[dropcap]J[/dropcap]une is the start of summertime patterns for the fish and the weather. This tend to be the month that weather patterns start to settle down and become consistent. It also is the month when the beaches in our area become flooded with pilchards, sardines and herring of all sizes. These baits will be moving up and down the trough like an underwater highway and attracting all gamefish to the area. These baits will serve for forage all summer long as they grow larger and make their way to reefs in late summer. Big snook will stage themselves and cruise the trough waiting for the right opportunity to crash a large school of summer baits. These schools will be easily spotted as they will stand out in the water like a large underwater cloud. This is a great fishery for boatless or laid back fisherman. All you need to get yourself in the game is a castnet, 12lb. spinning rod and some hooks. Most beach fisherman also have or use a bucket to keep a few baits handy. Watch for cruising fish and fish following the large schools of bait and place your bait in front of the fish’s path and hang on. Keep in mind this is a catch release fishery until the season opens in September. Handle these big breeders with care. Mixed in with the snook will be a few tarpon. These will be migrating fish also chasing baits up and down the beach.
Fishing in the Everglades is in full swing right now with snook and redfish biting on the outside islands and river mouths. Live bait is key with these fish trending towards the lazy side with the warmer summer temps. Shallow wrecks and rock piles should be loaded with herring and pilchards. Play the tides towards the species you desire.
Hope the tide is high on your side….
Capt.Shawn Fairbanks SalltH2o Customs Salt-H2o.com