It’s been a little rough out there as far as wind is concerned. Blowing mostly from the East, this gave us the opportunity to plan our launches in protected areas keeping us out of the wind. Although the wind can find you from time to time, this is a great technique to paddle the bay.
The snook bite has been the hottest with many being caught from the mangrove shoreline to the grassy flats. Most of these fish were caught using topwater “walk the dog” style plugs worked slowly along shallow flats near deep channels. The snook have been hungry, so be ready for those aggressive strikes!
Trout have been a little tougher to find (of any of size) as they seemed scattered throughout the flats in a little deeper water (the four to six-foot range) and even deeper on the hotter days. I like tossing a ¼-ounce jig with a dark colored soft plastic. Top water is best early when the water is one to three feet deep and cool. Most areas near the Gandy Bridge are well known for this.
The redfish bite had been slow at best, but things changed as soon as the Summer rains started. Winds make it harder to see them and keeps the water chopped up, which makes them move around quite a bit. When this happens, fish the outgoing tides near the mangroves or shallow flats. As the tide recedes, the reds will begin to show signs they’re there. That’s when you attack! I like a softer presentation like a jerk style soft plastic rigged weedless and tossed every so lightly in their zone.
Tarpon of all sizes are running strong and all over the Bay by now. From back country to the bridges, finding them should be no problem. Getting them to eat is another story. My number one way is to pitch a fly. Nothing beats it for almost guaranteed action! If you haven’t done it, give it a try!
