HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS FOR ANGLERS
SUZUKI LAUNCHES NEW STEALTH SERIES 225 V6 FOR COASTAL ANGLERS
Suzuki Marine used the recent 2025 International Boatbuilders Exposition & Conference (IBEX) in Tampa, Florida to announce a powerful new V6 225HP outboard designed to bring a bold new look and new level of performance to a range of coastal fishing boats.
Only available in a 20” shaft and distinctive Stealth Line® graphics, this new motor is ideal for bay boats, hybrid bay boats, flats boats, skiffs, and other inshore/offshore fishing machines. “Our Stealth line® has been so popular with dealers and boatbuilders, we’ve been getting many requests for a motor specifically designed for these types of boats. Now, we are happy to deliver a bold new choice to meet the demand,” said Brandon Cerka, Suzuki Marine Vice President, Sales & Marketing. “This motor packs all the advanced technology, performance, and reliability our V6 lineup is known for, combined with our bold Stealth Line® look that exudes power and luxury,” added Cerka.
Suzuki’s Stealth Line® features an exclusive all-matte-black finish with black chrome graphics for a one-of-a-kind look that is taking the boating market by storm. “There are a lot of anglers out there looking for a way to upgrade their rig to the latest in power, looks, and technology, and this new 225 Stealth Line® Series outboard fits the bill perfectly,” added Cerka.
This new motor’s beauty is more than skin deep, to be sure. This newest addition to the Stealth Line® Family features many of the technological advancements that help Suzuki stand out from the competition, such as computer-controlled Electronic Fuel Injection, Multi-Stage Induction for optimum performance in all conditions, a powerful 2.29:1 gear reduction ratio for great hole shot, and a self-adjusting timing chain for long-range durability.
Anglers looking to stand out at the launch ramp, pull away from the pack on the water, and out fish other anglers up and down the coast can learn more about Suzuki’s new Stealth Line® Series 225 at their local authorized Suzuki Marine dealer, by contacting Suzuki Marine USA’s Tampa, Florida headquarters at (813) 687-7200, or by visiting Suzuki Marine’s website at:
www.suzukimarine.com
Sailfish Tourney Season
Winter in south Florida brings an awesome collision of ballyhoo and sailfish that makes for some of the best fishing of the year. It’s also the time of year for some of the richest and most fun tournaments. If you’re interested, right now is the time to register. Here’s a list of some good sailfish tournament events:
DEC. 3-7, 2025 Dust ’Em Off Sailfish Warmup Fort Lauderdale • www.dustemoffsailfish.com
DEC. 10-13, 2025 Pirate’s Cove Sailfish Classic Pirate’s Cove Resort & Marina, Port Salerno www.piratescovesailfishclassic.com
DEC. 6-7, 2025 Islamorada Sailfish Tournament 1st Event of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship Whale Harbor, Islamorada www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com
. 17-20, 2025 Stuart Light Tackle Sailfish Tournament Stuart • stuartsailfishclub.com
. 12-14, 2025 Islamorada Junior Sailfish Tournament Islamorada • fishnbully@msn.com
. 5-7, 2026 2026 Silver Sailfish Derby Sailfish Marina, Singer Island westpalmbeachfishingclub.org
. 9-10, 2026 Fish for Holly Sailfish Tournament Islamorada • fishforholly.com
JAN. 14-18, 2026 Operation Sailfish
Leg One of the Quest for the Crest Sailfish Series Sailfish Resort & Marina, Palm Beach www.bluewatermovements.com
JAN. 20-24, 2026 Buccaneer Cup Sailfish Release Tournament Buccaneer Marina Resort, Riviera Beach buccaneercup.com
JAN. 23-25, 2026 Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tourney 2nd Event of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship Cheeca Lodge, Islamorada www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com
JAN. 20-21, 2026 Islamorada Fishing Club Sailfish Tournament
3rd Event of the Florida Keys Gold Cup Sailfish Championship Whale Harbor, Islamorada www.islamoradasailfishtournament.com
FEB. 18-22, 2026 Sailfish Challenge
Leg Two of the Quest for the Crest Sailfish Series
Three checkpoints: Miami, Pompano Beach, West Palm www.bluewatermovements.com
APR. 8-11, 2026 Final Sail
Leg Three of the Quest for the Crest Sailfish Series Miami Beach • www.bluewatermovements.com
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/
HOLIDAY FOR ANGLERS GIFTS
Reel in the Perfect Holiday Gifts for Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts!
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by showing the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life that you truly understand their passion? Finding the right gift can feel as tricky as reeling in a trophy fish, but fear not! We’ve got some fantastic ideas that will have them casting their lines with glee.
