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DECEMBER 2023
NATIONAL 3
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF
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inter fishing in the Florida Keys can be a double-edged sword. This time of year can be limited by more frequent windy days. However, some of our best fishing occurs very close to land this time of year, and you don’t have to go far to get into the heart of it. Snapper are always a viable option on the reef, and targeting them also provides the opportunity to fill up the livewell with fresh ballyhoo to use for sailfish, which will be showering bait under diving frigates. If you happen to get out there on a sporty day, and the thought of rocking on anchor first thing in the morning makes your stomach turn, wahoo might be a better option. Trolling lures can be productive for targeting wahoo, and reduces the rocking of the boat that causes seasickness. Utilizing deep-diving lures, planers and trolling sinkers, there are countless ways to set up an efficient wahoo spread that can be pulled at varying speeds. Since wahoo like their baits moving quickly, high-speed trolling is a great way to target them while lessening other species as bycatch. Another great option for wahoo fishing is using live bait. This method is more exciting, and uses bait that can be acquired without dropping anchor. With wahoo rigs already set with wire leaders, and extra prerigged leaders on hand, head out to the wrecks to catch fresh bait. When targeting bigger baits like bonita, blue runners and goggle eyes for wahoo, use a heavier rod and reel, with the appropriately overpowered sabiki rig. Accounting for tangles, breakoffs and unwanted mackerel attention, make sure to have more than a few extra sabiki rigs on board. Affix a weight to the sabiki and drop it down to fill the well with blue runners, or troll the sabiki over schools of bonita, hooking them immediately to the wahoo rig and sending them back out. Power drift or bump troll a spread of live baits with some weightless, flatlined on the surface, or even under a kite, and others at varying depths with a breakaway weight or downrigger. Watching a hungry wahoo skyrocket on a surface bait provides all the adrenaline needed to knock any lingering seasickness out of you. Wahoo are excellent table fare, and they are also one of the best fighting fish you can target. Keep in mind that if your line goes slack, they might be swimming toward the boat. It is a wahoo until it’s not a wahoo, so keep reeling until you see the end of your line. Charter fishing in the Florida Keys is busy during the winter, so make sure to book your charter in advance. Sweet E’nuf Charters offers gift certificates for all the Santas out there with fishermen in the family. Capt. Quinlyn Haddon, of Sweet E’nuf Charters, operates out of Marathon, Florida Keys. Check out her website at CaptainQuinlyn.com, her social @captainquinlyn or call (504) 920-6342.
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NATIONAL 5 4/7/22 10:19 AM
SAVOR THE SEASONS in Upcountry South Carolina
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By Nick Carter
old water makes catching fish more difficult, right? Not with crappie, according to allaround outdoorswoman Terrie Huffmaster. She looks forward to deep winter, when she can load the boat with the biggest slabs of the year. Huffmaster is a South Georgia farm girl from Quitman, way down on the Florida border, so she calls crappie speckled perch, or specks for short. “You catch the bigger specks in wintertime,” she said. “I like to go into the deeper water trolling for them.” A great thing about crappie is they’re predictable. In spring they move shallow to spawn, but throughout the rest of the year they are nomads in search of comfortable water temperatures. You’ll always find them near structure or cover, and they are usually schooled up tightly. Huffmaster fishes for specks on Lake
Seminole, a nearly 40,000-acre impoundment that straddles the Georgia/Florida border. It’s a relatively shallow lake, full of stumps, brush and submerged grass. When Huffmaster says “deeper water,” she means the deepest water Seminole has, which is 25 to 30 feet. Trolling delivers both quality and quantity when water temps are in the mid to high 50s. But Huffmaster isn’t looking for a 30-fish limit. She’s hunting 10 or so giant specks in the 15- to 18inch range. She catches a lot of smaller fish in the process, but she throws those back. “When you get on ’em good, it’s crazy how
many you can catch,” she said. This is how she gets on them: Huffmaster has a line she trolls that she’s identified on electronics and with previous success. It’s just outside a channel marker, where there’s a ton of submerged trees, stumps and other brush and debris to hold fish. She pulls jigs over deep water and up over humps and ledges that rise to as little as 5 feet. “You keep that trolling motor on low,” she said, “just enough where your line’s pulling, where you’re barely trolling.” Huffmaster said there’s no need to deploy huge spreads from a bank of rod holders. She fishes just one, maybe two rods at a time. Her favorites are a lightweight Mr. Crappie Slab Shaker combo and a Lew’s 6-foot Ultra Light with a Lazer Light Speed Spin 75 reel. She spools up with 8-to 10-pound braided main line and uses a 4- or 6-pound fluorocarbon leader tied to a 1/16-ounce Crappie Magnet Fin Spin or a Mr. Crappie jig head. Paddletail and curly tail bodies both have their place. Chartreuse/pearl and pumpkin are good colors. She trolls her jigs 10 to 15 feet behind the boat and keeps a loose drag so the hook doesn’t tear out of a crappie’s paper-thin mouth. “Call me old fashioned, but that’s how we do it,” she said. “And we don’t seem to have any problem catching a mess of them… and some big ones. Search up Terrie B Huffmaster on Facebook and terries_dusk_2_dawn_fishing on Instagram.
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NATIONAL 7
Which Would You Change First? By Capt. Michael Okruhlik
C
hange is inevitable. In all aspects of life, change is necessary. This is especially true for anglers. When things are not going right, we immediately think of the next lure to throw. We all embark on our fishing journeys with a plan before hitting the water. We may base it on predicted conditions, time of year, experience, or possibly, but hopefully not, a social media post. Let’s discuss what I would do when plan-A doesn’t produce as envisioned. Imagine we are in the perfect looking spot, conditions are exactly as planned, active bait is visible in the area, the tide is flowing, but nothing is biting. Most of us would make a change, and I think we are all in agreement that our first correction would not be to move with everything looking right. Now, here is where I feel most people will make a mistake. Let’s say we are throwing soft-plastic paddletails. What is the first thing you would change?
PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOCKIN TAIL LURES®.
SIZE OR COLOR:
I bet you said color. Am I right? During my decades of fishing the salty bays and marsh, I’ve found that color is the last thing I should change. If some bass fishermen are reading this article, I am solely basing this theory on saltwater for trout, redfish and flounder. It’s not your fault that you tend to change color first. Let’s face it, color is the first thing someone mentions when they describe the lure they used, and when we walk into the tackle aisle there are significantly more colors than lure choices or sizes. We are bombarded with so many colors. Color must be the key to catching, right? Well, maybe not, most of the time. I’ll use my lure brand for an example. I produce 34 unique colors, but I only produce three different sized paddletails. Having all these color options at our fingertips can be overwhelming, and hearing others focus on the color that landed
the big one has caused fishermen to focus on color first. I have found more success in changing the size of the lure over the color. The fish are typically not feeding on anything that resembles the color we are throwing, but they are feeding on a specific size that we have in our box. Matching the forage size is the better option. If that doesn’t produce a bite, then I will even switch the style of lure before the color in most situations. Ultra-clear water is an exception, and these conditions play by different rules. We can cover that in another article, but until then focus less on color and more on size and action. Take a kid fishing and enjoy the outdoors. Capt. Michael Okruhlik is the inventor of Knockin Tail Lures®, and the owner of www.MyCoastOutdoors.com.
