Help is on the way! The fragile—and vital—Florida Keys marine environment is under assault from hidden forces. But thanks to a recent partnership between Carolina Skiff and 4ocean, discarded ghost nets, fishing gear and other trash is being removed using a new 25 LS Carolina Skiff specially equipped to access the mangrove shorelines of the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Those efforts are having an immediate positive impact.

“The 25 LS Carolina Skiff supplied allows our teams to access sensitive areas to collect trash of all sorts, including abandoned fishing gear, tires, car batteries, and plastics,” says Josh Liberman, the Creative Director for 4ocean, a Public Benefit Corporation that removes trash in four global marine environments, including the Florida Keys. “Anything we can access, we try to remove. Plastic found in ghost nets and polypropylene lines eventually degrades and breaks apart into microparticles of plastic. So we focus on retrieving that trash before it further damages these critical ecosystems.” The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park encompasses 70 nautical square miles in the upper Keys.

The Carolina Skiff 25 LS is the first new vessel for the 4ocean fleet. It is ideally suited for its task due to a shallow 7-inch draft, 14-person capacity, and ability to carry a heavy load (up to 3,450 pounds). The skiff is powered by a low-emissions Suzuki 200- horsepower four-stroke outboard. It was equipped with Garmin electronics, and Power Pole shallow-water anchor to get into shallow depths without damaging seagrasses and other critical habitats. Once in position, 4ocean crew members hop overboard to cut out the discarded nets, rope, and other trash from the maze of mangrove roots and shallows by hand. Some of the plastic collected is recycled into bracelets, which are sold to fund 4ocean’s work. Degradable trash is recycled or disposed of responsibly.

There is a natural synergy between Carolina Skiff and 4ocean. The group’s co-founder grew up in Florida and got his first boat, a Carolina Skiff, at an early age.

“I’m stoked to announce our partnership with Carolina Skiff, a company that has been part of my life since I got my first vessel at 6 years old,” says Alex Schulze, Co-Founder and CEO of 4ocean. “We’ve been using their boats for our cleanup operations in South Florida because of their durability, large capacity for plastic materials, and shallow draft—perfect for our needs. This partnership marks the beginning of a larger initiative aimed at making a massive impact on the amount of plastic in the ocean.”

In addition to the Florida Keys, 4ocean is working on trash collection in Guatemala, Bali, and Java. The company employs local fishermen for their skills and coastal knowledge. Each is paid a fair living wage and benefits as part of their community-building company policy. To date, 4ocean’s global cleanup operation has recovered millions of pounds of plastic and other debris from the world’s oceans, rivers, and coastlines.

“We are proud to support 4ocean in their crucial work to clean up our oceans,” says Robert Sass, of Carolina Skiff. “The Carolina Skiff 25 LS reflects a tool for positive change. Seeing its impact on our marine environments is like watching ripples grow into waves of activism. It reminds all boat owners that even the smallest actions can greatly impact conservation efforts.”

Carolina Skiff LLC is a leading boat manufacturer renowned for its durable, versatile and cost-effective boats. With more than 30 years of experience, the company offers 26 models to suit various boating needs, prioritizing safety, quality and style. All Carolina Skiff boats meet rigorous standards set by the American Boat and Yacht Council and the US Coast Guard, boasting a wood-free, integrated fiberglass stringer system and exceeding Coast Guard flotation requirements. Carolina Skiff delivers unmatched value, performance and comfort for all boating enthusiasts.

“In addition to directly removing trash and debris from the water, we hope to inspire others and remind boaters that we all need to be good stewards of the water to protect what we love,” Liberman adds.

Boaters can do their part by properly securing trash so that it doesn’t blow overboard and getting involved in local coastal cleanup efforts. To learn more about Carolina Skiff and its partnership with 4ocean, please visit: carolinaskiff.com/partnership.

The post A Perfect Union appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

The offshore experts have engineered a line of center console hybrids designed to go anywhere and do everything. Regulator’s XO Series gives you easy access to lakes, bays and skinny waters, as well as the capability to head offshore when the time is right.

First let’s look at the fishing benefits. Optional Half Towers, Trolling Motors and excellent fishbox and livewell space deliver an ideal platform. Take a run at freshwater bass, work speckled trout and redfish off an eelgrass bed, drift for flounder, and jig an offshore wreck for stripers or black sea bass. Lockable racks hold fly rods and spinners, with ample tackle storage, rod holders and rocket launchers throughout the oversize cockpit and deck.

