Anglers from across Florida and surrounding regions will converge on Jacksonville, Fla., on February 26 for the first regular-season tournaments for both the IFA Redfish Tour Presented by Cabela’s and the IFA Kayak FishingTour Presented by Hobie Fishing. Saturday’s IFA Redfish Tour event, which will launch from Sister’s Creek Marina and Sunday’s IFA Kayak Fishing Tour, are the first of three regular-season tournaments for the Florida East Coast Division, one of six divisions of IFA Tour events running from the Carolinas to Texas.

The weekend’s activities begin Friday, February 26 with the IFA Redfish Tour registration from 5-7 p.m. at Hampton Inn (4690 Salisbury Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256) with the Captain’s Meeting to follow. Anglers will be launching from Sister’s Creek Marina (8203-2 Hecksher Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32226) at safe light on Saturday for the one-day event. Check-in times will be assigned at the Captains Meeting.

Competitors in the IFA Kayak Fishing Tour Presented by Hobie Fishing will have a registration and captain’s meeting from 6-7 p.m. on Saturday, February 27 at Sister’s Creek Park.  The weigh in will take place at the Hampton Inn on Sunday.  Check-in times will be announced at the Capains Meeting.

Each of the Cabela’s IFA Redfish Tour 18 regular-season events will commence on Saturday with the newly formed IFA Kayak Fishing Tour Presented by Hobie Fishing contested the following day (Sundays). In its inaugural season, the IFA Kayak Fishing Tour Presented by Hobie will feature 18 regular-season, catch-photograph-release events across six different division (mirroring the IFA Redfish Tour format, location and scheduling) as well as extremely lucrative payouts and expanded fishing opportunities for non-motorized fishing crafts.

The redfish/trout tournament will pay twenty places (based on a 100 boat field) plus Big Redfish, Big Trout and Junior Angler Awards. The winner will take home a Hobie Mirage Pro-Angler valued at $2399, 2nd place prize will be a Hobie Mirage Outback, valued at $1,749 and 3rd place a Hobie Quest, valued at $949.

The IFA Redfish Tour continues to draw redfish anglers from Texas to the Carolinas and beyond, offering two-angler teams the opportunity to compete in six different divisions, each offering a three-event regular season. Low entry fees for the one-day, regular-season tournaments allows anglers to fish close to home and minimize expenses, while still being a part of a premier inshore, catch-and-release redfish tournament organization. Teams fishing any three of the IFA’s 18 regular-season events are automatically qualified for a no-entry-fee championship event, pitting qualifiers from each of the six divisions for a combined $78,200 in payouts and prize packages, as well as a shot at the coveted Cabela’s Overall Divisional Team of the Year Award for the six regular-season division winners.

New for 2010, IFA Redfish Tour anglers will be able to increase their winnings with the Cabela’s Angler Cash award and the Angler’s Advantage Award. The Angler’s Advantage Award allows anglers to add $100 to their already-low entry fee for the chance at increased winnings. The optional program pays out 100 percent to those participating teams. The Cabela’s Angler Cash award gives a $1,000 gift card to any team that wins a regular-season tournament while competing with a Cabela’s patch on their clothing (both people must have the patch on). For the no-entry-fee IFA Redfish Tour Championship, the qualified, winning team will receive a $2,500 Cabela’s gift card.  If the winners of an IFA Redfish Tour event are a registered and qualified Ranger Cup compliant team, then they will receive$2,000 (you must sign up every year).

Added in 2009 and continuing in 2010, teams fishing at least six tournaments in any combination of divisions are automatically eligible to compete for the IFA Redfish Tour “Ultra 6 Team of the Year” award. The award consists of a $5,000 cash prize, presented to the highest-finishing eligible team at the IFA Redfish Tour championship tournament.

In addition to a possible $60,000 in payouts per event (based on a 100-boat field), the first-place prize package for all 18 IFA Redfish Tour regular-season events remains extremely lucrative. In 2010, every regular-season tournament winner is guaranteed – regardless of field size – a fully loaded 2010 Ranger Banshee Extreme. The boat is powered by a 60-horsepower, four-stroke Yamaha outboard and is equipped with a Power-Pole shallow water anchor, Minn Kota trolling motor, Humminbird electronics, Blue Point Fabrication metal work, Bob’s four-inch Ultra Light Jackplate and a Loadmaster trailer. The entire first-place prize package is valued at $30,000.

Event Details:
IFA Redfish Tour Presented by Cabela’s
Jacksonville, Fla.
Florida East Coast Division
Competition Date: February 27, 2010

Registration and Check In: Begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, February 26
Captains Meeting: Begins at 7 p.m. following registration and check in
Location: Hampton Inn
4690 Salisbury Road
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 281-0443

Launch Site: Sister’s Creek Marina at safe light
8203-2 Hecksher Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32226
Weigh-in: Sister’s Creek Marina – times TBA at Captains Meeting

IFA Kayak Fishing Tour Presented by Hobie Fishing
Jacksonville, Fla.
Florida East Coast Division
Competition Date: February 28, 2010

Registration and Check In: Begins at 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 27
Captains Meeting: Begins at 7 p.m. following registration and check in
Location: Sister’s Creek Park
8203-2 Hecksher Dr., Jacksonville, FL 32226

Take-off: Location of your choice
Weigh-in: Hampton Inn
4690 Salisbury Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 281-0443
Weigh-in times will be announced at the captain’s meeting

IFA REDFISH TOUR PRESENTED BY CABELA’S
2010 REGULAR SEASON SCHEDULE

Atlantic Division

March 20 – Charleston, SC
May 22 – Surf City, NC
September 25 – Georgetown, SC

Florida East Coast Division

February 27 – Jacksonville, Fla.
May 1 – Titusville, Fla.
October 9 – Fernandina, Fla.

