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PHOTO COURTESY OF DUSTIN BEDGOOD AND TRIPS4TRADE VOLUME 25 â€¢ ISSUE 299

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

A V A I L A B L E

FEBRUARY 2020

W O R L D W I D E

1/20/20 3:26 PM

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PENN FIERCE III New updates to PENN’s Fierce III reels improve quality and performance while retaining the great value anglers have come to appreciate from these spinning reels. Available in combos with Fierce III rods, the updated line is perfect for anglers looking for solid gear at an affordable price. Fierce III reels were already known for smooth retrieves and solid construction, with Techno Balanced rotors and full metal body and sideplate. The newly updated Fierce III reels and combos and the Fierce III LE combos come with a number of upgrades. Fierce III reels feature an HT-100 carbon fiber drag system upgraded from oiled felt and a 4+1 stainless steel bearing system. Fierce III combo rods receive upgraded PENN Dura-Guides and are available in one or two-piece combos. Fierce III LE combos offer anglers upgraded machined EVA handle knobs and colorful Winn grips for added comfort as well as PENN Dura-Guides and the HT-100 carbon fiber drag system. PENN Fierce III reels and combos are available in sizes ranging from 1000 to 8000.

St. Croix’s new Avid Surf series offers 10 powerful, American–made spinning and casting rods designed for serious surfcasters looking to beach serious fish. Whether heaving heavy baits from the beaches of Cape Hatteras, casting 3-ounce bottle plugs for Montauk stripers or trying to steer a crazed tarpon away from bridge pilings in the Florida Keys, these super-strong, extremely versatile sticks handle any challenge surf fishing presents. Avid Surf rods combine St. Croix’s Integrated Poly Curve mandrel technology with premium, high-modulus SCIII carbon for exceptional strength, smooth power and increased sensitivity. They sport Fuji K-Series KW tangle-free guides with Alconite rings and Corrosion Control frame treatment for superior casting distance and improved corrosion protection. The Fuji DPS Deluxe reel seat with Back Stop lock nut and matte grey hoods ensures a rock-solid connection between rod and reel, while a custom cork tape handle with machined trim pieces provides a sure, comfortable and resilient grip.

WWW.PENNFISHING.COM

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UGLY STIK CARBON SERIES With a new series of carbon rods, Ugly Stik has introduced its lightest, most sensitive and best handling rods to date. A new carbon technology crafted of 100-percent 24-ton graphite allows new Ugly Stiks to be lightweight and 37 percent stronger than other standard graphite rods while still delivering the timetested toughness that is the hallmark of the Ugly Stik brand. “The new Ugly Stik Carbon series handles like no Ugly Stik before it,” said Andrew Wheeler, director of global brands for Ugly Stik. “These rods have the feel and performance of rods that come at a higher cost and don’t have the proven durability of an Ugly Stik. When people get their hands on these rods, they are blown away by their light weight and corresponding sensitivity and balance.” The series includes casting and spinning rods, as well as spinning combos and baitcast combos—both of which include the Abu Garcia Black Max reel.

WWW.UGLYSTIK.COM 2

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ST. CROIX AVID SURF RODS

FEBRUARY 2020

CORTLAND NYMPH SERIES FLY RODS Cortland’s Nymph Series fly rods were specifically designed for modern nymphing techniques. They are built on a super-light graphite blank, which dampens and recovers quickly for exceptional feel. The low-reflective, matte black finish allows for an extremely stealthy approach while providing an additional layer of protection. A downlocking reel seat combined with a composite fighting butt allows for exceptional balance and fast hook sets. Nymph Series fly rods feature oversized, light-wire, single-foot guides for easier passage of fly line, monofilament and knots. All ferrules and guides are coated with highly durable epoxy to resist cracks, flex stress and excessive knots. Other features include alignment dots, sizespecific rod bags and a protective cordura rod tube.

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1/20/20 10:19 AM

CRB ROD BLANKS

TSUNAMI EVICT SPINNING REEL

Harnessing the custom spirit of rod building, while maintaining dependable quality and value, the Custom Rod Builder (CRB) brand develops exciting rod blanks for any level of angler. CRB is proud to expand blank production to offer 12 awesome colors in the Color Series, best-selling materials like fiberglass and E-glass, as well as improved actions and powers across the board. Synonymous with quality, CRB blanks are the premier source of affordable, functional and innovative custom rod building blanks. CRB satisfies your pursuits in performance, style and price. From the extremely popular Color Series blanks to heavy Tuna Poppin’ blanks, all around Value E-Glass blanks, and many more, these exciting blank options provide the ideal custom choices at perfect price points. With the rise of multi-option rod kits, CRB’s trusted blanks and rod components have made serious waves in the world of custom rod building. From the variety of blanks and color choices, to all the guides, reel seats, and grip options, CRB offers an unbeatable array of components ready to build your next fishing rod!

As one of the newer reel companies in the industry, Tsunami is making waves with great gear at a very competitive price. Their new Evict spinning reel, available in sizes 2000, 3000, 4000 and 5000, is unlike any other spinning reel on the market for the price. Smooth and powerful, it’s at home on freshwater or salt. But the Evict is constructed and sealed to stand up to the marine environment. The Evict’s stainless steel main gear and pinion, and sealed stainless main shaft, allow for maximum pressure when battling big fish. A CF3 carbon fiber drag system boasts a serious 20 pounds of drag to haul them up, which makes the Evict ideal for big inshore species and bottom fishing. The aluminum braidready spool means there’s no line slip with braided line. An aluminum body, graphite rotor, comfortable aluminum ball handle and eight sealed stainless ball bearings round out a durable and high-performing piece of equipment. The 3000 and 4000 sizes come with an EVA knob in the box. The 3000 size holds 220yds of 15lb braid.

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TSUNAMI CARBON SHIELD II Whether you’re hunting seatrout, big bull reds or striped bass, Tsunami has you covered with their Carbon Shield II series of rods. Available from 7’ up to 8’ in medium light to extra heavy models, these spinning rods are designed to be featherlight and sensitive with the power to cast long and battle big fish. Lightweight IM7 graphite blanks, featuring D16 nonotech and a unique carbon fiber design evenly disperses force in 16 directions. While they weigh little, these rods are up to whatever you want to do with them, whether its live baiting big snook or working topwater baits for seatrout. They feature quality Fuji K guides and Fazlite inserts, premium cork grips and an anodized aluminum reel seat with stainless steel hoods and custom locking ring.

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OKUMA EPIXOR XT SPINNING REEL Okuma Epixor XT reels—the next generation in a long-standing family of technologically advanced Okuma spinning reels—come loaded with exclusive technologies that anglers will appreciate. These reels offer high-end performance to price-conscious anglers. Lightweight C-40X carbon fiber composite construction provides exceptional feel and anti-corrosive durability. Okuma’s exclusive Tortion Control Armor and a slow oscillation system reduce twisting and ensure proper line lay, which allows smooth casts and fewer line issues. A 1-K woven carbon fiber drag knob has progressive drag setting without adding weight, and Japanese oiled felt drag washers perform smoothly with a big fish on the line. Other advanced features include: Okuma’s Centrifugal Disc Bail; precision machine-cut brass pinion gear; heavyduty solid aluminum bail wire; Rigid aluminum handle arm; comfortable ergo grip; RESII, computer balanced Rotor Equalizing System; Stainless steel bearings; Quick-Set anti-reverse bearing; Cyclonic Flow Rotor technology; and a machined aluminum, 2-tone anodized spool with LCS lip. There isn’t a more technologically advanced reel available anywhere near Okuma’s price point for Epixor XT reels.

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itchin’ tubes exploded in popularity following Denny Brauer’s 1998 Bassmaster Classic victory. A month before the tournament, the legendary shallow-water pitcher/flipper was on a solid summertime jig bite on a shallow flat of North Carolina’s High Rock Lake. When the jig stopped producing during Classic week, he reached for a 3.5-inch tube and discovered the fish wanted something a little different. Brauer won the 1998 Classic pitchin’ tubes. The technique has been a mainstay ever since. Unlimited Seasonal Use Tubes get bites when nothing else will, and there are no seasonal limitations. Brauer’s win came in early August in hot shallow water. I recently caught bass on a Big Bite Bait Tour Flipping Tube from the frigid winter waters of northeastern Oklahoma.

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“I think it’s definitely a year-round bait,” said Brauer. “As anglers, we initially got conditioned to think tubes were a spawning-season bait. But shoot, it’s very productive year-round. As much as anything, it’s simply a finesse tool to pitch anytime the conditions call for it.” Hook Size And Rigging Are Critical I gravitate toward the 3.5-inch tube rigged with a 3/0 Mustad hook. Following his Classic win on the 3.5-inch tube, Brauer had Strike King design a larger 4.5-inch tube so he could match it with a larger 4/0 Mustad hook he felt would put more fish in the boat. Pitch the size you’re comfortable with, but be sure to match tube size to hook size. A 3.5-inch tube demands a 3/0 hook. A 4- or 4.5-inch tube marries best to a 4/0 hook. And DO NOT bury the hook point into the tube. Instead, Texas rig it with the hook point level on the back of the tube. You’ll land more fish, and it will still perform relatively snag-free. Rattles And Weight Some people love rattles; some people hate them. I stuff a glass rattle inside the body of my tubes most of the time. Line size and worm-weight size are also personal preferences determined by water clarity and the fall rate bass seem to favor. A lot of anglers use 20-pound test with a ¼-ounce weight. Brauer goes meatier with 3/8- or ½-ounce weight and 25-pound Seaguar fluorocarbon. I’ve caught bass for years with a 1/8-ounce weight and 15-pound old-school Big Game. Watch The Line You must be vigilant in watching your line where it meets the water after every single pitch or flip. Very seldom do bass just thump a tube. It’s like they’re eating a potato chip rather than chomping a bite of rib eye. Often the line will just stop falling, and you need to set the hook! Still Charting Hits Lures are like country music artists. Some bust onto the scene, score a couple hits, and soon fade from popularity. Others prove that true talent never goes away. Pitchin’ tubes are whole lot like George Strait or Reba McEntire. They were mega stars at the time Brauer won the ’98 Classic, and they’re still playing to sell out crowds 20 years later.