Ready to kick back? Mount the optional watersports tow bar, snap in the cushions, put the bow on the beach, and roll out the forward and rear sun shades. Generous seating areas, forward console coolers, full height head, and creature comforts galore mean you have every reason to fish and play all day.

Featured Models

The Regulator 30XO delivers every bit of inshore/offshore attitude you’ve come to expect from their series of hybrid center consoles, along with big boat features to meet your every need. Twin Yamaha F350s, optional Half Tower Station & more deliver the next big powerhouse crossover. 

The Regulator 26XO is a hybrid center console built for adventure. New optional half tower, single Yamaha 450, multiple casting platforms, built-in coolers, stand-up head compartment, forward sun shade option, and optional removable watersports tow bar allow you to fish and play all day.

The Regulator 24XO hybrid center console gives you easy access to lakes, bays, and skinny waters, along with the capability to head offshore when the time is right. Now equipped with a standard Yamaha F350, with optional hydraulic jackplate and trolling motor. 

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Blood, fish slime and baitfish scat clinging to your shirt. An aching back from standing on the bow of a skiff. The stew of sweat and sunblock from a baking sun. The heat draining your energy like a lithium battery. Wind, rain and cold can chase you back to the ramp. 

Feeling miserable on the water doesn’t make you want to stay on the water. Fortunately, Columbia PFG has solutions to the many elements anglers encounter. 

Sweaty Conditions

Columbia PFG long sleeves are built for prolonged activities in ultra-hot conditions. And the latest option is the PFG Uncharted Long Sleeve for men and women. Here’s the tech you need to know: Omni-Shade and Omni-Wick. Omni-Shade provides UPF 40 sun protection for your skin, while Omni-Wick pulls the sweat away from your arms for a refreshing feel. Stop slathering on the sunblock and trade it in for long sleeves to feel more comfortable. 

Blood Stains

You just gaffed an energetic king mackerel while fishing nearshore. Here comes the blood. Columbia PFG has tech to block it from staining your shorts. Omni-Shield Blood ’N Guts flat-out protects against liquid stains. The Men’s Blood ’N Guts Stretch Shorts make quick work of a messy situation. Use a washdown hose to wipe off the blood, then dry out quickly. No need to pull out the bleach when you get home. 

No Pockets

How is it possible some men’s and women’s fishing pants still don’t have pockets? The Columbia PFG Uncharted Pants have your ass covered. There’s hand pockets, plus a zippered back pocket, drop-in pocket and side-seam zippered phone pocket. Spread the wealth. All those pockets will get filled. And you can’t have stuff falling out of your pockets in the water while leadering or releasing a fish. There’s no faster way to anger a boater. Bonus points: These pants have elasticity. Don’t ask us how, but anglers start fat in the morning and slim down throughout the fishing day.

Sunburned Skin

Anglers should wear hooded shirts all year, even in the hottest summer months. Here’s why: to protect your skin! Dermatologists often remove basal cell carcinoma from the head, ears and neck. Those are the problem areas that need to be covered. The PFG Solar Stream Elite Hoodie incorporates Omni-Shade Broad Spectrum Air Flow UPF 50 sun protection into its fabric, plus has a crossover hood that even Floridians can wear with its breathability. Flip it on and off throughout the day. Other perks of the hoodie: a zippered security pocket and sunglasses cleaning patch.

Going Barefoot

Some anglers prefer sandals on the boat. They must have bulletproof feet. For the rest of us guys and gals, we need a boat shoe that absorbs the stress we experience on the water. We also need footwear that dries quickly, provides protection, and grips a wet boat deck. Columbia’s Castback TC PFG comes to the rescue with its Omni-Max Plus system. An engineered TECHLITE+ midsole cradles the heel for optimal balance, while grippy sipings on the rubber outsole hold tight to fiberglass. Taking your shoes on and off? A collapsible heel makes it easy.