Florida West Coast Division

March 6 – Punta Gorda, Fla.
May 15 – Sarasota, Fla.
September 18 – Ruskin, Fla.

Gulf Coast Division

March 13 – Destin, Fla.
June 5 – Panama City Beach, Fla.
October 16 – Orange Beach, Ala.

Louisiana Division

April 24 – Cocodrie, La.
June 19 – Empire, La.
August 28 – Grand Isle, La.

Texas Division

April 17 – Port Lavaca, Texas
June 12 – Rockport, Texas
September 11 – Port Aransas, Texas

IFA KAYAK FISHING TOUR PRESENTED BY HOBIE FISHING
2010 REGULAR SEASON SCHEDULE

Atlantic Division

March 21 – Charleston, SC
May 23 – Surf City, NC
September 26 – Georgetown, SC

Florida East Coast Division

February 28 – Jacksonville, Fla.
May 2 – Titusville, Fla.
October 10 – Fernandina, Fla.

Florida West Coast Division

March 7 – Punta Gorda, Fla.
May 16 – Sarasota, Fla.
September 19 – Ruskin, Fla.

Gulf Coast Division

March 14 – Destin, Fla.
June 6 – Panama City Beach, Fla.
October 17 – Orange Beach, Ala.

Louisiana Division

April 25 – Cocodrie, La.
June 20 – Empire, La.
August 29 – Grand Isle, La.

Texas Division

April 18 – Port Lavaca, Texas
June 13 – Rockport, Texas
September 12 – Port Aransas, Texas

Today your camera, cell phone, camcorder, GPS and a myriad of other electronic devices are as important to your fishing trip as your rod and reel. To protect these valuable devices Plano has developed the Guide Series Waterproof Cases. Made of tough crystal clear polycarbonate featuring cam-action latches and a Dri-Loc® O-ring seal, these cases are airtight and waterproof, making them perfect for storing all your electronic gear.  Non-corrosive pinned hinges are designed to with stand the saltwater environment and provide a solid hinge that will last through years of use. Included with each case is an additional sheet of the soft rubber lining to shield the contents from the sun while on the open water. These cases are perfect for any situation where secure dry storage is needed.

Featuring an all new design, the Guide Series waterproof cases are now available in our four classic StowAway footprints: 3449, 3500, 3600 and 3700 allowing them to be used in our tackle bags alongside our traditional StowAway utility boxes. Visit PlanoMolding.com.

Cheryl Smith loves to fish, and her desire to be on the water is paying off. Her infectious angling passion paid big dividends in the Berkley Big Fish (BBF) Contest for OutdoorGirl1, as she has become known on BerkleyBigFish.com. Smith landed the biggest prize offered – a fishing trip for two with legendary angler Hank Parker.

“I was up against a lot of great anglers on Berkley Big Fish,” said Smith. “The website is so much fun, I can’t get away from it. The voting and pictures that are submitted show that fishing is growing. Families and individuals still love to get outdoors and stay active.”

The St. Charles, Ill., native has been posting pictures of her and anything with gills on BerkleyBigFish.com since early 2009. She has won multiple awards on BBF, most notably being named Elite Angler for the month of April. Smith is also a five-time category winner and has marked her place as one of the standout anglers on the site.

“It’s so good to have a website that is all positive,” said Hank Parker. “Everything about the outdoors should be all about being positive. BerkleyBigFish.com is for any angler wanting to share their story. Cheryl was the crown jewel out of the 22 anglers selected for the Grand Prize. She is held in high regard from her competitors and myself as well.”

BerkleyBigFish is a Web site that celebrates the sport of fishing through creating an online community of dedicated anglers. The almost-12,000 users (nearly double from a year ago) can post photos that are entered into monthly contests and sweepstakes with the chance to win prizes from Berkley, Abu Garcia and other sponsors.

Users have the ability to comment on others’ photos and rate them on a scale of 1 to 5 “bobbers.” Five monthly winners are chosen from these votes based on fish specie (Bass, Trout, Walleye, Inshore Saltwater and Other), with one monthly Grand Prize Finalist being hand-selected by Hank Parker to be in the running for the grand prize.

In addition, monthly “Elite Anglers” are chosen based on skill level to compete for the grand prize alongside monthly finalists. Smith qualified for the grand prize by being named an Elite Angler.

Awesome is the best word to describe Omoto’s new Wavecaster™  6000CT. All metal corrosion resistant construction and a classic profile gives this new reel a familiar look, but internally it is all new. A free floating spool system provides excellent casting performance and a sensitive magnetic cast control helps eliminate backlashes. The new Wavecaster is destined to become an all-time favorite.  Two Year Warranty

Available in red, chrome, blue and black

$ 79.99

Penn® International® Big Game Series reels own the blue water. From the 2-speed Penn International VS and VSX series, to the single speed VW series, Penn produces the most recognizable and popular saltwater reels on today’s market.