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It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!
GET READY FOR THE FALL BOATING SEASON It’s the most wonderful time of the year There’ll be much offshore fishing And wake surf for swishing When the water is warm and clear It’s the most wonderful time of the year
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GTECHNIQ:
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an you wax your 17’ to 20’ boat inside and out in 30 minutes or less? I can tell you first-hand that it is possible, but to do it you’ve got to forget about wax and get with the times. Gtechniq’s ceramic coatings are the technologically advanced way to get great results with less time and effort. I tested it on an 11-year-old Key West 1720, and this author will never go back to wax. Wax is old technology. Do you have a rotary phone? Do you use a pager? What about a flip phone? We have new technologies available. Once
you learn of a new spray-on coating that provides three months of shine and UV protection, would you still wax-on/wax-off? With a $20 bottle of Rinse-on Ceramic, you can get shiny results in 30 minutes! First you need to start with a very clean boat. Remove stains and buff out the dull surfaces, then follow with a good scrubbing with bleach in soapy water to remove all previous wax if any is still present. Hook up the spray nozzle in the Gtechniq Rinse-on Ceramic kit to the water hose and screw on a bottle of Rinse-on. The red knob adjusts material flow and it’s recommended to run it wide open. All you do is rinse the boat with water, and then turn on the material flow to apply the ceramic coating. You’ll see a slight sudsy effect letting you know material is being applied. Rinse boat inside and out with material flow open all the way. After the first application, you will want to wipe the boat down with microfiber towels. That’s it! Spray down the cleaned boat and wipe off in 30 minutes or less! Plus, there is an added benefit: you get a thin UV coating on all your hardware, lighting, switches, console gauges and expensive electronics. Wax is now a cuss word to this author. Application is quick and easy, but what about the results? Three months and 10 trips in saltwater later, and you can still feel the coating. What about a slippery deck? Nope. The stippled deck on the Key West is not slippery after application. It is ready for another application, yet the only part of the boat that doesn’t look new and shiny is the area under waterline. Beneath the waterline did stay clean for two months, but now it has slight yellowing. This 11-year-old vessel needs a light buff under the waterline. The coating is still there, and water beads/sheets off, but stains are caught in the tiny pores evidenced by the dull appearance. This stuff is pretty amazing, and this author will never waxon/wax-off again! GTECHNIQ.COM
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FLORIDA 7
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VOLUSIA COUNTY
COASTAL ANGLER franchise owners franchise Jamie & Deidraowners Thrappas Jamie & Deidra Thrappas
Contributing Writers : Marco PoMPano Contributing Writers : Freak on the Beach 386-212-4838
Marco PoMPano caPt. JaMie thraPPas Freak theBackwaters Beach Ponce Inletonand 386-212-4838 www.YellowDawgFishing.com caPt.Michael JaMie thraPPas caPt. savedow Ponce Inlet and Backwaters Edgewater Backcountry www.YellowDawgFishing.com www.EdgewaterRiverGuide.com caPt. Barry Michael savedow caPt. englehardt Edgewater Backcountry Tomoka www.EdgewaterRiverGuide.com www.FishingGuideDaytonaBeach.com caPt. Bryn adaMs Central St. Johns River www.highlandparkfishcamp.com Graves caPt. Matt graves Offshore www.LimitlessFishing.com caPt. evan sanders Sol Fishing with the Captain & Kids www.SolFishing.com Blake aBBey Kayaking @kayakkingcharters skye Burkhardt Inshore Adventures @BrassyAngler87
for advertising inquiries, call Jamie at 386.366.3424 or email volusia@coastalanglerMagazine.com
Are you reAding this? So are all your cuStomerS! so Customers!
Call Jamie and reserve your advertising space! call
(386) 366 - 3424
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CT
urrent he is way ocean’s toobeen strong nasty to all fish, so I pulled month in -my realfirst dirty! twoI lines meanon the beach it, and it wasn’t I noticed fun,a third but line it which Ialways had cast changes. short. It had a big clump of seaweed onRight it and was nowhanging the in ocean the water. is The starting next thing toI know, clean the up seaweed and cool was up in the down. air. IWe grab arethe waiting pole. It foralmost the huge jerked out of school my hand, of pompano and I was to in arrive, the game. and Whatever I’m outithere was,onwas the taking first good lineday and giving me to fish. a good licking. I started to gain ground on it. TheIt ocean was making has calmed its big run. down I finally got it to turn, and shootingenough out through to the usewaves three-ounce was a nice slot red. It bounced up on the beach. weights. I’m catching small The Skooly mullet are full in 6 inches redfish, of water, and Ibut think I was I was fishing just bit on a crab knuckle. Ya, mon! off by a nice size shark! So, starting out today I had high hopes. The I set westerly up on wind the beach. has come Again, perfect conditions: nice green water and inhardly and cleaned any current. the My beach. rod startYa, ed to bamba and samba. Those three little mon! bangs It’s been on thereally pole windy that pompano and it made picksturned up in into the afternoon, a whole rhythm so now section. I’m fishing hiding behind the walls that Mywere biggest knocked problem down nowduring is not the to lose hurricanes, this zigzagging, Ian and Nicole. angry pompano. I keptIt’s thea drag greatloose place until to stay I needed out of the to tighten wind. just a little bit, and watched this nice I amsize watching pompano something surf onto nipping the beach. at my rod (Bamba time!) - it bent, I’m After running, catching it’sataking few more, line.things I’m feeling slow down the good quitevibes a bit - it was feelsjust liketime a toredfish chill and in think a hurry, about it’s coming how I was on going shore:toAcook nice these 26-inch pompanos reddie just tonight in forthe myslot. wife. Sophie‘s favorite is a whole grilled fish with mumbo sauce, so that’s Tonight what it’llwe’ll be, and definitely this ismake the way redfish I docakes. it: Starting Just towith let you Mumbo know,sauce, I caught here’s thisthered recipe: fish on a nice live sand flea • furnished 1/2 jar of Saucy by Donald SusanBait marinade and Tackle. It’s very rare to get sand fleas • where 2-inchwe piece are,of they’ve ginger,been peeled scarce andfor finely years. grated • ground Whether up cayenne you want pepper it or(or not, youhere’s can use a little Frank’s information original hot about sauce) red • fish. a couple Red drum, of big splashes spottail, ofchannel Worcestershire bass, andsauce puppy bass are just a few • names a cup of fororange redfish. juice They also can live up to 40 years old. Their location isMix all the thisway upfrom and use Massachusetts it to baste the to the fish. Florida The Keys and to the Gulf of pompano on Mexico. wasOne gutted of the andmore whole. I slice three slices unique to the features bone to onthe each redfish side, in order for the fish aretothe poach spots and on itsistail. alsoPeople very good when you marinate, think thetospots get itare fully to confuse tasty. Next, I get a very hot predators grill - we into use charcoal thinkingand thewood. Make sure you taildon’t is its go head, toowhich far, because gives it these a cook pretty fast, better I put chance it on to one escape. side and wait till I can see the scores A caught fromred thefish grill hason tothe be fish, and flip it. I score between the18other andside, 27-inches turn it, to and put on the mumbo