishing for a living! Now I enjoy sharing my love for fishing and the outdoors in Citrus County, Florida, not only with my clients, but with my wife and two children. Fishing is more than a career

to me, it’s a way of life, a passion, and borderline obsession. That being said, I'm here to tell you that scallop season is off to a running start here in Citrus County! I like to target the thin grasses, or mixed grasses, in the three foot to six foot water depths. Both high and low slack tides make the hunt easier since the grasses will be standing up straight. This makes it much easier to see the scallops. Believe me, when the tide has the grass bent over, it adds a whole new challenge. We are seeing good consistent numbers right outside of the Ozello channel. Ozello is located about 10 to 12 miles southwest of Crystal River, Fla. and about an hour and a half north of Tampa, on the west coast of Florida. From Crystal River, the drive typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes and

involves heading south on US Highway 19, then turning west onto the Ozello Trail (County Road 494). The Ozello Trail is a famous, winding nine-mile stretch of two-lane road that twists and turns through the beautiful salt marshes of the Crystal River Preserve State Park. At the end of the trail, you reach the unincorporated fishing community of Ozello, known for its scenic views, abundant wildlife, and waterfront dining spots.

August isn't all about scalloping. It's also a month where we look forward to larger schools of redfish moving in to our perimeter mangroves. I like to target points and sub points with plenty of moving water and shade. These areas are highly oxygenated and cooler which will make the fish more willing to eat. On low water, shrimp under a cork floating along an oyster bar is hard to resist, while on high water, a big piece of cut bait placed in the shade will get it done.

fishing nearshore rock piles is high right now. Sometimes it’s a nice surprise to hook one while fishing shrimp for mangrove snapper, grunts and black seabass.

Stay safe on those scallop grounds and be sure to wear your sunscreen! Scallop season ends September 24, so there is still time to book your trip.

Join Capt. Gavin Shores, owner/operator of All Shores Outdoors, for an unforgettable fishing experience on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Call (321) 202-9081 or visit www.allshoresoutdoors.com.

IGFA Names Recipients of Inaugural MASTER ANGLER AWARD

The International Game Fish Association (IGFA), proudly announced Dr. Martin “Marty” Arostegui and Roberta G. Arostegui as the first recipients of the IGFA Master Angler Award, the highest distinction available within the newly launched IGFA Master Angler Program.

The IGFA Master Angler Award is reserved for anglers who achieve Gold Tier status in five or more of the program’s seven categories, spanning IGFA World Records, Slams, and Trophy Fish Clubs. Marty and Roberta have each met that standard independently, earning the award on the strength of their individual lifetime angling achievement across the full breadth of IGFA angler recognition programs. As a couple, the two are bound by a shared passion for the sport that has driven decades of individual pursuit on the water.

“Marty and Roberta Arostegui represent exactly the kind of anglers the Master Angler Program was built to recognize,” said IGFA President Jason Schratwieser. “They have not excelled in one corner of this sport; they have

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excelled across all of it, year after year, for decades. To be able to name them as the first recipients of this award, and to do it together, is an amazing event.”

Both Marty and Roberta are inducted members of the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame— Marty in 2018, Roberta in 2023—and each has accumulated IGFA World Records, Slams, or Trophy Fish Clubs spanning more than four decades.

Marty achieved Gold Tier status across five categories: All-Tackle World Records, AllTackle Length World Records, Line Class World Records, Tippet Class World Records, and Trophy Fish Clubs. Over his career, he has set 438 IGFA World Records and completed nine IGFA Trophy Fish Clubs.

Roberta achieved Gold Tier status across five categories: All-Tackle Length World Records, Line Class World Records, Tippet Class World Records, Trophy Fish Clubs, and Royal Slams.

her career, she has set 297 IGFA World Records, completed nine IGFA Trophy Fish Clubs, and nine IGFA Royal Slams.

Formal recognition of the Arosteguis as the first anglers recognized with the IGFA Master Angler Award recipients will take place at the 43rd IGFA International Auction on January 23, 2027 at the Ritz Carlton, Fort Lauderdale.

The IGFA Master Angler Program, launched in May 2026, introduces a tiered recognition framework spanning seven categories: AllTackle World Records, Line Class World Records, Tippet Class World Records, AllTackle Length World Records, Grand Slams, Royal Slams, and Trophy Fish Clubs with Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers within each. All prior eligible achievements count toward program standing.

Additional Master Angler Award recipients will be announced in the coming months as qualifying anglers are confirmed.

For more information about the IGFA Master Angler Program, visit: https://igfa.org/igfa-master-angler-program/

TROPHY BREAM CAUGHT IN IRWIN COUNTY, GA

By TAM Staff

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What started as a day of bass fishing quickly turned into a catch to remember for Russell Whitehurst on a lake in Irwin County, Georgia.

Whitehurst was casting a red-andblack glitter worm in hopes of hooking a bass when something unexpected grabbed the bait. The fish felt so heavy and fought so strangely that he initially thought he had hooked a turtle. But when the catch finally came into view, it wasn’t a turtle— or even a bass. It was an enormous bream!

The trophy-sized fish measured an impressive 13 inches long and weighed 2.2 pounds. With its thick body and remarkable size, this was far from the average bream commonly caught in Georgia waters.

The fish was taken to Spitting Image Taxidermy, where its weight and measurements were officially recorded. The current Georgia state record is 3 pounds, 5 ounces. But, still, a bream of this size is a rare catch and one that would make just about any freshwater angler proud.

Sometimes the best fishing stories happen when you’re targeting something else—and Russell Whitehurst’s Irwin County giant certainly proved that!

COOLERS

, the leader in high-performance soft-sided coolers, is hitting the water this year with new, upgraded fishing products. Our fishing team partners told us what they needed, and we listened!

Products are in stock and ready to ship; The Fishing Cooler Backpack, 2, 4 & 6ft Fish bags, Fillet bags, Boat fenders, EVA Traction pads, Inflatable Docks, ISUPs, and of course, our high-performance coolers specifically designed for use on boats, guaranteed not to leak, and to keep ice cold for up to 24 hours.

Thirty years ago, AO was launched to provide active, hard-core people with quality products at a reasonable price. We started selling our soft-sided coolers to the hard-core, go-fast boaters and fishermen in Lake Havasu. We aimed to keep ice in our coolers for up to 24 hours in 120-degree Havasu heat. That goal was accomplished 30 years ago, and we’re still at it.

We know our customers; they fish and boat in the summer and ride the dunes or trails in the winter. AO products give those high-octane souls greater freedom to embark on and enjoy what’s important to them.

Make sure that your gear does not hold you back from doing what you love. AO products are built to handle whatever offshore adventure is coming next.

AO is flexibly rugged, seriously fun, and honestly real!

We’re looking for active, adventurous folks that demand quality and performance from their gear. Share your adventure and send us your fish story or photo.

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