Archive for the ‘Events’ Category

Official G Loomis NRX Flyrod Launch in South Florida.

 08.13.2010

Location: Flyshop of Miami

8243 South Dixie Highway
Miami, FL 33143
(305) 669-5851

Time:  8:00pm-9:00pm

Come join me at the official launch of the new G Loomis NRX line of flyrods at the Flyshop of Miami on August 13th.  There will be horderves and drinks served for this event.  It took many years for G Loomis to finally release a new fly rod.  From what I have heard, G Loomis has implimented the latest resins and highest modulus graphit into their new NRX series of fly rods.  The top shelf components blend together to make this the most sensitive and lightest weight fly rod G Loomis has ever produced.  Will the new NRX top the old GLX Classic series of rods in line feel, light weight, and sensitivity?  Will the NRX be more powerful of the G Loomis Crosscurrent series?  Come and find out for yourself.  Feel free to contact me or anybody at the Flyshop of Miami for further details.  We look forward to seeing you all there.

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I recently had the privalege of attending the 2010 DOA Lures Outdoor Writer’s Festival in Jensen Beach.  The accomodations were provided by the River Palms Fish Camp and Cottages, which proved to be an excellent location this is centralized amongst the great snook fishery that the St. Lucie River had to offer.  The many fine sponsers in this event ranged from top manufacturers in the industry from Minnkota to Shimano.  Minnkota had a chance to showcase their Talon shallow water anchoring system, which was pretty impressive in my opinion.  I like the fact that everything is contained into one unit and is able to be unplugged and removed when needed. 

We also  got to test out a bunch of latest gear that spinning Shimano had to offer.  I got to fish the new 3000 and 4000 size Stradic Ci4 spinning reels and I was extremely impressed.  I will likely be replacing my Stradic Fi reels and adding the new Ci4 series reels to my arsenal.  The 3000 and 4000 Ci4 Stradics feature carbon fiber reinforcements, a bigger spool (2500 and 3000 have same body, but 3000 had bigger spool), and different handle knob.  I also had the pleasure of being able to fish the latest Stella 1000 on an ultra light G Loomis Trout rod.  The combo was refined, smooth, and extremely light weight.  I have been asked on many occassions if Stellas are worth the high price tag.  My answer is “definitely.”  Stellas are the flagship reels in the lineup and the top of the line reel in the industry.  The refinement in finish and smooth operation scream out Lamborghini Murcielago.  Catching a 5lb snook on this mini outfit felt like pulling on a fish twice it’s size… definitely lots of fun for catching smaller fish and plenty of power to cast a light DOA Shrimp a country mile.  I was also told to keep an eye out for Shimano’s new line of clothing and accessories as they will be releaseing an entire apparel filled with technical fishing clothes, rain jackets, and even lures amongst other surprises.  Starting with the launch of G Loomis’s new NRX series of rods, Shimano’s Terez rods and Ci4 reels, there will be great things to anticipate coming from Shimano/G Loomis in the next couple of years.  The new Ci4 Stradics will be released this September, while the NRX Series of rods will be released August 13th. 

The fishing was only bested by the comraderie.  We had a fun two days on the water.  I was fortunately paired up with my good buddy Capt. Eric Davis of the Vero Backcountry.  Capt. Eric and I fished together earlier in this year’s Maverick Boats Vero Backcountry Fly tournament.  This warm summer day, we were joined by a represntative from Shimano.  Our morning started strong as I pulled the hook on a big snook first thing while throwing a DOA 5.5 BFL.  We kept the streak going as we started pulling out plenty of snook and a few other surprises from underneith the docks using the venerable DOA Glow shrimp and DOA CAL shad tails.  I don’t know what the highlight of the day was as we caught about 30 or so snook, rescued a pigeon that was entangled in monofilament under a bridge, hooked some freshwater gar, and pulled the hook on a huge largemouth bass.  Despite the windy conditions and dirty water, I think we pulled off pretty well.  Upon returning to the docks, those who fished for bigger snook were successful bouncing the bottom with DOA Terroreyz and Shrimp as there were quite a few 40 inch class snook caught.  We had some bad ass BBQ that evening and then followed it up with a short fishing trip the following day.  Upon leaving the event, I was already looking forward to next year’s.  Thank you to Mark Nichols, DOA Lures, Minnkota, Shimano, and the rest of the sponsors for making these events happen. 