be kept.sauce The record - be generous, for redfish the sauce is going toiscaramelize 45 poundsand - now, blacken that’s quite a a bit, but it tastes great. I end up cooking each monster! side twice for five minutes and after you hit it again with the mambo sauce,OK, you’re now, done. getCheck ready!out Thethe picture, hopefully it looks like that. pompano This is just have the beginning just arrived, of the Pompano run. The ones I caught were bigsince and fat. I started We called writing them this the scouts. They are always the first to show up. This article comes a few along days with ago. theI cooler had weather. toThe stopseawriting is getting because pretty I was rough, fishing. its still Imagine, hurricane they season, started hitting but it cools us down as soon the water. as the Since incoming the pompano tide changed like it from fromlow, 65-75° at about they’ll eight stayin around the and morning. eat, as long as you have the right bait. Sand fleas, crab, knuckles, salted, clam, Ifresh was there shrimp with you myshould frienddo Glenn just and fine.his wife Lisa, and it was Bamba time! I likeBig fresh scouts live and baitfull that’s limits. just my preference. A lot of fishermen are using fish Webites. wereItwaiting does matter for about whattwo kindweeks, of equipment getting ayou fewhave. fish here I hope, andfor your there. sake, It takes you have a certain goodkind linesofand passion madetosome wait good it out,strong but it’sleaders. worth But it without when the therod good starts bait,toequipment dance. means nothing. I’dWe also justlike puttoonmention the song,it’s‘Calm very Down, important ’ by Rema to getand sputnik Selena,sinkers. just in I mostly time to usefillet only and 3 ounce, calm down. they stick It wasinvery thebusy sandthe andlast release. few days, I usejust 4 and the 5 ounce. way we When like it. the Finishing current up, is stronger you know my that favorite me and ones these arefish from are the heading sinker guy to up theinsmoker. Jacksonville, who ships everywhere. Ya, mon! So now is my favorite part of the day: putting on the island Marco poMpano sounds of The Brothers Within, a great Marco poMpano Surf Fishing Guide local reggae band, getting the cooking Surf Fishing Guide Marcopompano@gmail.com vibes going, and me and these pomMarcopompano@gmail.com (386) 212-4838 pano are heading right to the smoker. (386) 212-4838
DECEMBER 2023 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 2 VOLUSIA COUNTY NOVember 2023 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
Jan
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January layout.indd 15
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DOCTOR WAGNER IS A CHIROPRACTIC PHYSICIAN AT UNTANGLING CAR CRASH KNOTS & SNAGS (386) 888-8888
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Captain KiDS
amily, friends, and memories!! These are the three most important things to this month’s Youth Anglers Kyleigh, Lacey, and Dixie! These three awesome young ladies loaded up the boat with Sol Fishing Co-Owner Capt. Evan and headed out to chase redfish in the backwaters of New Smyrna Beach. After arriving to the first spot of the day, all the girls were eager to get their lines in the water to see who got the first bite. Seconds after all the lines were in the water, Lacey screamed “I GOT ONE!!!” Lacey reeled and reeled and landed the first fish of the day which was a whiting. After another quick move, we found a school of redfish pushing along a mangrove line. Kyleigh, with her rod ready, cast towards the mangroves and hooked up immediately! When she saw the fish come up and break the water, she yelled “I GOT A REDIFSH!” Kyleigh was so excited to catch her first redfish that before releasing it safely to the water, she gave it a big kiss! With lines back in the water again, Dixie and Lacey both doubled up with redfish! With excitement in their eyes, they both were amazed at how pretty the blue was in both of the fish tails they caught! After catching a few more redfish, these three lady anglers wanted to go to the island and swim & jump off the boat in the water! While docking the boat after the trip, if you looked over, you would have seen Kyleigh, Lacey, and Dixie with huge smiles on their faces. They all told Capt. Evan “THIS WAS THE BEST DAY EVER!” Sol Fishing will do everything possible to make every young man or ladies fishing dreams come true. It does not matter if the kids want to go offshore or inshore, Sol Fishing will target whichever species they want to catch. Some of the most recent species that the youth anglers have been wanting to target are red snapper, lane snapper, cobia, amberjack, sharks, barracuda, redfish, and snook. The Youth Angler Program is made possible by all our retailers who stock Sol Fishing’s gear which helps fund this amazing program!
capT. EVan SanDErS
Sol Fishing Charters & Gear www.solfishing.com 407-796-2088
ed
high bridge FORECAST
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he bite up in Ormond at the high bridge area has been on fire as usual. The fall snook bite has been one of the best we’ve seen with multiple slot and over slot snook being caught on the regular. All the causeway’s from Seabreeze north of Flagler to the toll bridge have all had a decent amount of fish on them, as well as most of the docks with lights at night along that same stretch. The black drum bite has also been on fire with our regular customers coming back to our boat ramp reporting multiple catches. Kayak fishing in the back country has also been excellent on redfish and snook. Come by the shop to pick up all your bait and tackle need’s today and some up to date reports.
capT. JaMiE ThrappaS
Yellow Dawg Bait & Tackle 35 High Bridge Road • Ormond by the sea Instagram: @yellow_dawg_bait_and_tackle Facebook: Yellow Dawg Bait & Tackle 386-278-6208
www.fiberglasssuppliesdaytona.com located at the daytona beach flea market
1425 tomoka farms rd, daytona beach, fl 32124
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DECEMBER 2023 2023 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 6 VOLUSIA COUNTY | december | cOASTALANGLermAG.cOm • THeANGLermAG.cOm
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PONCe iNLeT & bACKWATerS FORECAST
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ecember is the month when the colder days really start showing up meaning everything will change around the water temps dropping. I typically use Dec as the month I target black drum as they seem to love the lower water temps. I do best on these big uglies with baits like clue crab, shrimp, fiddler crabs, and even sand fleas. They just seem to love crustaceans! In my opinion black drum is an amazing table fare, especially those 16-24” fish not to mention they yield a decent amount of meat! I also like to target Red Drum in the back country in these colder months. While these fish tend to find deeper holes to lay in during the early and later parts of the day they also like to school up on the flats as the sun peaks mid-day and the shallow water warms faster allowing them to sun and feed. Soft plastic paddle tails are my main weapon but I also like swim baits rigged weedless and the old trusty “weedless gold spoon”. Lastly as the month goes on and the water continues to drop in temperature, I’ll shift my focus towards sheepshead. Another local fish that’s amazing table fare! These fish love structure so I’ll focus on docks, bridges, and the jetties. Very similar to Black drum these fish like crustaceans. I’ve been using more jig heads like bottom sweepers in the past few years but we carry some sheepshead specific jigs capT. JaMiE ThrappaS Yellow Dawg Fishing at my Shop, Yellow Dawg Bait & Tackle in Ormond Beach you should certainly stop by and give them a www.yellowdawgfishing.com (386) 366-3424 shot! As always get out there and if you see us on the water say hello!
