My positive report of July 4th – July 11th was predicated on high tide levels with strong currents due to a new moon phase. Unfortunately, the tide predictions were wrong and we experienced lower water levels, weaker currents and less fish activity. Nonetheless, Pilchards are arriving in bigger numbers and that is a good sign for those wanting live bait. They are small (hatchlings), but are growing and should provide good sizes by the end of the month, just in time for the full moon tides. I recommend a ¼ mess net.
As boaters in Southwest Florida, one of the great activities the lifestyle affords us is enjoying a day on the water followed by a waterfront meal. And when it comes to the menu of options available in this part of the world, it is as appetizing as you’ll find—especially when you consider the opportunities to enjoy locally-caught seafood. This is something visitors from around the country come here craving, which should enhance your appreciation for your own backyard…along with your appetite. Popular and unique seafood choices are everywhere along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Here are some of our favorites:
Grouper
The domestic species caught off the coast of Florida is white and lean with a mild sweet flavor. Red Grouper meat is firm with a heavy flake and remains moist after cooking. It is one of the most popular choices in this region.
Oysters
Raw, cooked or smoked, oysters are another local favorite. Texture is a big part of their appeal. They are firm and slippery at the same time—or should be. The farther south you go and the warmer the water gets, the softer the oyster becomes. In contrast, an oyster from very cold water can be described as crisp or even crunchy. We enjoy and prefer the former here in Florida.
Pink Shrimp
Discovered in SW Florida just before 1950, this sweet, tasty variety indigenous to the Gulf of Mexico are considered by shrimp connoisseurs to be some of the sweetest in the United States. In fact, shrimp fishermen have considered it “pink gold” since the early 1950s. And, as anyone who has heard Bubba’s lengthy monologue—in the motion picture Forrest Gump—there is no limit to the ways you can enjoy what he calls the “fruit of the sea.”
Snapper
Red snapper is a firm-textured fish with moist, white flesh that is delicate and mild. It can be served broiled, baked, steamed, poached, fried or grilled. Red snapper responds well to most cooking methods. Baked whole red snapper stuffed with fresh herbs and seasoning is just one excellent recipe. Red snapper is excellent for grilling, and spring is the perfect time to fire up the barbecue. Lemon, butter and fresh chili peppers are great ways to season red snapper.
Stone Crab
This seasonal favorite is available fresh October 15 through May 15 in Florida. A sustainable and renewable food source, the claws are harvested from the crabs one at a time—leaving the crab with one intact upon releasing them. The claws then grow back within a year in adult crabs. They can be served hot with drawn butter or chilled—usually with a cold mustard sauce.
Mullet
One of the most underrated fish in the state, mullet have been a well-kept secret for as long as anyone can remember. This versatile, tasty fish can be prepared a multitude of ways and is, generally, a pleasant surprise to first-time tasters with its pleasant flavor and texture.
Your own catch
Many waterfront restaurants will cook your fresh caught fish for you. Local anglers know this well, as it is not uncommon for boats to tie up to a local seafood eatery, hand over their catch which is then cleaned and cooked to order—for a fee, of course. But we defy you to find a way to have seafood any fresher. So there you have it…a quick guide to enjoying life in a seafood lover’s paradise. This site has a map of many of the most popular waterfront dining spots for you to reference. Explore and enjoy!
(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor) Offshore; Spanish Mackerel are being reported in the passes and just off the beaches. The Kingfish migration has begun on the east coast and the west coast migration should follow suit. Groupers, Snappers, Cobia, Tripletail and other species are all being caught off shore off the wrecks and reefs from 20 to 80 ft. of water. The baits of choice (depending on the species) will range from artificial presentations (top water and weighted jigs) to live and cut baits, including but not limited to squid, squid wings, finger mullet, pinfish, squirrelfish and shrimps. Look on the website for reef coordinates in our area and use them or simply drift until you find a change in the bottom structure, then anchor down.
Inshore; focus has been on Redfish (‘Reds’), Seatrout or nice size Mangrove Snappers. Snook are plentiful, but the season will not open until a week from now (September 1st). The Redfish and big bull ‘Reds’ are here in good numbers off the flats, oyster beds and off of back country channels in the shallows with mangrove protection (I am pictured here with a nice Redfish caught along the mangroves with a cut pinfish on a weighted jig head). Cut Pinfish, Ladyfish and Shrimps are the order of the day for those anglers wishing to ‘cash in’ on the next few days during the back half of the new moon phase. However, I recommend fishing earlier this week!. The tides will be good enough around Punta Rassa all week, but will begin to weaken as Labor Day Weekend draws near, offering much less in the way of higher tides. The tides on the northern end of Pine Island Sound will tend to be even lower, restricting access to shallow areas for both boaters and the fish alike. Weather forecasts call for hot and humid. Fish will move with the tide, but when tides are low they will ‘hold up’ in deeper water. Move around until you find them.