New Minnkota Talon

New Stradic 3000Ci4

they do eat from behind sometimes

Operation Pigeon rescue

Flounder caught on Stradic 4000Ci4, Teramar Rod, and DOA CAL

Snookzilla

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4.29.2010

The Guy Harvey Ultimate Shark Challenge will be in Punta Gorda this weekend. The prize is 10k so it should be pretty competitive. It’s a catch an release tournament so no shark will be harvested they tell me. The focus is on conservation as they will be working with Mote Marine.

I will be down there shooting some stills and videos. I hope to get on a boat that gets crazy lucky and hooks into a big Mako that jumps a bunch. One could only dream right?

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2nd Annual Jay “JayB” Brewington Paddle-In

On Saturday April 24th, Paddle-Fishing.com held the 2nd annual JayB Paddle-In at Fort Desoto Park. Kayak anglers from all over came together to honor our friend who lost his battle with cancer two years ago. Along with his friend John Callahan, they started the hugely successful website where kayak anglers can share their passion for the sport. The site has grown immensely since its humble beginnings and is the host for the longest running kayak tournament series in the state.

But today we came to honor our dear departed friend, Jay Brewington.

Enjoy the pictures from today.

Barb Foster, Jay was her first boyfriend.

Just a sampling of the great food we had.

Barb Foster brought a single yellow rose and asked if someone would toss it upon the waters in memory of Jay. Tom Coffee paddled out to honor his long time friend.

As the day came to a close, we all raised a “Proper” glass to toast our good friend Jay Brewington.

The rest of these pictures are just random images.

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April 15th 2010

Happy tax day… I know the words happy and tax should never ever be used in the same sentence!

Just 15minutes ago, we mailed out the 2nd edition of the Saltyshores newsletter. Since it’s first issue last month the number of subscribers has nearly doubled. What’s even cooler is the number of product sponsors has almost doubled as well which is awesome.

In this news letter you guys will get the  password to the Tarpon video, (complete with the eat 20′ from the boat) as well as some exclusive photos from the Bahamas.

We also gave out five more packages of goodies from out sponsor including a brand new $80 Wanganchor (pick up only).

Next month we will be giving out an Easy Net from Castalia outdoors.

If  you did not get your newsletter and think you are on the list, Check your spam filter box. If  it’s not there email me and I will check it for you on my end.

apollobeachsam@gmail.com

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If  you’re into the fly fishing film and missed it the last couple times in Florida you want to check out the VIP showing at the IGFA on the 23rd.

I say VIP because the fly fishing greats will be there like: Flip Pallot, Chico Fernandez, Jose Wejebe.

Of course the world angling guys will be there as well. Will Benson and Dave Teper

The Hellsbay boatworks sponsored even at the IGFA

On Friday night April 23rd Hell’s Bay Boatworks,
The Fly Shop of Miami and ESPN Outdoors will be hosting
a dinner viewing of the Fly Fishing Film Tour at the IGFA.

The event will begin at 6 P.M. with cocktails and appetizers during the silent auction. Visit with other attendees and fishing celebrities including Flip Pallot, Chico Fernandez and Jose Wejebe. Will Benson and Dave Teper, the producers of “High in the Lowlands” one of the featured films, will be in attendance. Watch clips of “Pirates of the Flats” and slides by Pat Ford in the IGFA Theater. At 7:30 we will be serving a dinner of Guy Harvey approved sustainable seafood and showing the Fly Fishing Film Tour.

For more information on the film tour
please visit: www.FlyFishingFilmTour.com

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March 26th 2010

Yesterday I was again playing catch up.  Besides paying bills and running errands so they won’t turn off my lights and  net access (again), I sent out more photos to publishers. Every once in while it actually works.

I got this printed for the current issue of GAFF magazine. It’s Captain Nathaniel Lemmon with a trout.

In the late afternoon I made the drive over to Lakeland Fl to check out the customer appreciation even at

Marine Supply of Winter Heaven.  With free food, free drinks, free beers, seminars by Rick Murphy, Geoff Page, Jay Withers and vendors, I figured it was a win win win situation. I have to say I was absolutely correct on this one. The place was full of people.  Maverick boat company has a huge following, I bet there was 500 people there.

It was good for the vendors as well. Tom of Wanganchor was there and he pretty much sold out of all the wanganchors he brought over.

