By: Alex Baumann
As we turn the calendar to September, it finally feels like we’re leaving the peak of summer behind. While the weather is still hot, there are signs that things are beginning to change on the water. The mornings have become a little more comfortable, the afternoon thunderstorms aren’t quite as reliable, and our fisheries are starting to settle into their fall patterns.
The biggest change is the absence of tarpon. After months of chasing rolling fish along the beaches and passes, the annual migration has wrapped up for the most part. There will always be a few resident fish hanging around the backcountry and the occasional surprise encounter, but the large schools that define late spring and early summer are gone until we see some on their way back down.
With tarpon season in the rearview mirror, attention shifts back to our inshore fishery. Snook fishing has remained steady along the beaches, although the fish are beginning to spread out more than they were during the summer. Early mornings continue to produce the best action, with fish cruising the shoreline looking for pilchards and other baitfish. Staying mobile is the key. Rather than waiting in one spot, keep covering water until you locate active fish. A well-placed cast with a lightly weighted baitfish pattern will usually outfish repeated presentations.
In the passes and mangroves, redfish are becoming more consistent each week. Schools of finger mullet are showing up in greater numbers, and both redfish and snook are taking full advantage of the easy meals. Focus your efforts around oyster bars, mangrove points, creek mouths, and shallow shorelines with good tidal movement. If you can find bait, chances are predators won’t be far away.
One thing that has stood out recently has been the water clarity. With fewer prolonged rain events, many areas have cleaned up nicely, making sight fishing a realistic option on calm mornings. Wind is still the biggest factor this time of year, so getting on the water at first light will almost always give you the best conditions before the sea breeze builds.
September is a month of transition, and the fish seem to know it. They’re feeding with more consistency as they prepare for the seasonal changes ahead, and the crowds on the water begin to thin out after the busy summer months. While everyone looks forward to the arrival of cooler weather, don’t overlook the opportunities available right now. Some of the most enjoyable fly fishing of the year happens during this stretch between summer and fall, and anglers willing to put in the time are being rewarded with quality snook, redfish, and the occasional juvenile tarpon.
See you on the water.
704-999-0571 @alextroutsets