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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?
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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.
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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.
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KEY FEATURES:
High-power 100/200W output (DRS12A/25A-NXT)
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Rain Mode separates rain cells in blue from actual targets
Simple installation, single power/network cable connection
45TH ANNUAL BISBEE’S BLACK & BLUE EXCEEDS
$7.4
MILLION,
TOP THREE TEAMS ALL WIN $1.5 MILLION+ IN PRIZE MONEY
Sapphire blue is the traditional color honoring a 45th wedding anniversary. For this year’s 45th annual Bisbee’s Black & Blue Marlin Tournament, presented by HDI Marine, the appropriate colors are dollar green and peso gold. As the awards celebration concluded Saturday night in downtown Cabo San Lucas, three teams—Magic Touch, Rising Sons/ Magnifico and Another Line are celebrating their wins and million-dollar-plus payouts for their catches. The total purse this year was $7,452,775.
Magic Touch earned top honors with a 459-pound blue landed on the last day of fishing, backed by a 344-pound blue from Day Two. The combined team from Texas and Florida is taking home $2,440,850 for those fish, including first and fourth places and multiple daily jackpot prizes. Led by Capt. Kim Manning, the team includes anglers Ken Eberle, Ronald Weisfeld, Harry Esterley, Kieler Gentry and Tony Johnson, with mates Justin Drummond and Richard
Ramsdell. Magic Touch, a 54 Bertram, is based in Cabo.
Coming in second place, although with a slight edge in money due to optional entries was Rising Sons/Magnifico, with Capt. Drake Sawyer running the 60 Spencer. Angler Jaselyn Berthelot, Toby Berthelot, Justin Delassus, Darwin Elision, Garrett Fraizer and Joseph Nixt were the team members. Robert Tyson manned the cockpit. The team won $2,588,675 for its second-place 457-pound blue marlin.
Capt. Ivan Gomez guided the Another Line team to its third-place fish, a 389-pound blue, good for a $1,742,400 payout. The team members included Ruben Gonzalez, Ryan Rodenburg, Ric Rodenburg, Victor Garcia, Arturo Ramirez, Richard Mena, Charlie Carter, Diego Gomez and Eduardo Jose Luis Pereyra Villaburo.
There were two daily release divisions, $2,000 and $3,000, for released smaller blue and black marlin. The three top teams include El Suertudo
(Capt. Greg Distefano/80 Weaver), Meshuga Fish (Capt. Jeffrey “Tigger” Stolarz/Viking 68C) and Buojie (Capt. Zach Lewis/82 Viking). Each team earned $226,950 for their efforts.
A total of 177 teams fished in this year’s Black & Blue. The fleet caught 10 black marlin and 113 blue marlin during the three days of fishing.
“This is an awesome way to celebrate our 45th anniversary, with three teams winning well over a million dollars each,” said Tournament Director Wayne Bisbee. “I wish our dad, Bob Bisbee, were still here to see it. But his legacy continues to live on. I’d like to congratulate our winners and thank all our teams for fishing with us again this season, our wonderful sponsors and our great staff for pulling it off. Enjoy the break and I look forward to welcoming many of you next April at our inaugural Bisbee’s Costa Rica Offshore at the Marina Pez Vela. It will be a total-release kick-butt tournament with all the Bisbee’s flare and fun you’ve come to know and expect. Hasta luego!”
FISH THE AMAZING U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
Anglers from around the world come to the U.S. Virgin Islands to fish our incredible turquoise waters for trophy blue marlin, blackfin tuna, wahoo and mahimahi. And with no passport required for U.S. citizens, it’s easy to plan your next fishing trip. Whether you want to set off on a crewed charter complete with a professional captain or prefer to simply cast a line from one of our scenic white-sand beaches, get ready to reel in the big one. Plus, many outfitters can customize your trip to include thrilling underwater activities like snorkeling.
Off the island of St. Croix choose your own adventure, whether you’re looking to fish offshore for mahi-mahi, wahoo, kingfish, tuna and blue marlin, or nearshore for tarpon, snapper, mackerel, rainbow runner and jacks. Seasoned crews who have been fishing the waters of USVI for decades will take you on customizable charters in search of catching your trophy fish of a lifetime. Some outfitters offer complimentary fish cleaning services, so
all you have to do is throw your coveted catch on the grill or in the pan!
From St. John, troll for big game fish—blue marlin, sailfish, tuna, mahimahi and wahoo—on an offshore charter. Opt for a nearshore charter to catch bonito, barracuda, rainbow runner, snapper and sharks. Or join an inshore bottom fishing trip to cruise the USVI’s deep-water reefs. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice needing some guidance, you’ll find an outfitter equipped with all the top-of-the-line fishing gear you’ll need for a successful day at sea.
mix of trolling and live baiting makes for mega catches, with yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi and blue marlin the most common catches of the day.