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1/20/20 10:19 AM

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

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FEBRUARY 2020

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By Nick Carter

here’s a daytime swordfish bite developing in the northern Gulf of Mexico off Alabama. The fish have always been there, but few anglers have figured out how to catch them when the sun is out. Dustin Bedgood, aka Capt. Fed, of Orange Beach’s FED UP Charters, has spent several years learning the area’s daytime deep-water fishery. Drawing from successful captains in wellknown deep-drop locations off south Florida and Venice, Louisiana, Capt. Fed adapted techniques to a point where he’s consistent enough to take charter clients to catch swordfish. The fishery is productive just off the continental shelf about an hour and a half ride from the Alabama coast aboard Capt. Fed’s 33-foot Freeman. During daylight hours, swordfish hang out past where the bottom drops precipitously from 200 feet into 1,000-foot depths. This is where anglers can expect a typical day of four or five swordfish bites with one fish landed. The weights average about 120 pounds, with a top-end over 300 pounds. While the fish aren’t as big as in south Florida, a 150-pound sword is more than most anglers want to handcrank from those depths, anyway. “They’re a very intense fish,” said Capt. Fed. “They can hurt you very easily.” The keys to the fishery are bottom structure, the right gear and good bait. Capt. Fed fishes in 1,000 to 3,000 feet of water, and always around some type of structure. “Whether it’s a nipple, a ledge, a canyon or a salt dome, that’s where the swordfish are,” he said. “All it takes is some little feature that changes the currents and attracts bait.” Good maps of the ocean floor and sophisticated electronics are necessary to find the right type of bottom in several thousand feet of water. On top of high-end sonar, Capt. Fed uses custom J&M Tackle Blackout Sword Rods with lots of backbone but a very soft tip. Swordfish don’t just load up on the rod. They slash at the bait first, and a soft tip is needed to

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FEBRUARY 2020

notice the bump when there’s so much line out. “Once you get it set, the rod will develop a rhythm with the waves and the current. You’ve got to watch that rod,” said Capt. Fed. “If you see it do anything that’s not normal, something has happened. That’s when you start reeling it up or dropping it down. You’ve got to tease them just like any other billfish.” Capt. Fed fishes Shimano 50W and 80W reels. The drag is set loose because swordfish have soft mouths, and battles can last an hour or more. The reels are loaded with 80-pound braid tied into a 150-foot wind-on leader of 250-pound mono with a Bimini twist. Fed uses a minimum of 5 pounds of weight, and secures Lindgren-Pitman lights to his leader with rubber bands. Bait is important, and tying it correctly takes practice. After the initial slash, the jig is up if the hook tears out or the bait doesn’t retain a natural presentation. A 10-inch squid sewn with 70-pound waxed floss around a 10/0 to 12/0 J hook is one of Capt. Fed’s favorite baits. While an average day might bring one swordfish to the boat, Fed said he’s also seen five-fish days when conditions are perfect. Swords are very sensitive to the moon, and daily feeding times seem to correspond with moonrise and moonset. Capt. Fed plans trips so there’s time to load coolers with grouper and tilefish before switching to swordfish through the prime moon position. The swordfish bite goes on year-round, but Fed said he’s noticed an April into July peak, which could be attributed to more time on the water during peak tourist season in Orange Beach. And that brings up another reason to fish the Alabama Gulf Coast. There’s plenty to keep the whole family happy while the anglers are out on the water. Capt. Fed (Dustin Bedgood) can be contacted through his website www.fedupcharters.com, at (251) 377-7135 or by email at fedupcharters@gmail.com

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1/20/20 10:19 AM

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GET UP TO 700 OFF SELECT OUTBOARDS! $ JANUARY 2, 2020-MARCH 31, 2020, ONLY AT PARTICIPATING DEALERS

*At participating dealers only. Qualifying retail customers may receive instant savings off the selling price of a Honda powered boat package or Honda Marine engine(s) sold for repower. This promotion is limited to new Honda Marine 40 HP through 250 HP outboard engines, 2014 and newer models, sold and delivered between January 2, 2020 and March 31, 2020 and registered by the Dealer in accordance with American Honda Motor Co., Inc.’s sales registration requirements. Only Honda Marine outboard engines sold for personal use qualify for this promotion. Fleet, commercial & government sales are ineligible. Engines sold under special pricing / promotions including (but not limited to) demo and tournament fisherman engines are also excluded. Honda Marine reserves the right to modify, amend, cancel or revoke, in whole or in part, this promotion at any time without prior notice. © 2020 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. 8 NATIONAL I FEBRUARY 2020 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM THEANGLERMAG.COM Always wear a Ipersonal flotation device while boating and read your•owner’s manual. All Honda outboards meet EPA and CARB emission levels.

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1/20/20 10:19 AM 1/17/20 9:01 AM

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

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The Force ISC Dolly, introduced by Parkit360°, is a compact motorized trailer dolly that allows anyone to move any boat or camper. Available in 5,000 lb. and 10,000 lb. models, it’s a powerful tool that enables easy parking in tight spots without the need for a truck or back-breaking labor. The dolly is compatible with practically every camping, boat or cargo trailer with optional adapters for spring-loaded and Atwood hitches. It’s battery powered, easily transportable and compact. The dolly body itself weighs approximately 70 pounds, making it easy to disassemble and transport in the trunk of a small car. The dolly is built to easily handle both smooth and rough surfaces. No matter the terrain, be it grass, packed gravel or asphalt, the dolly provides plenty of traction. For optimal usage and safety, users should avoid operating on more than a 6 percent incline. Connecting the dolly to a trailer is as intuitive as possible. It can be done through a ball mount, the tongue jack itself or the universal telescopic adaptor. Once attached, it wheels around easily. The operation works with a simple button in forward and backward movements. With an intelligent speed controller, users can achieve fast or more precise parking. At the same time, the motor’s ability to start and stop gradually prevents damage to the trailer from sudden stopping, something that makes the Force ISC Dolly stand out above its competition.

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FLORIDA

By John Saporito

he tide is one of the main catalysts for feeding activity among both inshore and nearshore gamefish. It is also an immensely complicated topic that often frustrates Florida anglers. This is largely because the state is home to all three types of astronomical tides. While the east coast features orderly semi-diurnal tides, which consist of two relatively equal high tides and two relatively equal low tides in a 24 hour period, the west coast exhibits a thorny combination of diurnal (one high and one relatively equal low tide daily) and mixed tides (a confounding blend of the former two). Southwest Florida’s mixed tides are particularly baffling.

FLORIDA

FEBRUARY 2020

The earth’s tides are a pair of enormous waves, roughly 12,000 miles from crest to crest, that cause the seas to rise and fall as the earth rotates beneath them. One wave is created by the gravitational attraction of the moon acting on the earth’s surfaces; the other is caused by centrifugal force as the earth rotates around the lunar axis. The origins of the earth’s tides may not be of this planet, but the enormous differences in tidal activity that can be witnessed in coastal areas are produced mostly by factors here on earth. The unique shape of the continental shelf at various points in the ocean basin—both in Florida and around the globe—contributes to the disparities we encounter, as the tidal waves change course and rhythm in accordance with the hydraulic parameters of the shallow-water shelf. Like wind-driven waves, the tidal waves interact with each other as they reach the continents and are redirected by the seafloor. Sometimes they reinforce one another, leading to higher high tides and lower low tides. Sometimes they interfere with each other, leading to more moderate tides. A multitude of patterns can result from the interaction of the two tidal waves; these patterns are responsible for the astounding variation in tidal activity that plays out in southwest Florida. The interaction of the tidal waves is the main driver of the tidal complexities we observe, but there is also an important extraterrestrial factor that plays into the equation: lunar declination. This is a predictable pattern of the changing position of the moon relative to the equator. It has the effect of displacing the tidal waves on the earth’s oceans, one of which is drawn toward the moon’s position while the other directly opposes it. This creates its own tidal complexities, which are at their most dramatic when the moon is farthest from the equator. Florida’s tides are tough to comprehend, but there are two huge benefits for those willing to take the time to do so. First, it will help you catch more fish. The better you understand tidal patterns, the better you understand the feeding patterns of saltwater predators. Second, understanding the tides will multiply your enjoyment of fishing exponentially. The rewards are well worth the effort, and your fishing results will prove it. John Saporito is a lifelong fisherman and student of the seas. Visit him online at guerillaangling.com and follow him on Instagram @guerilla_angling.

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By John Lidington

an. 9, 1493: Christopher Columbus writes in his journal that he spotted three mermaids that day. Although noting they “had a human appearance about the face,” he laments they were “not half as beautiful as they are painted.” Today we believe what Columbus saw were manatees, though it’s hard to explain how he transformed animals often described as “yams with flippers” into human females, beautiful or not. Though Columbus saw his “mermaids” off the Dominican Republic, for Floridians, February remains prime time for manatee encounters. That’s because these are warm-water animals. The current Floridian species moved up from the Caribbean about 12,000 years ago, as the last ice age moved out. These animals may spread out along the gulf coast and up the eastern seaboard as far as Chesapeake Bay in summer. But, due to

FLORIDA

FEBRUARY 2020

their low metabolism, they can’t tolerate temperatures less than 68 degrees for any length of time. So, as winter approaches, they retreat to southern Florida. Even Florida can prove too cool for the manatees’ liking. They seek out sources of warmer water to keep their body temperature warm and their immune system functioning properly. Since many of Florida’s large springs maintain a water temperature of about 72 degrees, they offer a natural gathering place. But manatees have also discovered warm water sources beyond Mother Nature. On both coasts, the cooling-water outfalls of power plants have become major winter attractions for these animals. In Riviera Beach, Florida Power and Light has even created a full eco-education facility, Manatee Lagoon, at their Next Generation Clean Energy Center. While you can’t get in the water with them there, it’s not far from snorkeling areas at Peanut Island and the Blue Heron Bridge. If you’re lucky, you might see a manatee passing by. The association of manatees with man-made warm water sources is not without concern. The number of manatees is growing—more than doubling over the last 20 years. Power plants have a working life of 35 to 40 years. When a plant shuts down, what will happen to manatees that relied on it for survival? Tracking studies show that manatees return to the same areas they visited with their mothers, even after they are weaned. Will displaced manatees find alternatives quickly enough to survive? The refugium built by the South Florida Water Management District in the Rookery Bay Aquatic Preserve near Naples may help answer some of these questions. A manatee refugium is a warm-water environment in which manatees can shelter. Twenty manatees used the refugium last winter, and hopes are for more this year. Ready to make your own mermaid observations this winter? Contact Pura Vida Divers on Singer Island to schedule a snorkel tour at Blue Heron Bridge or rent an SUP to get on the water and begin your manatee observations. Check out Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website for the guidelines for boating, diving and snorkeling around manatees. Then go manateeing!

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3011 N. Indian River Dr., Ft. Pierce, FL 34946 www.indianriverlagoonwaterfrontcottages.com Reservations and Information: (772) 349-2206 Nightly • Weekly • Monthly • Seasonal Rates Available going to dive deeper into. During this time of year, sheepshead school around structure such as pilings, rocks and oysters. Acting as a refuge, this structure offers protection to smaller fish and other organisms, like crabs and barnacles that sheepshead feed on. True to their name, sheepshead possess a set of teeth that allows them to crunch down on crustaceans that inhabit structure. As many sheepshead fishermen know, these fish are notorious bait-stealers. With this said, there are tips and tricks that’ll put more fish in your boat. It’s vital to fish with the right gear since these fish feed so close to structure. A Carolina rig is the go-to for sheepshead fishermen. Using a braided main line is important for getting these fish out of those pilings. The amount of weight used depends on the current, but a 1-ounce egg sinker is a good baseline. Attached to the swivel connecting the mainline should be an 8-inch piece of 30-pound fluorocarbon leader. This, paired with a 1/0 to 3/0 sized circle hook and fiddler crab should get the job done for those ugly bruisers. Why target these fish you may ask? Aside from their hard fighting ability, sheepshead are some of the best tasting fish that swim, comparable to any flaky white fish. Fried, grilled or blackened, you can’t go wrong when cooking up these delicious fish. Most importantly, enjoy your time on the water with friends and family… and tight lines! By Cory Gurman

ew decade, same fishing opportunities! February acts as a transitional period between winter and spring, especially here in Florida. This provides the right conditions for many fishing opportunities, one of which I’m

FLORIDA

FEBRUARY 2020

Cory Gurman is a junior at Ponte Vedra High School in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. Besides reveling in the great outdoors, Cory enjoys spending time with his two golden retrievers and rooting for the Atlanta Braves. Follow him on Instagram @ fishhunter1119.