edgeWATer bACKCOUNTrY FORECAST USIA cOUNTY 7
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inter fishing patterns arrive this month. With lower temperatures the lagoon water becomes clear and levels drop with prevailing winds from the northwest, which draws water out of Ponce Inlet draining the intracoastal system. In the backcountry and lagoon redfish, Seatrout, Snook, and Black Drum school up together in chilly water. Sheepshead will appear, seen crunching barnacles on dock and bridge pilings. Schooling Bluefish roaming the inshore and near shore waters, these are all signs of winter. To target Sheepshead fiddler crabs are the best bait, followed by small live or peeled shrimp. Best places to fish are bridge or dock pilings, and also the Ponce Inlet jetty rocks. Serious sheepy fishers will chum their spot by scraping barnacles off the pilings or dropping cracked oysters to the bottom. Use a smaller sharp hook as they have a small hard mouth, and just enough weight to hold your bait close to the piling, keeping your rig as stealthy as possible in clear water. For black drum use shrimp or a piece of blue crab. Fish the bottom in channels, inlet rocks, deeper holes, drop offs, and around the bridges on the ICW and Haulover Canal. Shallow water Redfish are a winter sight fishing Lagoon favorite. Search the shallow flats and the adjacent sand sloughs in the lagoon. In the backcountry check the shallow mud, oyster bays, coves, and creeks. On
in the winter shallows can be the wariest of all, long distance sighting gives the best chance to fool a big speck. The big ones can be solitary fish but on occasion schools of trout are seen on the winter flats. Smaller trout generally school in deeper water, off drop offs, holes, sloughs, and deeper hard bottom. They will be near the bottom in chilly water. Try a live shrimp with a split shot and light jigs of 1/16 or a 1/8 oz. would also be a good choice. Small size baits and lures which are the size of winter meals are usually best during the cold months. Also time to go as light as possible with floro leaders, weights, and tackle to be as stealth is an important factor in clear water. Schooling Bluefish are in the backcountry, inlet, and surf. Gotcha lures, silver spoons, sunny days, fish stay shallow enjoying the sun warmed water, dark mud bottom and oyster flies, or bait will all catch them. Snook season bars can hold more warmth in cold water. On closes for the winter on December 15th and cloudy chilly days, some will be in the shallows Spotted Seatrout are in closed season December but also closer to the edges near deeper water (and November) here in the “Central East” zone. as they drop off during the colder nights and Redfish are catch & release only south of the days. Select size shrimp can be the go to bait but New Smyrna SR44 bridge. live finger mullet, mud minnows, Gulp shrimp, and soft plastics will catch both Reds and Trout capT. MichaEl SaVEDow on the flats. Work the schools slow as they are Edgewater River Guide usually spooky, use a quiet push pole or slow EdgewaterRiverGuide.com speed trolling motor to get in casting distance. (386) 689-3781 You can also set up on anchor and wait for them to return to your location. Large size Seatrout
Capt Mike with Mosquito Lagoon Redfish
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM January January layout.indd layout.indd 15 15
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local legends pays homage to the hardcore fisherman and anglers who have put in the work in their local waters.
recently met up with Wilbur By The Sea’s very own surf fishing legend and guide, Marco Pompano AKA “Freak on the Beach”. I took my 3 year old daughter, Wave, with me to catch him in action, right on the beach, lines out and tight as we chatted about his backstory, his fishing style and his inspiration. Ya Mon!
Q: Do you have a particular style of fishing? A: I’ve been told my style of surf fishing looks like I’m the cool hippie on the beach, who immediately turns into Conan the Barbarian when the rod bends. Well, maybe I’m exaggerating a little bit. Jumpin’ Jack Flash might be better.
Q: When and how did you get into fishing? A: I was down in the Key West years ago, I owned Island Water Sports on Smathers Beach. Mostly, I taught windsurfing and hobby catting. I tried racing windsurfers, but I have a fat ass and it anchored me down, so I fell into teaching, which I really have a passion for. It was the perfect place to get into fishing, especially spearfishing, which is what I did mostly. I was shooting those hog snappers. Ya, mon! Yum-yum-yum. At the time, it was a seasonal business, and I ended up going to Provincetown, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and opened up the Euro Café, a restaurant/bar/musical spot. With that came one of the most beautiful places in the world to surf fish for striped bass: Long point, where I met local guy ‘Long point’ Larry Meads, my first guru. He showed me the ropes on how to land these big, big striped bass off the beach with a surf rod and a plug. Moving back down to Florida, I immediately got into surf fishing behind our house in Wilbur By the Sea, and I was in the game. And that’s where I met Mr. and Mrs. Pompano - the love affair was on.
Q: Do you fish for sport or food? OR both? A: Wilbur By the Sea is just a small place with a lot of fish, going down towards the Ponce Inlet. I fish for food and have a little ‘fish processing plant’ at my house, with a nice fillet table and sink, smoker and fire pit. Ya, mo Bamba when they hit! Hopefully you dug your spike in good! They make tremendous runs, are very difficult to land, and just great to smoke and eat. I cook my catch every night, making ceviche, fish cakes, smoked fish spread and air fry baked fish. I believe that doing the big chill after fishing is the thing to do. You prepare your fish, your mind, and get ready for the next day. Ya, mon!
Q: Who was your biggest influence? A: I met some great guys, real legends, Larry ‘Fish’ Finch from Jacksonville, I just hung out with him for a couple hours. He’s so smooth and knows it all and then there’s Roy Mattson from New Smyrna Beach, who’s been showing me how to fish and giving me bait for years. Q: What has kept you fishing for so long? A: So after many years and 1 million questions by people walking by me on the beach, I started teaching how to fish. Surf fishing, that is. Using layman’s terms, because most people understand that, I try to get people fishing a few minutes after meeting them, and the game is on! We keep good and easy equipment to use and make all our own rigs and get the freshest live bait we can. Every day, giving fishing tips to, basically, anyone who walks by and asks, and learning myself as the hours pass. Q: Are you involved in any conservation or preservation of our fishery? A: I try to leave as little a footprint as I can on the beach. This is very important.
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Q: What is your all time favorite catch? A: My pole was hit so hard that it flew out of the rod holder before I could get it. It was swimming away into the ocean. I grabbed my other rod right away and started casting to see if I could grab it with the hook or the weight. Luckily after two casts, I hooked onto the line and pulled in my rod and reel…as soon as I had it in my hands, I started taking out lines the fish were still on. Took me about three or four minutes to get it in, and I had an 18” pompano. That was definitely a double win for me. Q: Do you have a fish story that didn’t end well? A: Actually, you were there when I had a really bad fishing experience with a huge Permit or Pompano on my line. It was taking out line all the way, and I had to bring it over my next pole, and the two lines touched and the wrong one broke (the one with the fish on it) and the story… I don’t wanna think about this one anymore. It hurt too much. I hope you got it on film. Final thoughts? Reggae music is very important to me. There are a lot of lyrics in the music pertaining to fishing. Stick Figure is one of my favorite bands and they constantly talk about being on the edge of the ocean, how it improves your life. I agree. Of course, now, you know, the reggae is on and me and these fish are heading to the smoker.