If you get a chance to attend this gig you should. It’s an excellent event. They will be having another one in the fall. I will let  you guys know if /when I get a heads up.

photo note: Droid Phone photo.. not too shabby, I will have a review of that phone when I get a chance.

While I as there I bumped into a few of the Maverick guys. The video was brought up and they really loved it. So this means I have to finished the rest in the series soon.
Here is a couple more edited photos from the shoot.

2010 Maverick HPX-T

photo note: I thought is looked interesting. Super high contrast shot with reflective waters, I also took out the background so it has a HOT faded out look. (not the Paris Hilton catch phrase).

2010 Maverick HPX-T

Another thing that was brought up was the new TV show “Florida insider fishing report“. It’s basically the reincarnated Chevy fishing report that went away a year a go. It was a hugely popular show but due to sponsors dropping out it had to shut down. They are back with Rick Murphy and pretty much the rest of the gang and the first airing is April 8th on Sunshine network.

photo note: this was shot at the Miami boat show this year. I shot it in raw so I could adjust the white balance in post. If you ever taken a photo indoors, at times everything looks orange.  It is because the different type of lighting the camera has to deal with. (fluorescent, tungsten, incandescent, etc)

Florida insider fishing report

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What’s up guys and gals… I will be attending the Stuart leg of the Film Tour this coming April 1st.  I attended this great event last year and had a fantastic time with great comradarie, lots of prizes, and just a first class venue being at the Lyric.  I was told that there will be a couple of films shown exclusively only at the Stuart leg of the tour so don’t miss out.  Hope to see you all there. 

-Capt. Honson L.

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Every year I try to attend the Tampa Tribune Outdoor Expo and Boat Show. It’s close to where I live, and one of the biggest shows on the West Coast of Florida. This year’s show did not disappoint, and I had a great time talking to old friends as well as making new ones.

When going to shows, I tend to look for local Florida businesses that are new or unique, businesses that I think will take off and make it in the industry. There are many fresh new companies out there that some may have heard of, and some may not. I will give you a brief overview of some of my favorites from the show.

Skinny Water Culture. SWC is a clothing company out of the Dunedin area. Vince and his crew have become established as a company that has set itself apart from the rest, with sharp, clean designs, and a diverse product line which is always changing and improving. I picked up one of their new moisture wicking hats and am pleased with the fit and feel. Check out their website for the latest designs of microfiber and long sleeve shirts, hats, tee’s and stickers.

SWC Crew

Reel Sassy is a women’s clothing line owned and run by two young ladies out of the Stuart area, Kimberlee Ewing and Kristy Levin. I talked to them for a minute and they seemed to have it all together. The company is fresh and innovative; a clothing line developed by women, for women. I don’t know about you, but I haven’t seen a business around that’s solely dedicated to women’s fishing apparel that actually looks good and stylish, something that many women will actually wear. My wife and daughter loved their line, I may order some shirts for their upcoming birthdays. Reel Sassy has a pretty extensive line of clothes and accessories from tank tops to microfiber shirts, hoodies and hats to name a few. Check them out at reelsassy.com.

Sorry guy's they're married.

Hall em’ in lures. Dave Hall and his father base their family business out of Orlando. Some argue they may be the best artificial plug makers around. I consider their wooden plugs to be some of the finest I’ve ever seen. The attention to detail put into the shapes and colors of these lures is amazing. They also make shadow boxes for lure storage and other uses; some are even displayed in a gallery right in my home town of Apollo Beach. There is no reason not to own one of their creations, it may just catch you a trophy.

Hall Em' In Lures

I spoke with Tom of Wang Anchor, and Joe of Carbon Marine. I don’t really feel there is too much need for introduction for these two locals. Their products have been seen all around Florida and beyond, and will make your fishing much easier. I think their businesses are in it for the long haul. I just got my Wang Anchor and love it, you will too.

Tom from Wang Anchor

Joe from Carbon Marine

Breathe Like A Fish from Lakeland were around, and in force as usual. BLAF doesn’t need much of an introduction either. Kent and Bob came up with a pioneering design to compete with standard fishing shirts. Microfiber vented shirts with or without buffs, as well as much more have been seen in many fishing shows and magazines. BLAF is on its way. I forgot to take a pic, but if you follow fishing, I know you’ve seen their stuff.

Captain Joe Hebert was at the show with his arsenal of lures, lures that will catch just about any fish Tampa Bay has to offer. His company is based out of Dunedin, close to the area he also runs charter trips out of. His soft plastics and various weedless hooks, jigheads and spoons kept me busy for quite some time at the show. He has a pretty vast and diverse line of products and they catch fish.

