[dropcap]S[/dropcap]pring fishing has ended, the big wave of gaffer mahi have moved on and the Big Rock tournament has come and gone. We are moving into the heart of the summer…July brings the typical hot summer weather and fishing. The good news is there are usually more good weather days so just adjust your tactics a little and get on out there.
Once we get into July, the hot water is here and itâs everywhere! The fish will usually be more spread out since there are not big temperature changes to hold them. My first advice is âdo not over-run the fish!â Donât feel like you have to run to the deeper water to find fish, go ahead and check out anything you find â floating debris, grass lines, wrecks and other structure near shore. All these areas will begin to hold fish. It seems like you always hear of someone catching a big wahoo or a sailfish at Northwest Places or Big 10. If you have a smaller, economical boat then use your speed and economy to your advantage, check out several spots instead of just running out to 50 fathoms or to the Big Rock.
The offshore fish found here in July and August are generally schools of the smaller
mahi, an occasional wahoo and then some sailfish and white marlin. The mahi like to hide out under the grass or any other floating debris, and they are most often in decent-sized groups when you find them. Downsize your spread…thereâs no need for horse ballyhoo unless you like wasting your money just to see the tails get nibbled off. A sea witch is still our favorite but you will find that they will eat most of the things you pull by them, if you keep it small so they can get to the hook.
I am not good at explaining it, but go by your local tackle shop and ask them about a âdolphin weenieâ… those little things donât look like much but they work wonders in locating these smaller fish and will save you a lot on bait costs. Once you find them, you can usually toss a little chum over and the water around the boat will change color as the entire school comes to you. Toss some small hooks and bait over and have fun! Remember to keep at least one hooked-up and in the water to help keep the school there…and continue tossing some chum to them. I like using circle hooks for this. Itâs great practice and allows you to release them without much damage to the fish. The sailfish are most often found in closer locations now. Many days. the best bite will be in 20-fathom depths or so. I find the white marlins best out in the deeper water but you never know for sure where they may show up. On a side note, some summer days can be slow, so it is not a bad backup plan to have some bottom fishing stuff available so you can still bring home some meat.
Calmer seas allow many anglers with smaller boats to get out there for some fun. Plan
ahead, stay safe and make sure you stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water and leave the three cases of beer at home. Start fishing anywhere you see signs of life and just downsize your gear. Summer fishing is different but can be a lot of fun if you are prepared. Stay safe!