Late summer in Florida brings warm ocean waters and frequent afternoon storms. Surrounded by conditions known for producing wild weather, most of the area’s experienced boat owners are ready to put their hurricane preparation plan into action at a moment’s notice. Whether you’ve recently become a boat owner, or if it’s simply been a while since you were on hurricane standby, check out these tips for prepping your boat to ride out a hurricane.
A new management boundary and several conservation measures for hogfish will go into effect in state and federal waters starting Aug. 24. State changes were approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) at its November 2016 meeting.
Read more “Hogfish conservation measures and boundaries effective Aug. 24”
ON THE FLATS REPORT
Red Fish were hiding from me this weekend, but on the East side against the first row of Islands Snook, Snapper and Tarpon, all were pretty easy. The tarpon wanted top water plugs. The larger Heddon Torpedo or The Skitter Walk, and it was darker colors, like gold or bronze colors. The Trick to the hook up was starting and stopping the lure with a short hard pull. Then a complete stop for 2 seconds, and repeat.
Fishing should prove to be really good the first part of the month. The tides will be high, the water movement swift, creating a lot of oxygen and motivating the fish to eat. I predict that virtually all species will be active, especially after things settle from tropical storm Emily.
For those born and raised, or just always on the water, bringing the entire family on the boat is second nature. However, even the most experienced boating families need to practice safe habits on the water. Many of these safety tips go without saying, but it’s always beneficial to have a refresher.
Subject to working around the squalls and storms, fishing was good over the last 10 days or so. Pictured here is Mrs. Lou Wolsefer of Clairmont, Florida holding a big Spanish Mackerel, one of many fish she caught on a half-day charter. Her son, Evan, is holding a nice size Seatrout. I had the pleasure of taking the Mark Wolsefer family and their friends on three expeditions last week while they vacationed on N. Captiva. Some of the family and friends are featured in a photo prior to departing on one of their adventures. Thanks for the memories guys and gals!
Lots of fish were caught by recreational and professional fishermen alike over the 4th of July holiday. Weather and tides cooperated to bring forward a great time to be on the water for both offshore and inshore fisher-people.
*This article was originally posted by news-press.com HERE
Boating south of Fort Myers Beach should get a lot easier soon.
Begins Wednesday Morning, July 5, 2017
The City will begin construction of the Boat Ramp Rehabilitation project at the Boat Ramp located at 888 Sextant Drive on Wednesday, July 5, 2017. The Boat Ramp will be closed until Friday, September 8, 2017 weather permitting. The Picnic Area and Restroom Facilities will remain open during this time.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) needs your help in monitoring fish health by tracking marine and freshwater fish kills in Florida.
FWC scientists monitor and document fish kills and diseases, as well as other aquatic animal health issues and associated environmental events.
Read more “Help FWC monitor fish health by reporting fish kills”