Heat and storms are the name of the game in August. The early riser will have the best chance to beat the heat and afternoon storms this month.
The earlier you get started the better, because water temps are at their highest and tides can be slack or extremely high. Live bait is still key in August because most fish, like trout and redfish, are looking for just a few bigger baits to eat and find somewhere to chill out the majority of the day. Large pilchards and medium sized pinfish work very well fished on bottom rigs along the channel edges and deeper grass points in 4-6 feet of water. If using artificials, like plugs and larger swim baits, then slow down your presentation and cover an area more thoroughly because fish will be less aggressive. Presenting that bait several times in a fish’s face can yield a strike.
Also be on the lookout for big jack crevalle because they like to cruise the flats in August in large schools crashing baits. Have a large top-water plug, like Rapala Skitterwalk, or large swim baits like a Slayer Inc Paddler in pearl white, Grande Size, tied and ready for when these schools swim by.
Most important, remember to apply sunscreen as often as possible and drink plenty of water while on the boat.
CAPT. JORDAN TODD
Saltwater Obsessions
850-227-6550