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By Dana Burkhart

n the 10 years since my husband George and I exchanged vows on Smathers Beach in Key West, my love of angling has grown from a distant observance to an activity I truly enjoy. We live in Georgia and make frequent trips to the Keys. Early in our marriage, George asked me if I’d rather be freezing in a deer stand at 5 a.m. or hanging out on a boat enjoying sun, waves, music, birds and fishing. I am so glad I chose the latter! Three years ago, George and I joined the Atlanta Saltwater Sportsman’s Club. The camaraderie and financial perks have been wonderful. Just before our anniversary trip to the Keys, George and I discovered fellow club members Brent and Valerie Christoper would be down there conchin’ the same week. Brent and Valerie drove up from Ramrod Key, and we split a charter in Islamorada. It just happened to be New Year’s Eve. I can’t think of a better way to cap off 2019 than with a banner day fishing. We arrived just after sunrise at Robbie’s of Islamorada,

greeted long-time friend Capt. Galon Johnson of GoTime Charters and were underway! It really is all about the bait, and we were not alone in pursuit of ballyhoo. Our captain zigged when the other 20 charters zagged, and after a couple of beautiful pancake casts, Capt. Galon blacked out the livewell with 300 cigar minnows. We jogged to a wreck in more than 200 feet of water with the color of morning rising into a temperate day. Chumming live bait proved irresistible to the blackfin tuna, and they hit fast and furious. At one point, a triple hookup had us dancing over and under each other to avoid tangles. We heard the splendid slap of tuna on deck and were content with six 20-plus-pounders. Capt. Galon bled the tuna immediately, which paid dividends in the taste and texture of our tuna steaks. Sushi and pan searing were on the menu for New Year’s Eve and beyond! Next, Capt. Galon moved west. While trolling live cigar minnows on a wire treble rig over 120 feet of water, our lines started screaming— this time with king mackerel. The reel-dragging fights were a blast. We “macked-out” with four over 20 pounds each. With our pelagic needs met, Capt. Galon cruised south of Alligator to wind down with reef fishing. Each cast of “oatmeal cookie” encrusted cut bait kept the lines tight. Several smaller yellowtails gave way to a 22-inch flag anyone would be proud of. Fearing the end of our charter, one of us sunk a live bait after last call and reeled up a large grouper—on the last day of open season—to clinch Dec. 31 as one of the best days of the year! We all enjoyed a meateater’s slam back at Robbie’s, followed by a celebratory hook and cook with live music at Lorelei’s. For more information on ASWSC, visit www.aswsc.org, info@aswsc.org, and like Atlanta Saltwater Sportsman Club on Facebook.

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Wrapped Up Edges InTents to Take Rough Pelican Yacht Club Billﬁsh Invitational By Ed Killer for CAM

instead of north, which is typically what teams do during the Pelican Yacht Club tournament. Generally speaking, the fish are usually to the north of Fort Pierce when the tournament opens. Price knew a few of his fellow charter captains had caught sailfish off Stuart the days prior to the tournament. He heard some of the boats practicing north of Fort Pierce caught fish too. But others in the same area went empty. “I felt it was a crap shoot to the north, so I decided to fish to the south, where I know the water,” said price after leading his team to the daily award on the first day with 8 sailfish. He backed it up on day two with another daily award winning 10 sailfish, except he had plenty of company on day two. Other boats gave chase in the standings, but Friday’s third day of action was key. InTents was well behind Wrapped Up in the standings when the day began. “When I woke up, I didn’t think we’d be able to catch enough fish to outpace Wrapped Up,” Bailey said. “But we started off with that triple, the caught a single a couple hours later, and when we got the second triple, I was surprised we pulled even.” InTents caught seven on the day Friday. But the biggest sailfish caught the entire week belonged to angler John Clark Bills of Wrapped Up. His 11:30 a.m. Friday sail gave the boat 19 for the week, but the edge on time

reasure Coast sailfish tournament teams are no stranger to rough seas. It’s part of fishing here each winter, as the sailfish migration heads south to Miami, the Keys and Mexico. North winds kick up steep waves. It’s not a sport for the faint of heart, or for the center console. But when it comes to rough seas, every angler and captain has his or her limit. And the first week of January, during the Pelican Yacht Club Billfish Invitational this year, some drew the line at 8-to-10-foot seas. However, those that fished did manage to enjoy the 2019-2020 season’s best sailfish action – even if it meant climbing the waves and facing the wind and spray. Wrapped Up led by Capt. Patrick Price of Jensen Beach and owned by Chris Lazzara of Palm Beach was up for the task at hand. Price knew going in there were a couple of things he was going to do. “I planned to fish three straight days mainly because of the full moon,” Price explained. Tournament action began on Wednesday, Jan. 8 and finished up Saturday, Jan. 11. The full moon fell on Friday night, Jan. 10. Tournament rules state that boats can fish any three of the event’s four days. Wrapped Up fished the first three and sat out the fourth. Sometimes that can be risky if a boat gets hot on that final day. The second thing Price knew he was going to do was to run south, SEE INVITATIONAL .......................PAGE 3

Boats leave the Fort Pierce Inlet in rough conditions on the second day of action in the Pelican Yacht Club Billfish Invitational. PHOTO CREDIT: Peter Tyson.

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FEBRUARY 2020

TREASURE COAST 1

Foltz and Sade Win First BCFA Tournament of 2020 M

embers of the Backcountry Fishing Association (BCFA) kicked of their 2020 season with the first tournament of the year on Jan. 4, fishing out of Little Jim Fish Camp in Fort Pierce. Fifty-four (54) boats headed out early enjoying a beautiful sunrise, albeit a windy and choppy day. Thirty-seven (37) boats weighed fish; 37 trout and 9 redfish were brought to the scale. Zach Foltz and Kevin Slade had a slay day. They grinded it out taking first place with a 5.33-pound trout and a 4.91-pound redfish, a total weight of 10.24-pounds earning this team $1012.50. Chris Damon and Lewis Arnold pull off second place and trout Calcutta with a 6-pound trout and a 2.42-pound redfish, for a total weight of 8.42-pound. The pair took home $607.50 for second place and $400.00 for the trout Calcutta. Father and son team, David and Elijah Young, took third place, winning $405.00 with a 3.12-pound trout and a 5.22-pound redfish.

Backcountry Fishing Association Fort Pierce, FL

Chelsea Hampson and Backcounty Fishing Association President Andy Fantini brought to the scale a 2.65-pound trout and 5.43-pound redfish, a total of 8.08-pound, putting them in fourth place and earning themselves some tournament points. Shawn Ginn and Brandon Newman placed fifth and won the redfish Calcutta earning not only points, but $390 with a 1.22-pound trout and a 6.30-pound redfish. Lady Angler went to Chelsea Hampson with a redfish weighing in at 5.43-pounds. The Backcountry Fishing

CLOCKWISE, FROM ABOVE: First place team of Zach Foltz and Kevin Slade; Second place team and trout Calcutta winners Chris Damon and Lewis Arnold; Third place winners, father and son team of David and Elijah Young; Fourth place and Lady Angler, Chelsea Hampson and Andy Fantini; Fifth place and redfish Calcutta winners Shawn Ginn and Branden Newman. PHOTO CREDITS: Backcountry Fishing Association.

Association is a nine-month circuit, which runs from January through September, finishing with its twoday Classic in October. Teams must fish in at least five tournaments to be eligible to fish the Classic. The artificial lure only tournament gives two-person teams and solo anglers monthly opportunities to win cash and earn points. Redfish, trout and snook (seasonal) are the qualified species. Anglers attempt to bring one legal

fish of each species to the scales for weigh in and live release. Membership fees are $25 for the year. To enter the tournament each month, the fee is $60 per team. The second tournament of the series will take place on Saturday, Feb.1 with the captain’s meeting on Friday, Jan. 31. For more information, visit the Backcounty Fishing Association on Facebook.

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Wrapped Up returns to the Pelican Yacht Club after catching eight sailfish on the tournament’s first day. PHOTO CREDIT: Ed Killer.

INVITATIONAL ..................FROM PAGE 1 seas. The team did catch three, but once InTents caught its 19th. With one hour to fish for both boats, the pressure was on. “We were pretty nervous,” Lazzara admitted. “But once it was over, we were pretty stoked.” The fleet of 22 boats, smaller than the 30 from 2019 because several elected to withdraw prior to the tournament’s start due to weather, wound up catching 122 sailfish on the week. On the tournament’s final day only one boat – Floridian with Capt. Glenn Cameron – ventured into 40-knot winds and 12-foot

14 other boats eligible to fish simply chose not to. Price, Lazzara, Bills, the rest of the team, and crewmen Marshall Busha and Dave Dalfo, celebrated the victory. Lazzara was named the event’s top male angler with seven sailfish. InTents angler Michelle Keeney was named the overall top angler in the tournament with eight sailfish caught. Keeney is believed to be the first woman to win the overall top angler award in the tournament’s 40-year history. The 2021 Billfish Invitational will fish Jan. 5-9.

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TREASURE COAST 3

FISHING FORECASTS

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ell, if there was ever a February to be ready for anything this would be it. I don’t even know if you could refer to this January as winter, but fortunately there are some fish around and I think whatever you’re looking for, you probably have a pretty good chance of being able to catch a few. Last February Cupid was flinging his arrows at swordfish more than anything, but there was a good mahi bite (especially towards the end) and plenty of king fish around too. Traditionally February has a manta ray migration providing amazing cobia action, but I’m not sure if this year the water will get cold enough for that to happen. If the manta rays do show up, it will usually be along

ABOVE, LEFT: Frank Legacki’s family with three sailfish releases and two nice blackfin tuna on a three-quarter day aboard Off the Chain. ABOVE, RIGHT: Bob Brucker and his bother in-law Gary with a nice daytime swordfish they caught while fishing with Capt. Scott Fawcett last month.

color changes and slime lines in the 40-to-12- foot range. Cast R&R Flare Hawks, Gulf Stream cobia slayers and RonZ lures at them for best results, making sure not to snag the ray. Wahoo and blackfin tuna are not uncommon in February either and there were quite a few big blackfin caught this January so there is a good chance that will continue. With the increased numbers of blackfin, and wahoo, coupled with the fact that we do so many sword trips in February, I find myself fishing deeper than

normal. That being said, with the exception of sword fishing I’m still usually fishing shallower than 750 feet. I like areas like the Hill, the Pinnacles, the Peanut and other deep water reefs and structures, I also like to send a bait w/ a wire leader down on a downrigger this time of year when looking for wahoo and also hit the bottom for snapper and sea bass. If you’re not familiar with the local grounds, pick up a waterproof chart from Bill Shuda #36 at Fish Heads, Snook Nook, Stuart Angler or even West Marine.

As we approach spring, I tend to use live bait more frequently but trolling still works very effectively, and in all honesty if you’re looking for a big dolphin, that’s probably the tactic to stick with. If you’re looking for action, it’s hard to beat live bait along the nearshore and offshore reefs and structures just mentioned. Whatever species you decide to target this February, I hope your next fishing trip is Off The Chain. Please give me a call for booking information and questions.

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PHOTO CREDITS: Capt. Scott Fawcett.

