Typically May is a hot month for inshore fishing; however, at the time of this writing, most fish patterns are running a month behind schedule due to extended cool weather. How is this affecting the fish location? It’s affecting the where their forage is found and thereby affecting where the fish are found.
In early spring, many different food sources entered the bays and estuaries through river systems, marshes, and through the passes to the Gulf and Atlantic. The anglers that figure out what the fish want to eat first and how those forage species move around bays and estuaries will do the best. Take note of what species are near you when you catch fish.
With the warming temperatures there will be increased surface activity and the fish will remain relatively shallow. Shallow reefs and sea grass edges at the drop off will remain productive until the surface waters begin to reach the mid 80-degree range. This year’s patterns are very similar to last year, so if you can recall the areas you caught fish in last year at this time you’re likely to be ahead of the game. This is where a Fishing Log can come in handy. If you don’t have one, begin to record the conditions of where you catch fish this year: water temperature, depth, and clarity; bottom conditions; weather parameters; lures used, and presentation style. Doing so will help you pattern the fish and spend less time in unproductive areas.