Steinhatchee Forecast: Sept 2013

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September promises heat relief from August but don’t expect the cooling trend to be quick natured. In terms of fishing, expect the time interval between 11:00am and 3:00pm to be the broiler period and afternoon thunderstorms soon afterwards. The best bet is to start the fishing day early, to beat the heat and be rolling in sometime during the broiler period to let the mechanical breeze beat the heat on the ride to the “hill”.

However, fishermen going well offshore often don’t get the go early and get in early option; unless you’re riding in a forty knot plus get it done in a hurry boat. If you’re in like in my position, a 22-24 knot economic cruise, you have to adjust to conditions. Getting out early is a sure option. Quick bopping from one spot to the next (if conditions are favorable, drift fish) or trolling during the broiler period makes comfort. Also, if seas allow, go to the most distant waypoint first and fish your way back home. In all situations, everyone needs to drink excessive water. And, as the skipper, keep your eye on the crew to avoid anyone starting to suffer from heat exhaustion (especially the young and old) and eye on the weather. Being caught in the throws of a strong storm makes for a memorable experience but not a fun fishing trip. Fishing is supposed to be fun.

This year August water temperatures have only hit 88F according to my thermocouple. That is almost ten degrees lower than normal. Red and gag grouper can be caught in the 45-foot range, but is more consistent

in deeper water. Amberjack, those over the 30-inch minimum are hard to catch inside of 50 foot. Keeper amberjack are best from 70 feet on out. All the rain has pushed cobia offshore, for the most part. Outside the brown water near shore, into the green going to blue water offshore always have a flat line out to pick up a cobia or smoker kingfish.

If the weather is questionable, stay closer to shore to catch huge Florida snapper and set out free lines with live bait to pick up gag grouper, kingfish or cobia. Good luck and stay hydrated.

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