About 20 miles north of St. Thomas is the North Drop, an area unparalleled for its big game fish. Book a deep-sea fishing charter and sail over to this corner of the Caribbean that boasts more blue marlin bites per boat than any other place in the world. Half-day to 10-hour offshore bait fishing charters are ideal for adventurous anglers eager to experience the island’s famous North and South Drops. A
Surrounded by pristine blue waters, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is a delicious part of nature’s bounty in USVI. You’ll find plenty of seafood-focused restaurants, from elegant fine dining to laid-back waterfront eateries. Some outfitters even offer a stop at a seaside restaurant as part of their fishing excursions.
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Fall Fishing Fever
FLOUNDER, FLOCKS & FEEDING TIMES
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
There’s just something magical about fall fishing. The air cools, the bait thins out, and everything that swims gets a little hungrier. For me, it’s the holy trinity of the season—flounder migrations, trout and reds chasing shrimp under screaming gulls, and the early whispers of trophy trout time.
The Fall Flounder Run
Ah, yes, the famous fall flounder migration. This is more prevalent in some areas, but they can be caught all along the Gulf Coast. These flat ambushers stack up near the passes as they make their way to spawn in the Gulf, gorging on bait along the way. When I’m targeting flounder, I switch things up. My go-to is a scented soft plastic, preferably the Titan Series from Knockin Tail Lures. Not only are they scented, but they also have a rattling tail. Working this along the bottom will entice violent strikes. Since flounder love to bury themselves and wait in ambush, I keep that lure tapping bottom, twitching my rod sideways, whether I’m wading or boating. It’s a finesse game—part patience, part persistence—and when that telltale “thump” hits, it’s pure satisfaction.
Birds, Bait, and Mayhem
Then there’s the chaos of gulls dive-bombing over shrimp and schooling fish—a sight that’ll make any angler’s pulse jump. Fall often brings bigger trout into the mix, turning every cast into a thrill. I prefer to use a heavier jighead (1/4 to 3/8 ounce) to achieve the desired action without spooking the birds or the fish. Durable soft plastics help keep me in the fight longer, and I mash the barbs down for quick releases and faster
re-casts. When the schools settle and the birds thin out, a topwater lure can coax the bruisers to rise—and few things beat watching a big trout explode on the surface.
Solunar Science and Timing the Bite
As fall rolls on, my focus shifts toward trophy trout—and timing becomes everything. I’ve followed solunar fishing tables since childhood, back when my grandparents’ calendars marked “good” and “poor” fishing days with little fish icons. Over the years, I’ve been both a believer and a skeptic, but I’ve noticed a pattern: my best bites often align with solunar peaks. Now, I plan my day around them. Instead of running and gunning, I’ll anchor in a promising area during a predicted feeding window and wait it out.
On a recent trip with my boys, we missed the morning bite but stuck it out for the next solunar cycle. We anchored near a grass edge meeting a sandy flat and, right on cue, rods bent. For seventy glorious minutes redfish hit every few casts, and sometimes we doubled up. My sons were smiling, the drag was screaming, and the solunar chart earned another believer that day.
So as the air cools and the fish feed up, grab a rod, bring a kid, and let the tides—and maybe the moon— guide your next adventure.
Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures,® and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
SUZUKI MARINE USA SIGNS JACOB WHEELER TO PRO FISHING TEAM
Suzuki Marine USA rocked the professional angling world today by announcing that bass fishing superstar Jacob Wheeler has joined the company’s select group of sponsored anglers known as the Suzuki Ultimate Fishing Team.
As a Major League Fishing (MLF) superstar and perennial favorite of bass fishing fans worldwide, Suzuki Marine has found the ideal match for its powerful line of 4-stroke outboard motors. Wheeler’s long list of bass angling accomplishments began in junior fishing programs, where he captured Angler of the Year and state championship titles. He won the first two Bassmaster Elite events he ever entered. He’s taken the MLF Bass Pro Tour by storm, with 14 career wins, six REDCREST appearances, and more than $4 million in overall career earnings. Wheeler shows no sign of slowing down, recently concluding the 2025 Bass Pro Tour season with his record-setting fourth Angler of the Year trophy.
It was certainly a bit of a coup for Suzuki Marine to hook up with an angler of Wheeler’s success, standing, and popularity around the globe. “We are so proud to be working with Jacob and are looking forward to powering his tournament adventures in the future,” said Brandon Cerka, Vice President Sales & Marketing for Suzuki Marine USA. “He’s a pro’s pro and a proven winner in any type of fishing situation. Jacob is not only a great angler and competitor, but also a true family man who appreciates time spent in the Great Outdoors. This makes him an ideal match for our company, and a great ambassador for the Suzuki brand as he fishes and wins across our nation,” added Cerka.
Wheeler is well known for catching winning limits of big bass wherever he competes—precisely why the television cameras and the eyes of spectators are always trained on him. Now, he will also be catching envious stares from other competitors and bass fishing fans as he blasts across the water in his tricked-out iKon LX21 Bass Boat powered with
a new Suzuki Stealth Line 250 V6 outboard. Suzuki’s Stealth Line of outboards feature an exclusive all matte-black finish with matching Black Chrome graphics for an eye-catching look that compliments today’s highperformance boats.
“A one-of-a-kind motor for a one-of-a-kind angler,” added Cerka. “I can’t wait to see what’s going to unfold.”
