[dropcap]A[/dropcap]ugust is all about the bait that will be on the beach and in the river. This is the start of the mullet run, sometimes the first week, sometimes later. First will be the finger mullet from about 5- to 6-inches in size followed by those in the 10- to 12-inch range. This will bring the big fish after them, specifically snook, tarpon, jacks, bluefish, sharks and ladyfish. Just watching the fish feed on these schools is an amazing sight in its own right.
This is when you need heavy gear reels that hold a lot of line and a stiff rod that can cast live bait and big plugs. Plugs in the 6-inch range that look like mullet such as Rapala Xraps, Yo-Zuri crystal minnows and Bomber Long A lures will get you on the fish. Cast outside the school where the fish are just waiting for one to leave the school. You will have to do some walking; these move down the beach so you must follow. At bridges and inlets look for the moving tide and use a live mullet free swimming and hold on. Big tarpon and snook will make a quick snack of them. Once the schools show up, you’ll want to be the first on them, so get there early. Boats please be respectful of the people on the shore. Don’t run up on them and give them distance. We all share the water.
Until next time, take care of each other. Tight lines.