Capt. Billy Norris
Fishing over the past month has been excellent! Summer is here and it is HOT outside, so try to target fish in the morning or afternoon for best results. Bait has been tougher, but still attainable. Right now, in our local water’s pilchards have been scarce, but there are plenty of schools of big offshore threadfin herring around. In the backwaters redfish, snook and big Jack crevalle are very active. Once it starts to get warm out (9-10am), target fish in deeper water. The water temperature at the surface offshore right now is 91°F, so many of these fish will be in the deeper waters where it doesn’t get quite as hot. Channels, passes and holes will be holding fish.
The tarpon bite has been stellar! We’ve been landing fish of all sizes with some beautiful 125+ pound fish being caught. They have been both offshore and in the backwaters, scan the horizon for that giveaway silver roll. Depending on their mood, they’ll eat either threads or crabs. Big cut bait on the bottom will work as well, however sharks will typically find it first.
The nearshore wrecks and reefs have also been producing quality fish. This past month we have been catching cobia, permit and big snook offshore. The pelagics that were here all winter, like kingfish and bonitos, have left the area due to the high-water temperatures, but there are plenty of other options. There have been some nice snapper catches on the reefs as well. For snapper, downsize your gear and fluorocarbon depending on water clarity. Chumming is highly effective when fishing for snapper, so don’t leave the dock without it! As always, big game fish are also all over the wrecks. There are plenty of sharks and barracudas on nearly every wreck. In addition, there are big goliath grouper, so bring your heavy-duty gear! The summer should continue on with quality catches and tight lines! It’s hot, so pack sunscreen and get out on the water!
Captain Billy is owner/of Pale Horse Fishing Charters in Bonita Springs. Call today (239)285-7710 to book your trip!