Capt. Scott Fawcett

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MARTIN COUNTY INSHORE NEARSHORE

Capt. Giles Murphy Stuart Angler Bait & Tackle (772) 288–1219 Fishing Charters (772) 475 - 4857 www.stuartangler.com giles@stuartangler.com

he winter continues as windy fronts pass through the area to stir up the beaches and river. However, there are still some great fishing opportunities inshore and near the coast. On windy mornings, we’ve been catching most snook along mangrove shorelines facing the sun. These are mostly 20-to26-inch snook that can be lots of

fun using light tackle spin or fly rods. The lures we’ve done best with are Gulp Swimming Mullet 4-inch white with red or chartreuse ¼-ounce jig heads. The Spanish mackerel are still schooled up down at Pecks Lake Beach. With calm conditions, it’s always fun to cruise the beach down there and chum them up with glass minnows and catch them every cast. My lures of choice are the Gulfstream Flash Minnows ⅜-ounce chartreuse color. These February mackerel are the smaller ones that you’ll see commercial fishermen cast netting as they chum them up with glass minnows. The baitfish can be hard to find in February, so the targeted fish can be rather hungry. In this case, chumming can draw fish immediately in search of food. Live minnow chum (1-to-2-inch pilchards) works best and can be

caught using a 3/16-inch mesh cast net in current eddies near the inlet or in the shallows around the islands. We’ve been catching black drum using live shrimp on double hook drop-rigs at the bridges. Mixed in with them are croakers and some keeper snapper. We now carry mud minnows at my store, Stuart Angler. These baitfish are 3-to-5 inches long and survive extremely well in bait buckets or live wells. They are a “diving bait”, which means they swim towards the bottom. This makes them a good bait to fish for snook, black drum, and more under the bridge abutments. The best way to hook the mud minnows is under their chin and out the top of their head, not too far back towards their eyes.

MARTIN COUNTY DEEP SEA

Capt. Rocky Carbia

Safari I Deep Sea Fishing Pirates Cove Resort and Marina 4307 SE Bayview St. Port Salerno Reservations: (772) 334-4411 Safari-1.com

eep in the heart of the Florida winter, offshore anglers will await user-friendly weather windows to traverse the broad ocean playing field, east of Martin County. A Cobia will be on the diverse cast of fish actors, such as menu for all our offshore snapper, king and Spanish mackerel, chef’s this month- like mahi, and cobia, will present this nice Cobe caught themselves as grocery targets this by Frank Orio aboard month for deep sea anglers. Lane the Safari 1. snapper will continue to be found in large numbers and populate an expansive swath of bottom from 50 to most snapper species, will gravitate and artificial reef structures in these 100 feet of water. Lane snapper, like towards coral reef outcroppings depths. Cut baits on single 3/0 hook rigs or multiple hook (chicken rigs) deployed on top or very near to the main structure will yield the best results for success. A comprehensive Visit our Facebook page list of GPS coordinates for over five dozen local reef structures are Safari I Deep Sea Fishing Boat available on a free website called Located at Pirates Cove Resort and Marina martinreefs.com. Print the numbers 4307 SE Bayview St. Port Salerno/Stuart, FL with coupon out and then laminate the pages, so For Reservations call (772) 334-4411 not valid in combination you can bring them fishing with you! with other offers or Mutton snapper can also be discounts-offer valid through February 29th. caught around the same reef sites as the lanes, so don’t forget to set out TRiP TiMES a long leader rig (of 20 to 40 feet of mono leader) with a “grunt plug” as Monday-Saturday Sunday bait, to satisfy the big game angler on board. 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Cobia can be a frequently seen Adults $50; Children $40 Adults $60; Children $50

Rob caught some nice snook fishing near the bridges with live pilchards fishing with Capt. Giles Murphy. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Giles Murphy.

grocery trophy during the days of February and will magically appear around wrecks and reefs, especially towards the end of the month. Be sure to have a collection of colorful “lead head” jigs to sight cast to curious cobes and surface, trailer cobes, especially a pink four-ounce jig, which is a personal favorite. This month’s fishing will be framed by the usual rhythm of passing cold fronts, so keep an eye on the offshore forecast and find an open weather window to collect the salty groceries of February.

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All flavors of snapper will populate the reefs of Martin County, like these pretty mutton snappers caught aboard the Safari 1 by Jason Bourque.

FEBRUARY 2020

PHOTO CREDITS: Safari 1.

TREASURE COAST 5

FISHING FORECASTS

SOUTH INDIAN RIVER LAGOON

Capt. Charlie Conner

Capt. Charlie’s Fish Tales Charters (772) 284-3852 captaincharlie@ﬁshtalescharter.com www.ﬁshtalescharter.com

he winds of winter have arrived in full strength! It will be blowing most days and make it a challenge for anglers to get out fishing. Winter is well established, and you can expect weekly cold fronts to blow through the area bringing windy days and cool temperatures with them. Water temps will fluctuate this month and you must adapt to the changes for

when looking for sea trout. better success. Look for redfish around The sheepshead and docks and mangroves with a drum have arrived early D.O.A. shrimp. and are plentiful out there. Fishing your lures slowly You can find them hanging will certainly give you more under docks or along action on the river. Fish tend channel edges. Live or dead to be sluggish in the colder shrimp always works well. water. Be willing to fish It has been a good bite so deeper water if the temps far. Pompano can be found drop below 68 degrees. along beaches, in deeper Working your lures or bait areas of the grass flats and in slower along the bottom channels. Doc’s Goofy Jigs will give the fish more time are great for pompano with to react to it and will result live shrimp and sand fleas in more bites for anglers. good choices, too. Mackerel, We have enjoyed more jacks, bluefish and ladyfish normal winter weather and will all be coming in with the fish bite has been good the tides and small shiny for us. Winds will still be lures will work best for blowing, and the water will them. Leighton had fun fishing and caught this begin to gradually rise in Snook fishing will be nice sheepshead on a good day on the river. temperature. Have fun this best at night around the month and get out fishing bridges and jetties. Live bait PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Charlie Connor. Remember, fishing is or a D.O.A. Bait Buster will be good choices. The trout bite has sea grass growing on the flats. I not just another hobby, it’s an picked up and we are seeing more like to use a D.O.A. Deadly Combo ADVENTURE! Good fishing!

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Fun. Family. Fishing. Mini anglers Fisher and Finn showing off their fish dinner. PHOTO CREDITS: Lady Chris Charters.

tasty, earning them the nickname “Candy Snapper”. The lane snapper state record is a mere 6 pounds-6 ounces, but their lack of girth is made up by the ease to catch and out of this world flavor. There is “mutton to it”, with some

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patience and practice. Mutton are the most skittish of the snapper species, which always makes for a great game of angler versus fish. These fish are not only one of our top three favorite fish to target and catch but, also awesome table fare! February holds

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e have decked the halls, rang in the new year and now we can fall in love with February fishing. As with all the winter months, we must be patient and wait for weather openings. The targets for February are the faithful and various snapper species. We will also see a mackerel and cobia as they enjoy a bit of the brisk winter weather. All winter we have had abundant lane catches and this will continue right through the month. Lane snapper are as beautiful as they are

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a promise of trophy catches, and the chance to mount a mutton for your valentine. Keep an eye out for cobia as they will be bobbing among the darting mackerel at the water’s surface. Keep your fingers and hands out of the water when retrieving your catch, as the sharks and kings will be coming in hot! As if the weather wasn’t enough to deal with, we will also have copious amounts of predators to tangle with. Who’s faster, the angler or the shark? There will be opportunities to make it offshore and many days when the seas are choppy but fishable. Keep your weather-eye on the reports and make smart decisions on when to make you next voyage. Look for fair days and take a ride of The Lady Chris for a bountiful day on the water and bring home a trophy for a Valentine’s dinner! Tight lines and good vibes!

ST. LUCIE COUNTY INSHORE

Capt. Joe Ward

Capt. Joe’s River Charters (772) 201-5770 or (772) 461-1335 CWard11605@aol.com

veryone is looking forward to the opening of snook season on February 1 and it should be a good season. We have been seeing a lot of snook. The best areas should be in and around the Fort Pierce Inlet, around the bridges and in the turning basin. Live baits like pilchards, greenies or a pinfish

ST. LUCIE COUNTY OFFSHORE

Capt. Danny Markowski

LottaBull Fishing Charters (772) 370-8329 lottabull4@bellsouth.net lottabullﬁshingcharters.com

napper will be the fish to target in February. There are multiple species of snapper and they will be on the hunt for food in Treasure Coast waters this month. Snapper of many varieties will be around reefs, wrecks and structures. These

Some nice size mutton snapper like this one can be caught this time of year. This one was caught in 50 ft of water out of Ft. Pierce inlet on an artificial reef and ate a dead cigar minnow.

should be the baits of choice. However, a select size live shrimp, fished on a jig head will also do a good job. Look for trout to be in the deeper cuts and holes around the flats. Use a live shrimp and free line it or possibly use a small split shot to get the bait down a little and fish it very slow when the water temps are down. The redfish bite should be good as the mornings warm up and bring the fish onto the flats. Try places like Round Island, Queen’s Cove and Bear Point. Small crabs, live shrimp or cut ladyfish should be the best baits

fish will be anywhere in the ocean from the 10 feet depth to the deeper waters of 125 feet and farther. Mutton snapper are one of the most sought after in the snapper family. Muttons can be found near any kind of structure: manmade or natural. Mutton snapper seem to stay in the sandy areas around the structure and are very skittish fish. It is recommended to use a long fluorocarbon leader no more than 30 pounds. Another snapper species to look for is the mangrove snapper. These fish are also found around structure manmade or natural. The difference between mangrove and mutton snapper is that these fish are caught much closer to the structure. They often hide in cracks and crevices waiting for food. Mangroves are not as skittish as mutton snapper, so you can use a shorter leader between five and ten feet. You will still want to use 30-pound fluorocarbon leader for these fish to withstand their teeth and abrasions from the structure. The lane snapper bite will also be good this month. Lane snappers don’t get as big as mutton snapper or mangrove snapper but they can get up to 4.5 pounds. These are a tasty fish with a good fight for their size. They, like the mangrove snapper, will hold tighter to structure. You will catch these while bottom fishing for mangrove and mutton snapper. Mutton and mangrove snapper will take a smaller live sardine or dead baits

Karen Wongken with a nice sheepshead she caught on a live shrimp at the Dockside Marina and Resort. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Joe Ward.

such as a sardine plug, squid or a chunk of ballyhoo. Even a nice handpicked shrimp will be appetizing to these fish. They can all be found from the beach out to 150 feet and beyond just find some structure and put a bait on the bottom. The possibility of catching a red snapper is there, but if you land one, please release the fish unharmed. Red snapper are out of season so they are not legal to keep. Prior to snapper fishing please familiarize

to use. You will want to fish them on a #2 live bait hook and under a popping cork. There should be plenty of action around the Fort Pierce Inlet and the jetty with jacks, bluefish and Spanish mackerel following the bait. Small spoons, a Gulfstream Flash Jig or a Got-Cha Jig will be some of your best bets. The fishing along the channel edges with live shrimp should provide sheepshead, black drum, croakers and even a pompano or two. Also, try the channel markers to the south of the South Bridge all the way down to the power lines.

yourself with the rules and regulations for the East Coast (the West Coast rules and regulations for snapper are different). Each variety of snapper has a different size limit so be sure to know the legal sizes for each fish you catch. Also be sure to have a venting tool on your boat for any bottom fish that you may catch that is too small or needs to be thrown back. Have a great time on the water and keep a lookout for weather fronts!

