May is the start of the spring fishing season with bait schools moving back into the area. Mullet, ladyfish, pigfish and pinfish will be abundant in the local lagoons. Keep in mind the spring season is young and so is the available bait so keep the bait size your throwing in proportion to the size of the bait in the area – in other words match the hatch. Redfish, spotted sea trout, black drum, and tarpon will all be roaming the flats in and around the bait schools. Start fishing around the edges of the school first and keep the boat noise down to a minimum. Try using the wind to your advantage by setting up a wind drift through the area you are fishing. This guide recommends start by throwing search baits until you locate the fish with gold spoons, Zara Spooks, and the DOA swimming mullet. Once you locate the fish, slow down and work the area with more precision baits like DOA Shrimp, DOA Cal tails on a small jig head, or jerk baits, and small twitch baits like Mirrolures.
Work the areas in and around shore lines and creek mouths early then as the sun gets higher target the open flats in 2 to 3 feet of water around bait schools. Remember, only hold the fish out of the water as long as you can hold your breath for the photo opportunity, and keep your fish in the water until the camera is ready. Tight lines! Get out and enjoy the season, and take a kid fishing.