About Suzuki Marine
Suzuki is a leading manufacturer of 4-stroke outboard motors ranging from the ultra-portable 2.5 horsepower to the flagship DF350 V-6 with contra-rotating dual propellers. Over the years, Suzuki outboards have won nine Innovation Awards from the National Marine Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA) for motors as small as 25 hp, demonstrating Suzuki’s commitment to making the best technology available to the widest possible audience. Over the past few years, Suzuki Marine USA opened a U.S. Marine Technical Center in Panama City, Fla. and moved to a new corporate headquarters in Tampa, Fla., to be closer to the heart of the U.S. boating industry and capital of the country. Through its “Clean Ocean Project,” regional cleanup and habitat restoration efforts around the world, and company-wide plastic waste reduction efforts, Suzuki has demonstrated a commitment to protecting coastal and marine habitat at home and around the world. Visit suzukimarine.com to learn more.
FIND THE BAIT, FIND THE FISH
November is almost a completely unique month of the year. We’ll start getting the first real cold fronts, and this will pile the bait on temp breaks. Structure on the bottom will certainly hold the grouper and snapper on the bottom, but pay attention to the recorder and the marks in the mid water column. These marks can be a number of the targets we’re looking for.
Blackfin are a given during the month of November, but it’s “go time” for wahoo and yellowfin. The bait can stand colder water than the pelagics. This is one of their biggest defensive strategies, and why you should have a (realistic) jig ready that can fish 75-150 feet deep around the bait balls because the surface water will likely be as much as a few degrees warmer that the surface water due to the cold wind
blowing overhead. Keep live baits out on circle hooks and flourocarbon and try to get some lower in the water column. These live baits are blackfin bombs ready to go off, but I am always drawn to the bottom in search for the grouper and snapper. Some of these same live baits or frozen cigs and sardines on the correct jigs (hint, hint) are irresistible to the fish I’m really looking for. I want the big grouper and snapper bite. When you fish the correct baits using the correct presentation, you’re not asking them to eat it, you’re MAKING them eat it! BAM!
This is also African pompano candy. The jig in the mid to lower part of the water column is deadly, but if there’s no bites keep fishing it deeper and deeper all the way to the bottom, bring it up to the surface and repeat the process.
Atrolling motor will
really help in this controlled drift, keeping the bow forward into the wind and/or current. This will keep the light line out back and the baits on or near the bottom slightly back depending on the current.
This is the bottom line: bag the trolling crap, post up on stacks of bait with dedicated crew for the light line and/or jig and dedicated crew on the bottom to generate groceries in the cooler. This is my kind grocery shopping.
Learn the drill of how to fish the entire water column nice and quiet with beautiful baits and tactics for results. Dress with proper fitting foul weather gear and take plenty of photos and videos you can enjoy for years to come.
Learn more from Tim Barefoot on his YouTube channel and at barefootcatsandtackle.com.
Tim Barefoot
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PULLEY RIDGE: The Offshore Fisherman’s
By Astrid deGruchy
There’s remote, and then there’s Pulley Ridge. Sitting over 100 miles off the coast of Florida, this underwater plateau is where the Gulf of Mexico drops into the deep blue, and it’s earned a legendary reputation as one of the most productive, and challenging, fishing destinations in the U.S.
If you’re heading out there, you’ll need a serious offshore machine. Think a 47’ Freeman or a Viking, something that can handle the long run and unpredictable Gulf conditions. This isn’t a trip for small center consoles or light tackle. Last time we were out there, we loaded up with PENN Fathom electrics paired with PENN Ally Electric rods & PENN International 50 VISX ready to drop into depths that test both your gear and your patience.
Using chicken rigs, we hauled in vermillion and yellow snappers in over 500 ft. of water that filled the box, but Pulley Ridge has a wild side where giant groupers and the occasional “what-the-heckis-that” monsters lurk in the dark.
Pulley Ridge isn’t just another fishing trip, it’s a rite of passage. The distance, the depth, the unknown, it all adds up to one of those bucket-list adventures every angler should do once in their life, especially with a crew of buddies who live for the chase. While you’re out there, you can even make a stop at the Dry Tortugas, another incredible offshore destination rich in history and beauty.
Check out DeGruchy’s adventures on YouTube, only on Bean Sportfishing TV.
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.
Surf Expo Marks 50 Years as Premier Marketplace for Coastal and Outdoor Lifestyle
In the world of watersports and outdoor lifestyle, staying connected to what’s next isn’t optional—it’s essential. For 50 years, Surf Expo has been where the industry comes together to discover new products, make connections, and set the tone for the season ahead.
Returning to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, January 7–9, 2026, Surf Expo celebrates its 50th anniversary with an event that honors five decades of driving the business of the waterman lifestyle forward. The show draws thousands of qualified retail buyers, brands, and industry professionals from across the U.S. and around the world.
Surf Expo has long been the industry’s launchpad for what’s next. It’s where new brands make their debut and where trusted names unveil their latest collections. On the show floor, sustainability, functionality, and style continue to drive the next wave of coastal and outdoor retail—trends that shape what ends up in your store and, ultimately, in the hands of your customers.