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FEBRUARY 2020

TREASURE COAST 7

FISHING FORECASTS

SEBASTIAN INSHORE

Capt. Gus Brugger

Pattern Setter Charters (772) 360-6787 www.WelcomeToSebastian.com

he one thing that is certain about the inshore fishing in the Sebastian area in February is that it will be better than fishing north of the Mason-Dixon line where you may need an axe to cut a hole in the ice before trying to tempt a fish to bite. The weather in east central Florida can vary greatly in February and will have a major effect on what you will have the greatest chance of success in catching. If you fish for what you want to, you may get lucky or unlucky, but if you fish for what the weather is indicating, you should catch fish. If cool or cold temperatures dominate, seatrout and redfish are the target species allowing the highest odds for success. If warm weather prevails, Sebastian Inlet snook should be ready to bite

when the season opens February 1. Pompano, whiting and bluefish will be less affected by the weather and should continue to keep surf fishermen busy along the beaches if winds are favorable. The Sebastian River will provide a thermal refuge to many fish species on the coldest days and can conversely be a great spot to fish for snook and tarpon if the February weather is unseasonably warm. Large seatrout will react to cold winter weather by moving into areas of protected deep water such as canals and creeks. Live shrimp, D.O.A Shrimp, jigs and twitch-baits fished slowly near the bottom in these areas can account for some of the largest trout of the year. During the warm weather periods between the cold fronts, these same fish will be found in super shallow protected areas. Under these conditions stealth becomes a must, and wading can further swing the odds in an anglers favor. Live shrimp on a short leader below a small float is a great method to fool shallow water trout, especially if you have a strong wind or current to help drift the bait into the strike zone. Soft plastics and small shallow running plugs are excellent choices for making the long casts necessary to cover the shallow, mud bottom

Pretty little Sebastian River tarpon for a pretty little lady during a warm spell in February.

PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Gus Brugger.

flats without spooking the wary trout and reds. If lagoon temperatures are warm enough, wade fishing around spoil islands, flats edges and sunny shorelines with live shrimp, flies and artificials can lead to some eye-opening results. Use the wind and current to make long casts and natural drifts while wade fishing to catch gator trout and reds that would in most cases spook if approached by a boat. Occasionally, big snook show up on the spoil islands in the early

spring and can be a bonus while wade fishing for trout and reds. Pompano will still be a target of both surf and lagoon anglers in February. Sand fleas and cut clams are the preferred baits of surf fishermen who line up north and south of Sebastian Inlet. Pink Doc’s Goofy Jigs are the choice of serious pompano anglers in the lagoon. Hopping the jigs along the bottom in and around the inlet and around the spoil islands is the best way to target the tasty hard fighting pompano.

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SEBASTIAN AREA OFFSHORE

Capt. Randy Lang

Sebastian Gypsy Fishing Charters Email: gypsycharters@gmail.com www.sebastianﬁshingcharter.com

ebruary is a tricky month to fish offshore of Sebastian. Cold weather and water can persist all month or a warm spell can really change up the fishing options. Cold water (lower 60s) will not slow down the bottom bite, which should be hot everywhere this month. Grouper and red snapper are out of season but they’re fun to catch and release. Meanwhile, other species like mangrove snapper, trigger fish, sea bass and cobia should produce plenty of food for the table. During this cold-water period, the fish can be in tight. So, try those reefs closer to shore, especially when there is a west wind blowing. February is the top month for triple tail out of Sebastian. They don’t mind the cold water and can be found on any flotsam from 40 to 100 feet. If you run across a current rip in this range, spend some time

reefs. Keep a couple baits checking it out. When near the surface and a the sun is up, putt-putt couple baits at mid-depth. north which generally A simple rig is a 2-toputs the sun to your back 4-ounce jig head with a and inspect all big weed live bait or frozen sardine pods and floating debris. hooked through the lips Look for the masters of and add a stinger if you can. camouflage tucked under Make your own kingfish anything that floats. Have rigs with 40# sevenstrand a small jig tipped with wire. Use a figure eight something smelly, ready knot to tie on the following to cast. A sure-fire way is to one continuous piece to pitch a live shrimp to of wire: a swivel; 2 feet of the fish. A weighted floater Barrett Stutzman really jacked-up his family wire; a #2 j-hook; 4 inches does wonders for easily vacation by boating this sweet tasting cobia of wire; and a #4, 4x-strong presenting the bait. Just while bottom fishing in 90 feet with fresh cut treble hook. Add a “duster” cast past the target and bonito. He was sure glad that giant bull shark in front of the j-hook to wind the bait to the fish. decided not to eat him at the boat! half of your rigs for extra Try to keep upwind and PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Randy Lang. flash. These rigs are cheap, just within casting range of the fish. Once spooked they can follow and don’t strike, have someone easy to make, and effective. Typical dolphin trolling may not come in with a live bait or a choice disperse and get lockjaw. Often in late February, the water piece of cut bait to seal the deal. Keep be best this month. If you’re set on warms above the mid-60s and cobia a sharp lookout for manta-rays. Cobia dolphin, go east until you can find come in to play. Usually the 90- will be swarming under them. They some water up in the 70s. Trollers foot reefs are best early on. If you’re can be seen breaching high from a may be better off focusing more on serious, get a hold of a surface temp great distance and often their black wahoo, blackfin tuna and sailfish. So, map and search for the cobes where backs can be seen sunbathing from keep a bait or two under the water for the wahoo and try trolling the ridges the temperature increases a couple hundreds of yards on a sunny day. Kingfish will be schooled up this in 180 and 250 feet. Keep a small lure degrees out of the mid/lower 60s. Bethel shoal is a good place to check month. Usually they congregate way back for the blackfins. If you see for them early in the year as well as halfway to Cape Canaveral in depths free jumping sails or hear reports, you SISA reefs and around the high bar to from 40 to 100 feet. The kings will may want to change up to naked skip the north. The horny fish will slam a need a small wire leader. Target them baits or swimmers to put a sail in the jig pitched 30 feet in front of it. If they by slow trolling and drifting over the air. Best of luck out there!

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FISHING FORECASTS

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Jayson Arman

That's R-Man Land Based Fishing Services (772) 530-8080 thatsrman4677@gmail.com

ebruary means snook fishing. Snook must be between 28-and32-inches with a pinched tail. You’ll find them around local bridges and jetties. Make sure you step up your tackle because these fish do not get big by being stupid. When you hook them, you want to get them away from the structure as quick as possible. There will be a lot of big fish mixed in and don’t be surprised if you get a solid thump from a flounder while you are bouncing the bottom looking for a snook. There will also be a migration of black tip sharks taking place along local beaches. Using cut bait or topwater lures will be a good choice for them. Make sure you go to the FWC website and look up how to get your shark permit if you plan on fishing for these sharks. The permit doesn’t

This was February 1 of last year at Fort Pierce jetty. Live shrimp on a T&A ¼-ounce jig head got us this beautiful 31-inch snook. PHOTO CREDIT: Jason Arman.

cost anything, but it is mandatory that you have it. Wade fishing for seatrout and redfish should be on fire. With cooler water temperatures, these fish like to feed all day long. Having an artificial shrimp or a live shrimp is always a good choice but when these fish are on a baitfish pattern, it is pretty hard to beat a Bass Assassin Sea Shad in the Panhandle Moon color. Also, don’t forget about hitting the lakes for some bass fishing when we have a cool front approaching. Throwing lipless crank baits and spinner baits will get you some good bites.

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KAYAK FISHING FORECAST

Brian Nelli

Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters (772) 201-5899 Brian@tckayakﬁshing.com www.tckayakﬁshing.com

INSHORE: February is a good

time to target a lot of different species. From pompano, jacks and sheepsheads around deeper cuts to snook, reds, flounder and trout along the mangroves and structure. Launching at Snook Island in Lake Worth gets you close to some great structure for snook. During this time the water is a lot colder than most of the year. When fishing the flats around mangroves, hit the

water a little later in the day and target sand holes and areas with dark mud. These spots will warm quicker than surrounding areas and should be holding fish. Remember snook season opens February 1.

OFFSHORE: The cobia will start

to move into the beaches following around the rays, sharks and turtles. I like to have a D.O.A. Swimmin’ Mullet ready to pitch to them when spotted. Sailfish, small kings, wahoo and dolphin will also still be frequent catches in February. Look for these four to be found from 90to-150 feet chasing goggle eyes and blue runners. If live bait is not an option, look to try a trolling plug like a Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow. Check us out Pushin’ Water Kayak Charters on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest adventures my clients and I get into. See you on the water!

Jason with a double sailfish catch.

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FEBRUARY 2020

TREASURE COAST 11

FISHING FORECASTS

LAKE OKEECHOBEE

Capt. Nate Shellen

Shellen Guide Service (863) 357-0892 OkeechobeeBassFishing.com sjmike7@aol.com

ith few storms/hurricanes, this summer enabled the native vegetation to thrive in spite of the water levels. Hydrilla is starting to grow back in some areas of the lake. The water depth on the outside grass lines varies from 3 to 5 feet deep in most areas, and the number of native grasses such as peppergrass, eelgrass, spike rush, and Kissimmee grass are flourishing. With generally good water quality in the littoral zones of the lake, the bass population is doing very well. Big bass are in the mix and artificial bait anglers are finding bass willing to rise to the top and strike on topwater offerings. Popping frogs and other baitfish imitating lures were the choices of those that had the best success. As always, the trusty

Gerard Cryer from Louisiana caught this 10lb. 13oz. Okeechobee Bucket Mouth last month PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Nathan Shellen.

rubber worm, as well as a senko, will always produce quality fish, however jigs and other flipping and pitching baits are providing big bites, try a swim jig or a flipping jig tipped with a blue/black craw imitating trailer. A flipping/pitching approach can be very methodical and is basically a system for dissecting the vegetative cover one piece at a time. This approach is known for producing

big bass, however, you will catch fish of all sizes using this approach. When employing this style, your bait drops nearly straight down into an area and is allowed to sit or (soak) as seasoned anglers call it for longer periods of time. There are times when the fish will inhale the bait as it plunges into their environment, but more often than not, the fish will inspect the bait for several seconds

before eating it. Heavy braided line and a very strong rod are necessary to wrestle the fish from the thick gnarly cover once you have hooked them. The water temperatures in the lake have dropped considerably in the past month with temps in the high 60s to low 70s being the norm. At these water temps, the fish are quite active and can be found biting somewhere in the lake throughout the entire day. Specks/crappie are starting to show up in greater numbers each week, but also are the number of anglers pursuing them. Nighttime anglers will fare the best with small jigs and minnows fished in the Kissimmee River. Fish are being caught well out of the mouth of the river as they move from the lake toward the river and or shoreline grasses to prepare to spawn. Everyone is looking for the ideal time to catch fish, particularly big bass, October through May would be that time. As far as the best bait to use for those big bass, nothing outperforms a live wild shiner. In addition to catching fish, the sheer beauty of Lake Okeechobee is a sight that everyone should experience. There is nothing like a sunrise on Lake Okeechobee, the majestic beauty of the huge lake awakening is just awe-inspiring.

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id you know the Gulf Stream makes its closest approach to the continental Unites States right here in South Florida? This is why the Treasure Coast has such great diving conditions year-round. True, it may be a bit chilly topside, but many are surprised to learn water temps remain relatively warm throughout the winter in Florida, especially offshore. When the wind stops blowing for a few days those who venture out local inlets maybe in for a treat since visibility can be quite clear this time of year. Visibility on the Treasure Coast is quite predictable this time of year provided an eye is kept to the wind. Strong winds from passing fronts during the winter months are often preceded by offshore, westerly winds for 12-to-24 hours before the front sweeps through. With a little timing, divers can take advantage of this short spell of calm seas near the beach

and can sneak in some great dives just outside local inlets. Local beach cameras at Jensen Beach and Bathtub Reef are great tools for watching realtime conditions for calm seas and good visibility. Water temps in the mid-to-low 70s are common and can be warmer than air temps in some cases. A few tricks for staying warm after a dive, fill one-gallon water jugs with HOT water from the tap before leaving the house and put them in cooler. They will stay warm inside for six-plus hours and make for a great warm-water rinse after a dive. Dry clothes and a beanie are a big help and will ensure comfortable ride back to the dock after a dive in cool weather. Since lobster season remains open through March, divers have plenty of time to bag a delicious meal while exploring area reefs. Cobia and amberjack for are also prime targets since grouper and hogfish are currently closed until May 1. These large gamefish make excellent smoked fish dip and can fill a cooler quickly too. Divers will notice AJs around high profile structure while cobia tend to follow sharks, rays and big turtles and both can put up quite a fight making them one of the most exciting fish to spear. Hunters should practice the buddy system for safety and consider floating speared fish to the surface on a lift bag or sausage in order to avoid losing a catch or provoking an encounter with the tax collectors in grey suits.