As the holiday season rolls around, remember that the best gifts come from the heart. Whether it’s a high-tech fishing gadget, some fishing apparel or even a new boat or motor, these thoughtful presents are sure to delight the anglers and outdoor enthusiasts in your life. So, cast your line into the sea of gift ideas...you’re bound to reel in something special!
AN EPIC TRIP TO FISH AND ATTEND THE CRUCIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL IN THE USVI
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the US Virgin Islands embody a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and laid-back serenity. These islands are more than just a picturesque getaway; they are a living testament to nature’s rhythm and resilience, effortlessly in tune with the world around them.
With no passport required for U.S. citizens, from the moment you arrive, the islands’ natural rhythm is palpable. The gentle sway of palm trees, the soothing sound of surf crashing against sandy shores, and the vibrant melodies of local music all echo the heartbeat of this tropical paradise. The islands’ lush landscapes, with their verdant hills and crystal-clear waters, mirror the steady pulse of life that sustains the local ecosystems and communities alike.
The US Virgin Islands’ environment is a symphony of biodiversity with world class fishing and diving. These natural elements are not static; they dance in harmony, influenced by the tides, wind, and seasonal changes—further emphasizing the islands’ intrinsic rhythm. This delicate balance underscores the importance of conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations continue to experience the islands’ natural cadence.
Culturally, the US Virgin Islands are equally in tune. The music, dance
and festivals reflect a vibrant heritage rooted in African, European and Caribbean traditions. The spirited calypso beats and reggae rhythms are expressions of life's ongoing dance—celebrating resilience, community and joy. These cultural expressions are an extension of the islands’ natural rhythm, showcasing how human life here moves seamlessly with nature’s flow.
In a world often dictated by chaos and rapid change, the US Virgin Islands serve as a reminder of the beauty of being in sync with nature’s tempo. Their natural, cultural and ecological rhythms offer a blueprint for sustainable living and harmony. As travelers and residents alike continue to embrace this rhythm, they uphold a legacy of balance—one that celebrates life’s natural flow and the enduring spirit of these remarkable islands. In the US Virgin Islands, being in rhythm isn’t just an ideal—it’s a way of life.
LUNA NUEVA BY COSTA DEL MAR
If you’re searching for an ideal holiday gift for a woman who enjoys spending time on the water, consider Costa Del Mar’s Luna Nueva polarized sunglasses. These women’s shades use color-enhancing 580 lens technology to reduce haze and boost contrast and clarity. Choose between glass (580G) lenses for outstanding sharpness and scratch resistance, or lightweight polycarbonate (580P) for impact protection—either option offers a high-definition viewing experience.
MICRO RODS MAKE A GREAT HOLIDAY GIFT
ADesigned with simplicity in mind, Luna Nueva makes a great companion for anglers, featuring an elegant butterfly-shaped frame crafted from ultra-thin material. This results in one of the slimmest profiles in Costa’s collection, delivering a sophisticated and distinctive appearance. Adjustable nose pads allow custom fit ensuring maximum comfort and retention.
www.costadelmar.com
s the holidays roll around, anglers everywhere are dreaming of that perfect new piece of gear to add to their arsenal. If you are looking for a compact, fun, and travel-friendly rod this holiday season, check out micro rods from Bean Pole. The Bean Pole takes the micro rod concept to the next level. It’s compact, durable, and designed for real anglers who appreciate simplicity with performance. It’s easy to store, fun to use, and rugged enough to handle both saltwater and freshwater adventures. Perfect for impromptu casts or for those who like to keep a rod handy wherever life (or travel) takes them. They also have a vibrant fun color!
This Holiday season, skip the ordinary gifts and give something unforgettable, a Bean Pole. Compact, exciting, and travel-ready, it’s more than just a micro rod, it’s an invitation to adventure!
www.beansportfishing.com
Confessions of a Fishaholic, by Thatch Maguire, is a hilarious and irreverent look at one man’s quest to catch fish in spite of life’s annoying interferences. You’ll travel with this awkward adventurer as he risks home and health to pursue his passion for fishing...regardless of the consequences. Anglers of all expertise levels will immediately identify with why his addiction is incurable. This book defines the blurred line between passion and obsession.
Ben Martin Editor in Chief Coastal Angler
STOCKING STUFFERS FOR THE BASS ANGLER WHO HAS EVERYTHING
Shopping for a bass fisherman isn’t easy. Most of us already have enough rods and tackle boxes to fill a garage, and we’re picky about every lure we throw. But that’s what makes stocking stuffers the ideal gifts: they are small, useful gifts that actually get used on the water.