Reflecting the growing connection between coastal and outdoor
lifestyles, Surf Expo’s Shoreline Outdoor area continues to expand— bringing together products designed for life on the water and adventures on land. This growing segment highlights essentials for outdoor adventure, from versatile apparel and gear to innovative accessories that move seamlessly from coast to camp.
Shoreline Outdoor features brands and products that bridge categories—boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, and camping—meeting consumer demand for versatility and performance. Retailers will find quality, functional, and sustainable products built for modern outdoor enthusiasts. Think waterproof bags, insulated coolers, portable fire pits, backpacks, multifunctional jackets, and drinkware designed for any setting.
This lifestyle focused area captures the spirit of adventure—friends gathered by a fire pit after a day on the water, paddleboards pulled up on the sand, or cozy campsites under starlit skies. It’s all about embracing the outdoors in every way.
What makes Surf Expo such an essential stop on the retail calendar? It’s the unmatched variety. Hardgoods, apparel and accessories that bridge the gap between beachwear and everyday wear, Surf Expo delivers products that define coastal and outdoor living. Whether your customers are anglers, surfers, paddleboarders, kayakers or simply love the water or the outdoors, you’ll find fresh lines and innovations that resonate.
Surf Expo remains much more than aisles of product—it’s a place to learn, connect and recharge your business strategy. Educational sessions, in-booth demos and networking events offer valuable insights into consumer behavior, merchandising and market trends.
Join them January 7–9, 2026 as they celebrate 50 years of Surf Expo—and experience firsthand why this show continues to be the heartbeat of the coastal and outdoor lifestyle industry.
Qualified retail buyers register for free before 12/24 at surfexpo.com
By Costa Rica Pro Staff
World-class sportfishing and the sexy big-game species get a lot of attention on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and for good reason.
However, the inshore fishing can be just exciting. It is action-packed and diverse, utilizing different techniques to target more than a dozen different species.
The main target of inshore anglers in Costa Rica is the hard-hitting and powerful roosterfish. They will smash artificials, and even topwater plugs, but the easiest way to catch them is with live bait. We bridle a live runner, sardine, lookdown or even a skipjack tuna on a 9/0 Trokar circle hook. Slow trolling around rocky structure or along beaches is a surefire way to draw strikes. Once hooked, the average 20-pound rooster is as ferocious as it is beautiful, and these beasts can get a whole lot bigger than average.
We very often encounter fish in the jack family, including jack crevalle and different species of trevally in many of the same areas as the roosterfish. These can also be caught on live bait but are even more responsive than roosterfish to topwater baits such as poppers and stick baits. The lures are rigged with one or two in-line hooks from Lazer Sharp. We replace the factory treble hooks, which makes the fight much cleaner, the fish handling safer and does a lot less damage to the fish. These are fast fish, and quick retrieves often get the fish’s attention.
including cubera snapper, which will rise from 100 feet to smash a wellworked popper. This is one of the ultimate challenges in inshore fishing. They dive right back down to
water column, a speedjig style approach with rapid jerks gets the bite from the pelagics.
Topwater does also work for smaller roosterfish, but the larger ones are harder to lure to the surface. Not so for the snappers,
the rocks, often leaving the angler with a cut leader. Heavy popping gear, with 80- to 100lb. line is necessary for the big ones. We have put 44 pounds of drag on big cuberas, and they keep going like there is no drag at all!
Jigging is also a popular and fun technique we use a lot. Jacks, trevally, seabass, snappers, groupers and mackerel are common catches. We look for underwater structure like rocks and drop jigs ranging from 2 to 9 ounces. The jigs are rigged with a pair of the new Eagle Claw Trokar assist hooks. On and close to the bottom, a slow jigging pace interests the snappers, groupers and seabass. As you move
Bottom fishing is also an option we sometimes use for an even larger variety of fish. Costa Rica does have some big bottom fish like giant grouper, broomtail grouper, cubera snapper and big stingrays. Live or dead bait gets the job done.
Snook can be found in and around river mouths and are a fun species to target. Live bait works, but artificials like a small stick baits or jigs are more common and more fun. Wazo jigs with a Mr. Twister tail and a Trokar hook have resulted in many double-digit snook.
If you haven’t tried inshore fishing in Costa Rica, take the time to try it. It’s great fun.
Contact Pro Staff Costa Rica at (506) 6074-7955, email bufeten@hotmail.com or visit them on Facebook.
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/
TWO SIDES OF THE CHEROKEE
Trout Fishing the Wild Waters of East Tennessee
By Julie Graham
The Cherokee National Forest offers some of the best freestone trout fishing in the Southeast. Spanning 650,000 acres across the Southern Appalachians, it’s the largest block of public land in Tennessee and it’s divided neatly in two by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
On the north side, mountain streams tumble through hemlock hollows toward Cosby. To the south, the waters of Citico Creek cut deep through wilderness ridges near the Unicoi Mountains. Together, they showcase the Cherokee’s range. From roadside creeks to backcountry runs, the forest offers anglers a taste of freestone Tennessee trout water.
