[dropcap]A[/dropcap]s the heat of summer roles out, taking with it the afternoon thunderstorms and 90-degree Gulf Stream waters, the Treasure Coast’s offshore fishing is in more of a recovery mode than anything. Waters reaching temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s last month, coupled with massive amounts of fresh water runoff cause the majority of the pelagic species to seek cooler, less contaminated waters. Even though the main population of our sails and dolphin aren’t here right now, there are still a handful of species to target off our coast.
Kingfish are scattered north and south. Fish with live baits using 40-pound fluorocarbon leader and a short wire trace with a second hook called a “stinger” around the bait schools on the beach and over the Six Mile Reef. Use a Cannon down-rigger to stagger baits at various depths as you slow troll around bait schools, reef and other structure. This will increase your hookup ratio and landing average by eliminating the lead on your main line. Use extra light drags at first. Kingfish are extremely fast, and if your drag is too tight when they make their runs, hooks will pull out.
Stuart does have a resident sailfish population, so there is always a chance of catching them. This time of year live bait offers a better chance for action than trolling does, but either will work. Sails can be found as shallow as 10 feet of water all the way out to the Stream. Focus around bait schools, bottom structure and current lines. Chumming with either live or dead bait is a definite advantage, as is using a natural or artificial dredge while trolling or a strip teaser holographic bait ball while drifting and live baiting. All of which can be pulled off your down riggers too.
Wahoo and sword fishing both should be pretty good around the full moon this month, not to mention they virtually go hand in hand. One of my favorite trips is to leave the dock late afternoon, high speed troll for wahoo down the edge, then run offshore and set out a spread of sword baits fishing through the night and then heading back to the dock as the sun comes up.
September is also a good month for annual engine service or replacement. Since switching to my Yamaha four stroke 300’s from Tuppen’s Marine I’ve saved over $25,000 dollars in gas, and put over 1,400 hours on them without a lick of trouble. Stevie G. at Sailfish Marine Services does all my routine maintenance, and keeps me up to date on what needs to be done, so that’s a huge piece of mind.
Enjoy the last of the calm weather, because next month choppier conditions will become more common. A reliable engine and a sound boat are a must when navigating our inlet and coastal waters. Take time to go through your bilge and check all your pumps, make sure your float switches are working, check your hose clamps and replace as needed. Make sure your fire extinguishers, flares, and first aid kit are all up to date. Check your EPIRB, life raft and all other safety equipment insuring your next fishing trip is safe and productive. Looking forward to getting out there with you soon, and I hope your September is Off the Chain!