An absolute can’t miss item is fishing line. A spool of Sufix line is my recommendation, whether it’s 832 braid or Advance fluorocarbon. This is one of those gifts that every bass fisherman truly appreciates. It’s the kind of thing we always need but hate spending money, making it a perfect stocking surprise.
If you want to add some color and action, grab a few packs of CrushCity soft plastics. Their Bronco Bugs, Cleanup Craws, and Freeloader minnows flat out catch fish, and you can’t go wrong with their proven colors. Toss a couple of those in a stocking and you will win Christmas morning.
For the gear junkies, think about tools and tackle organization. A pair of Rapala pliers, some hook removers, or one of their waterproof tackle boxes are small but mighty gifts that make a big difference on the water. Every angler loves having their gear dialed in, and Rapala makes stuff that actually holds up.
Don’t forget about gifting some comfort on those long, sunny days. Chums makes a ton of great accessories like sunglass retainers, floating keychains, and waterproof phone pouches. Thes are perfect little add-ons that make life on the boat a little easier and can save a few pair of sunglasses from sinking.
At the end of the day, the best gifts for a bass fisherman aren’t necessarily the biggest or flashiest. Instead, they’re the thoughtful, practical items that make time on the water smoother, easier, and just a little more fun. By throwing a few of these suggestions in a stocking – and maybe adding a gas station coffee card for good measure- you’re sure to have any bass angler smiling wider than a five-pounder at weigh-in.
Happy Holidays, Y’all!
Capt. Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler, as well as owner/ operator of Florida Big Fish Adventures, providing bass and saltwater guided fishing trips. Check out his website at floridabigfishadventures.com.
CAPT. TYLER WOOLCOTT
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FOR MORE DETAILS & TO ENTER
Winter Bait, Winter Bite
HOW TO OUTSMART REDS, SPECKS & FLOUNDER
As the temperatures drop along the coast, the fishing heats up. Speckled trout, redfish, and flounder all shift gears when winter rolls in—and if you want to stay on the bite, your approach needs to shift with them. One of the biggest questions anglers debate is whether lure color or size matters more. While we all love a good tackle box fashion show, I’m convinced size has a bigger impact than color when cold weather takes over.
And remember—fish don’t watch YouTube, read fishing forums, or care what’s trending online. They simply eat when they want to eat. Our job is to make that meal look familiar, easy, and worth the effort.
WHY SIZE MATTERS MORE
When things get tough on the water, many anglers start swapping colors like they’re picking paint samples. But in winter, water gets clearer, bait gets larger, and fish get picky. Trout and reds are usually keyed in on the size of what they’re eating, not the exact shade.
Rule of Thumb:
• Active feeding? Schools of bait present? Go smaller and match the hatch.
• Slower fish? Colder water? Less bait?
Consider upsizing for a bigger “easy meal.”
Winter water clarity can reach 6–7 feet in some bays—practically aquarium-grade. A large, flashy lure in clear water is like waving a flag in front of spooky fish. Downsizing your profile creates a more natural presentation and often earns more strikes.
BIRDS, BAIT, AND MAYHEM
If you’ve ever watched gulls dive-bomb a bait school with trout blowing up below, you know the adrenaline rush. Fall and early winter can bring bigger trout into these bird-driven feeding sessions.
To stay in the game:
• Use a heavier jighead (¼ to ⅜ oz) to cast farther and stay back from spooky schools.
• If birds calm down and fish stay up, try a topwater for a shot at some of the bigger girls.
FALL FLOUNDER MIGRATION
Then there’s the legendary fall flounder run. These flat ambushers stack up along passes and channels as they push toward the Gulf to spawn. They’re hungry, aggressive, and opportunistic.
If you’re targeting flounder:
• Keep your lure in contact with the bottom.
• Use short rod-tip twitches, not big lifts.
• Slow your retrieve— think crawl, pause, crawl.
Flounder aren’t shy, they just want the meal close enough to inhale.
THE BIG TROUT WINDOW
By late fall and throughout winter, bait thins out—and that’s when trophy trout dreams get real. Colder water, less bait, and slower fish actually favor artificial lure anglers. This is when patience, subtlety, and quiet wading shine.
FINAL CAST
Winter rewards anglers who adjust. Change size first, then color, read the water, and enjoy the chaos, the calm, and everything in between. And if you’ve got a young angler around with nothing to do during the holiday breaks, this is the perfect season to get them hooked.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
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TRUST BR AND MARINERS
Ever see a commercial harbor full of Furuno Marine Electronics and wonder why the pros rely on us?
