Now that hurricane Irma has come and gone, it is important to do everything possible to help our friends in the Florida Keys that weren’t as fortunate. Although we had plenty of boat and marina damage here in Miami, the lower keys were hit especially hard. We all know that the keys residents are resilient and will rebuild bigger and better. Until then, we will continue to keep them in our thoughts and prayers.
Our marina suffered significant damage but repairs are quickly being made and things will be back to normal real soon. My personal dock suffered little damage so I should be back on track by the time this issue hits the newsstand. Most of the damage came as a result of sailboats that broke free from their anchorage and either sank or washed ashore by the storm surge. Unfortunately, some did not prepare ahead of the storm or failed to execute their hurricane plan. Events like this one remind all of us just how important it is to be prepared.
Getting back to get back to fishing. As we continue to clean up and make repairs fishing will be heating up. Storms of this caliber are part of the natural cycle and bring with them pros and cons. The downside brings with it shifting sandbars and lots and lots of other hazards. Most of these dangers come in the form of sunken boats and floating debris that can post a problem when navigation.
On the upside these storms stir things up creating great fishing opportunities. Two of the best post storm fisheries are bottom and mahi fishing. Popular bottom fish like snapper and grouper move around before, during, and after the storm and feed aggressively. Mahi-mahi also can be found in great numbers under all of the floaters (floating debris) found offshore. The best thing is that these species can targeted during daylight hours when navigation will be much safer.
Besides the storm related targets, October will also bring with it other opportunities. The mullet run will be in full effect providing anglers with shots at tarpon, jacks, and sharks just to name a few. Over the reefs kingfish and bonito will dominate the scene providing steady action to all. Anglers can cash by either using live bait like pilchards or herring and/or trolling with planers and spoons.
If trolling and live bait isn’t your thing, you can anchor up and target bottoms fish like yellowtail, muttons, and grouper. Exactly how deep you drop the hook will depend on current and which species you’re trying to target. Yellowtail can be targeted from about 50’-90’ of water depending on conditions. The key is to have quality fresh bait and to keep the chum flowing. Light tackle will get you the most bites although you may loose a few.
Well, that’s pretty much it for right now. Don’t forget that you can keep up with all of the action by following us on FACEBOOK, Instagram, and Twitter. If you like watching some of the action, be sure to check out my YOUTUBE page for the latest video additions.
Tight Lines,
Capt. Orlando Muniz
Nomad Fishing Charters
(786) 266-0171
Sponsors and friends: Mercury Marine, Bass Pro Shops, Offshore Angler, Tracker Marine, ACRARTEX, Gray Taxidermy, Baitmasters, SeaDek, Costa Del Mar, and Yo-Zuri.