To begin with, the early morning trout bite should be very good throughout our region. Anglers can expect for these tasty fish to aggressively strike at live shrimp, small bait fish such as mullet, or small top water lures. This is especially true when fishing these baits along the flats. Trout are most active during low light conditions such as during the first few hours of the day as well as the last hour of the day. When targeting trout it is important to have the right equipment in order to bring one to the boat. I suggest using a 7 foot medium action spinning reel combo equipped with 20 pound test braided line and 15 pound test mono leader.
Anglers should keep in mind that trout have excellent eye sight and can be easily spooked. To over come this, anglers should make long accurate cast to a targeted area such a pot holes or bait fish. When fishing with artificial lures such a Rapala’s X-Rap Saltwater Sub Walk (silver or gold olive) it will be important to have a slow retrieve and allowing the bait fish to move in a side to side motion like a wounded bait fish. During this time of year some of these trout can measure up to 20 inches long.
For those who have access to a canoe, kayak, or any other type of boat that is easy to paddle, than you might want to give the “No Motor Zone” a try. The best way to access the NMZ is KARS Park. This park has a 30 car parking lot, store for ice and supplies, and restrooms. A $5 launch fee per boat is payable at the store. KARS Park is located at the east end of Hall Road off Courtney Parkway (SR3). This 10,600 acre waterway is famous for its trophy sized game fish that have been known to put up a good fight when fished on light tackle. It is here where some nice reds can be caught. One way to catch them is to sight cast to a tailing fish. This is especially true when conditions are calm.
Casting a live shrimp directly in front of a tailing fish is a great way to hook up with a red. Anglers should keep in mind that large bull reds have been known to feed and can be caught throughout our area during the month of May. Some of these reds can measure over 40 inches long.
Capt. Keith Mixon
Mixin’ Work With Play Fishing Charters
ww.mixinworkwithplay.com
321-212-8484