Just like the International reels themselves, anglers like to have a look all their own. Penn has heard the calls and beginning January 1, 2010 Penn will offer select International reels that are customized for each angler or fishing vessel.

Personalization of the Penn International reels begins with 7 custom-tailored colors including tournament pink, American blue, American red, solid black, gun smoke, International silver and International gold.  Anglers can choose these colors to decorate their entire reel or mix it up by adding a second custom color to the reel.  (International Gold isn’t really a custom color)

All Penn International V Series Big Game reels consist of four separate parts consisting of the sideplates, frame, drag lever knob, and spool that can be anodized different colors to match any style. Finally, anglers now have the option to customize Penn International reels to match any boat style.

Color coordination is not the only option an angler may choose. Now each Penn International reel may be engraved to truly tailor the reel. As a result Penn is proud to offer four popular gamefish and the American flag as custom engraving options and add a boat name or any other text to the sideplate. Each engraving will be sized proportionally for the left sideplate depending on the model purchased.

To place an order for a customized Penn International reel, anglers must contact one of the Penn Custom Shop retailers listed on www.PennCustomShop.com. When visiting these locations, anglers can make all the choices to have the reel customized by simply completing one form. The dealer will provide all the details for engravings, colors and word options, or feel free to browse the website to explore all the options. An angler’s retailer will also be able to give pricing for each option.

Models available for custom colors and custom engraving include the following Penn International Big Game reel series: International Two-speed reels, International Single-speed reels and International VSX series reels.

I’m sure many of you haven’t heard of the company Qualia fishing, and if you have it was probably from one of our show coverage articles. The company’s main focus is on designing reels that are “Simple. Strong. Reliable.”  They have just redesigned their website with the latest information for those who are interested in taking a peek at this fairly new company. http://www.qualiafishing.com/

Redfish anglers from Florida, the Gulf Coast region and surrounding areas will converge on Englewood, Fla., on June 27 for the second IFA Redfish Tour Florida West Coast Division event of 2009. The event, hosted by Stump Pass Marina, is the second of three regular-season tournaments for the division; one of six divisions in the IFA Redfish Tour which operates tournaments from the Carolinas to Texas.

The weekend’s activities begin Friday, June 26 with registration from 5-7 p.m. at Beef O’Brady’s of Englewood (1951 S. McCall Rd. #700, Englewood, FL 34223), which will be offering special discounts at this location to IFA members through the remainder of the tournament season, with the Captain’s Meeting to follow. Anglers will launch from Stump Pass Marina at safe light on Saturday; check-in times will be assigned at the Captains Meeting.

With easy registration and participation opportunities still available to all anglers for any remaining regular-season events, the IFA Redfish Tour continues to draw redfish participants from Texas to the Carolinas and beyond. The tour’s format offers two-angler teams the opportunity to compete in six different divisions, each offering a three-event regular season. Low entry fees for the one-day, regular-season tournaments allow anglers the opportunity to fish close to home and minimize expenses while still being a part of a premier inshore, catch-and-release redfish tournament organization.

All teams fishing any three of the IFA’s 18 regular-season events are automatically qualified for the no-entry-fee championship event, pitting qualifiers from each of the six divisions for a combined $77,000 in payouts and prize packages, as a shot at the coveted Cabela’s Overall Divisional Team of the Year Award for the six regular-season division winners. Teams fishing at least six tournaments in any combination of divisions are also automatically eligible to compete for the IFA Redfish Tour “Ultra 6” award, a $5,000 cash prize, presented to the highest-finishing eligible team at the IFA Redfish Tour championship tournament.

This year, in addition to $47,000 in payouts per event (based on a 100-boat field), the first-place prize package for all 18 IFA Redfish Tour regular-season events has been increased. In 2009, every regular-season tournament winner is guaranteed – regardless of field size – a fully loaded 2009 Ranger Banshee Extreme. The boat is powered by a 60-horsepower, four-stroke Yamaha outboard and is equipped with a Bob’s four-inch Ultra Light Jackplate, Power-Pole shallow water anchor, Minn Kota trolling motor, Humminbird electronics, Blue Point Fabrication metal work and Loadmaster trailer. The entire first-place prize package is valued at $30,000.

For more information on the IFA Redfish Tour, to become a member of the IFA or to become a part of the fastest-growing inshore fishing tournament series in the United States, go online to redfishtour.com.

IFA Redfish Tour events are made possible through the sponsorship and continued support of the fishing industry’s most respected brands: Ranger Boats, Cabela’s, Yamaha Outboards, Rapala, Trigger X, Sufix, Minn Kota, Humminbird, Power-Pole, Wrap This, CW Crab, Charter Lakes Marine Insurance, Solar Bat, Gemini Custom Apparel, Navionics, Bob’s Machine Shop, Blue Point Fabrication, Terminator, VMC Hooks, Loadmaster Trailers, Powertex Group, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, Stump Pass Marina and Beef O’Brady’s of Englewood.

Event Details:
IFA Redfish Tour
Florida West Coast Division
Englewood, Fla.
Competition Date: June 27, 2009
Launch: At safe light from Stump Pass Marina
Check-in times: TBD at Captains Meeting

Host Venue: Stump Pass Marina
3060 Placida Rd.
Englewood, FL 34223
941-697-2206

Registration and Check In: Begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, June 5
Captains Meeting: Begins at 7 p.m. following registration and check in
Location: Beef O’Brady’s of Englewood
1951 S. McCall Rd. #700
Englewood, FL 34223
(941) 473-8776

Upcoming Events: 2009 IFA Redfish Tour

Florida East Coast Division
September 19, 2009 – Titusville, Fla.