Cosby Creek: Northern Solitude
Outside the Park: Below the Great Smoky Mountains National Park boundary, Cosby Creek winds through the community of Cosby, Tennessee, offering accessible trout water without the added park permit. These lower stretches are regularly stocked by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency
(TWRA) and can provide productive fishing throughout spring and fall. While access is somewhat limited, anglers will find several bridges and pull-offs along Highway 32 where they can wade in. The streambed is rocky and slick, with plenty of boulder pockets and undercut banks — good traction and careful footing are essential. Expect stocked rainbows with the occasional brown trout.
Primary Access:
• Highway 32 (Cosby Highway): Several pull-offs and bridge crossings provide the best public access.
• Foothills Parkway Spur: Small turnouts near the park entrance sometimes offer creekside entry points.
• Bridge at Lower Cosby Road: Good wading access and parking nearby.
Tips for
Success:
• Check TWRA’s weekly stocking report before your trip for the most recent releases.
• Focus on deep runs and boulder pockets where stocked rainbows hold.
• Early morning and late afternoon offer
the best bite, especially after light rain.
• The streambed is rocky and slippery — wear felt or rubber-soled wading boots and use a wading staff for safety.
• Tennessee fishing license with trout stamp required.
Inside the Park:
Within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cosby Creek flows clear and cold through shaded forest near Cosby Campground. The park section is ideal for bank fishing and light wading, especially for those who prefer easy access close to trails and picnic areas. Brook trout dominate the upper reaches, while rainbows hold in the deeper pools below. A Tennessee fishing license and National Park Service trout permit are required.
Citico Creek: Wilderness Water
To the south, Citico Creek drains more than 20,000 acres of rugged country on the western edge of the Cherokee. Fed by the north and south forks rising in the Unicoi Mountains, Citico offers a blend of stocked and wild trout
water — ideal for anglers who like a mix of easy access and adventure.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency regularly stocks Citico from Little Citico Creek to the Citico Creek Wilderness boundary, while the upper forks hold self-sustaining populations of wild rainbows and browns.
• Access: The Warden Fields trailhead offers parking and footpaths to the stream. Try fishing near the Pine Ridge Trail bridge for deep runs and structure.
• Species: Brown and rainbow trout, plus the occasional smallmouth or catfish.
• Season: Open year-round, with fall offering the best combination of cool water and solitude.
• Licenses: A TWRA fishing license with trout stamp and Citico/ Tellico trout permits are required. Pick one up online or at Tellico Outfitters in Tellico Plains, Sloan’s in Vonore, or Walmart stores in Madisonville or Sweetwater.
The Cherohala Skyway marks the southern edge of the Citico Creek watershed, and just driving it is worth the trip — sweeping vistas, fiery fall colors, and the sound of water around every bend.
Fall Fishing Tips
• Match the Hatch: Early fall favors terrestrials; by late October, go small with bluewinged olives, midges, and caddis emergers.
• Go Light: Clear, low flows call for 6X or 7X tippet and longer casts.
Autumn is prime time on both sides of the Cherokee National Forest. Water temperatures drop, trout feed hard before winter, and the hardwood ridges turn to flame.
• Mind the Leaves: Drift leaves can snag a line — look for deeper pools below riffles where trout hold under cover.
• Start Late: Cooler nights mean fishing
often improves mid-morning as the water warms slightly.
Whether you are sight-casting to a wary brookie or swinging a streamer through a shaded pool, fall fishing in the Cherokee delivers both challenges and rewards.
Know Before You Go
• Check TWRA’s weekly stocking report before your trip for the most recent releases.
• Leave No Trace: These are free-flowing mountain rivers. Pack out trash, handle fish carefully, and protect fragile streambeds.
• Pets: Leashed pets are allowed on trails and along streams — just keep them clear of other anglers.
The Takeaway
From Cosby Creek’s quiet hollows to Citico’s rugged runs, the Cherokee National Forest offers a full spectrum of Tennessee trout water. The two halves of the forest — divided by the Smokies yet united by their mountain spirit — invite anglers to explore both sides of the line.
Fall is when the Cherokee shines brightest: crisp mornings, clear water, and the promise of wild trout under gold and scarlet leaves. Bring your rod, a good pair of boots, and a respect for the wild places that make East Tennessee fishing truly unforgettable.
For more information, including licensing regulations, visit the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency at https://www.tn.gov/twra.html.
Four of Tennessee’s Best State Park Fisheries
When it comes to freshwater fishing, Tennessee has an embarrassment of riches. From massive rivers and reservoirs to small ponds and high-elevation trout streams, the state is home to incredible fishing opportunities. Tennessee State Parks are excellent base camps for on-the-water adventures. They offer amenities for lodging or camping, and many of them are right on the water, with unparalleled access to some of the best fisheries in the nation.
Here are a few great Tennessee State Park fishing destinations:
• ROAN MOUNTAIN STATE PARK: Fed from elevations of around 6,000 feet, the Doe River runs clear and cold through the center of Roan Mountain State Park. Its tributaries are home to healthy year-round populations of native brook trout and both wild and stocked rainbows and browns.
The 2,000-acre park is dominated by hardwood forests and rugged ridgelines. It is a beautiful place to be, whether you’re casting flies or just camping and going for a hike.
