(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor) Last week I had the opportunity to spend some time in the beautiful clear waters of the Keys (Islamorada, Fl). My 1st Mate and I spent time searching out destinations and locations to promote future fishing charters to that area with a few of our clients from our home base in Cape Coral. It was a real ‘treat’ to go back there again and spend some serious research time for fish habitats and utilizing different tackle, baits and techniques to target the Atlantic species, such as Dolphin, Wahoo, King Fish, Sail Fish, Bonefish and Permit.
Nonetheless, it is good to be back on the ‘Gulf Coast’, chasing a variety of species in the ‘back country’, even though the tannin waters of the Punta Rassa Bay and Pine Island Sound make it difficult to find the fish. While the ‘run-off’ water from Lake Okeechobee is definitely a hindrance to charter captains, fishermen and fisher-ladies alike, do not be too discouraged, as one suggestion is to go very early in the morning regardless of tide status. This should prove to be the best chance of catching fish, especially under ‘dismal’ circumstances. Moreover, pick a location south of Ft. Myers Beach or the northern end of Pine Island Sound (including Charlotte Harbor) for some relief of the dark waters that surround us.
A while back, I had the privilege to charter the Lobell family of Cape Coral and New Jersey, pictured here.
I took them north into the Charlotte Harbor area as suggested above. Alexia Cedrone (10 yrs old), of Cape Coral is shown here with a nice Redfish.
Alexia caught Snook, Snapper and Seatrout as well. GREAT GOING ALEXIA! Three of the family members are fly fishermen and good one’s at that. Working with Eric Lobell was a pleasure, as I do not get many clients that are able to handle fly equipment in a ‘salt-water’ venue. I am looking forward to getting them out again soon.
Offshore continues to offer good fishing opportunities for Groupers, Snappers, Permit and Porgy’s alike. Sharks are plentiful and the surface action on a calm day is enough to get anyone excited. Have lures and jigs ready to cast and you may be pleasantly surprised. The best part about fishing offshore; is one never knows what they might catch!
Feel free to contact me at 239-357-6829 or email me at [email protected] with any questions on a particular species, where to find them, how to catch them or charter information. Check out my website www.fishfacecharters.com for all information relating to charters and fishing in general.