Florida West Coast Division
August 22, 2009 – Ruskin, Fla.

Atlantic Division
September 26, 2009 – Moorehead City, N.C.

Gulf Coast
October 17, 2009 – Orange Beach, Ala.

Louisiana Division
August 29, 2009 – Grand Isle, La.

Texas Division
September 12, 2009 – Port Aransas, Texas

E21 Fishing started out with rods made specifically for bass anglers but as we have seen in the recent past years they have expanded into fly and saltwater application rods, and from last year’s ICAST even apparel.

In the upcoming ICAST 2009 in Orlando Florida, E21 will be introducing two new series of rods, a Jiggin’ Stik for saltwater anglers and Carp Rods for fresh. The show is only one month away and as we get more information we’ll be giving you the latest about these E21 fishing rods. Now the question is… will they be Carrot orange?

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds anglers that the recreational harvest season for red snapper in Gulf of Mexico waters has changed.  The open season now takes place from June 1 through Sept. 30.

Previously, the recreational red snapper harvest season opened on April 15 in Gulf state waters, and the season in Gulf federal waters opened on April 21.  Now, the recreational harvest season for red snapper in all Gulf waters off Florida does not open until June 1.

Researchers consider red snapper to be overfished and undergoing overfishing in the Gulf.  A shorter fishing season will reduce the harvest of Gulf red snapper and help rebuild the fishery’s population.

More information regarding the management of Gulf red snapper is available at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS/Saltwater_Regulations_RedSnapperIndex.htm.

Advantages and Applications

No Knots
This connection allows you to retain 100% breaking strength of your line.

Cleaner Connection
Since there are no knots here, the connection flows seamlessly through your guides.

Wind-On Top Shots
The hollow braid splice is ideal for attaching your pre-made topshots directly to the main line on your reel. Either by having a full spool of hollow braid or a hollow sleeve on top of your solid braid backing, you are able to perform this splice.

Repairing Your Line
The advantage to spooling up directly with hollow braid is the ability to repair your line with this connection. If your line gets damaged halfway down the spool, you can simply cut out the knick and do a hollow braid splice. With standard mono or solid braid, you would have to cut out the damaged area, but then re-attach the good line with a knot.

Bulk Spool Purchases
With a hollow braid splice, you are never left over with 100 yards of line that can’t be used. With monofilament, smaller quantities of line leftover on bulk spools serve no purpose as you would have to tie it to another length of line to fill up your spool. By using a hollow braid splice, you can use smaller quantities of hollow braid to make topshots or to splice onto your mainline should the situation arise.

Tools

Loop Puller Needle

Braid Scissors

Instructions

Step 1: Thread the tag end of one of the hollow lengths through your end loop and insert the needle into the other length of hollow heading inward (toward the bulk of the line) about a foot from the end.

Step 2: Thread the needle about 10 inches through hollow and then push it out. Leave about an inch of first hollow hanging out of the length it is inside of, (this will come into play later).

Step 3: Now perform the same action, but opposite. Thread the tag end of the hollow you just went inside of through the end loop and insert the splicing needle into the other. Insert the needle about an inch from the junction heading toward the bulk of the line.

Step 4: Thread the needle about 10 inches through hollow and then push it out. Remember to leave the end of the hollow hanging out about 1 inch. The hollows should now be inside of each other with their tag ends hanging out.

Step 5: Hold one of the tag ends and push the hollow surrounding it down towards the junction. At this point a loop should appear at the junction.

Step 6: Now hold the other tag end and push the hollow down towards the junction. This should have taken up the loop.

Step 7: Now work the bunched up hollows back in opposite directions with your fingers. This will help to flatten everything out and take up any slack.

Step 8: Holding one of the tag ends, push the hollow surrounding it down about a half inch and cut. Perform the same action with the other tag end as well.

Step 9: Finally work each length of hollow back in opposite directions. This will cause the remaining tag ends to completely disappear.

More fishing line tips at Blackwater’s website: http://www.blackwaterinternationalinc.com/tech_tips.html
(Images provided by Blackwater International Inc.)

Tools can be bought at Hi’s TackleBox

The Bac Rac is a co-angler’s dream come true! The Bac Rac holds 4 rods across the rear deck securely while the unique design allows the Bac Rac to install in 2 seconds without fasteners or tools.

The Bac Rac is constructed of powdercoated aircraft-grade aluminum and EVA foam. The Bac Rac has 2 security straps  ensuring the safety of your rods and reels in rough water.

The Bac Rac comes in a heavy duty nylon backpack and weighs just over a pound. If you’re tired of tangled rods and not having space for the rods you need try a Bac Rac and enjoy safe secure rod storage for the back of any boat!

Retail price is $49.99
Retailers currently carrying the Bac Rac:

Tackle Warehouse

Inland Marine
Antioch, Ca

D&D Marine and Tackle
Zapata, Texas

The Berkley Bass Tank will be at the Fred Hall Tackle and Boat Show in Long Beach, Calif. The tank is scheduled to stop March 4 – 8 and will feature seminars and appearances by Berkley Pro Anglers.