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8 DECEMBER 2023 2023 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 8 VOLUSIA VOLUSIA COUNTY | december | cOASTALANGLermAG.cOm • THeANGLermAG.cOm
January Januar Jan Ja
4Th annuaL BerkeLey
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e on the ash TournAmenT sPonsor
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Donald McCormick (386) 566 - 3228 Stephan LaBaw (386) 527 - 5846 Brian Hunter (386) 631 - 2173 Seleana Labaw (386) 804 - 8615 Or email: BLAnnualTournament@gmail.com
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USIA cOUNTY 9
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM January January January January layout.indd layout.indd layout.indd layout.indd 15 15 15 15
DECEMBER 2023
VOLUSIA 9 12/13/2019 12/13/2019 12/13/2019 12/13/2019 10:24:28 10:24:28 10:24:28 10:24:28 AM AMAM AM
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Want to shoW off your catch?
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A Under NEW Ownership by Cody Moore, Third Generation Fisherman NSB Outfitters specializes in offshore bait and tackle, as well as inshore, flats, and fly fishing gear, with extensive options in apparel and accessories. New Smyrna Outfitters has the knowledge and experience to guide through whatever type of fishing you’re looking to do.
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s we approach the end of the year, I always get excited because some of my best days of fishing have actually been on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. If I get new gear from Santa, you bet your ass I’m gonna be using it. With the temperatures dropping, the trout start getting extremely active. The end of snook season always seems to come too soon, but I enjoy transitioning to fishing the docks and bridges for sheepshead and gator trout. When I’m out on my kayak it gives me a lot of mobility to get very close and even under low bridges and get close to where the fish are. One of my favorite areas to fish this time of year is around the Granada Bridge. When targeting Sheepshead, I use live shrimp, fiddler crabs and barnacles. I like to use very small circle hooks with a 30lb liter and a 1oz weight. I like to fish as close to the structure as I possibly can. I don’t really scrape pilings when I’m in a kayak for sheeps but I suppose it is possible if you wanna get em fired up. When it comes to trout fishing in December, I’ve had some epic nights. I usually throw a small rapala shallow-diving hard bait behind my kayak and slow troll on my Old Town Salty PDL 120 to locate fish. This helps me cover a lot of water and really key in on where the fish are. When I hook my first one, I will slow it down and throw a 3-inch NLBN paddle tail or continue with my rapala. I like to use natural colors like Grey/Silver or Gold. Trout can be a lot of fun to catch and they cook very well. I like to eat mine with the skin on but that’s just a personal preference thing. I’ve often caught a limit of trout in under an hour this time of year especially when the water gets colder. My favorite time to fish is the last hour of outgoing tide or the first hour of incoming tide. This is also a personal preference thing and it’s just traditionally when I do the best. I’m really hoping you’ve enjoyed my articles this year and I hope to share the joy of kayak fishing with some of our readers in the future. I hope you all have a happy and safe New Year’s and I’ll see ya next year. Stay tight
BlakE aBBEy
Kayak King Charters 916-476-1403 @kayakkingcharters
cOASTALANGLermAG.cOm COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THeANGLermAG.cOm • THEANGLERMAG.COM | december DECEMBER 2023 | 2023 VOLUSIA VOLUSIA cOUNTY 11 January layout.indd 15
12/13/2019 10:24:28 AM
www.USHarbors.com
Ponce De Leon Inlet South, FL - Dec 2023 High
Date
www.USHarbors.com
Ormond Beach, Halifax River, FL - Dec 2023
Low
High
Date
Low
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Fri
2:20
0.6
2:42
0.7
9:16
0.3
10:04
0.4
6:59
5:26
2
Sat
3:03
0.6
3:24
0.7
10:01
0.4
10:49
0.5
7:00
5:26
3
Sun
3:47
0.6
4:06
0.7
10:50
0.5
11:37
0.6
7:01
5:26
4
Mon
4:34
0.6
4:52
0.6
11:45
0.6
7:01
5:26
5
Tue
5:24
0.6
5:41
0.6
12:26
0.6
12:43
0.7
7:02
5:26
6
Wed
6:18
0.6
6:33
0.6
1:15
0.5
1:40
0.6
7:03
5:27
7
Thu
7:12
0.6
7:26
0.6
2:01
0.5
2:35
0.6
7:04
5:27
5:27
8
Fri
8:06
0.6
8:19
0.6
2:46
0.4
3:28
0.5
7:04
5:27
7:04
5:27
9
Sat
8:57
0.7
9:10
0.6
3:31
0.3
4:20
0.4
7:05
5:27
0.6
7:05
5:27
10
Sun
9:46
0.7
9:59
0.6
4:18
0.2
5:10
0.3
7:06
5:27
1:11
0.5
7:05
5:27
11
Mon
10:33
0.7
10:46
0.6
5:05
0.1
5:58
0.2
7:06
5:27
0.1
1:56
0.4
7:06
5:28
12
Tue
11:19
0.7
11:33
0.6
5:51
0.0
6:44
0.1
7:07
5:28
1:35
0.0
2:41
0.3
7:07
5:28
13
Wed
12:06
0.8
6:36
-0.1
7:29
0.0
7:08
5:28
2.8
2:20
-0.1
3:27
0.3
7:07
5:28
14
Thu
12:22
0.6
12:55
0.8
7:23
-0.2
8:15
0.0
7:08
5:28
10:15
2.8
3:08
-0.1
4:16
0.3
7:08
5:29
15
Fri
1:13
0.6
1:47
0.8
8:11
-0.2
9:04
0.0
7:09
5:29
11:08
2.9
4:00
-0.1
5:11
0.3
7:09
5:29
16
Sat
2:05
0.6
2:38
0.8
9:02
-0.1
9:55
0.0
7:10
5:29
5:01
0.0
6:07
0.2
7:09
5:29
17
Sun
2:59
0.6
3:31
0.7
9:57
-0.1
10:49
0.0
7:10
5:29
3.5
6:07
0.1
7:01
0.1
7:10
5:30
18
Mon
3:55
0.6
4:25
0.7
10:59
0.0
11:47
0.0
7:11
5:30
1:33
3.3
7:14
0.2
7:53
0.1
7:10
5:30
19
Tue
4:54
0.6
5:23
0.7
12:06
0.1
7:11
5:30
3.1
2:35
3.1
8:20
0.3
8:45
0.0
7:11
5:31
20
Wed
5:57
0.7
6:23
0.7
12:46
0.0
1:14
0.2
7:12
5:31
3:21
3.3
3:38
2.9
9:28
0.3
9:37
0.0
7:11
5:31
21
Thu
7:00
0.7
7:24
0.6
1:43
0.0
2:19
0.1
7:12
5:31
Fri
4:22
3.5
4:37
2.8
10:34
0.3
10:30
-0.1
7:12
5:32
22
Fri
8:02
0.7
8:23
0.6
2:37
-0.1
3:20
0.1
7:13
5:32
23
Sat
5:16
3.6
5:31
2.7
11:35
0.3
11:21
-0.1
7:12
5:32