See why here
FURUNO’S DRS-NXT RADAR SERIES: TheNXTChapterinRadarTechnology
Furuno’s NXT Radars are solid-state radars utilizing Doppler technology to ensure the safest navigation. The NXT series features Target Analyzer™, Fast Target Tracking™ and Auto Target Acquire function to offer optimal detection and sensitivity of hazardous objects. Combined with RezBoost™ technology, the NXT Radars have no equal in spotting and tracking targets moving around your vessel efficiently with a high resolution.
TARGET ANALYZER™ FUNCTION UTILIZING DOPPLER TECHNOLOGY
SPOTS HAZARDOUS TARGETS INSTANTLY!
The NXT series are the first Radars in the world to use FURUNO’s exclusive Target Analyzer™ function. Targets that are approaching your vessel automatically change color to help you identify potentially dangerous targets. Green echoes are targets that stay stationary, or are moving away from you, while red echoes are hazardous targets that are moving towards your vessel. Echoes dynamically change colors as targets approach, or get farther away from your vessel. Target Analyzer™ improves situational awareness and can increase safety by showing you which targets to look out for.
To learn more, visit: www.NavNet.com
KEY FEATURES:
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Compatible with NavNet TZtouch,TZtouch2, and TZtouch3
Solid-State pulse compression Doppler Radar with no preheating time and low energy consumption (no magnetron required)
24” and NEW 19” Radome Antenna options (DRS4D-NXT and DRS2D-NXT)
Revolutionary Target AnalyzerTM function instantly identifies hazardous targets in red
Fast Target Tracking and Auto Target Acquire function
RezBoostTM beam sharpening to increase resolution
Bird Mode to find the best fishing grounds by tracking birds
Rain Mode separates rain cells in blue from actual targets
Simple installation, single power/network cable connection
IGFA 2025 WORLD RECORDS RECAP
As 2025 winds down, let’s take a minute to honor a few amazing anglers who set IGFA records this year. The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) has recognized several new 2025 world records, including a blackfin snapper caught by Michael McFadden off the coast of Florida, a cobia by Koby Duncan in Australia, and an Arctic char and common carp length records set by Jay Siemens and Rowan Lytle, respectively in Canada and Connecticut.
Many new U.S. records for freshwater species are also included, such as the landlocked striped bass by Pamela Moss in Georgia and the Alabama bass, also by Moss in Georgia. Some 2025
IGFA US Saltwater Records include a 27 lb. red grouper by Zachary Daniel Murray off Florida, a 31 lb. 3 oz. greater amberjack by Julia Berstein out of Key West, and a 55.9 in. great barracuda by Nick LaBadie on fly tackle off Key West. These were all certified and submitted to the IGFA, with the grouper and amberjack being official weights and the barracuda being an all-tackle length record.
The IGFA is publishing its 2025 World Record Book and has also added two new species—barred sand bass and spotted sand bass—to its catch-and-release All-Tackle Length World Record Category. Will you be among these elite anglers in 2026?
Smooth Sailing
Dometic DG3 Delivers World-Class Experience Aboard Custom Catamaran
For many months now, Dometic’s DG3 Gyroscopic Stabilizer has proved itself aboard a boat that doesn’t really “fit the mold” for boats running a single gyro. In fact, this custom 35-foot aluminum Razorhead catamaran doesn’t even look like most boats you’ll see fishing, diving and cruising around the waters of Key West, Florida.
Park Shark—named for her aggressive looks and the fact she runs regular day trips from Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park—was conceived by Capt. Robert Trosset and custom builder Razorhead Boats of Iberia, Louisiana. Trosset, owner of Finz Dive Center & Tackle, needed a boat with interior cabin space for six passengers and crew, plenty of creature comforts, all the latest technology, and the ability to make regular 140-mile roundtrip runs in all kinds of weather. He also needed to have rack storage for 28 SCUBA tanks, plenty of aft deck area and a bow landing ramp for exiting the vessel to explore the island and historical Fort Jefferson.
Park Shark’s stats are impressive: Thirtyfive feet long with a 12-foot beam, powered by quad Suzuki DF300 V6 outboards and weighing in at 23,000 pounds. Still, she can top 60mph at WOT and cruise efficiently at 37mph, making it possible to shoot out to the Dry Tortugas, make several different dives, spend some time exploring the fort, and still make it home for dinner. A single Dometic DG3 Gyro mounted at deck level and positioned above the boat’s massive starboard sponson is a big part of this boat’s performance and comfort.
Dometic’s DG3 won an NMMA Innovation Award at the 2025 Miami Boat Show, in part, for the many ways it defied the “rules” for gyro performance and efficiency. By reaching full RPMs in only 16.5 minutes (versus 50 minutes), generating some of its own electrical power to slash overall energy
consumption by 40%, eliminating hydraulics in favor of proprietary Inverted Roller Screw design for true dynamic control of the precession, and spinning down in less than 20 minutes rather than eight hours, Dometic overcame many of the potential obstacles to installing and using a gyro aboard a boat like Park Shark.
