Capt. Billy Norris
Fishing has been stellar this month! Both backwater and nearshore has been on fire! Moving through the summer and into the fall, you can expect excellent fishing as long as there are no hurricanes that put a speed bump in the way. Backwater has been hot, and it is clearly evident that the environment is recovering after the decimation from the 2018 red tide disaster.
The backwaters have been very productive fishing for the “big 4” snook, redfish, jack crevalle and trout. Snook are nearly everywhere. This time of year, they will head more towards the passes and beaches, so look for them around the Gulf-backwater transitional areas. Also, highly effective this time of year is fly fishing for snook from the beach. Small flies of a white or olive drab/white pattern are best. Always remember, prey never runs towards a predator so make sure to strip away from snook to make it appear as if it is a fleeting baitfish. Redfish have been equally as plentiful in the backwaters, with some over-slot fish not being uncommon. Trout have also rebounded since the 2018 red tide and are showing up in large numbers. Again, remember that we were hit hard and the season was closed for a reason, so now is not the time to try to fill your freezer with fillets. If you are going to keep fish rather than practice catch and release, just keep what you can eat that night.
Offshore has been on fire as well. Cobia, permit, tarpon and more are cruising our local waters right now. This is my favorite time of year for nearshore fishing. Although it’s hot, the bite is just too good to pass up. We are in rainy season however, so ensure that you are getting out on the water early to avoid the afternoon thunderstorms. In addition, the big bucket list fish like Goliath Grouper and sharks are heavy in many areas right now, so bust out the big gear and make sure to stretch out!
Fishing is great, the weather is great, and I only expect more stellar fishing throughout the rest of summer so get out there on the water! Captain Billy