23
Sat
9:00
0.7
9:19
0.6
3:31
-0.1
4:19
0.1
7:13
5:32
24
Sun
6:07
3.7
6:21
2.7
12:31
0.2
7:13
5:33
24
Sun
9:54
0.7
10:11
0.6
4:23
-0.2
5:14
0.0
7:14
5:33
25
Mon
6:56
3.7
7:10
2.6
12:11
-0.1
1:21
0.2
7:13
5:33
25
Mon
10:43
0.8
10:59
0.6
5:14
-0.2
6:04
0.0
7:14
5:33
26
Tue
7:43
3.7
7:57
2.6
12:58
-0.1
2:06
0.2
7:14
5:34
26
Tue
11:29
0.8
11:44
0.6
6:02
-0.2
6:50
0.0
7:15
5:34
27
Wed
8:27
3.6
8:41
2.6
1:42
-0.1
2:46
0.2
7:14
5:34
27
Wed
12:12
0.7
6:47
-0.2
7:32
0.0
7:15
5:34
28
Thu
9:08
3.5
9:22
2.6
2:23
-0.1
3:25
0.3
7:14
5:35
28
Thu
12:28
0.6
12:53
0.7
7:29
-0.1
8:12
0.0
7:15
5:35
29
Fri
9:47
3.4
10:03
2.5
3:03
0.0
4:03
0.3
7:15
5:36
29
Fri
1:10
0.6
1:33
0.7
8:09
0.0
8:51
0.1
7:16
5:36
30
Sat
10:24
3.2
10:44
2.5
3:43
0.1
4:44
0.3
7:15
5:36
30
Sat
1:51
0.6
2:11
0.7
8:50
0.1
9:29
0.2
7:16
5:36
31
Sun
11:02
3.1
11:28
2.5
4:27
0.3
5:27
0.4
7:15
5:37
31
Sun
2:31
0.6
2:49
0.6
9:30
0.2
10:07
0.2
7:16
5:37
AM
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Fri
10:54
3.6
11:15
2.8
4:10
0.5
5:23
0.8
6:58
5:26
2
Sat
11:38
3.5
5:01
0.7
6:13
0.8
6:59
5:26
3
Sun
12:03
2.7
12:23
3.3
5:56
0.8
7:00
0.8
7:00
5:26
4
Mon
12:55
2.7
1:10
3.1
6:52
0.9
7:44
0.8
7:00
5:26
5
Tue
1:52
2.7
2:01
3.0
7:47
0.9
8:27
0.7
7:01
5:26
6
Wed
2:52
2.8
2:57
2.9
8:44
1.0
9:11
0.6
7:02
5:26
7
Thu
3:49
3.0
3:52
2.8
9:43
0.9
9:55
0.5
7:03
5:27
8
Fri
4:39
3.2
4:43
2.8
10:39
0.9
10:39
0.4
7:03
9
Sat
5:25
3.4
5:30
2.8
11:33
0.7
11:22
0.3
10
Sun
6:08
3.6
6:16
2.8
12:23
11
Mon
6:53
3.7
7:03
2.8
12:06
0.2
12
Tue
7:39
3.8
7:50
2.8
12:50
13
Wed
8:25
3.9
8:37
2.8
14
Thu
9:11
4.0
9:25
15
Fri
9:59
4.0
16
Sat
10:49
3.9
17
Sun
11:41
3.7
18
Mon
12:07
2.9
12:36
19
Tue
1:09
3.0
20
Wed
2:15
21
Thu
22
1
Moon
1
Moon
O
T
Th o ch o a a tr o b
al tu se re ea o ke ta d
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DECEMBER 2023 2023 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 12 VOLUSIA cOUNTY | december | cOASTALANGLermAG.cOm • THeANGLermAG.cOm
January Jan
s.com
Moon
OffShOre FORECAST
T
he month of December is here with its strong NE winds and cold weather. This time of year, you must be opportunistic when you get the chances to get offshore. You may only get 2-3 days to fish and need a game plan. December can be a very good time to high-speed troll for wahoo on the full moons or make long runs to your favorite bottom spots. This time of year, you will also want to target black fin tuna and your sail fish. Grouper season ends December 31st but remember Gag grouper closed early this year! Still lots of opportunities this time of year so keep an eye on the weather and take advantage of your few calm days.
capT. MaTT GraVES
Limitless Fishing Charters www.limitlessfishing.com 407-222-4408
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cOASTALANGLermAG.cOm • THeANGLermAG.cOm | december 2023 | 2023 VOLUSIA VOLUSIA cOUNTY 13 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM DECEMBER January January layout.indd layout.indd 15 15
12/13/2019 12/13/2019 10:24:28 10:24:28 AM AM
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FOLLOW Us To Stay Updated! @boondocksrestaurantfl
29.132880 -80.961620
CeNTrAL ST. JOhNS river FORECAST
Locally Owned With Chef Inspired Menu D
ecember is a great time to be fishing the St. Johns River. Cooling water temperatures invigorate bass and specks as they begin their winter feeding patterns that lead up to the spawn. Lake Woodruff, in Deland, is a premier speck lake. It has been rated in the top five in the state for specks. It is a typical Florida lake with a pie pan shaped mud bottom. At 2,220 acres, Woodruff is fairly shallow and rimed with some vegetation. Additionally, Deleon springs dumps millions of gallons of fresh spring water into the north east corner of the lake daily. Not only does this provide a water exchange, but it creates water flow. There is always a little movement in Woodruff. When you add it up, Lake Woodruff has the perfect environment for specks. They move out of the main channels of the St. Johns River into the lake in great numbers to feed, stage, and spawn. This month specks will respond to a variety of baits and methods. Drifting or trolling open water with live minnows is the standard. Use a #1 or #2 Aberdeen hook with a #4 or #5 split weight four inches above it. Drift with the wind or slow troll against it. Trolling artificial jigs is the most popular method. A 1/32 oz. jig is typical. It is lead headed with a # 4 hook and a rubber body with slits in the tail to form a skirt. Most popular colors are pink, chartreuse, and yellow, but most recently blue and silver along with green and pink have been productive combinations. You can also use these jigs to vertical jig or use a casting method known as cork and jig. Around the full moon many specks will find their way into Norris Dead River, (the 3-mile tributary that connects Highland Park Fish Camp with Lake Woodruff). Here, for the next three months, the specks will spawn in the shallow water near shore. Near the full moon during each month heavy females laden with roe are easily caught with all the methods mentioned earlier. We’ve had a tough year recovering from hurricanes on the bass front. But we have seen some improvements in bass fishing recently, and with cooler water temperatures things could pick up. Until we see more improvements wild river shiners are your best chance of catching largemouth bass. Use this bait to fish right on the edge of heavy floating vegetation rigged with a weedless hook and a float on 15-pound test line. The staff at Highland Park Fish Camp is always available for an up to date fishing report. Give us a call to find out what’s going on. 1-800-525-3477.
