Red snapper- The Northern Gulf’s most prized possession.
Where is this fishery today and where will it be tomorrow When I think back to some of the most exciting trips I have taken, immediately, one in particular comes to mind. It was a trip back at the end of April 2004 with my wife and son.

A lesson to be learned; An Islamorada expert proves angling success is achieved when careful preparation meets opportunity- regardless of the quarry.

Perhaps no seabird is more iconic along the shores, bays and bayous of the coastal southeast than the mighty brown pelican. Cursed by many misinformed anglers, the birds’ comical demeanor never fails to delight camera-toting tourists. The brown pelican is a true celebrity in an angling class of its own.

Are you ready for the rush?

After more than a decade of service at the nation’s largest Hydra-Sports / Deep Impact / Jupiter dealer, I’ve come to the realization that since the popularity explosion of multi-outboard engine applications, the most common question I hear from prospective boat buyers here at the dealership and at boat shows is something to the effect of, “Is there really more to triple outboards than just the “WOW” factor?

Ask any angler in South Florida about fishing opportunities that exist after dark, and you’ll probably hear answers like swordfish, snapper and snook. The only problem with these answers is that they leave out one of the most highly sought after migratory menaces roaming both coasts of Florida.

"Feasibility Studies", now that‘s a term which should ring your warning bells.

Feasibility studies, such as a 1999 study to discover ways to expand Florida Keys future development are the first signal that something major is about to change. That change, in all probability, will not benefit everyone equally.

After a short run to the grounds, you begin your first drift of the day. Within minutes of your first bait hitting the water, you sense the frantic pilchard on the end of your line completely freaking out. The baitfish is skipping in wild circles on the surface, literally attempting to fly.

“Long rigger! … Long rigger!… He’s on it! … He’s on it!

With my adrenaline level soaring, I couldn’t help but scream from the bridge. The lit-up blue had appeared on the short rigger out of nowhere and in one swift motion without a second’s hesitation, engulfed the bait into the dark shadow of its cavernous gullet.

Anchoring is an important aspect of both successful fishing and safe boating in general. Yet, many new boaters still don’t know the dos and don’ts of proper anchoring etiquette. They must not be fully convinced that accurate positioning leads to more consistent catches and is imperative to your overall safety and angling success.

Head east from St. Augustine, my friends, and you’ll stumble into a ‘red hot’ pelagic playground of immense proportions.

How many offshore fisheries exist in Florida where a crew can find consistent success with wahoo, dolphin, tuna and swordfish, and have a shot at blue marlin and sailfish all during a single outing? I certainly know of one- the rich offshore waters off St. Augustine.