A Better Fit

You’ve probably noticed more women fishing these days. Thankfully, ladies no longer need to struggle to find quality fishing clothes that fit. Columbia PFG is a leader when it comes to designing women’s apparel, and serious anglers such as Capt. Gabby Barnes, of Destin, Florida, noticed. The PFG Uncharted Shorts, with a 4-inch inseam, utilize Omni-Shade Broad Spectrum UPF 50 sun protection, plus Omni-Wick to lift moisture to the fabric’s surface away from skin. Functionality is still crucial, and they offer an elastic waistband, drop-in pocket and side zipper pocket.

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Are you an angler who craves the thrill of fishing in serene waters, undisturbed by noisy engines? Look no further! The ePropulsion electric outboard motor is your ticket to a tranquil and eco-friendly fishing experience. All ePropulsion electric outboard motors require minimal maintenance and are dependable, ensuring hassle-free operation during your fishing trips. No more fumbling with pull cords or dealing with messy fuel!

Weighing in at just 6.7 kg (14.7 lbs), the ePropulsion 500 W eLite Electric Outboard Motor (1.5 HP comparable) is designed to be the most compact and lightweight electric outboard in its class. The eLite is easy-to-use, offering one-click removal/installation and balances perfectly on its folded tiller. Setting up has never been this effortless. It also comes with a carrying bag for easy storage and transport.  

The ePropulsion 1 kW Spirit 1.0 Plus and Spirit 1.0 Evo Series Electric Outboard Motors (3 HP comparable) combine convenience, sustainability, and reliability. Its lightweight construction (only 44 lbs, including the battery) makes it easy to transport and deploy. Equipped with a 1276 Wh integrated lithium battery, the Spirit Motor provides ample power for extended fishing trips. With one charge, you can cover up to 22 miles at 4.5 mph or enjoy all-day fishing at trolling speed. The ePropulsion Navy Evo Series (3 kW / 6 kW, comparable to 6 HP / 9.9 HP), offers impressive range. For example, with the Navy 6.0 Evo, you can cover up to 45 miles at 5mph on a single charge, making it suitable for extended fishing trips. Whether you’re trolling or cruising, the Navy series ensures you stay on the water longer.

The post ePropulsion: Your Sustainable Power for Stealthy Fishing Adventures appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

New Siren Marine Connected Boat App

The new Connected Boat mobile app from Siren Marine (a division of Yamaha) delivers a host of resources at your fingertips, including integration with Yamaha outboards and control systems, real-time vessel security, multiple and flexible boat monitoring and tracking functions, and remote digital switching. 

The system also offers special sensors to monitor the security of rod lockers and hatches for protection of your stowed valuables.Through the mobile app, boaters have the ability to access to control all of these features from their smartphones or smartwatches.

“Through Siren Connected Boat, Yamaha and Siren offer never-before-seen innovation and benefits that allow boaters to ‘be’ on board their boat even when they can’t be in person,” says Andrew Cullen, director of connectivity for the Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. “The app gives you the ability to leverage Siren technology and all the benefits of remote connectivity, security and monitoring.”

The new app is free for basic service, but requires installation and activation of a Siren 3 Pro main device and cellular service. Hardware starts at $797 with cell plans as low as $18.75 per month. It operates over a global 4G/5G LTE cellular network with the option to add the SirenSat offshore antenna for coverage outside of cell range. Options for sensors include wired and wireless, as well as connection to the NMEA 2000 network. The Siren Connected Boat app is available on the App Store and Google Play Store. For more about the Siren Marine system, visit sirenmarine.com.

New Yamaha F350 4.3L V-6 

The new Yamaha F350 V-6 outboard boasts more displacement, longer stroke, and bigger intake and exhaust valves than the Yamaha F300. “The F350 is the perfect big power, lightweight option for a wide variety of saltwater fishing boats,” says Ben Speciale, president of the Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit. This 4.3-liter outboard uses the same diameter electronic throttle valve as the XTO 450. Combined with Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT), the intake manifolds offer 40 percent larger surge tanks than the F300, and the electronic throttle valve is 8 percent larger, enhancing smoother airflow and power delivery. The new fuel injection control mapping produces a longer injector duration for more power than that of the F300. 

The F350 is offered in 25- and 30-inch shaft lengths, and in 25-, 30- and 35-inch for late-stage customized (LSC) lower unit models. A new cowling incorporates a water-draining air duct and a new cowling exhaust port combined with a new stator fan to keep everything cool. The 25-inch-shaft version weighs 629 pounds; 642 pounds for the 30-inch; and 653 pounds for the 35-inch model.