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DECEMBER 2023 2023 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM 14 VOLUSIA cOUNTY | december | cOASTALANGLermAG.cOm • THeANGLermAG.cOm
January Jan
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January January layout.indd layout.indd 15 15
cOASTALANGLermAG.cOm • THeANGLermAG.cOm | december 2023 | 2023 VOLUSIA VOLUSIA cOUNTY 15 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM DECEMBER 12/13/2019 12/13/2019 10:24:28 10:24:28 AM AM
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Surf Expo Kicks Off 2024 With a Wide Selection of Brands and Full Event Lineup
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urf Expo, the premier watersports and coastal lifestyle tradeshow, returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando on Jan. 10-12, 2024, in the West Concourse with a broad selection of brands and a full event line up. Over 700 exhibiting companies are expected to participate in the January show, including over 60 new exhibiting brands. “Surf Expo continues to be the ‘go-to marketplace’ for buyers and brands to connect in person, discover new products and trends, and conduct business,” said Roy Turner, Emerald SVP and Surf Expo Show Director. “Our January show allows retailers to preview all the new styles and new introductions ranging from top surf brands, hardgoods, apparel, footwear, swimwear, boutique fashions and accessories, value-priced resort items, fishing and marine products, souvenirs, and coastal gifts.” The show has also expanded its footprint with watersports and coastal retailers with its new Shoreline offering. This new floor area compliments neighboring product categories on the show floor – Surf, Skate, Paddle and Bluewater — by targeting business associated with recreation found along rivers and lakes. Shoreline will feature products related to day camping, portable power, inflatables, overland, wakeboard, SUP, and performance related clothing and footwear. “From the trails to the lakes and beyond, Shoreline at Surf Expo supports the natural evolution of the waterman’s lifestyle with gear, apparel and accessories that will take them from coastal shoreline activities into camping, hiking, climbing and other recreational activities found along the rivers and lakes,” said Turner. A wide range of exhibitors have signed up for the January 2024 show that cater to the outdoor and fishing industries such as: Howler Bros., HUK, The Duck Co., Xtratuff, Keen, Guy Harvey, AFTCO, Fahalo, Columbia Sportswear, Teva, BAJIO Sunglasses, Chums, Dark Seas, Salty Crew, Fish Hippie, Mang and many more. Surf Expo is also the market to find the next new. More than 60 new exhibiting brands have signed on including Finaddicts, Handy Beach Goods, Neso, Paddlesmash, Sun Drunk, American Hatmakers, Fate, K’Lani, Livin Hooked Headwear, ORB, Our Own Candle Company, Tres Bien, ShuBug, Patsy Kane, Great Coast – Woodcraft, Jodi Melissa, Little Miss Zoe, Conscious Step, Jack & Sage Co, Hardcore Apparel, Dip LLC, and more. Surf Expo January will feature a full schedule of events including industry networking events, daily fashion shows, happy hours and learning labs. Special onsite events will include The East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame 2024 Induction Ceremony and the annual Florida Shape Off surfboard shaping competition.
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ANGLERS GET TWO MONTHS FOR GULF AJ
I
t will be another short season for amberjack in the Gulf of Mexico next year. The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council decided in late October to modify both the recreational season and commercial trip limits for greater amberjack. The result for recreational anglers is a two-month fall season, which is expected to close a few days early based on projections. The council chose to modify the recreational season so it opens on Sept. 1 and remains open through Oct. 31, unless the annual catch target is projected to be met earlier. The projected date for reaching that annual catch target is Oct. 26. The council also chose to reduce the commercial trip limit to seven fish, which is equivalent to about 210 pounds gutted weight. This framework action will be transmitted to the Secretary of Commerce for approval and implementation as soon as practicable. In anticipation that this rule may not be implemented before the beginning of the 2024 commercial fishing season, the Council requested that NOAA Fisheries implement an emergency rule to reduce the commercial trip limit to seven fish at the start of the year. Since Amendment 54 reduced catch limits by about 83 percent, and the 2023 commercial annual catch limit was exceeded, a payback provision will reduce the 2024 commercial annual catch target to 56,661 pounds whole weight. Under the current 1,000-pound trip limit, the commercial fishing season is expected to be incredibly short. For more information, go to https://gulfcouncil.org/.
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COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2023
NATIONAL 9
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Florida’s 5 Star Jeweler Since 1981
321-784-8769 • sales@jessethejeweler.com
www.JesseTheJeweler.com
Florida Rope & Chain
Shop here for the holidays TONS OF GIFTS FOR BOAT OWNERS! GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!
(561) 758-8758 Phone orders Can Be shiPPed
DEEPER PRO+ FISH FINDER AND FLEX ARM 2.0 THE EASIEST-EVER SONAR SYSTEM FOR KAYAK ANGLERS
6913 Norton Ave. West Palm Beach, FL 334054
T Custom Spliced Dock Lines & Anchor Rodes
10 NATIONAL
DECEMBER 2023
ransform any small boat, kayak or float tube into a high-spec sonar system within minutes using the Deeper gear combo. The Deeper PRO+ is a wireless fish finder, roughly the size of a tennis ball, connecting to your phone via its own Wi-Fi signal, scanning down to 260 ft. With a reliable 6-hour battery, built-in GPS, and two beam scanning frequencies, it delivers accurate, trustworthy readings. Waterproof and capable of handling temperatures as low as -4°F, it’s a versatile fishfinder suitable for various fishing types. For kayak fishing, it seamlessly pairs with the Deeper Flex Arm 2.0. Crafted from high-strength materials, the Flex Arm with G-clamp suits a wide range of vessels, offering easy installation and mounting without the need for drilling or tools. Use Deeper to map out waters, understand bottom structures, water temperature and depth, and locate fish holding spots faster. Enjoy a successful day on the water with Deeper. BUYDEEPER.COM
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
LOOKING FOR THE
PERFECT GIFT?
A custom rod building kit makes a great gift for the Holidays!
ENTER TO WIN SUZUKI DF2.5 PORTABLE OUTBOARD MOTOR
Suzuki’s DF2.5: Small in size but big in features. Weiging just 30 pounds, the portable and versatile DF 2.5HP outboard motor is the lightest Suzuki 4-stroke motor ever built. This smooth, quiet engine is water-cooled for increased dependability, features a digital CDI, and its anti corrosion system ensures the aluminum propeller stays durable in marine conditions.
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Drawing to be held 12/22/23. Winners will be announced on Facebook.
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN, ENTER ONLINE AT:
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM/CONTEST
Happy Holidays FROM
S EA -DOG.COM COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2023
NATIONAL 11
scotthawaii.com FAMILY RUN IN HAWAII FOR 90 YEARS
Hanapa‘a - Marlin
Fish flags tell the story! Catch all 4 Hanap‘a “slippahs” from Scott Hawaii Hanapa‘a - Ono
Hanapa‘a - Mahi
Hanapa‘a - Ahi
The Return of a Fish flags inspired by Sun Dot Marine Flags.
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Pig Cookers, Patio Grills, Smokers, Customized BBQ Trailers
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DECEMBER 2023
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
@fishflags
Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction
C
enturies ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear.
26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise B.
ONLY $99
On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed. We found a limited supply of turquoise from Arizona and purchased it for our Sedona Turquoise Collection. Inspired by the work of those ancient craftsmen and designed to showcase the exceptional blue stone, each stabilized vibrant cabochon features a unique, one-of-a-kind matrix surrounded in Bali metalwork. You could drop over $1,200 on a turquoise pendant, or you could secure 26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise for just $99. C.
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you aren’t completely happy with your purchase, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.
A.
The supply of Arizona turquoise is limited, don’t miss your chance to own the Southwest’s brilliant blue treasure. Call today! Jewelry Specifications: • Arizona turquoise • Silver-finished settings
Sedona Turquoise Collection A. Pendant (26 cts) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200 B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 +s&p C. 1 1/2” Earrings (10 ctw) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200 Complete Set** $747 * $249 +s&p Save $498 **Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings. Call now and mention the offer code to receive your collection.