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By Capt. Michael Mauri

A sample of a couple of gurgler topwater flies.

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ight fishing is tremendous! Sight fishing with top water flies is even better and hard to beat. I have learned over the years that there are many more opportunities fishing top water flies in the saltwater than most fly fisherman would realize. It’s not only a good way to catch fish when you see them busting bait on the surface but also good when nothing appears. There are certain weather conditions that might be worse than others, like big waves and super heavy rain. Other than that, you can fish it pretty much in any weather conditions. Day or night, on a bright sunny day or a fairly cloudy day, it usually doesn’t matter. There really are no rules when to use a popper and when to use a gurgler. I usually prefer the popper for more aggressive fish or fish in deeper water for making more noise. The gurgler I prefer in situations with more spooky fish in shallow water like shorelines and flats. In most situations I start retrieving the gurgler with one hard strip to make more noise.

Let the fish notice you are here and then change to more gentle strips to make less noise but keep a nice wake going. Make sure that your rod tip is very close to the water to avoid slack in your line as well as to keep the fly in the water. If you fish in conditions with bigger waves, you can use an intermediate line or a floating line with an intermediate tip. These slow sinking fly lines are keeping the fly in the water and you are not losing the adhesion. So, are these flies catching more fish? It all depends (always a good answer for being a guide and also very true!) on the situation, how you fish and depending on luck additionally. If these factors are aligned, you might have the greatest fishing experience of your life so go out and give it a try. It is not always about catching fish but also the way we catch them, right? Capt. Michael Mauri www.mauriflyfishing.com michael@mauriflyfishing.com (772) 485-3321

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InTents Wins 66th Annual Light Tackle Sailfish Tournament T

he captain and crew of InTents battled high waves and stormy weather but managed to take first place in the Stuart Sailfish Club’s 66th annual Light Tackle Tournament. Reeling in the win with a total of five sailfish, the local team matched their catches with runner up JT,, who also caught five sailfish. InTents,, which also won last year’s tournament, was declared the winner based on the time of last sailfish released. Basketball legend Michael Jordan’s boat, Catch 23,, took third place with a total of four releases. In all, a total of six boats fished the tournament, releasing a total of 23 sailfish. “It was exciting to see these very competitive captains and their crew

InTents’ first place winners, Nick Cremasco, Kyle Francis, Hector Torres, Alan Sadler, Capt. Rhett Bailey, Stuart Sailfish Club president Charles Conigliaro, Michelle Keeney and Stuart Sailfish Club vice-president Richard Shoup. PHOTO CREDIT: Leonard Bryant.

go up against all the challenges Mother Nature threw at them,” said club president Charlie Conigliaro. “Despite the rain and rough seas, everyone who participated in the

tournament had a great time. The Light Tackle Tournament is this area’s longest running fishing tournament and our club and its members are proud to keep the tradition going. We can’t thank our sponsors and volunteers enough for all they did to make this tournament a success.” The Light Tackle Tournament is part of the Treasure Coast Championship, which also includes

the Pirate’s Cove Classic and the Pelican Yacht Club Sailfish Classic. All boats that fish all three legs are granted an automatic free entry to The Treasure Coast Championship. To learn more about the Stuart Sailfish Club or for membership information, call 772-286-9373, or email Sailfish@StuartSailfishClub. com. The Stuart Sailfish Club is a 501©3 organization.

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TREASURE COAST 15

ST. LUCIE COUNTY ARTIFICIAL REEF PROGRAM:

Managing the Forage Base

Baitfish on Memorial Reef. PHOTO CREDITS: St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program.

estoration of habitats in the Indian River Lagoon and Fort Pierce Inlet is critical to providing offshore recreational opportunities and maintaining fish production on offshore artificial reefs. Increasing sportfish habitat in the Atlantic Ocean

continues to be the primary emphasis in the St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program. Habitat is also being provided for the organisms which sportfish consume prior to harvest. In 2014, Johnny Morris (founder and CEO of Bass Pro Shops) and

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Scott Deal (president and cofounder of Maverick Boats) chaired a commission filled with experts on saltwater fisheries and fishing to produce the report, A Vision for Managing America’s Saltwater Recreational Fisheries. The report highlighted the need for establishing a national policy for recreational fishing, including managing the forage base. The Morris-Deal Report recommended determining the forage fish in sportfish’ diets. Providing habitat for forage has always been important to the St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program. Two species of pelagic forage fish, blue runner, and round scad, have been found in large schools on St. Lucie County’s offshore artificial reefs and other forage fish, mendhaden, bigeye scad, and ballyhoo have been recorded on the County’s artificial reefs in lesser quantities. While studies have not been conducted on the prey items of the various sportfish caught on Treasure Coast reefs, these species are all sold at local tackle stores. Larger concrete reefs on the Lee. E Harris Memorial Site, bargesecondary concrete reefs, like the Civic Center Reef on the Stan Blum Memorial Site, as well as larger vessel reefs like the CCA-Curtis Bostick Reef on the Fort Pierce Sportfishing Club Site, have all resulted in large schools of forage fish. The St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program has also deployed smaller artificial reef modules (Limestone Special modules) on the relatively shallow Lee E. Harris Site (depth = 50-60 feet) which attracted schooling baitfish.

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The West Palm Beach Fishing Club has developed high profile modules (Reef Darts) for enhancing deep water benthic fish habitats. The St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program will test these modules on its deep water (a.k.a. mesophotic) artificial reefs to enhance forage fish stocks. Reef Darts include a 30-to35-foot pre-stressed concrete light pole connected to a 10 foot by 10 foot concrete base to make the pole stand in a vertical position. The point of attachment is strengthened by reinforced concrete pipe. Results of an intensive FAUHarbor Branch Oceanographic Institute study of St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program artificial reefs show that baitfish attracted to Reef Darts are likely to be joined by other sportfish. This study found snook, king mackerel, little tunny, and cobia, in addition to five species of sharks and 22 species in the SnapperGrouper Complex inhabiting these reefs. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which contains the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), has recognized the importance of recreational saltwater fishing and incorporated the recommendations of the Morris-Deal Report into its National Saltwater Recreational

Reef Darts at Harbour Point Park.

Fisheries Policy. As part of its goal of ensuring the sustainability of recreational fisheries, NOAA has advertised a grant opportunity to implement this policy. The St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program has applied for this grant to deploy 40 Reef Darts on the Fort Pierce Sportfishing Club Site. For more information on the St. Lucie County Artificial Reef Program, contact Jim Oppenborn, St. Lucie County Coastal Resources Coordinator, at oppenbornj@ stlucieco.org or (772) 462-1713.

TREASURE COAST CASTERS RECAPS

JANUARY 2020

reasure Coast Casters held its first tournament of 2020 on January 12, hosted by Dockside Marina and Resort in Fort Pierce. Despite howling wind (gusts to 39 mph) and scattered showers, it wasn’t anything the Treasure Coast Casters could not handle! Lots of fish were caught. Biggest fish of the tournament, a 2.8125-pound sheepshead, was caught by Kendrick Forlifer.

Nick Sines with his sheepshead.

HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION December anglers.

DECEMBER 2019

HIGH SCHOOL DIVISION

• 1st Place: Kendrick Forlifer Okeechobee H.S. - 50 points reasure Coast Casters held its last tournament of 2019 on • 2nd Place: Nicholas Rosario Ft. Pierce Central - 35 points December 8. Biggest fish of the tournament • 3rd Place: Josh Richter was caught by Kendrick Forlifer, a Ft. Pierce Central - 20 points 3.625-pound sheepshead. Forlifer’s catch earned him a trophy, a 5-foot MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVISION cast net donated by the Fishing • 1st Place: Dayton Franqui Center. Both first-place anglers in Oak Hammock K-8 - Port St. Lucie the high school and middle school - 15 points divisions received Bass Pro gift • 2nd Place: No Fish Weighed cards, trophies and fishing gear. • 3rd Place: No Fish Weighed

• 1st Place: Kendrick Forlifer Okeechobee H.S. - 65 points • 2nd Place: Nicholas Rosario Ft. Pierce Central - 65 points • 3rd Place: Jeff Richter - M.O.A. / Westwood Highl - 40 points

MIDDLE SCHOOL DIVISION • 1st Place: Nick Sines Northport K-8 - 30 points • 2nd Place: Zach Sines Northport K-8 - 30 points • 3rd Place: No Fish Weighed

The next Treasure Coast Casters tournament is February 16. Treasure Coast Casters offers experiences that educate young

PHOTO CREDITS: Treasure Coast Casters.

anglers on the importance of marine conservation, while maintaining a sustainable and healthy estuary and marine environment. The allvolunteer non-profit offers two fishing tournament divisions, a Junior Division for youth 5-11, and a Senior Division for youth 12-18. There is no cost to join or to fish a tournament. Anglers bring their own bait and fishing gear. For the latest tournament news and updates, follow the Treasure Coast Casters Facebook page. Cammie and Capt. Joe Ward www.treasurecoastcasters.org (772) 201-5773

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ndian Riverkeeper has announced the hiring of Capt. Mike Conner, of Jensen Beach as its Executive Director. Conner is the fourth Indian Riverkeeper since the organization’s inception, following Marty Baum, George Jones and Kevin Stinnette. Conner has resided in Martin County since 1999, when he moved from Miami with his former employer, Florida Sportsman magazine. He was the publication’s managing editor until 2012 and now serves as Conservation Editor and also contributes feature stories and fly fishing columns. He also works on conservation segments for Florida Sportsman Watermen Television. Conner also serves on the leadership board of Rivers Coalition, Inc., based In Stuart. He has worked as a fishing guide over the years on Florida Bay, Biscayne Bay, St. Lucie River and the Indian River Lagoon, and has been an outspoken water activist and welcomes the challenge and opportunity in his new position. “I greatly respect the work of the Waterkeeper Alliance, a worldwide assemblage of over 300 Waterkeeper organizations, and am especially encouraged by recent developments and measures taken by the State of Florida, which suggests greater

acknowledgement of the value of healthy waterways, both ecologically and economically,” said Conner. “I am encouraged that the state has acknowledged that nutrient pollution is also a serious human health matter.” In his position Conner will monitor and document the condition of the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie River, and shine a spotlight on both point source and nonpoint source pollution. Fundraising, community and media outreach and education are also part of his duties. Conner, 63, and his wife, Michelle, have been married since 2015 and have four adult children and five grandchildren between them. Indian Riverkeeper is one of part of the Florida Waterkeeper network, which is affiliated with Waterkeeper Alliance, which works to ensure that every community worldwide has the right to drinkable, fishable and swimmable water.