Trosset has been impressed with the results. “The DG3 has been most beneficial at rest in a beam sea because it gets rid of the
boat, and it’s ready to go by the time we get out of the channel. I keep it running all the time because there is no downside. The system is so energy efficient that I never had an issue using it all day without the engines running. I run the gyro, A/C, and refrigerators all day long, and never have any issues. My customers love it when it’s 100 degrees outside and we’re out on deck having ice cream.”
Park Shark has no generator—all onboard power is provided by Dometic’s Lithium-
‘snap roll’ action associated with having two hulls. It’s a whole different ballgame out there when we’re drifting or anchored in a beam sea. It makes a huge difference for our customers, many of whom come from around the globe to experience our world-class diving.”
“While I’m running, the DG3 helps us land flat when coming off the waves. This makes the ride softer, more comfortable, and more efficient,” added Trosset. “I turn on the DG3 right when we arrive at the
Ion battery bank, inverter and DC-to-DC charging system. And these power needs are considerable—as this boat features a wealth of additional Dometic technology including a Voyager 18,000BTU A/C system and two NRX-S 60 refrigerator/freezers. The full suite of Raymarine electronics includes three 16” and two 12” MFDs, a Quantum 4’ Open Array Radar and a FLIR M300C Camera system, all integrated with Dometic Digital Switching and controlled through the MFD displays.
To learn more about the new DG3 for boats from 35 to 41 feet, visit www.dometic.com.
Hooking Giants
May is Prime Time for Halibut & Cod Fishing In Ketchikan, Alaska BUCKET LIST 2026
By Capt. Lukas Brickweg
If you’ve ever dreamed about catching halibut and cod in the wilderness of Alaska - rod bent, line screaming, and majestic wildlife abound – now is the time to turn that dream into reality. Every season in Ketchikan, Alaska, May marks the kickoff to world-class halibut and Pacific cod fishing, and we are ready to put you on the fish of a lifetime.
May Is Extraordinary!
May is a special month in Southeast Alaska. The long daylight hours return, the ocean comes alive, and the early-season halibut move onto nearshore waters to feed. Halibut gather on the underwater ledges, humps, and sandy flats, areas that we know like the backs of our hands, ranging from 200-400 feet.
At the same time, hungry Pacific cod patrol the same bottom structure, adding an action-packed bonus to every trip. “Alaska cod fishing chaos” is the best way to describe this seasonal bite. There are no limits on retaining Pacific cod, allowing anglers to bring home huge hauls of cod and halibut. This means you can often pull up a mixed bag of halibut, cod, and rockfish - making for one of the most productive and delicious fishing experiences anywhere in the world.
What To Expect
A typical trip with Ketchikan’s Finest Charters starts at either 7am or 12pm. We head out on our brand new covered cabin Alaskan charter boats, conveniently located next to the richest fishing grounds, ensuring you maximize your time on the water and hit the hot spots faster! Ketchikan’s most experienced captains will anchor or drift on productive bottoms where the sonar looks like a high score on an arcade game. While fishing, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning Alaska scenery including mountain fjords, whales, and bald eagles gliding overhead. Once we drop anchor, the real fun begins. We use a mix of bait and jigs, chunked herring, all on our custom halibut rigs.
When that rod tip bends and the line goes tight, you’ll feel that unmistakable surge that can only mean one thing: halibut on!
Reeling up cod and halibut until your arms give out is a good way to summarize Alaska bottom fishing in May. Our expert captains coach you through the fight, gaff the fish, and celebrate your hard-earned catch. We’ll even facilitate filleting, vacuumpacking, and freezing your fish so it’s ready to travel home.
Booking Your Adventure
May trips tend to fill quickly because the reputation for aggressive fish and minimum fishing pressure. This combination equates to an anglers dream scenario. Whether you’re flying in for our three to four day allinclusive lodging/fishing packages or on a
cruise, it’s best to start planning and booking early. Ketchikan provides convenient flights, accommodating guests from all over the US. Our all-inclusive packages provide airport transfer, lodging, meals, fishing and fish processing.
The Bottom Line
There’s fishing, and then there’s Alaska fishing. And when it comes to halibut and cod, May in Ketchikan is as good as it gets. So give us a call to book your spot, and come experience the thrill of hooking giants where every trip is a story worth telling.