1-800-333-2045 Offer Code STC851-09
Rating of A+
You must use the offer code to get our special price. *Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.
Stauer
® 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. STC851-09, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color
Stauer… Afford t he Ext rao r d i n ar y.®
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2023
NATIONAL 13
We’ve Found the Most Beautiful Endangered Species Theirs sold at auction for $226,000. Ours is JUST $29! Curious? Read on!
T
o art nouveau jewelers at the turn of the last century, nothing was more beautiful than the dragonfly. In the dragonfly’s long body and outstretched wings, jewelers found the perfect setting for valuable stones. These jewelers’ dragonfly designs have become timeless statements of style; a dragonfly pendant designed by French jeweler René Lalique recently sold at auction for $226,000. Inspired by his stunning artistry, we’ve crafted our Dragonfly Nouvelle Collection, an elegant jewelry set for JUST $29!
Buy pend earrings Fant, get REE!
$29
True artisanship in Austrian crystal and yellow gold. This necklace and earring set features gorgeous multicolored enamel paired with Austrian crystals and a yellow gold finish. Ask any jeweler and they’ll tell you it takes true artisanship to properly blend the blues and purples found in this enamel. While art nouveau dragonflies are hard to come by, we’re helping to repopulate their numbers with this artfully stylized depiction of some of nature’s smallest wonders!
A NEARLY VALUE FOR JUST $29! Buy the pendant, get the earrings FREE. If Stauer were a normal company, we’d sell the necklace and earrings for $199 each, but because we engage the world’s best artisans and cut out the middlemen to sell directly to you, we’re offering the necklace for JUST $29! Even better: If you buy within the next few days, we’ll throw in the earrings for FREE! That’s a nearly $400 value for JUST $29! Act fast! The first time we ran this jewelry in our catalog, it sold out in a matter of days. Get this collection now before this offer goes extinct! Jewelry Specifications: • Enamel with Austrian crystal. Yellow gold finish • Pendant: 1 ½" W x 1 ¼" H. Chain: 18" + 2", lobster clasp. Earrings: 1 ¼" L, french wire Dragonfly Nouvelle Collection A. Necklace $199 $29* + S&P Save $170 B. Earrings $199 FREE with purchase of Dragonfly Nouvelle Necklace *Special price only for customers using the offer code.
1-800-333-2045
FREE! A $199 value!
Your Insider Offer Code: DFC208-01 Stauer, 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. DFC208-01, Burnsville, MN 55337 www.stauer.com
AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY
14 NATIONAL
DECEMBER 2023
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
CLEANS EVERYTHING.
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Clean, Waxes & Protects Glass, Lexan, Isinglass, Metal, Gelcoat, Fiberglass, Paint, Plastic & Rubber
Remove & Prevents Oxidation, Scuff Marks, Bird & Spider Poop, Fish Blood, Rust, Water & Exhaust Stains
Restores Gelcoat, Fiberglass, Metal, Plastic Windows & Rubber
USE CODE BOAT10 FOR 10% 0FF
www.koenigpolish.com • 1-877-843-9929 COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2023
NATIONAL 15
Over 2 carats of Verdant Peridot in precious .925 sterling silver
ONLY $39
Save $260!
“Known as ‘the Evening Emerald’ because its sparkling green hue looks brilliant any time of day.” — The American Gem Society (AGS)
Ooh and Ahh Without the Ouch Spoil her (and your wallet) with sparkling Verdant Peridot for just $39
G
oing over the top on jewelry doesn’t have to mean going overboard on the cost. We’re in the business of oohs and ahhs without the ouch, which is why we can bring you an effervescent verdant peridot ring for a price that simply can’t be beat. Its vivid and unique color makes verdant peridot unlike any other green gemstone. If you are looking to mark a milestone or make any occasion special, the Verdant Peridot Ring is all you need.
This elegant ring features 2 1/3 carats of captivating verdant peridotA. in three perfectly-faceted cushion cut gemstones. And, the .925 sterling silver setting is finished in tarnish-resistant rhodium for added durability and superior shine.
“Found in lava, meteorites, and deep in the earth’s mantle, yellow-green peridot is the extreme gem” — Gemological Institute of America’s Gem Encyclopedia
PRAISE FOR STAUER PERIDOT JEWELRY You could easily “...absolutely beautiful. The picture spend $400 on a sterling silver ring set does not do it justice. It is a real with peridot stones. stunner.” – S. C., Berkeley, CA But, with Stauer in your corner, the sky’s the limit for affording the extraordinary. Priced at just $39, you can treat her to the Verdant Peridot Ring set in .925 sterling silver and save your money and your love life all at the same time.
Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Indulge in the Verdant Peridot Ring for 30 days. If you aren’t perfectly happy, send it back for a full refund of the item price. Limited Reserves. Don’t let this gorgeous ring slip through your fingers. Call today! Verdant Peridot Ring ( 1/2 ctw) $299† $39 +S&P Save $260 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.
1-800-333-2045
Your Insider Offer Code: TPR283-02 Please use this code when you order to receive your discount. † Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.
Stauer
®
14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. TPR283-02, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
Rating of A+
• 2 1/3 ctw Verdant Peridot • White zircon accents • Rhodium-finished .925 sterling silver setting • Whole sizes 5-10
Stauer… Afford the Extraordinary.®
16 NATIONAL
DECEMBER 2023
COASTALANGLERMAG.COM • THEANGLERMAG.COM
ABALONE HUMMINGBIRD PENDANT & EARRINGS COLLECTION Graceful Hummingbird Design Solid 925 Sterling Silver Abalone Mother of Pearl
Matching Abalone Hummingbird Earrings
Complimentary 22” Chain 1.57” Length
Natural Abalone Shell
TAKE FLIGHT WITH THIS DAZZLING DELIGHT The hummingbird is a traditional symbol of love and beauty. Suspended in mid-flight, with a rainbow of iridescence in wave-like patterns, outstanding shimmering Abalone decorates her body and wing. Each unique, one-of-a-kind piece of Abalone shell has been molded into a sterling silver pendant. Traditionally, Abalone shell is believed to induce feelings of calm, compassion and love. It has a tranquil, warm and gentle cosmic vibration. Spiritually uplifting, Abalone is said to soothe the nerves, encourage serenity and bestow a feeling of inner peace. Originally priced at $249, this stunning piece of jewelry can be yours today for a special offer price of just $79 with promo code: CA3DHB
Original Price Without Code $249 - With Promo Code Now Only $79 Abalone Hummingbird Pendant $79 plus S&H Abalone Hummingbird Earrings $79 plus S&H Abalone Hummingbird Complete Collection Now Only $149 (EXTRA SAVING)
ORDER NOW TOLL FREE 24/7 ON: 1-800 733 8463 AND QUOTE PROMO CODE: CA3DHB Or order online at: timepiecesusa.com/ca3dhb and enter promo: CA3DHB PAY BY CHECK: Timepieces International Inc. 10701 NW 140th Street, Suite 1, Hialeah Gardens, FL 33018