The Signs Are Obvious

By: Capt. Dave Stephens

Fall is upon us and the days are becoming shorter, and the cooler night temperatures will help cool our waters. The migratory fish will start to show up in area waters as they make their push south for the winter. Red fish is possibly one of our most targeted species of the fall and will be forming big schools on area bars and grass flats. Also, the receding rains will allow our summer-stained waters to return to clarity suitable once again for sight fishing. Our number one inshore migratory fish has to be the spanish mackerel. Signs of these fish showing up are evident in the deeper areas of the harbor. On recent charters, I have seen mackerel jumping out of the water chasing glass minnows and herring. As our water temperatures cool to the mid 70’s larger schools will appear throughout the area. A thin wire leader with a 1/0 circle hook is recommended. Snook, by far are my favorite fish to target and fall has to be one of my favorite times of the year to fish for big line siders. Snook will be making migratory runs to their winter haunts, moving from shallow points and shallow grass flats to deeper creeks and rivers. While making this migration a ferocious appetite will help put on their winter fat reserves. Large sardines and pin fish are my baits of choice. When fishing for fish in heavy cover a 40# leader with a stout circle hook is recommended. The trout bite has been very good on area grass flats, the deeper flats remain your best bet for consistent action. While water and air temperatures begin to cool, the fishing will remain hot. If you would like to experience some of the area’s finest fishing, give us a call or send an email. All of our charters are customized to fit your needs.