• HARRISON BAY STATE PARK: Just outside of Chattanooga, Harrison Bay is a 1,200-acre park with 40 miles of shoreline on Chickamauga Lake. If you’re a bass angler, you know “The Chick’s” reputation as a big-bass factory. It is ranked among the best largemouth fisheries in the world.
The massive reservoir is also a great fishery for smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, walleye and big Tennessee River catfish.
• ROCK ISLAND STATE PARK: North of McMinnville, Rock Island is an 883-acre state park on the headwaters of Center Hill Lake, where the Caney Fork, Collins and Rocky rivers meet. These rivers and the lake itself are some of the best fisheries in this part of the world for “The Fish of 10,000 casts.” If the mighty muskellunge is on your hit list, this is a good place to chase one.
The park is also a fantastic place to catch walleye when the rivers fill up with spawning walleye in early spring. There’s plenty of bank space to fish from, and it’s a great area for kayaks, canoes and boats.
• NORRIS DAM STATE PARK: A short drive from Knoxville, Norris Dam State Park is 4,000 acres on Norris Lake. The lake is renowned for excellent smallmouth bass fishing as well as good fishing for largemouth bass, catfish, striped bass and walleye.
If that isn’t enough get you excited, the Clinch River downstream of Norris Dam is one of the best tailwater trout fisheries in the Southeast.
These four Tennessee State Parks are just the tip of the iceberg. With fishing as a primary draw to more than 40 state parks in the volunteer state, you’ll need to do some research to plan your next adventure. For information, visit tnstateparks.com.
AFTER THE CHILL
By Joey Bloom, Copper State Tackle Tournament
How Cold Fronts Shift the Fall Bass Bite
Pro
There’s nothing quite like the first real cold front of fall in the Southeast. One week you’re wearing a short-sleeve shirt and chasing schooling fish under bluebird skies, and the next, you’re bundled up, watching your breath in the morning fog, wondering where those fish disappeared to. When the water temps take that first noticeable drop—usually sliding from the mid-70s into the 60s—it marks a big turning point in fall fishing. The bass feel it too, and their behavior changes almost overnight.
After a strong cold front, the first thing I notice is how much tighter fish get to cover. Those aggressive, roaming schools that were chasing bait across shallow flats will suddenly scatter. The sudden high pressure that follows a front can make fish sulk and suspend, and the feeding windows get short. It’s not that they stop feeding entirely—they just reposition and get more selective.
For me, this is when slowing down and thinking about the why behind each cast becomes crucial. Bass are still following the bait—usually shad— but their movements tighten up. I’ll start by checking shallow areas near deep water access, like secondary points, creek channel bends, or riprap banks near the mouths of pockets. These are transition zones where bass can adjust depth easily as the temperature and pressure fluctuate.
Baits That Shine After the Front
run something like “Bill Lewis” 1/2 oz trap in a natural shad colors along shell bars, grass patches, or around isolated wood. The key is to fish it methodically—make contact with cover and pop it often.
Another underrated player this time of year is a suspending Rapala jerkbait. When bass suspend after a front, that slow, twitch-pause-twitch cadence can trigger bites from fish that otherwise wouldn’t move far. On highpressure bluebird days, I might make a cast, let the bait sit ten seconds, and only then give it a twitch. It’s all about patience and timing.
Patterns to Check
The best post-front patterns often come down to consistency. Look for areas with a stable food source—places where baitfish stack up despite changing conditions. In reservoirs across the Southeast, that might mean a windblown main-lake point one day and a calm pocket the next. Keep an eye on your electronics, follow the bait, and don’t be afraid to adjust your depth until you see life.
When those water temps dip, I turn to confidence baits that match the conditions and the mood of the fish. A lipless crankbait is one of my first picks—it gives off a rattle and tight wobble that’s perfect for cooler water. I’ll
If the lipless bite feels off, I downshift into finesse mode. A 1/2-ounce jig with a Bait Cave Customs Cave Cricket Craw trailer is deadly around docks, brush, or isolated laydowns. I’ll pitch it on lighter line and really soak each piece of cover. The colder the water gets, the longer I’ll let that bait sit.
Cold fronts separate the patient from the impatient. It’s a time to slow down, fish smart, and make every cast count. The bass might be moody, but they’re still there—and with the right mindset and a few Copper State Tackle baits on your line, you can turn those tough post-front days into opportunities. Pro Tip: When in doubt, start with a lipless crankbait to cover water and locate active fish. Once you find them, pick up a jig or shakey head with a Bait Cave Customs Thick Stick worm to milk the area for those extra bites. You can grab both at Copper State Tackle—the gear I trust when every ounce matters.
Follow all of Joey Bloom’s fishing and fun on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube at Joey Bloom Fishing.
Tennessee’s Mountain Playground
A PRO TOP FIVE LURES FOR FALL BASS— AND WHEN TO THROW ’EM
TYLER WOOLCOTT
When the leaves start to turn and the water temps dip, bass anglers know what time it is—the fall feed. Bass are chasing bait like crazy, and it’s one of the best times of year to put big fish in the boat. The trick is knowing what to throw as the season shifts. Here are five proven fall baits that will help you stay on the bite no matter what the lake throws at you.