Book your "Bucket List" trip to Alaska with Capt. Lukas Brickweg, of Ketchikan’s Finest Fishing Charters, at ketchikanfishingtrips.com, call (907) 617-4717 or email ketchikanfishingtrips@gmail.com.
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.
ADJUSTING TO POST-FRONT FLORIDA BASS
When a powerful cold front sweeps across Florida, bass fishing conditions can shift dramatically overnight. A reliable shallow bite can vanish by the following morning as water temperatures plummet, skies clear, and previously gentle south winds turn into chilly gusts from the north, stripping warmth from the lakes. Consistency as a Florida angler hinges on knowing how to adjust your approach after these fronts move through.
My first reminder after a cold front is simple: the fish haven’t gone anywhere— they’ve just changed their mood and location. Florida-strain largemouth bass dislike cold, high-pressure weather, so they slide off the banks, tuck tighter into cover, or suspend near feeding areas. Recognizing these subtle changes can turn a challenging day into a productive one.
Returning to productive spots after a front, I slow down and target slightly deeper water. If I had success with moving baits in two feet of water before, I’ll now fish four or five feet deep with more subtle lures. This is when I rely on my confidence baits— especially the soft plastics from Bait Cave Customs. Their stick baits and finesse worms are essential for my cold-front strategy. I’ll drag one slowly on a shaky head or Texas rig along grass lines, letting Bait Cave’s lifelike action do the work. That realistic movement and high-quality construction make a big difference during tougher bites.
Another important tactic is seeking stable water temperatures. Since Florida lakes are shallow and cool down quickly in the wind, I spend extra time searching for protected areas—canals, marinas, or creek arms—that retain warmth longer. Even a slight increase of a couple degrees can spark fish activity. I’ve often seen a quiet stretch come alive after the sun heats it up by midday.
If you’re fishing grass-rich lakes like Toho, Kissimmee, or Okeechobee, concentrate on dense vegetation near deeper water—look for hydrilla edges, reeds, or mats. These zones trap heat and provide bass a sense of safety. I love flipping a Bait Cave Customs creature bait into that thick stuff with a heavy rod and braid, staying alert for subtle bites that follow a cold front.
As the day warms and the barometric pressure stabilizes, don’t rule out reaction
PRO
ANGLER
JOEY BLOOM
baits. A suspending jerkbait or lipless crankbait can entice suspended fish that aren’t chasing much else.
Florida cold fronts can be humbling, but they also teach adaptability. Every front is a learning opportunity. Be patient, trust your instincts, and use your confidence baits— my favorites are Bait Cave Customs soft plastics and the gear I pick up from Copper
State Tackle’s new Inverness, Florida location. Check out their shop—they have everything you need to stay prepared for any conditions.
Joey Bloom is a 2024-2025 National Professional Fishing League Tournament Pro. Follow his fishing and fun on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube at Joey Bloom Fishing.
Lightweight, Ultra-Portable Roll-Up Fishing Boat
The Sea Eagle® Stealth Stalker™ 10 is now available with a lightweight, super portable, high pressure drop stitch floor. With this new inflatable floor, the total weight of the boat is 13 pounds less than the traditional wooden floorboard. The floor rolls up with the boat making transporting and storing a breeze. The seats attach with 4 double d-ring straps for quick & easy set up. Use the STS10 with 1 or 2 anglers in bays, lakes, rivers, salt marshes - wherever the fish are.
New STS10 Pro Lite Package includes everything you see below plus a storage bag for the boat, pump and repair kit. Add an electric or gas motor up to 4 hp.
SPEND LESS TIME ON TASKS More Time Fishing
It’s no fish tale when you run with a John Deere. You can get everything done faster and easier, so you get more time on the water. Plus, our special offers make them the catch of the day.
Murrells Inlet South Carolina's Best Fishing—and Golfing!
By CAM Staff
Murrells Inlet, S.C. has always been a fishing town. Long before Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand began drawing tourists to experience the beaches, shopping, golf and nightlife that have made it famous, Murrells Inlet was a fishing village. And it’s no wonder. The inlet itself is an inshore angler’s dream. It’s an enclosed system, one of very few inlets on the east coast free from the influence of the Intracoastal Waterway or coastal rivers. There’s no dirty water flowing in from upstream, and this system of marshes and backwaters is a completely saltwater environment, with no freshwater pumping in to reduce salinity. The
result is excellent fishing and exploration of backwater creeks for speckled trout, redfish and the doormat flounder that Murrells Inlet has gained a reputation for.
Another thing the area has a well-earned reputation for is huge red drum, which hang out around the jetties to provide anglers with the bulldog runs only a big bull red can provide. It’s some of the best red fishing on the east coast, with fish in the 20- to 40-pound range arriving in numbers in both spring and fall.