This is Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters wishing everyone, ‘tight lines’! To book a charter and get in on some great Redfish or Snook action call me at 239-357-6829 or email me at [email protected]. Check out my website; www.fishfacecharters.com for more articles and fishing tips.
Grouper in Captiva Pass, this one is just short of keeper size, for bait, Shrimp, Squid, Bait fish-Live or dead all seem to be working well.
The Spanish Mackerel are thick by the Artificial reef off Alligator Creek all the way down to Cape haze. To catch yourself some, troll a Black & Silver or White lure, about 2 to 3 miles per hour. When you get a hit, stop and fish. Often you will see the Mackerel or Lady fish, maybe even Cat fish. Busting the surface of the water, they are feeding and this make them almost Guaranteed catch-able.
(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.
(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor) Inshore: the fishing has been fairly good given the tannin water that we have had, due to the rain and releases from Lake Okeechobee. I have had most success fishing the northern end of Pine Island Sound and Matlacha Pass where the water is less affected. Pictured here are two of my favorite Junior Anglers, Lauren Mila (5yrs old) and Ashley Mila (7yrs old) of Miami Florida (daughters of Mike and Jennifer).
Both of these little ‘mermaids’ caught their own fish, which was really impressive and gave me a lot of satisfaction just seeing the joy of accomplishments on their faces. I am looking forward to taking them again next season.
Most species was and should continue to be very active around this new moon phase. Last week, my 1st Mate Vicki and I had the pleasure of fishing with Dr. Len Feaster and his wife Caroline, of St. Petersburg, Florida (pictured here).
Caroline is also pictured with one of her many catches of the day. They both were looking forward to enjoying the wonderful fillets that large Seatrout are famous for. Fishing should improve with other species throughout the back bays as the water clarity improves.
Offshore: The fishing has been good, as evidenced by this Red Grouper caught and pictured here with my 1st Mate Vicki.
Gag Grouper and Red Grouper alike are plentiful in about 70 ft of water on structure using Pinfish, squid and other natural baits. The gulf waters from the outer islands of Sanibel and Capitva are alive with Yellowtail Snapper, Porgys, other bottom feeders, Blackfin Tuna, and Mackerel.
If you have questions about fishing in general or charter information, please feel free to contact me via phone at 239-357-6829 or email me at [email protected]. Additional fishing articles and other information is on my website www.fishfacecharters.com. Until next week, GOOD FISHING!
Winter time on the waters in SW Florida may be ‘the right place, the right time’ for anglers to realize their dream of a ‘trophy’ fish. ‘Winter- fishing’ is only more difficult because we must deal with the elements such as wind, cooler temperatures. Additionally, the lower tides discourage or prevent many from navigating through ‘skinny’ waters to get to the ‘holding’ and ‘feeding’ areas of the fish. The fish are still out there, one ‘simply’ has to locate them and then ‘slow down’ the presentation, be it artificial, live or cut baits.
Winter time on SW Florida waters does not reduce the opportunities for ‘flats’ or ‘back country’ anglers. I will argue that there is more opportunity when considering the migratory patterns of Pompano, Spanish, King, Ceros Mackerels, Cobia and Grouper and other species as they relocate into shallower domains (I caught a couple of nice groupers off the backside of Chino Island a few weeks ago in about 12 ft. of water). These fish would not normally be found there during the warmer months. It is true however, that the huge Redfish have moved ‘off-shore’ (up to about 20 miles or so) but there are still plenty up to about 34 inches when you find them.
Additionally, species such as big Seatrout, Flounder and Sheepshead are more accessible and provide more opportunity this time of year. The Crevalle Jacks always provide a lot of excitement and like Snook are always found in the canals. I am including a picture of a nice Crevalle Jack caught by my friend’s son, Matt Volski of Cape Coral while home from college on Christmas break. Unfortunately, I did not take a picture of the 26 inch Snook caught by his friend on the same outing who was on leave from the Navy and currently stationed at Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida. As a ‘Jar Head’, I thank him for his service to our country.
Recently on a beautiful ‘winter’ day, my 1st Mate Vicki and I took to the Sanibel Lighthouse and a little offshore to spin cast and fly fish for Spanish Mackerel. The birds showed us the way, just as they will all up and down Pine Island Sound. We could not get them released fast enough to satisfy our ‘hunger’. During the ‘chaos’, Vicki (using a spin-cast) mentioned seeing and feeling a big ‘King Mackerel’ slap her ‘jig’ with terrific force. Unfortunately a few minutes later when my guard was down, one ‘slammed’ my ‘Clauser’ fly with unexpected force. My fingers burned when trying to slow the run. I dropped my hand to slow the spool, but without gloves the burning friction forced me to try and stop the reel only to have the handle bruise my hand. I lost that battle, as I was not thinking of such a ‘giant’ taking such a small presentation (I should have known better).
