by Capt. Dave Stephens
With the arrival of April and the beginning of spring, I think it is safe to say the cooler winter is a thing of the past. All the major species of fish that we have here in Charlotte Harbor are feeding very well. Also, some of the species that make their migrations are in the harbor, such as Spanish mackerel and cobia. Depending on how fast our water temperatures rise will determine how long the migrating fish will be in our area. Mid 70’s is the magic number; when the water gets above 80° is normally when these fish start moving north. The deeper holes in the harbor are great starting points to locate Spanish mackerel and keep an eye out for birds, such as terns and sea gulls.
Spring time to me means snook fishing. I love to fish for big snook and this is one of the best times of the year to do that. I have been having excellent success on my charters catching some real nice fish. The average snook has been 24-30 inches and good catches of some fish pushing over three feet. This is a time of year where there are many different areas that are holding great numbers. If you live close to any of our local rivers or the weather is not cooperating, you can still have a very great day snook fishing. Also, the local flats and mangrove shorelines are doing very well.
Redfish have been very productive on the higher tides along the mangrove shorelines. I look for the green bushy over hangs. On the lower tides the reds have been holding in the pot holes just off the mangroves. This time of year, stealth is very important due to the clear water. I highly recommend that you anchor your boat as far away as possible and make a soft presentation. (In other words, be quiet.)
Trout have definitely made their presence known on the local flats and bars. I am not sure if I have been lucky or the trout are running bigger. I have been able to put my clients on trout over twenty inches the past couple weeks; as long as the weather patterns don’t change this should only get better. On the lower tides, outside bars have been the place to be. As the tide rises the flats inside bars with broken up bottom will be holding fish.
To experience some of Charlotte Harbors best inshore fishing give me a call or send me an email, and we will customize a charter that best fits you and your parts needs.