Berkley sends two 4,000-gallon bass tanks all over the country to help out the everyday angler. Kids and adults alike will enjoy learning about new Berkley products and tips on how to use these innovative baits.

“The Berkley Bass Tanks are out on the road, giving all anglers the opportunity to hone their skills,” said Tammy Cox, Berkley Marketing Manager “Not only will attendees learn to “Catch More Fish,” they will also learn about new products that will help them become a better angler.”

March 4 – 8
Fred Hall Tackle and Boat Show
Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center
300 E. Ocean Boulevard
Long Beach, CA 90802

If you are unable to make it by the Fred Hall Tackle and Boat Show, plan to attend one of these other upcoming events:

March 12-16 – Minneapolis Boat Show, Minneapolis, Minn.
March 14-15 – FLW Tour Family Fun Zone, Branson, Mo.
March 28-29 – BASS Elite Series Expo, Russellville, Ark.
March 26 – April 5 – South Texas State Fair, Beaumont, Texas
April 24 – April 26 – Joe’s Fish Fest, St. Paul, Minn.
April 25 – 26 – FLW Tour Family Fun Zone, Charlotte, N.C.

I note from the owner of Albackore Sportfishing Gear…

“A NOTE ON THE ECONOMY:

Despite rumors published on certain websites … Albackore is not going out of business. Has the economy had an impact on us? Yes, and just like thousands of businesses across the nation, we’ve had to shrink staffing, discontinue products, as well as trim our advertising and marketing programs. Some products have been discontinued due to decreased demand or the introduction of similar products by other manufacturers, including the Albackore Jig Wraps, Jig Keepers and Reel Transports. I’m sure you will see these products on sale this season!

Finally, I’d like to thank all of the customers that have supported us throughout the years and I wish you all the best in the coming year. Hang in there!

Sincerely yours,

Jeff Jost”

Anglers from across Florida and the surrounding regions will converge on Punta Gorda, Fla., on March 7 for the first IFA Redfish Tour Florida West Coast Division event of 2009. The event, which will launch from Laishley Park Marina, is the first of three regular-season tournaments for the Florida West Coast Division, one of six divisions of IFA Redfish Tour events running from the Carolinas to Texas.

The weekend’s activities begin Friday, March 6 with registration from 5-7 p.m. at Hooters of Port Charlotte (1360 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL 33948) with the Captain’s Meeting to follow. Anglers will be launching from Laishley Park Marina (US41 N heading to Port Charlotte; right on Olympia Ave., left on Nesbit St.) at safe light on Saturday for the one-day event. Check-in times will be assigned at the Captains Meeting. More information on Laishley Park Marina can be found online at LaishleyMarina.com.

The IFA Redfish Tour continues to draw redfish anglers from Texas to the Carolinas and beyond, offering two-angler teams the opportunity to compete in six different divisions, each offering a three-event regular season. With low entry fees for the one-day, regular-season tournaments allow anglers to fish close to home and minimize expenses, while still being a part of a premier inshore, catch-and-release redfish tournament organization. Teams fishing any three of the IFA’s 18 regular-season events are automatically qualified for a no-entry-fee championship event, pitting qualifiers from each of the six divisions for a combined $77,000 in payouts and prize packages, as well as a shot at the coveted Cabela’s Overall Divisional Team of the Year Award for the six regular-season division winners.

This year, in addition to $47,000 in payouts per event (based on a 100-boat field), the first-place prize package for all 18 IFA Redfish Tour regular-season events has been increased. In 2009, every regular-season tournament winner is guaranteed – regardless of field size – a fully loaded 2009 Ranger Banshee Extreme. The boat is powered by a 60-horsepower, four-stroke Yamaha outboard and is equipped with a Bob’s four-inch Ultra Light Jackplate, Power-Pole shallow water anchor, Minn Kota trolling motor, Humminbird electronics, Blue Point Fabrication metal work and Loadmaster trailer. The entire first-place prize package is valued at $30,000.

For more information on the IFA Redfish Tour, to become a member of the IFA or to become a part of the fastest-growing inshore fishing tournament series in the United States, go online to redfishtour.com.

IFA Redfish Tour events are made possible through the sponsorship and continued support of the fishing industry’s most respected brands: Ranger Boats, Cabela’s, Yamaha Outboards, Rapala, Trigger X, Sufix, Minn Kota, Humminbird, Power-Pole, Wrap This, CW Crab, Charter Lakes Marine Insurance, Solar Bat, Gemini Custom Apparel, Navionics, Bob’s Machine Shop, Blue Point Fabrication, Terminator, VMC Hooks, Loadmaster Trailers, Powertex Group, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and Hooters of Port Charlotte.

Event Details:
IFA Redfish Tour
Florida West Coast Division
Punta Gorda, Fla.

Competition: March 7, 2009

Host Venue: Laishley Park Marina (LaishleyMarina.com)
US41 N heading to Port Charlotte; right on Olympia Ave., left on Nesbit St.
Launch: Safe light
Check in: TBD at Captains Meeting

Captains Meeting: 7 p.m., Friday, March 6
Location: Hooters of Port Charlotte
1360 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
(941) 625-0200

Check In: Begins at 5 p.m. prior to Captains Meeting

Frabill Advances the Cause for Fish Care Management
The new Conservation Series landing nets are designed for releasing fish unharmed

JACKSON, WIS. – The emphasis has changed. For decades, a landing net was an insurance policy against fish not making it to the frying pan. Nowadays, anglers use landing nets to expedite the release process, which reduces stress on the fish. Frabill, the world leader in landing net technology, has designed the new Conservation Series ‘Fish Friendly Landing Nets’ to perform ideally during both the catch and the release.