For those who don’t mind a short boat ride to fill the cooler, there are numerous nearshore reefs that can be easily accessed with a half-day trip and a run of less than 5 miles. Mackerel, sharks, black sea bass, reds, flounder, bluefish, spadefish and more make
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for an exciting outing even for the family, and you’ll come back with a cooler full of delicious fish.
Out to 15 or 30 miles, there is also excellent trolling for king and Spanish mackerel, cobia and amberjack, as well as bottom fishing for snappers, groupers and sea bass. But those who want to get serious should look into a
full-day trip to the Gulf Stream. From 55 to 70 miles offshore, opportunities for tuna, dolphin, wahoo, marlin and sailfish abound. Trolling the Gulf Stream for biggame species off the lower end of the Grand Strand is tough to beat anywhere.
So… it’s easy to see why Murrells Inlet has always been a fishing village, and perhaps the best way to experience it is from a base camp at the Inlet Sports Lodge. Located at the heart of Murrells Inlet, the Inlet Sports Lodge is a comfortable and classy boutique hotel that caters to anglers and golfers with the finest amenities in the area. It’s minutes away from three
marinas, works closely with the area’s best charter captains and can accommodate boats up to 25 feet. There’s a fish cleaning room for prep, as well as gas and charcoal grills available in the courtyard to cook your
Or, for those who’d rather let someone else do the cooking, the COSTA Coastal Kitchen and Bar on-site offers up fine, fresh Italian and seafood fare. There are also several other restaurants nearby that prepare the kind of delicious right-out-of-the-water dishes that have made Murrells Inlet the “Seafood Capital of South
And don’t forget the golf. If days on the water paired with days on the links sounds like the perfect way to relax, the Inlet Sports Lodge has you covered. With golf packages booking a wide variety of the Grand Strand’s famous courses, there’s more golf than you can swing a stick at, including two award-winning courses with the same ownership as the Inlet Sports Lodge. Caledonia Golf & Fish Club and True Blue Plantation are two of the finest courses in the area as well as the nation.
For more information on fishing, golfing and the Inlet Sports Lodge at Murrells Inlet, S.C., visit www.inletsportslodge.com or call (877) 585-9360.
Trout like cold water, but there’s no denying the slow down that occurs on most wintertime trout fisheries. When water temps fall into the low 40s and below, insect life and other food sources are less prevalent. Trout metabolisms slow and they go into energy-conservation mode. They are content to hover near the bottom out of heavy current and feed only when an easy opportunity arises.
Tips For Wintertime Trout
That said, fish still need to eat, and intrepid anglers will find joy in the seclusion of a wintertime trout stream. Here are some tips to raise the odds of a great wintertime trout trip. Dress warmly, wade carefully and savor the taste of the ice you suck from your rod guides.
1) Choose Destinations Wisely: Winter is not the time to explore high-elevation brook trout streams. Instead, float a tailwater, where water temps are consistent year-round, or go to lower elevation streams that are a bit warmer. For a target-rich environment, try out a delayed-harvest fishery. They are stocked heavily through the cooler months.
2) Fish Warm Spells: Two or three days of consistently warmer weather are primetime in terms of winter trout fishing. Everything
By TAM Staff
in the stream, from the trout to the bugs and baitfish they eat, perks up.
By the same logic, the best bite is usually during the warmest part of the day. Sun warms the shallows, bringing out the tiny little midges, black stoneflies and blue-winged olives that are wintertime staples. Even if the action is subsurface, trout will take advantage of easy feeding opportunities.
3) Fish Meticulously: Unless trout are visibly rising, subsurface is the way to go. Turn your attention away from the riffles where rainbows pop dry flies in spring, and look to the deeper, slower runs. Pick them apart with nymph rigs. Keep in mind that most winter food items will be small, but fish a variety
of sizes and patterns at the same time and cover every inch of each run vertically and horizontally. The idea is to hit a fish in the nose, and this is best achieved fishing slowly and carefully. If you want to tempt a giant trout, it’s a good time to dead drift a big streamer with the same meticulous patience. Don’t hesitate to fish a heavy streamer deep under an indicator. Sometimes a big mouthful is enough to convince a lock-jawed bruiser to eat.
4) Fish Safely: Flooding your waders can kill you when it’s frigid. During cold snaps, consider fishing near the truck, where a quick jog can put you in a heated cab if you get wet. If you do go into the backcountry, take a drybag with fire-starting equipment, a towel and a change of clothes.
Wherever you fish, wade carefully, avoid stepping on frozen-over rocks, kick any snow off your boots before entering the water and avoid taking chances like wading deep water or heavy flows.