Fish on Lures

Flat Out Fishin is a local Tampa Bay company run by Troy Antalek. The business produces nicely designed shirts at a modest price. I picked up one of his tarpon shirts and love it, but won’t wear it while fishing, only around town. His designs are fresh compared to other “standard” shirts, and seem geared towards the younger anglers, and there are lots of us. I really liked what I saw at his booth.

I got one of these tarpon shirts, pretty nice...

Operation Still Waters had a booth with Salty Shores. Operation Still Waters is a non profit organization that is doing some real good for injured ex law enforcement, firefighters and military personnel. Currently they are hoping to be taking these deserving folks on fishing trips to our waters with local captains. I wish them all the best, they are good people.

Operation Still Waters

Overall I had a good time at the show and probably missed a few great new companies out there, but I feel some of the best were highlighted above. I wish them all well. I’m looking forward to see them around at the upcoming shows and beyond.

INSHOREINSIDER.COM

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March 9th 2010

Yesterday I took Dave Teper of Worldangling.com fame out to some fishing in Tampa bay. Dave being a pure fly fisherman that was all we brought along. We had shots at a 30lb cobia early, but all we had on was a redfish fly so no take.

The weather was awesome out there today. It has been unusually cold here in Florida but today it was nice bright and sunny with the temperature in the 70′s. We saw lots of reds but for whatever reason, today they did not want to eat. They were just hunkering down on the mud flats and just did not want to move until we spooked them.

A couple or Droid photos.
Film tour at the Tampa Pitcher Show

Dave w/ a Quesadilla at Little Harbor. Tide was slack so we decided to grab lunch.

Last night I was at the Fly fishing film tour a Tampa Pitcher Show. Excellent showing of almost 200 people that showed up to show their support. I hope to have a cool film for next years tour.

Here is a 30 second clip I manage to put together of the Gary Loomis Story. Gary is a very easy edit as he is very smooth and well polished.

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I had the chance to attend the Vero Backcountry Fly tournament hosted by the Vero Backcountry and Maverick Boat Co. this past weekend.  As with similar events in the past that MBC has hosted, this event allowed for some friendly competition and a chance for fly fisherman with similar interests to get together and socialize a bit.  On the more serious side of the tournament, anglers targetted 4 species; redfish, trout, snook, and sheepshead to bring home the top honors.  I had never realized the great sight fishing opportunites that Vero Beach and Fort Pierce has to offer.  Not were we able to target these species via sight fishing, but we had shots at 3ft long trout laid up on the flats.  These big trout definitely proved to be the most challenging species I have ever tried to sightfish on a flyrod… I have earned a whole new respect for the species.  Capt. Eric Davis and I teamed up and stalked the shallows in my Mirage managing to feed over a dozen redfish, hooking 8, pulling the hooks on 5, and landing 3.  After a few frustrating hours of throwing at big stubborn mega trout, we ended up dredging flies in deeper water and catching a dozen or so small trout.  Our fishing was pretty good actually, but not good enough to take the top honors from team Maverick Boat Co. (Charlie Johnson and owner Scott Deal), whom posted redfish, trout, and sheepshead.  An incredible time was had by all with raffles and some sweet prizes.  Plans for next year’s event is already in the works.  If you guys are looking to sample some of Vero Beach’s best sight fishing, make sure to contact Capt. Eric Davis.

The past few weeks leading to this event have been pretty interesting.  My buddy Paul and I had a chance to get out the prior weekend and sight fish redfish for an hour or so in Flamingo before the massive front chased us off.  Blue bird skies followed the front and it made for some great photo opportunities on the water between my study breaks.  The cold temperatures finally subsided a bit today and we were greeted with some warmer temps as the day wore on.  I certainly hope this is a start of a warming trend that will last.  Fishing should be absolutely stellar once we have some consitantly mild temperatures.  These March ninja cold fronts need to end already.  I will be spending some time in the lower Keys in a weeks so I really do hope the weather leading up to my Spring break will finally be warm enough to allow the water temperatures to climb back up.  We need this warm up… bring on the tarpon, bring on the permit, and bring on the big bonefish.

 Here are some of the recent photos I finally found time to process tonight:

For those of us in college, this week is either spring break or mid term week so good luck in whatever event you are facing.  Catch you guys later…

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