By Capt. Weston Russell
Contributing Writer
Welcome to the August fishing report. The bite recently has been a little off from previous years due to warmer temperatures to our north; but expect things to pick up in August. Offshore, the snapper bite will be on. Muttons will be hanging under the bonito schools waiting for a free meal. If you’re catching undersized fish, try fishing deeper water from 150’ to 250’. Believe me, monster muttons live in the deep. You will need heavy lead and a long leader. I use 30’ of 60lb to fool the big boys. The bait of choice is a strip of bonito. Remember, they’re big because they’re cautious. Also, if you’re looking for a trophy wahoo, try catching a live bonito and slow troll it with a stinger hook. Wahoo love to eat bonito (at least something likes to eat them).
If you’re looking to land a West Palm Beach gladiator (aka swordfish), you will need to head east 15 miles. The mighty swordfish will be lurking deep below. Daytime swording is an option that not a lot of anglers are taking advantage of. Swordfishing is not hard, think of it as bottom fishing on a bigger scale. It’s always a great idea to hire a pro to show you the ropes.
Inshore, the Palm Beach Inlet will still be holding plenty of tarpon, snook and jacks. Light tackle is the way to go. Inlet fishing is all about tides, so plan your trips accordingly.
Captain Weston Russell
561-310-2690 • www.reelintensefishing.com