(FT. MYERS BEACH TO CHARLOTTE HARBOR) Under normal circumstances, last week and this week should have proven excellent fishing since we approached and will be coming off of the full moon that provided some of the highest and stronger tides of the year. However, with all of the rain and the water releases from Lake Okeechobee, the fishing has been and will probably prove tough over the next week or so. Captains are all reporting hard times since the water has turned dark. I too, have had my share of hard times trying to locate the fish.
Nonetheless, I have had my days of success as well, such as this 29” Redfish shown here with Tim Blackman and his father Dan, from Maryland. It was Tim’s first fishing experience and before the day was done he caught two of them (GREAT GOING TIM!). They are definitely around, but with all of the dark water they are very difficult to locate.
The tannin water makes it virtually impossible to see the bait fish. I have to purchase them or take my chances chumming and cast netting in the ‘blind’, but they can be had. Unfortunately, the summer shrimps are so small and their outer skin cover (‘shell’) so weak (from frequent molting), that they are virtually impossible to keep on a hook. My bait of preference, have been cut Pinfish on incoming and outgoing tides. Those wanting to use artificial, I suggest bright colored top water plugs early in the morning. The Snook, Seatrout, Crevalle Jacks, and Mackerel are plentiful but have proven to be fickle during the day. Tarpon are probably the most active fish during the day and will hit a Pinfish under a cork when working the ‘flats’ or deep holes in the ‘back country’.
‘Off-shore’; reports of Red Grouper in 45 ft. of water with Gags being caught at around 90 to 110 ft., but the weather determines whether or not the trip is worth the effort. Permit can be found at about 35 ft. on structure. Schools of Mackerel are about with some Kingfish in the mix.
In closing, I have been telling my clients that ‘flats’ and ‘back- country’ fishing should be better as soon as the water starts clearing up. This nice 23” Seatrout, was caught by George Hammon Jr. of Cape Coral, a day or so before the water turned dark. If anyone has any questions, I am easily reached by phone at 239-357-6829 or via email at [email protected]. Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters.com for additional articles and charter information.