New Cowl for the Inline V MAX SHO

Yamaha has modernized the look of the Inline V MAX SHO outboards, including the 90 through 175 hp models, emulating the popular styling of Yamaha’s 4.2L V MAX SHO outboard. These motors now sport a complete signature Shiny Black paint job, along with eye-catching raised graphics, paired with sleek striping and the iconic Yamaha “tuning fork” emblems. Yamaha’s Inline SHO outboards offer lightweight power and easy rigging, including simple adaptability to cable-driven foot throttles. Anglers who fish bays and flats aboard shallow-draft boats love the V MAX SHO motor’s powerful hole shot and stingy fuel economy. 

To learn more, visit yamahaoutboards.com.

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As you head west on the seven mile bridge, a panorama of aquamarine fills your field of vision. It’s quite the welcome to the Lower Keys, the low-key island chain, free of high-rises and hustle and bustle. Preferred past times include diving, birding, and fishing – all of which typically end with a life-changing sunset. The Dolphin Fish Research Program is the world’s largest angler run investigation into the life and migrations of the species, and when it comes to tagging dolphin for this initiative, one captain in the Lower Keys is heads and tails above the rest. Meet Captain Don Gates, who has tagged hundred dolphins over 21 years.

The post Protect the Blue: Faces of Conservation in the Florida Keys – Lower Keys appeared first on Sport Fishing Mag.

Key Largo is the gateway to some of the best fishing destinations and is known as the dive capital of the world. Its low profile makes for the least pressured bonefishing in the Keys. The marshes and saw grass flats are home to redfish and snook. Offshore, amberjack, dolphin and tuna cruise reefs in hundreds of feet of water. However, only 3% of living coral remains in the Florida Keys. A big idea was hatched when marine scientists paired up with special operations veterans to perform conservation missions. Force Blue founder and CEO, Patxi Pastor, talks about the assembly of these vets doing extraordinary work including coral restoration. Through the leadership of NAUI, these vets can receive scientific diver recognition to continue restoring reefs globally. After four decades of marine conservation and education in the Keys, Pastor has seen the effects on the habitat. Force Blue is working to reclaim the reefs and make an impact in the lives of these veterans. Restoring the reefs is going to take consistent collaboration and dedicated fighters, Force Blue has both.

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Diving, snorkeling, boating, and fishing are all daily occurrences in Marathon. Anglers know Marathon for its variety of fishing, both offshore and inshore. Around Marathon’s reefs, life abounds. The reefs in the Florida Keys are under attack amongst rising water temperature and human impact. Cindy Lewis of Keys Marine Lab, a coral recovery center, shares how important these reefs are to all fisheries. Without a vital and vibrant reef that attracts fish, this eco system could become nonexistent. Keys Marine Lab is a hub for marine science, academics and students around the world. Plans for a major expansion are underway after a long 75 year history. This coral comeback will take time but the Keys Marine Lab is an important part of the story.

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Key West is a destination that bills itself as close to perfect but far from normal. Its seascape rivals any exotic locale around the world. Key West is the main attraction of the Florida Keys and is home to more than two dozen species, holding a variety of international game fish world records. From blue marlin, to tuna, to red snapper, the fishing is endless offshore. On the flats, you can find the trifecta of tarpon, bonefish, and permit. From spring to summer, many species spawn in the area and are easy to catch. The IGFA has been putting in work to protect the western dry rocks from over-fishing. Bruce Pohlot explains IGFA’s role of closing off the area to conserve and sustain the fishery with the help of other environmentalists. As time goes on, they hope to see more of the species spawn across the east coast of Florida.

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You can’t write the history book on fishing without Islamorada. The sport fishing capital of the world is in the birth place of saltwater fly fishing. Islamorada has an abundance of fishing at an arm’s length. The fishery can only sustain itself if fish are caught and released properly. Andy Danylchuk, a scientific advisor at Keep Fish Wet, works towards creating better outcomes for each fish that anglers release. Keep Fish Wet takes it one step further to provide a series of principles and tips that are based on science. The three core principles are: minimize air exposure, eliminate contact with dry and rough surfaces, and reduce handling time. Anglers have the opportunity to put conservation into action each time they plan to release a fish.

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