Spinnerbait: Few baits scream “fall” like a spinnerbait. When the wind picks up and shad push shallow, it’s hard to beat a double willow blade flashing through the chop. The flash and thump imitate a school of fleeing baitfish, and hungry bass can’t resist. Target windy points, creek mouths, and shallow flats anywhere the bait’s getting pushed around.
Lipless Crankbait: This one’s all about covering water. Fall bass are constantly on
the move, and a lipless crank lets you find ’em fast. Burn it over grass, rip it free when it hangs up, and hold on! That reaction bite is what fall fishing’s all about. Red or chrome patterns are money this time of year, especially when bass are chasing shad.
Jerkbait: Once the water clears and the temps drop into the 60s, it’s jerkbait season. Work it with a twitch-twitch-pause cadence, and you’ll mimic dying baitfish to perfection. This lure shines around suspended bass that hang off points or creek channels. Just be patient. Sometimes the bite comes right when you least expect it, on that long pause.
Squarebill Crankbait & Swimbait: To round out your fall lineup, keep a squarebill and a swimbait on deck. A squarebill is your go-to for shallow cover stumps, rocks, laydowns, anywhere bass are ambushing
bait in the backs of creeks. Meanwhile, a soft or hard-bodied swimbait is ideal when you’re around big fish feeding on larger forage. Slow-roll it through bait schools or along creek channels for some of the biggest bass of the year.
Fall is all about finding the bait, and these five lures all mimic shad in their own way. Whether you’re slow-rolling a spinnerbait through wind-blown banks or ripping a lipless crank across a flat, the fish are feeding and it’s your job to get in on the action. Grab a few of these baits, follow the shad, and enjoy one of bass fishing’s most exciting seasons!
Tyler Woolcott is a professional tournament angler and guide. Check out his website at www.tylerwoolcottfishing.com.
WATCH VIDEO
Cast Away in Grayson County, VA: A Fishing Paradise in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Grayson County, Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts—and for anglers, it’s nothing short of paradise. With pristine rivers, clear mountain streams, and serene lakes, Grayson offers some of the best freshwater fishing in the Southeast.
At the top of the list is the New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world and a top-tier destination for smallmouth bass fishing. Flowing through the scenic valleys of Grayson County, the New River’s cool, clean waters are also home to musky, walleye, catfish, and panfish. Whether you’re fly fishing from the banks, casting from a kayak, or joining a local guide service for a float trip, the New River promises an unforgettable fishing experience.
Just a short drive from the river is Grayson Highlands State Park, where mountain streams like Wilson Creek and Big Wilson Creek provide excellent trout fishing. These high-elevation streams are stocked with rainbow, brook, and brown trout and offer peaceful surroundings for those seeking a more remote and tranquil experience. Fly anglers will especially appreciate the challenge and reward of landing a native brook trout in these cold, clear waters.
For those who enjoy lake fishing, Rural Retreat Lake and nearby Crooked Creek Wildlife Management Area offer wellmaintained facilities, family-friendly fishing, and regular stocking. These spots are ideal for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
Grayson County is not just about great fishing—it’s about the whole experience. Surrounded by breathtaking views, charming small towns, and a welcoming community, it’s the perfect destination for a fishing trip that balances adventure with relaxation. Whether you’re after a trophy catch or just want to enjoy a quiet day by the water, Grayson County invites you to cast a line and discover the natural beauty of Southwest Virginia.
VA ANGLER LANDS NEW, UNOFFICIAL STATE-RECORD TRIPLETAIL
Daniel Seigler went out looking for a couple cobia for dinner with the boys from work, and came back with the new, unofficial Virginia state record tripletail!
While still waiting for official state certification, Seigler’s fish—weighing in at 17.38 lbs. and measuring 30.25 inches—beats the old tripletail record of 16.12 lbs. 28 inches, caught by Richard H. Stuart Jr, of King George, VA in July 2021.
Seigler is stoked about catching his record tripletail, saying, “It’s not everyday you get to see these fish in Virginia, let alone catch the state record!”
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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EPROPULSION
ELITE 500W: THE ULTIMATE IN PORTABLE ELECTRIC PROPULSION
In general, the trend in boating these days is bigger is better. Right? Engine horsepower is getting higher and higher, and boats are being built able to accommodate two, four, even six engines. But what about the other end of the spectrum—anglers and cruisers that are looking for the ultimate in portable propulsion? Whether you are looking for a boost for your kayak or a reliable motor for your inflatable fishing boat or tender, the perfect engine should be lightweight, easy to take on and off, easy to use and provide the range and speed for almost any conditions. It should be self-contained, so you don’t have to deal with lugging around a fuel tank, or even have to purchase and safely store gasoline on your boat. Electric propulsion is the way to go,
but no one has really gotten the right combination of affordability,
top speed to over five miles per hour. With multiple charging options, including 110/220V AC, 12V DC and solar with the use of optional ePropulsion converters, the eLite can be fully
charged in around four hours. For added capability and convenience, the engine includes a USB-C output that allows users to charge and power other electrical devices.