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Lenny Schelin, Jr. Memorial Tourney Raises Over $35,000 T

reasure Coast sportsmen braved rough seas during this year’s Lenny Schelin, Jr. Memorial Tournament to make possible a successful event again this year. The fishing was slower than anglers would have liked, but there was an abundance of spirit and camaraderie, knowing that their efforts would make a positive impact on fighting glioblastoma. The tournament’s namesake, Lenny Schelin, Jr., was a well-known and beloved mate and captain who lost his struggle with this devastating terminal brain cancer in 2018. Sponsors and organizers of the tournament began the event in hopes of funding research for glioblastoma brain cancer, which has affected many in our Treasure Coast area. Proceeds from the fundraiser will be provided to Sylvester Cancer Center at the University of Miami and will also fund investigation into potential brain cancer causes locally. This year’s tournament was well attended, with a number of out-of-state anglers and donors. One of the boats participating felt strongly committed to supporting the tournament, due to the recent loss of a close family member to glioblastoma. There were awards and cash prizes for sailfish released and meat-fish divisions. Anglers fishing in this division were judged according to aggregate weight of a combination of dolphin, tuna, wahoo,

cobia, king mackerel and grouper. The two top sail fishing boats had five sailfish each. Timing is everything as the two boats had an even tie in sailfish caught. Cowpoke, captained by Mike Brady, came in with sailfish at earlier times squeaking out a win over Floridian, captained by Glen Cameron. Floridian brought in a 21.4-pound mahi, a 14.3-pound blackfin, and a 13.7-pound kingfish to take first place in “meat-fish” division at 49.4 pounds total. Sixteen sailfish were tagged and released, and over 166 pounds of meat-fish were weighed in overall. Lenny Schelin, Sr. stated, ”We are so grateful to all of the anglers, and everyone who contributed not only by fishing the tournament, but also through sponsorships, individual donations or by purchasing an auction item.” Local businesses and individuals generously donated auction items including fishing gear, inshore and offshore fishing charters, original artworks, marine services gift certificates and more. The highest bid item was an original mahogany marlin, handcrafted by local woodworking artist Randy Ard. Again this year, the most raucous bidding took place over the Yeti Cooler full of goodies, donated by Allison and Justin Cain and won by Eric Paul from Pelican Seafood.

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Mike Brady, Cowpoke, First Place Billfish Division; Glenn Cameron, Floridian, First Place Meatfish Division; and Tony Huerta, tournament organizer. PHOTO PROVIDED by Lenny Schelin Jr. Memorial Tournament Committee.

Cobb’s Landing and local purveyors provided live music, food and drinks for the kickoff and the awards banquet. Cobb’s manager, Donna Qvarnstrom, did a splendid job of coordinating the food and handling many any other details, making this year’s event so successful. Over $35,000 was raised, topping last year’s grand total. “Each year the auction has become bigger and more entertaining,” said Debbie Johnson, mother of Lenny Schelin, Jr. “Regardless of whether you participate as a sponsor, an angler or enjoy the auction…the event is a great way to honor Lenny’s memory and to support a great cause.” The Lenny Schelin, Jr. Memorial Tournament is a non-profit 501(c)3. Organizers are already planning for next year’s event. FEBRUARY 2020

TREASURE COAST 19

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Dustin Vrooman, Andrew Garcia and Dough Vrooman had a great day dolphin fishing in November off of Jupiter Inlet with Capt. Miami Mike Feldman. PHOTO CREDIT: Capt. Miami Mike Feldman.

Joe Gorcos caught this jumbo mutton snapper aboard the Safari 1. PHOTO CREDIT: Safari 1.

Olivia Melson caught this pompano in the crossroads of the St. Lucie Inlet. Photo credit, proud dad, Bill Melson.

Susan Edwards with her personal best pompano caught on frozen shrimp out of Fort Pierce on New Yearâ€™s Day.

Frank caught his first wahoo in December while fishing with West N Wild Sportfishing. Pictured with Frank is mate Alex.

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The Science of Sport Fishing. Fish Mapping™ is the newest, most comprehensive service package from SiriusXM Marine. Delivering regularly updated, science-based data via satellite to compatible Garmin multi-function displays, this service is available well beyond cellular range to help locate the right conditions to fish faster – saving time and fuel. Fish Mapping also includes all the weather information in SiriusXM's Marine Offshore package as a chart overlay on your display. It’s great for offshore anglers fishing in tournaments, taking clients on charter trips or just fishing for fun. Fishing features include recommended locations for specific game fish, Weed Lines, Sea Surface Temperatures and Front Strength, Sub Surface Sea Temperatures, Sea Surface Height Variance, and Plankton Concentration data.

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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FEBRUARY 2020

FLORIDA

By Gene Dyer

n South Florida, we are lucky to have access to many fishing options. From the urban canal and lake systems to the Gulf Stream just off our beach, there are plenty of opportunities to get a kid hooked on fishing. Not only can fishing put smiles on young faces, but our sport can teach patience, everyday life lessons and positively influence impressionable minds. Fishing also provides an avenue for young children to develop hand-eye coordination, motor skills, confidence and self-esteem they will carry with them for life. Most importantly, fishing is a great way to have fun and make lasting memories with children. When introducing your child to fishing, it’s important to remember they have short attention spans. You won’t want their first trip to be a full day of offshore trolling. Instead, take them to a spot where they will almost certainly catch a fish in the first few minutes.

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Urban canals and lakes are a great place to start. They are loaded with small fish like bluegill, bream, small bass and cichlids. Local saltwater canals can be accessed from seawalls and will produce pinfish, grunts and small snappers. You can find everything you need at your local tackle shop. Rig a small push-button outfit with a small hook and bring some live worms for freshwater or frozen shrimp for saltwater. Use a bobber so they can get a visual of when they are getting a bite. Once they catch a fish, let them know they did a great job. Positive reinforcement is key. After a few successful outings, your child will be asking when the next trip is. Once your child starts showing a real interest in fishing, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk with the folks at your tackle shop or ask a local guide for pointers. Among adults, fishing spots and techniques can be closely guarded, but throw a kid in the mix and those walls come crashing down. There are also plenty of online resources to learn about fish identification, knot tying and techniques. Now that your little fisherman has learned the basics of fishing, it’s a good time to begin teaching responsibility. Talk to them about size and bag limits. Show them how to handle fish correctly and explain proper catch-and-release techniques. Teach them about the environment and how they impact it. If you see discarded fishing line or garbage, pick it up, throw it away and tell them why. Conservation is essential to the future of our sport, and it’s up to the adults to pass on those principles. There are reasons we call it fishing and not catching. Sometimes fish don’t bite. Sometimes the fish gets away. Use these opportunities to talk about patience and persistence. Life doesn’t always go the way we would like, and fishing is no different. Fishing develops character traits that will help kids when they become adults.

Gene Dyer is co-publisher of Coastal Angler Magazine Fort Lauderdale. Contact him at fortlauderdale@ coastalanglermagazine.com.

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he Spring Orlando Boat Show is coming to the Orange County Convention Center March 27-29. Central Florida’s premier boat show will fill the convention center’s North Hall A with more than 500 boats for boaters and anglers to peruse, along with tons of other activities for the whole family. Vendors will find new customers for all kinds of products at the show. The area’s best dealers will fill the show floor with all types of boats, especially those suited to Florida waters. Whether you’re an offshore, inshore or freshwater angler, or if you’re just someone who wants to get out on the water, this show is the perfect place to get a look at everything out there so you can find the boat that suits your needs. And if you’re into fishing, this spring’s show will debut the Fishing Zone, with 40 booths where retailers will offer great deals on all types of fishing gear, from rods and reels to tackle, lures and clothing. The seminar line-up is also very fishing oriented. Expert anglers and captains like Pete Cammarano, Jim Ross and Tony Summers will share knowledge on the best places to go and how to catch fish with hourly seminars about local waters including the Indian River and central Florida lakes. Capt. Kerry Kline, who knows Florida’s waters like the back of his

hand, will give seminars on the best places to launch your boat for an unforgettable day on the water. Other highlights of the Spring Orlando Boat Show include the Kids’ Live Trout Pond, where kids under 12 can actually catch real trout; the Virtual Saltwater Fishing Simulator, which offers the hands-on experience of fighting and landing big saltwater gamefish; a nationally renowned caricaturist; face painting; and crowd favorite Twiggy the water skiing squirrel. Adult tickets are $9 at the door and $7 with the Early Bird Discount, which is available online at the Orlando Boat Show website starting Feb. 1. Kids 12 and younger are free. For more information, go to www.orlandoboatshow.com.

COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FEBRUARY 2020

FLORIDA

FISH & FISHING

MARK SOSIN

keep asking myself why I didn’t think of it. It makes sense. Basic chumming ranks as one of the most effective ways to locate and attract fish, particularly over reefs and wrecks. Successful chumming demands more attention to detail than simply hanging a frozen block of bait over the side or tossing tidbits in the water. Here are a few suggestions from skippers who do it every day. Position is everything, whether you are anchoring near underwater structure or drifting a reefline. To be effective, the chum must reach the fish. If it falls short or drifts too far above them, it becomes an exercise in futility. It’s not unusual to watch professional captains anchor and reanchor four or five times before they put the first tidbits of chum in the water. The key factor centers on calculating the lie of the boat in relation to the target and the force of the current. The flow of water has to carry the chum to the target at the precise depth to reach the fish. If you choose to chum while drifting, position the boat so that the wind and current will take it over the spots where you expect the fish to be. If the boat is being pushed too fast to raise the fish close enough to the stern to catch them, try using a sea anchor to slow the drift. Airline_Ad_CoastalAngler_8-1-14_Layout 1 8/1/14 1:14 PM Page 1 In case you’re curious, here’s the approach that I should

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have figured out. A handful of captains tie a heavy weight on the end of some stout line and then tie a few bags of chum at various depths on the line. This system gets bottom fish feeding and they start following the chum shallower and shallower until they are on the surface. You can also do this with one or two bags of chum. Lower the first bag to the bottom with the second bag a few feet above it. After a couple of minutes, raise the line about 5 or 6 feet, wait a couple of minutes and do the same thing until the chum is on the surface. Chumming effectively demands a rhythm. No matter how busy you are or when you’re slugging it out with a fish, you have to keep the chum slick going. Before the last piece of chum drifts out of sight, there has to be more chum moving away from the boat. If you use too much chum, the fish will hold well astern of the boat. It’s a tradeoff that you learn with practice. For those who fish a fly in a chum slick, you might do better casting the fly in the middle of the chum and then letting it drift without retrieving it. That’s something I discovered by observation when I caught the first yellowfin tuna known to be taken on fly. When I was a young boy, my father chummed striped bass, bluefish and weakfish very effectively. That’s how I caught my first saltwater fish. It’s just as effective today as it was then.

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Reel in the memories. Sitting on the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere, Martin County is a fisherman’s paradise. Ocean, lake and river ecosystems are home to more than 800 species of fish, from the ever-popular sailfish and snook to largemouth bass and perch. Forget your gear? Visit one of Martin’s many bait and tackle shops or outdoor retailers. Inshore, offshore, saltwater or fresh, head out for an adventure and reel in the memories.