The coming week could provide some opportunities mentioned above. If the wind forecasts are accurate, there should be plenty of opportunity to get out there and give it a go. If you have any questions or want to book a charter, give me a call at 239-357-6829 or email me at [email protected]. This is Captain Terry Fisher of Fish Face Charters wishing you a great time on the water. Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters.com for additional information.
(FT. MYERS BEACH-CHARLOTTE HARBOR) The waters are cooling and the fish are moving. Spanish Mackerel are along the beaches doing their ‘fall run’ as well as in the passes. They can be found just off the beach at casting distance or as far out as 20-30 miles. Look for the birds and throw your favorite lure or put on a chunk of ladyfish and enjoy the action. The ‘Kings’ should be following anytime. Grouper, Snapper and other species are moving in closer to the beaches as well as in the passes and into the sound.
Redfish will continue to ‘fatten-up’ for their journey from the mangroves and the flats and will be gone by Thanksgiving. They are cruising the bars and flats in Pine Island Sound. While they have been sort of ‘hit and miss’, many are in the 30”-35” range. Although many are over slot, they make for a fantastic fight and there maybe some ‘slot-size’ within the same school. Snook is also a good bet as they begin their fall migration into the estuary. They are being found near passes and inlets while staging around pilings and docks. These game fish are in good numbers moving along the mangroves shorelines as well, especially, where points and creek mouths make great ambush spots.
If you have any questions or need to book a charter, I am easily reached at 239-357-6829 or at [email protected]. Check out my website at www.fishfacecharters.com for monthly and weekly articles. Until next week: GOOD FISHING!
(Ft. Myers Beach to Charlotte Harbor) The water temperatures in the gulf are beginning to cool and come alive with baitfish and the game fish that pursue them. Snook are beginning to move back to their homes in the canals and rivers. Redfish will continue to come out of the mangroves to spend more time on the ‘flats’. Early morning ‘top water’ and chunked dead bait will be a good bet to catch the quality Redfish. Sea Trout are around the oyster bars and the flats, making them easy targets using a popping cork and live shrimp. There are still some ‘local’ Tarpon around in Pine Island Sound, the river and the canals. Most are small, but put up a great fight.
Off shore anglers should continue to enjoy good catches of Grouper, Snapper and Permit so long as the weather permits. One does not have to go as far out to enjoy bottom fishing at its best as the weather and water temperatures continue to cool down.
Until next week; GOOD FISHING AND BE SAFE! If you need or want any information to assist with your fishing or boating needs, I am easily reached at 239-357-6829/239-471-7332 or email me at [email protected]. Check out my other fishing and boating reports at www.fishfacecharters.com
Saturday was a great day if you were fishing the inside of the East Keys. Captain Cayle wacked the Mangrove Snappers and Red fish. Cayle said he had other fish, but it was unreal how big and steady the Snapper bite was.
Capt., Greg had a different kind of day. Greg & Chris headed to the east side. Found a pothole against the side of an island. They started fishing then proceeded to catch every conceivable fish you could fish for in Charlotte harbor; grouper, lady fish, trout, redfish, snook, snappers. Everything except flounder and sheeps-head. The even ended up catching one catfish on what was to be his last cast. After the cat-fish they decided they had had enough.
It was a great trip. End this one on a high note. Putting in the trolling motor, they headed out from the keys, to more open, deeper water. After reaching water deep enough to use the out board Chris went to hit the key nothing, dead battery. Luckily there was a guy fishing on an aluminum boat not far away. They trolling motored up to the guy. Due to a little bit a bad financial luck he had to sell his flats boat and here he was fishing in an aluminum boat, but at least he finally got out on the water. And all he wanted was to catch dinner for that night, but he had not caught a thing.
“Idea!!” How about a trade? A nice 24 inch six and three-quarter pound red fish for a jumpstart. I know you’re not supposed to trade redfish for a jumpstart but this was an emergency. He was able to have fish for dinner, and they were able to start the engine. As it turned out, their lucky day, turned into his lucky day. Not a bad way to and a fishing trip. They did not have a fish dinner but they did not have to push the boat back to the ramp!
Winter time on the waters in SW Florida may be ‘the right place, the right time’ for anglers to realize their dream of a ‘trophy’ fish. ‘Winter- fishing’ is only more difficult because we must deal with the elements such as wind, cooler temperatures. Additionally, the lower tides discourage or prevent many from navigating through ‘skinny’ waters to get to the ‘holding’ and ‘feeding’ areas of the fish. The fish are still out there, one ‘simply’ has to locate them and then ‘slow down’ the presentation, be it artificial, live or cut baits.