John Detmer
Unfortunately, August’s outlook is for more of the same with calm seas, high heat/humidity and little to no wind. Under these conditions either tide should see catches of whiting, spots and sharks in the surf. Look for beaches with clean water for good fishing. Note: if you start fishing and catch several catfish (they prefer dirty/cloudy water) it’s time to find another beach or wait for the tide change: it won’t get any better.
The best part of August is that it marks 31 days until the start of snook season (1September) and stating soon thereafter the Annual Fall Mullet Run. In about a week or so I expect to change my surf fishing tactics to lighter surf casting gear. My plan is to walk the beaches and surf cast looking for big fish in the trough. I will be gearing up for the mullet run and snook season. The mullet run usually takes place along our beaches in the September/October time frame and coincides with the opening of snook season.
It seems that the fingerling mullet on the northern east coast react to the cold-water temperatures up north and migrate south for warmer conditions during this time of the year. Snook, red fish and other big fish gather close to shore (in the trough) where the mullet swim for protection and feed on the fingerlings as they pass overhead. The sports pages will have reports on the “mullet run” and articles/stories will circulate about chance catches of big fish.
Finally, anglers must be aware and follow the States’ Saltwater Fishing Regulations while fishing on the beach. Every 6 months the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission publishes the “Florida Saltwater Recreational Fishing Regulations”. The current regulation covers 1 July 2017 – December 31, 2017. Anglers can pick up free copies at tackle shops, Wal-Mart, Sporting Goods Stores and on line at MyFWC.Com/Fishing.
John Detmer
Owner/Operator of J&H Surf Fishing the Space Coast
321-777-5554 or email
jandhsurffishing1@att.net
www.jandhsurffishing.com