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FEBRUARY 2020

FLORIDA

reels, apparel and other fishing/sporting goods and accessories. As the largest supplier of everything from fishing rod blanks and components to rod building equipment, tools and supplies, Mud Hole looks forward to showcasing an incredible selection to their valued customers as well as anglers interested in this rewarding craft. Plus, they are dramatically increasing their inventory of apparel, gear and travel accessories to truly satisfy any outdoorsman. Advanced Fulfillment Center The new fulfillments center occupies 35,000 square-feet, which more than doubles the company’s storage capacity, giving the operations team space to maximize inventory levels, develop more new products and increase product offerings across the board. Mud Hole has invested in an automated conveyor system to modernize fulfillment capabilities by integrating over 1,000 feet of conveyor and providing warehouse associates the means to fill your orders faster, more efficiently and with more accuracy.

ud Hole Custom Tackle, the world’s leading supplier of everything rod building, marks 2020 with the grand opening of its new 70,000+ square-foot facility devoted to rod building, tackle crafting and the outdoor lifestyle. They invite you to come wade through the marbled blue water floors of Mud Hole Custom Tackle to shop authentic fishing villages and see the most exciting products in the industry. Plan a trip to Oviedo, in sunny Central Florida, to experience Mud Hole’s immersive new showroom and more! Stunning Modern Showroom Visitors will walk into a fully immersive retail space themed with a full rod building workshop, authentic fishing village and even the transom from a large sportfisher. From floor to ceiling, the showroom is designed to put the most popular tools, equipment and components at your fingertips. It will also feature some new product additions such as

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FEBRUARY 2020

Rod Building Education Center The 5,000 square-foot seminar space is built with education in mind and will be home to local rod building classes as well as advanced seminars offered throughout the year. This space will also be available to rent for fishing clubs, meetings or banquets. State-of-the-Art Production Studios The guys down in the Mud Hole basement are moving on up, too, with professional film and still photography studios. It will provide the marketing team assets to continue hosting and improving the production of live streams, instructional videos and more product resources. This means exciting new content for your laptops, mobile devices and on mudhole.com. Thank You Customers! 2020 is a BIG year for Mud Hole Custom Tackle, and none of it would be possible without their valued customers. Mudhole is proud to be your No. 1 source for rod building and tackle crafting goods. They are grateful for the opportunity to provide even better service, selection and delivery.

For more information, go to www.mudhole.com.

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ictured here, Team Blitzsea, out of Pompano Beach, Fla., took top team honors in Wahoo Smackdown IX. The tournament was hosted by Bimini Big Game Club Resort and Marina in November, and saw more than 70 competing anglers land more than 1,500 pounds of fish. Over two days, 108 fish were caught, the largest weighing over 52.7 pounds. Team Blitzsea caught 16 fish, with their largest six weighing a total of 251.4 pounds. They took home $8,200 in cash as well as Top Lady Angler, which went to Lisa aboard Blitzsea.

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MHX may very well have produced the best push pole ever to navigate the shallows. With 100 carbon construction, this 21-foot push pole is a combination of unidirectional and off-axis carbon fibers, which gives you an excellent power to strength ratio. Weighing in at under 4 pounds, anglers and guides can pole all day on the flats without the fatigue that comes from a fiberglass push pole. Assembly is very easy. The pole comes in three sections along with the fork, tip and replaceable 316 stainless spike. With easy shipping, replacement parts and ferrule repair kits available, this could be the best $399 you spend on your boat this year. “In all my years of guiding, I would have to say that I’ve never found a push pole to be this good,” said Capt. Keiland Smith. “The weight of this pole and the strength of it are amazing. I would have to say, I think this is the best push pole ever made.” www.mudhole.com

arly next month, the Bassmaster Classic will return to its Alabama roots with the 50th anniversary of “The Super Bowl of Bass Fishing” on Lake Guntersville. The 2020 Bassmaster Classic, with title B.A.S.S. photo by Andy Crawford sponsors Academy Sports+Outdoors and presenting sponsor Huk, will be based in Birmingham, Ala. from March 6-8. Daily weigh-ins and the Classic Outdoors Expo will be held in the downtown Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex. Competitors will fish Lake Guntersville out of Guntersville, Ala. With a purse of $1 million for a 53-angler field and $300,000 going to the winner, the Classic is the biggest stage in tournament bass fishing, with life-changing implications for the winner. Lake Guntersville, a 68,000-acre Tennessee River impoundment, is a fitting location for the event’s golden anniversary. This historic largemouth fishery is the second most visited lake in B.A.S.S. history, behind only Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Texas. Expect Birmingham to be bustling the weekend of March 6-8. Last year’s Bassmaster Classic in Knoxville, Tenn. drew 153,000 fans to experience activities surrounding the tournament. The Classic will be covered live and streamed on Bassmaster.com, ESPN3 and the ESPN App, and five hours of original programming will be aired on ESPN2 and the Pursuit Channel following the event. For more information, go to www.bassmaster.com.go to www.bahamas.com. COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM

FEBRUARY 2020

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Proper fly reel drag settings are essential when saltwater fly fishing. When you’re hooked into a powerful and hard-fighting fish, the proper setting can spell the difference between landing or losing the fish. Unlike conventional or spinning reels, where the drag is usually preset and not adjusted during the fight, the fly reel drag can be manipulated by applying pressure to the reel with the palm of the hand or fingers, a tried-and-true method that gives the angler more control over the amount of pressure (more or less) needed throughout the fight. So, how much drag should be applied?

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IGFA This question has a few correct answers. First, if you’re fishing IGFA tippet requirements in search of a record fish, tippets can be very light. I like to set the drag less than the tippet rating by using digital scale. For example, if I’m fishing 8-pound-test tippet I would set my drag to 4 or 5 pounds of pressure by attaching the tippet to the scale and pulling the line off the fly reel until I achieved my desired drag setting. That 5-pound setting gives me a 3-pound cushion when fighting a fish. Non-IGFA If I’m not using IGFA tippets, which is the case most of the time, I’ll set my drag to the tippet rating. Remember, it is very difficult to break a tippet even with a max-out drag setting unless you’re using very light tippets. When targeting large saltwater gamefish, I use 20to 30-pound-test tippets. The max drag I can put on my heaviest saltwater reels is 18 pounds of pressure. So, breaking one of these tippets due to pressure alone is almost impossible even with the reels pegged to the maximum. Palming The Reel Take your fly reel and tighten the drag so there is only light tension on the reel as you pull the line off with your free hand. Then tighten the drag until you feel resistance. Begin fishing using the light drag pressure. Once you have a fish on and the fight has begun, apply needed pressure by palming your reel. Apply the pressure carefully, as a sudden change in pressure can cause your tippet to break. Don’t be surprised if in applying this method the first few times you make mistakes, often losing a fish because of applying too much pressure or too little. Reel palming, like nymph fishing, is instinctive. You’ll learn to know when and how much pressure to apply.

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Dexter’s BrakeRite electronic/ hydraulic actuator features rapid response for improved braking distance, an electronic proportional pressure valve for consistent braking, and dual fill caps for easy maintenance. In addition, BrakeRite is compatible with most in-cab electronic brake controllers. Dexter offers three BrakeRite models to easily match your application. The BrakeRite Plug & Play model is simple to install. It has no hard wiring and has a large reservoir for triple axles. An optional Australian 12-pin flat plug model is also available. The Dexter BrakeRite SD model provides a complete plug-in wiring harness to simplify field installation, while the standard BrakeRite model is available in both disc and drum brake options. Dexter knows corrosion resistance is important on all types of trailers, and especially in saltwater or other corrosive environments. Dexter disc brakes for marine trailers are designed with this in mind, using brass fittings, stainless steel guide bolts and sleeves, and stainless steel pistons. Rotors are offered in multiple finishes including E-coated, Dacromet, and stainless steel. At a minimum, Dexter caliper castings and caliper mounting brackets are E-coated with options for Dacromet coating or an all stainless steel product. Dexter’s BrakeRite and disc brakes combine two high performance products. Together, they provide a proven record of performance and reliability, superior braking, in-cab control and corrosion resistance.

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NATIONAL

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ooker Electric continues driving innovation in the fishing industry. Their top-of-the-line baitwell system is tops for keeping your bait fresh and lively. This system includes Hooker’s patented high-flow baitwell pumps and streamlined design that includes full variable flow that allows anglers to decide how much flow is needed depending on the species of bait they are keeping in the livewell. Also a great choice for the tuna tube setups, the system allows the perfect amount of flow to the tubes. The pumps have an outstanding high flow, measured in 2,500, 4,500 and 7,500 gallons per hour. With the 12 VDC brushless motor system, these pumps are superior to anything else on the market. Completely serviceable and rebuildable, Hooker Pumps are made to last. Another huge feature integrated on the pump system is that they are mounted outside of their custom sea chest. This provides easy access and the ability to change a pump out fast, without taking the entire sea chest apart like the competitors. Hooker Electric’s custom sea chest was specifically designed around their patented pumps. The sea chest is constructed of 316 stainless steel, welded to perfection, and then passivized. Passivization is a non-electrolytic finishing process that makes stainless steel more rust-resistant to avoid corrosion from the saltwater. It is then heavy-duty powder coated for extra protection. The sea chest comes with a ¼-inch rubber gasket seal, stainless steel bolts, washers, a breather valve and acrylic lid that can be custom engraved with the boat’s name or boat manufacturer’s name upon ordering. The crucial benefit of installing Hooker’s sea chest system is simple: less air in your system, especially with step-hull boats. The sea chest allows the boat to pull clean water in and keep air out of the hoses, therefore out of the system. Paired with the sea chest, Hooker has created custom manifolds cut from a solid block of schedule 80 PVC, which ensures longevity and quality. The manifold cleans up the aesthetics on the system by simplifying it and allowing water flow to be dispersed to multiple livewells as needed. The Hooker pump system will keep you ahead of the rest when it comes to live baiting. The company is currently working with leading boat manufactures like Contender Boats, Jupiter, Conch Boats, Winter Custom Yachts, Freeman Boatworks, Intrepid Power Boats, Billfish Boatworks, Tracker Marine, FMC, Yellowfin Yachts, Sea Vee boats, and the system now comes standard in all of the Valhalla boats by Viking. See Hooker Electric’s innovation for yourself at Booth D308 at the Miami Boat Show. For more information, go to hookerelectric.com.

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Actual size is 38.1 mm

Special Bicentennial Reverse Design

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To learn more, visit www.suzukimarine.com. Gimme Six Extended Protection promotion applies to new Suzuki Outboard Motors from 25 to 350 HP in inventory which are sold and delivered to buyer between 01/01/20 and 03/31/20 in accordance with the promotion by a Participating Authorized Suzuki Marine dealer in the continental US and Alaska to a purchasing customer who resides in the continental US or Alaska. The Gimme Six Promotion is available for pleasure use only, and is not redeemable for cash. Instant Savings applies to qualifying purchases of select Suzuki Outboard Motors made between 01/01/20 and 03/31/20. For list of designated models, see participating Dealer or visit www.suzukimarine.com. Instant Savings must be applied against the agreed-upon selling price of the outboard motor and reflected in the bill of sale. There are no model substitutions, benefit substitutions, rain checks, or extensions. Suzuki reserves the right to change or cancel these promotions at any time without notice or obligation. * Financing offers available through Synchrony Retail Finance. As low as 5.99% APR financing for 60 months on new and unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors. Subject to credit approval. Not all buyers will qualify. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on creditworthiness. $19.99/month per $1,000 financed for 60 months is based on 5.99% APR. Hypothetical figures used in calculation; your actual monthly payment may differ based on financing terms, credit tier qualification, accessories or other factors such as down payment and fees. Offer effective on new, unregistered Suzuki Outboard Motors purchased from a participating authorized Suzuki dealer between 01/01/20 and 03/31/20. “Gimme Six”, the Suzuki “S” and model names are Suzuki trademarks or ®. Don’t drink and drive. Always wear a USCG-approved life jacket and read your owner’s manual. © 2020 Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.

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