By Capt. Patrick Smith Contributing Writer
Here we are halfway through the year and in the full swing of summer. So much to do, but the key is doing it early and doing it late to avoid the heat in the middle of the day. We will start with the beach which is where I prefer to spend most of my time in the summer. Just offshore, pods of tarpon should be cruising. A nice frisky live bait presented well ahead of the school should get you tight, and if you are able to ease in quietly, within range, throwing a fly is always an exciting idea. Do not be surprised to find some bruiser jacks cruising around those schools and throughout the day also. Next, the trough is going to be the spot for giant snook looking for their next meal. A lot of times the best presentation is throwing it right onto the sand and bringing it into the water if the seaweed is not a big issue. If you look closely and you keep a small jig handy sometimes you will find healthy bonefish cruising the same area. The inlets will hold plenty of snook and tarpon. Please keep in mind that the snook are there to spawn, and while there is no issue with catching a few, it is not a great idea to relentlessly pound on the big females. We need to allow them to produce plenty of babies for the future. A live mullet, croaker, or perch will not last very long on a knocker rig on the bottom.
Another great option in the summer is to run offshore with a well full of live baits, the smaller the better. Go out between 70 and 200 feet and start throwing bait; chumming all around the boat until there are explosions. Toss a fly or small artificial on light tackle and hang on. Bonita’s, mahi, and king fish are all very common and very willing to wear your arms out.
In the Osborne chain the peacock bass fishing will be hot. Like usual, they absolutely love this warm water, and when they are in the mood, they will eat just about everything you throw. Largemouth bass are going to be working heavy cover and shade around docks, sea walls, and trees. Early morning top water bites are a great way to get hooked up. If you have ever wanted to catch a clown knifefish, this can be a great time, especially in the middle of the night check around bridges with a live shiner, it should not last long.
Remember your sun protection and good luck out there!
Capt. Patrick Smith
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