At Frabill, it’s called ‘Fish Care Management,’ the gentle and thoughtful handling of fish from “hookset to the time they’re fully released and swimming away,” says Frabill Vice President of Marketing Jeff Kolodzinksi.

“It all starts by controlling the fish,” he says. “A fish that is quickly subdued has less chance of inflicting injury onto itself, not to mention throwing a treble hook into your forehead,” adds Kolodzinksi with the grim reminder of what can happen.

Kolodzinksi says that most permanent, even fatal injuries to a fish occur during capture. “Eyes are damaged; fins get broken; slime and scales removed. All of which can lead to harmful fungus and infections.”

Frabill’s Conservation Series was developed to pamper the catch, lessen stress on the fish, even speed up the catch and release process.

“It starts with our knotless meshing,” says Kolodzinksi. The Conservation Series’ knotless meshing and special coating minimize the damage to scales and fins caused by traditional nets.

The physical shape of the hoop and meshing play equally as important roles. “Old style conical nets deliver a fish tail first. Fish come in upside down, tailfin smashed.” The Conservation Series’ distinctive flat-bottom cradles fish, keeping them on their sides, and with body weight evenly distributed.

Not lost in the concern for a fish’s welfare is overall performance. “This is one serious net,” says Frabill Pro Scott Glorvigen touting the Pow’R Lok Yoke System and corrosion-proof construction. “We’re talking tournament quality.”

The Conservation Series is available in 9 models, the various hoop sizes and handle lengths geared for specific species and applications. Some models are intended for multiuse.

1) The number one rule is to check the forecasts before heading out. Thanks to the internet we have many resources for this. And if it’s too windy or rough, perhaps find somewhere else that’s less dangerous to go fishing at.

2) Keep your bow down if you’re going into the waves and wind. This allows you to cut through them rather than having the wave toss your bow up and slamming it down with much force. But be sure not to trim too far down either or you’ll be digging into the waves.

3) To take on waves, especially big ones, the best way is to head straight at them. But at times when it’s windy there will be many wind waves that are about one to two feet high that’s painful to run the boat in. Sometimes the best way is to zig-zag, cutting the waves at another angle (ie: 45 degrees) to reach your destination. It will take longer but much more comfortable.

4) Unlike #2, if you’re going with the wind and waves, be sure to trim. This will prevent digging into the back of the waves. Another important tip here is that DO NOT go too fast or you might fly over the huge wave and dive nose first. This is extremely dangerous. Be sure to go slow enough to surf the wave but not go over it. Small wind waves are fine, just be on the lookout and make the best judgment.

5) As mentioned a few times, control the speed of the boat. Going too fast can be dangerous, but also going too slow can also be a bad thing. Find the equilibrium where the boat is going the right speed to handle the water conditions.

6) And lastly, make sure everyone onboard are wearing a lifejacket!!!

Promar is introducing a few new products for 2009.  First is the unique Deluxe Pro Shad Net. Key features are Extra large monofilament netting, stealthy black finish, 5 to 10 feet telescoping handle, netting replacement made easy, and it comes with a canvas carrying bag. To provide proper support it uses a stainless steel yoke for a rigid design.

The next item that’s new for 2009 are a set of The Ultimate Gaff. These new Promar Gaffs are built with a solid aluminum shaft then carbon fiber wrapped for better reinforcement. The gaffs are equipped with three inch hooks and have dual EVA grips. Not only are they rugged but these gaffs are light enough to float if accidentally dropped in the water. They are available in 3 ft and 4ft shaft lengths.

LIZELLA, Ga.  – Ron Schurr of Jacksonville, Fla., and Jim Chalkley of Panama City, Fla., caught a two-redfish limit that weighed 15.29 pounds to win the 2009 IFA Redfish Tour season opener in Jacksonville on Saturday. To win the one-day event, which operated out of Sister’s Creek Marina, Schurr and Chalkley bested 101 other two-angler teams take to the early points lead in the Florida East Coast Division.

Late-winter weather conditions proved to be the X-factor in the 2009 IFA Redfish Tour season opener, with fog limiting visibility and near-freezing air temperatures limiting some teams’ ability to search for fish.

“We practiced on Friday and found fish, but today it didn’t matter,” said Schurr, explaining the change in the fishing conditions from practice day to competition day. “Everything went out the window. But we caught our first fish at 11 a.m. and we just kept on it.”

With the win in the first tournament that the pair has fished together, Schurr and Chalkley took home a 2009 Ranger Banshee Extreme valued at more than $30,000. The boat is powered by a 60-horsepower, four-stroke Yamaha outboard and is equipped with a Bob’s four-inch Ultra Light Jackplate, Power-Pole shallow water anchor, Minn Kota trolling motor, Humminbird electronics, Blue Point Fabrication metal work and Loadmaster trailer.

