PORT CANAVERAL: Anglers are looking forward to new opportunities that will come about during the month of September along the surf break and near-coastal waters outside of the Pot This month. These will include less frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and whole lot more catching opportunities. Why you ask? September is when our near-shore waters outside of Port Canaveral come to life with millions, if not billions of silver and striped mullet. These baitfish begin their southward journey- known to local fisherman as the “Fall Mullet Run”- and just about every predator that swims in our near-shore waters will be hot on their tails. While the mullet are trying to scramble through this predatory gauntlet on their southward journey, anglers are likely to witness tarpon, spinner shark, and king mackerel “sky rocketing” through these baitfish. You’re also likely to witness schools of crevalle jack, bluefish, bonito, or Spanish mackerel making the waters boil from their attacks. After seeing these it will make you understand how badly you don’t want to be reincarnated as a mullet. New anglers to this phenomenon are amazed because they had no idea how much power and aggression these predatory fish possess when they go on the attack.
Scouting is key to finding the best bite. Look for pelicans, gulls, and terns working over areas of water that look like bombs are being dropped there. Once you’ve found the “action zone” where the baitfish are fleeing for their lives- half the battle is over with. The next decision is whether to use live baits, or artificial lures to do battle with these predators. Personally, I think it depends on what you want to catch. If redfish, flounder, Tarpon, king mackerel or snook are your primary targets, then stick with a live fingerling mullet on a sliding sinker or knocker rig. You can also do very well with a ½ ounce jig head. If you just want “action”, try casting Krocodile, crippled herring, or cast champ spoons, Rapala X-Rap or BX minnow style lipped diving plugs, or Gotcha style jigs through the baitfish running along the shorelines. This experience is one you don’t want to miss because even on the slow days our clients generally have a great time catching plenty of fish.
Capt. Jim Ross
Fineline Fishing Charters
www.FinelineFishingCharters.com
(321) 636-3728