[dropcap]S[/dropcap]ummer is here! Get out to fish early and late in the day to beat the heat. Fishing the flats at these times has resulted in some good trout and reds lately. My best results for trout have come from fishing Sebile stick shads and MirrOlure top dog Jr.’s. The fish have been more aggressive and I am speeding up my retrieval. With the reds I am going with saltwater assassin plastic sea shads on a 1/8 oz. pro-elite jig head or an Aqua dream spoons. I am fishing these baits slow up near the grass lines where the reds tend to troll looking for a quick meal.
In the mid day heat go to soft plastics and fish deeper drop offs were the fish go to cool off and hide. I fish the saltwater assassin sea shads on a ¼ oz. pro elite jig head and match the color to the bait I see around. I will work my plastics according to the bait. If there are shrimp jumping I will do short flutter bounces letting the bait drop. If it is small bait fish I use a fast flutter retrieve. Go with more natural colors in clear water.
Not to miss in July! I will be hosting a kayak fishing seminar July 9th, 7P.M. at Fairhope Boat Company. The Casting for Kids tournament is in Leeville, LA. at Bobby Lynn’s Marina on July 13th. This is a fun charity tournament with lots of prizes and places to fish in LA. The Dauphin Island Rodeo is July 19-20th. The Fairhope Boat Co. No Motor division has been added this year with 3 great kayaks up for grabs. The LKFC’s Hwy.1 Slamboree is July 27th out of Bobby Lynn’s marina in Leeville, LA. We keep a running tab on what’s happening in the kayak community on our Facebook page Kayak Fishing U.
With these longer days out in the sun take care of yourself. Wear protective clothing, a buff, and sunscreen when out fishing. I use
Beyond Coastal sunscreen SPF 30 and put it on before I leave for the day and reapply with a face stick throughout. It makes a huge difference in how I feel at the end of a day and how long I can stay out and fish.
Remember while fishing from a kayak to always think safety. We are low to the water and not always easily seen. Keep a 360 degree light on at dark and low light conditions, wear a PFD, keep hydrated, and let someone know your float plan.
Benton Parrott
Hobie Regional Team / Fairhope Boat Co.
Pro Staff Fishing Guide
dbparrott@bellsouth.net