Second-place team Ray Trudeau of St. Cloud, Fla., and Thad Lacinak of Orlando, Fla., caught only two redfish all day on a Gulp! Jerk Shad, but the two fish weighed a combined 14.73 pounds. Their second-place finish was the highest for any Ranger Cup participating team, adding $1,000 to the team’s $3,550 second-place payout.

“It was a rough day,” Trudeau said. “We made the wrong choice first thing off, so we went to our back-up spot. But we wound up only catching two fish all day.”

Jeffrey Crumpton and Carl Rauer or Fernandina Beach, Fla., finished third with 13.97 pounds while Rapala Big Fish honors and a $1,500 Rapala prize package went to Sean McDonald and John Taylor for a 7.97-pounder.

The IFA Redfish Tour continues to draw redfish anglers from Texas to the Carolinas and beyond, offering two-angler teams the opportunity to compete in six different divisions, each offering a three-event regular season. With low entry fees for the one-day, regular-season tournaments allow anglers to fish close to home and minimize expenses, while still being a part of a premier inshore, catch-and-release redfish tournament organization. Teams fishing any three of the IFA’s 18 regular-season events are automatically qualified for a no-entry-fee championship event, pitting qualifiers from each of the six divisions for a combined $77,000 in payouts and prize packages, as well as a shot at the coveted Cabela’s Overall Divisional Team of the Year Award for the six regular-season division winners.

This year, in addition to $47,000 in payouts per event (based on a 100-boat field), the first-place prize package for all 18 IFA Redfish Tour regular-season events has been increased. In 2009, every regular-season tournament winner is guaranteed – regardless of field size – a fully loaded 2009 Ranger Banshee Extreme. The boat is powered by a 60-horsepower, four-stroke Yamaha outboard and is equipped with a Bob’s four-inch Ultra Light Jackplate, Power-Pole shallow water anchor, Minn Kota trolling motor, Humminbird electronics, Blue Point Fabrication metal work and Loadmaster trailer. The entire first-place prize package is valued at $30,000.

For more information on the IFA Redfish Tour, to become a member of the IFA or to become a part of the fastest-growing inshore fishing tournament series in the United States, go online to redfishtour.com.

IFA Redfish Tour events are made possible through the sponsorship and continued support of the fishing industry’s most respected brands: Ranger Boats, Cabela’s, Yamaha Outboards, Rapala, Trigger X, Sufix, Minn Kota, Humminbird, Power-Pole, Wrap This, CW Crab, Charter Lakes Marine Insurance, Solar Bat, Gemini Custom Apparel, Navionics, Bob’s Machine Shop, Blue Point Fabrication, Terminator, VMC Hooks, Loadmaster Trailers, Powertex Group and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.

IFA Florida East Coast Division
Jacksonville Results (Top 10)
1.     Schurr/Chalkley – 15.29 lbs.

2.     Trudeau/Lacinak – 14.73 lbs.

3.     Crumpton/Rauer – 13.97 lbs.

4.     Looper/Walters – 13.66 lbs.

5.     Keating/McBride – 13.35 lbs.

6.     Cox/Hardage – 13.31 lbs.

7.     Lacoss/Lacoss – 13.27 lbs.

8.     Hughey/Ingram – 13.16 lbs.

9.     (tie) McGovern/Crown; Kelly/Brockman – 13.13 lbs.

Ranger Cup Award ($1,000): Trudeau/Lacinak
Solar Bat ($100): Lockyer/Klier
Rapala Big Fish ($1,500): McDonald/Taylor – 7.97 lbs.

Innovative HDS Multifunction Displays to Offer Advanced Fishfinding Technology

Tulsa, Okla. – Lowrance, a world-leading brand in marine electronics since 1957 and GPS navigational systems since 1992, announced today, at the Bassmaster Classic in Shreveport, Louisiana, its introduction of a new side-viewing sonar technology option for its powerful line of HDS (High Definition System) multifunction displays. Available in 2009, the Lowrance sideviewing sonar technology depicts the underwater world of bottom and structure in photo-like presentations.

Presenting an advanced new dimension in bottom and structure viewing, Lowrance side-viewing sonar delivers the same legendary total-sonar performance that anglers have come to expect from Lowrance. In addition, the side-viewing sonar works in tandem with existing high-definition 2D sonar displays – powered by the built-in HDS Broadband Sounder.

A simple, cost-efficient add-on module, the new side-viewing technology is easily networked using Lowrance Ethernet connections, allowing anglers to enjoy the Lowrance sonar advantage on all HDS displays mounted on their boat.

Designed by the leader in recreational fishfinder innovation, the new Lowrance side-viewing sonar option is welcome news for serious and pro anglers, as well as those involved in underwater search and recovery, marine archeology and marine ecology sciences.
 
Full details, pricing and a projected 2009 availability date for the new Lowrance side-viewing supplemental HDS sonar technology option is expected to be released at the American Sportfishing Association’s ICAST trade show in Orlando, Florida in July.

2009 First IFA Redfish Tour Event Rolls Into Jacksonville, Florida
Sister’s Creek Marina host site for first of 18 IFA events this year

LIZELLA, Ga. – Anglers from across Florida and the surrounding regions ready to shake off the winter blues will converge on Jacksonville, Fla., on February 21 for the first of 18 IFA Redfish Tour events in 2009. The event, which will launch from Sister’s Creek Marina, is the first event for the Florida East Coast Division, one of six divisions of IFA Redfish Tour events running from Florida and the Carolinas to Texas.

