Trout and redfish are becoming more active on the flats as the water is starting to cool off after the summertime heat. Use a free-line or Carolina-rig menhaden along grass in the 1- to 3-ft. range. Artificial baits like Mirrolure Mirrodines, Vudu Mullet, and weedless spoons will all be working as well.
Jacks and redfish should start with the fall time patterns as the menhaden push out of the bayous. Look for big schools of bait and pelicans. Swim baits and surface action top-water lures work great when these fish congregate together. If you do find them schooling, be respectful and give other boats on the school their earned breathing-room and try not to full throttle plane onto the school. You can also try croakers on Carolina-rigs around the Mid Bay and Hwy 331 bridge pilings if you aren’t finding any schools. Live shrimp are starting to become more abundant, stop by and grab some here at Bay Baits; they’ll work well around the docks and bridge pilings for mangrove snapper and redfish, as well as the occasional flounder and sheepshead.
EVAN SOROKA
Bay Baits
24295 US Hwy. 331
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
(850) 278-6292
www.baybaits.com