By Capt. Jeff Patterson, Pole Dancer Fishin’ Charters
We’ve had some rough conditions over the last month during the mullet run, with plenty of wind and rain. Fishing is always awesome this time of year, but the forecast kept business pretty quiet overall. As conditions settle, it’s worth getting back out there: fall can bring some great fishing.
This time of year, I keep a close eye on the sonar when I’m running through the channel, especially in the first couple of miles south of the inlet in New Smyrna Beach. There tend to be some big bull reds and tarpon in that stretch, and I’ve had great success using live blue crabs, pinfish, and pigfish. I like to drift and drag baits along the bottom, and that moving tide is key to getting consistent bites.
There’s a great variety of species around the inlet in November, including redfish, snook, tarpon, black drum, and even permit, so it’s important to keep a few live bait options ready. I always try to have live shrimp and some type of baitfish on hand. Last year, a big wave of permit and pompano moved through, and we had a blast catching both species together.
In the river, the mangrove shorelines should produce well for redfish and snook. I like drifting a live shrimp or finger mullet with a split shot, really focusing on the points. As mentioned earlier, a good tide movement makes all the difference. Hopefully, the weather cooperates over the next couple of months so we can finish out the year strong on the water.