The weekend’s activities begin Friday, February 20 with registration from 5-7 p.m., poolside at the Hampton Inn (4690 Salisbury Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256) with the Captain’s Meeting to follow. Anglers will be launching from Sister’s Creek Marina (8203-2 Hecksher Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226) at safe light on Saturday for the one-day event. Check-in times will be assigned at the Captains Meeting.

The IFA Redfish Tour continues to draw redfish anglers from Texas to the Carolinas and beyond, offering two-angler teams the opportunity to compete in six different divisions, each offering a three-event regular season. With low entry fees for the one-day, regular-season tournaments allow anglers to fish close to home and minimize expenses, while still being a part of a premier inshore, catch-and-release redfish tournament organization. Teams fishing any three of the IFA’s 18 regular-season events are automatically qualified for a no-entry-fee championship event, pitting qualifiers from each of the six divisions for a combined $77,000 in payouts and prize packages, as well as a shot at the coveted Cabela’s Overall Divisional Team of the Year Award for the six regular-season division winners.

This year, in addition to $47,000 in payouts per event (based on a 100-boat field), the first-place prize package for all 18 IFA Redfish Tour regular-season events has been increased. In 2009, every regular-season tournament winner is guaranteed – regardless of field size – a fully loaded 2009 Ranger Banshee Extreme. The boat is powered by a 60-horsepower, four-stroke Yamaha outboard and is equipped with a Bob’s four-inch Ultra Light Jackplate, Power-Pole shallow water anchor, Minn Kota trolling motor, Humminbird electronics, Blue Point Fabrication metal work and Loadmaster trailer. The entire first-place prize package is valued at $30,000.

For more information on the IFA Redfish Tour, to become a member of the IFA or to become a part of the fastest-growing inshore fishing tournament series in the United States, go online to redfishtour.com.

IFA Redfish Tour events are made possible through the sponsorship and continued support of the fishing industry’s most respected brands: Ranger Boats, Cabela’s, Yamaha Outboards, Rapala, Trigger X, Sufix, Minn Kota, Humminbird, Power-Pole, Wrap This, CW Crab, Charter Lakes Marine Insurance, Solar Bat, Gemini Custom Apparel, Navionics, Bob’s Machine Shop, Blue Point Fabrication, Terminator, VMC Hooks, Loadmaster Trailers, Powertex Group and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.

Event Details:
IFA Redfish Tour
Florida East Coast Division
Jacksonville, Fla.

Competition: February 21, 2009

Host Venue: Sister’s Creek Marina
8203-2 Hecksher Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Launch: Safe light
Check in: TBD at Captains Meeting

Captains Meeting: 7 p.m., Friday, February 20
Location: Poolside – Hampton Inn
4690 Salisbury Road
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 281-0443

Check In: Begins at 5 p.m. prior to Captains Meeting

Florida East Coast Division
February 21, 2009 – Jacksonville, Fla.
May 16, 2009 – Titusville, Fla.
September 19, 2009 – St. Augustine, Fla.

Florida West Coast Division
March 7, 2009 – Punta Gorda, Fla.
June 27, 2009 – Englewood, Fla.
August 22, 2009 – Ruskin, Fla.

Atlantic Division
March 28, 2009 – Charleston, S.C.
May 23, 2009 – Surf City, N.C.
September 26, 2009 – Moorehead City, N.C.

Gulf Coast
April 4, 2009 – Slidell, La.
May 2, 2009 – Bay St. Louis, Miss.
October 17, 2009 – Orange Beach, Ala.

Louisiana Division
April 25, 2009 – Lafitte, La.
June 13, 2009 – Venice, La.
August 29, 2009 – Grand Isle, La.

Texas Division
April 18, 2009 – Rockport, Texas
June 6, 2009 – Corpus Christi, Texas
September 12, 2009 – Port Aransas, Texas

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA (USA) – At the Miami International Boat Show last week, Boston Whaler introduced one of its most innovative options for its new 370 Outrage – an automated sunshade that seamlessly integrates within the hardtop of the center console, manufactured by SureShade®.

“The 370 Outrage recognizes a growing trend in boat building, combining sport with pleasure. It is designed to not only satisfy the needs of the most active anglers, but also to provide comfort and entertainment for all passengers when not being used exclusively for fishing. One of the key comfort considerations is shade and our integrated design provides it where it is needed the most,” said Ron Russikoff, CEO of SureShade.

SureShade’s unique and innovative shade products provide hassle-free shade at the touch of a button – without interfering with fishing or other activities on deck. The sturdy and robust design, tested to withstand wind speeds of 50 MPH, allows the shade on the 370 Outrage to remain fully extended while underway. Integration with the hardtop maintains the boat’s aesthetic appeal when the shade is not in use.

Backed by decades of marine engineering, manufacturing and fabrication experience, the independently-tested design of SureShade® can be customized to fit any boat type and flexible mounting options allow for surface-mount or integrated installation on any boat with a hard top, flybridge, tower or t-top.

SureShade® specializes in the design, development and manufacture of innovative shade products that will facilitate and enhance the boating experience. SureShade works directly with OEMs to provide shade solutions for new and existing boat designs. For more information, visit www.sureshade.com or call toll free in the US, 1+877.333.8323.