LAST CHANCE FOR GROUPER ROMANCE
Depending on where you live, December could be the last month for all grouper harvest. I think red and black grouper will still be available in Florida’s East Coast, while red and scamp grouper will be available in Georgia and the Carolinas. This is when the bite is the best. I’ve always said that the week of Christmas is the apex of grouper fishing and I’ll stand by that statement. The month of November was on fire here in the Carolinas. Even though we can’t keep gag, grouper and American red snapper have been plentiful. The good news is the light line has been working well.
The key to finding good bait is a tackle shop that keeps beautiful, frozen cigar minnows and sardines. These baits are the ticket to good bottom bites and the light line going off. Needless to say, live cigars and live sardines are extremely effective on the light line and under the kite, but frozen
ones work well also. Live menhaden and pinfish are always a smart play to have in the live well before heading offshore. If you find live cigar minnows and live sardines, all the better, but if you don’t, at least you have those two for live baits on the bottom and for the light line.
A live sardine or a live cigar on the correct jig has a life expectancy of just a few seconds. This is where it pays off to find a shop that carries beautiful (frozen) bait. When you open up a box of frozen cigar minnows and see beautiful, clear eyes and yellow on the tails you’ve got a box of bites in your hands. If you have a frozen box of cloudy-eyed, mushy cigar minnows, then you might not find what you’re looking for on the bottom or on the light line. If you find large schools of cigars or sardines, it often pays to spend a little bit of time to catch them. This always results in bites, whereas the frozen
minnows work most of the time.
The Sabiki can be the most valuable player of all. Just like you use a dehooker to remove your grouper and snapper from the hook, use a dehooker to remove your cigar, minnows and sardines from the Sabiki hook. This keeps those small needles and sharp hooks out of your hands and it’s better for the minnows and the live well not to handle them with your hands. Don’t be surprised if you catch these fish in extremely shallow water this month. The 66- to 68-degree temperature break can be magical this month for the light line. No telling what you’ll catch. Everything can be there, from kings to wahoo and everything in between.
I said all that to say this: Get out there with some pretty bait and go harvesting some good dinners!
See more from Tim Barefoot at www.barefootcatsandtackle.com and on YouTube @timbarefoot5698.
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OSCEOLA OUTBACK ADVENTURES: A UNIQUE FISHING EXPERIENCE IN FLORIDA
If you’re an avid angler seeking a one-of-a-kind fishing adventure, look no further than Osceola Outback Adventures. Located in Central Florida, just 45 minutes from the Orlando airport, Disney, and other attractions, this full-time guide service offers some of the Sunshine State’s most unique fishing experiences.
Barramundi Fishing: “Fish The Pit”
At Osceola Outback, you can embark on an unforgettable barramundi fishing expedition. What makes this experience truly special? Well, Osceola Outback is the first and only Barramundi guide service in North America. Native to Australia and weighing as much as 100 pounds, barramundi are hard-hitting, drag-screaming fighters that love to leap out of the water to display their power. The property is a working farm, ensuring that no angler goes home without hooking up multiple times. It’s a rare opportunity to catch these impressive fish!
Bowfishing: Targeting Non-Game Fish
Florida is a go-to state for bowfishing, thanks to its warm climate and abundant “non-game” fish. Osceola Outback offers both daytime and nighttime bowfishing trips. You’ll have the chance to shoot tilapia, gar, bowfin, and catfish in the state’s extensive network of lakes, ponds, and rivers.
Airboat Bass Fishing: Explore Uncharted Waters
For an adrenaline-pumping experience, try airboat bass
fishing. Osceola Outback’s custom-built airboats are equipped with 8-foot Blade Power-poles, trolling motors, and full walkaround fishing decks. With seating for three anglers and 500-horsepower motors, these boats can take you to places you’ve never explored before. It’s common for two anglers to land 60+ bass in a single 4-hour trip. Keep an eye out for alligators, wading birds, and birds of prey!
Bass Fishing on Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
Known worldwide for huge stringers of largemouth bass, the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes offers fantastic fishing opportunities. Osceola Outback provides fully rigged bass boats, and their captains are United States Coast Guard certified and licensed. You can choose between fishing with artificial lures or locally caught live wild shiners.
The International Inshore Slam
Here’s something truly unique: Osceola Outback is the only place in the world where anglers can land an International Inshore Slam. This prestigious achievement consists of catching barramundi, peacock bass, and largemouth bass all in one location. With barramundi native to Australia and weighing up to 100 pounds, this is an angler’s dream come true.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, Osceola Outback Adventures promises unforgettable fishing experiences. So grab your gear, cast your line, and get ready for an adventure like no other!
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