At just under three-feet in length and weighing 14.7-pounds including the built-in battery, the eLite stores easily and the one-click quick-release bracket allows for installation and removal in a matter of seconds. For exceptional portability, the tiller handle converts to a perfectly balanced carry handle. With multiple trim and tilt angles, adjustable steering resistance and shaft length, and a shallow-water mode, the eLite is completely customizable. Its Smart Battery Monitoring System efficiently optimizes performance, carefully regulating battery level, temperature, and remaining state-of-charge all displayed on an ultra-simple interface, leading to extended range, a more energy-efficient operation and longer battery life. Built to last, it is IP67 waterproof, and is constructed of aviationgrade aluminum alloy for lighter weight and greater durability. In addition, the anti-ground auto kick-up feature protects the motor from accidental damage. Available for under $1,000, it is also the most affordable electric outboard in its class.
There’s no time like today to upgrade to the electric outboard of the future. The ePropulsion eLite is in stock and ready to take you quietly and sustainably to your next adventure.
LADY ANGLER REELS IN $10,000 PRIZE AT ANNUAL RUNNING OF THE BULLS TOURNEY
When Kelee Ballard cast her line into the surf during the annual Running of the Bulls Redfish Tournament, she expected nothing more than a relaxing day on the beach with her husband. Instead, she ended up catching the winning bull redfish— and the $10,000 grand prize that came with it.
“It was my very first,” Ballard said with a laugh. “I’m still in shock.”
At first, Ballard didn’t realize she had hooked a fish, let alone the tournament winner.
“It’s funny; it’s called ‘Running of the Bulls’ because the fish usually swim away and pull hard,” she recalled. “But mine didn’t. I thought I’d lost it, and my neighbor said, ‘Maybe it’s swimming toward you. Keep reeling!’”
She kept reeling, and sure enough, the fish was still on the line. By the end of the day, Ballard’s persistence paid off with a recordsetting win.
A stay-at-home mom of two boys, Ballard said she hopes her story inspires others.
“If I can do it, anyone can do it,” she said.
Record Turnout for Kids Can Fish Foundation
This year marked the fifth “Running of the Bulls” tournament hosted by the Kids Can Fish Foundation. What began on St. Simons Island
has grown to include Jekyll Island’s beaches as well, with this year’s event drawing 333 anglers, including 84 children — the largest turnout yet, said foundation founder Thomas Lewis.
“The main purpose of the tournament is to raise enough money to fund a full year of fishing camps and clinics,” Lewis explained. “We’ve already held nine camps this year and have our big Santa Claus event coming up in December on Jekyll.”
Over the past five years, the foundation has donated more than 1,000 fishing rods and $100,000 worth of gear—most of it funded through the annual tournament. Every child who attends a Kids Can Fish event receives quality fishing equipment they can take home.
This year’s tournament also featured the highest prize total yet, with more than $22,000 awarded, including Ballard’s $10,000 grand prize.
A Full-Circle Moment
Ballard’s win was especially meaningful for Lewis, who noted that she and her husband first connected with the foundation about a year ago.
“They brought their kids to one of our surf fishing camps, where we taught them how
to catch bull redfish,” Lewis said. “They used the same equipment and skills we provided (Daiwa Eliminator 6500 Surf Rod Rogue Reelz bull drum leader, and a sinker guy sputnik)— and they won. It really brings the whole thing full circle.”
Ballard is also the first woman to ever place in the tournament—a milestone achievement in a sport largely dominated by men—and the first of the foundation’s trainees to take home the grand prize.
What’s Next
As for Ballard, she’s still deciding how to spend her winnings—though part of it already has a purpose.
“$2,000 of it has to go toward the deductible from when I flooded part of the house while my husband was gone,” she said with a grin. “The rest, I haven’t decided yet.”
The Running of the Bulls Redfish Tournament takes place every Columbus Day weekend on Jekyll and St. Simons Islands. The Kids Can Fish Foundation hosts camps and events throughout Glynn County, Florida, and across the East Coast upon request. New camp dates are typically announced after January 1, and registration details can be found on the foundation’s social media pages or at kidscanfish.net.
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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.
BULL SHARKS IN THE LAKE AT SUNWEST PARK IN HUDSON, FLORIDA!
About a month ago I saw someone post a video of two bullsharks eating a dead mullet in the shallows at SunWest Park in Hudson, Florida. Since then I have made it a mission to go and catch one and have put many hours into making it happen. These sharks have been hooked many times by other people, but no one has successfully landed one per the park rangers.
I went there about four times loaded with chum and tons of dead bait like chunks of stingray, mullet, jack, mackerel, etc. These guys were very shy of steel leaders, so I decided to drop down to some heavy monofilament line— which resulted in my first bite and a long fight!
After getting one to my feet—and losing him due to him biting through the line, I tried heavier chum with steel leader only to find out they were too smart to eat it. Finally, I got a few huge live baits and sent them in the middle on steel leader and, sure enough, my line got tight!
This just goes to show you that you never know what’s in a body of water in Florida! These are landlocked lakes that have no ocean access, except for when we have a bad hurricane and the flooded tides were significant for these guys to enter the lake.
Photos, words and video by @fishing.with.guy on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
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