After running a full schedule for the last few weeks, I am taking a
day off as another strong frontal system barrels its way down the coast
of Florida. Windy conditions and the threat of heavy thunderstorms
mid-day forced our decision to stay on land today. These fronts have
been disrupting our activity on a weekly basis, as we keep assuring
ourselves that this is the last one of the season.
When the weather has
been stable, my anglers have been getting a taste of some great spring
fishing as snook and redfish action continues to improve. I might add that with spring break in full swing, I have enjoyed many great trips with young anglers cathcing some nice fish!
Many trips have been scoring on multiple redfish to 30 inches along
with plenty of slot size fish. I have encountered more schooling fish
during the last week with double hookups common. Live sardines have
been getting the bites, however it is interesting to note that several
of the fish I have filleted have been engorged with crabs.
The snook bite has really improved with warmer water temperatures now
approaching 80°. The snook are scattered all over the backcountry with
most of the action being along mangrove points that are either facing
the wind or tide or both. Again the live pilchards are candy to these
fish, although we have had success with Mirrolure plugs with green
backs also.
Springtime brings big jack crevalle to the backwater channels. I
have been having great success with jacks ranging to 18 lbs. recently.
These bruisers will eat anything that moves and put on a great battle on
light tackle!
There are plenty of big sharks in now as well as a good number if
tarpon for those that want the tug of a lifetime. My recent outings
have been opting for action fishing, but I do look forward to tangling
with some giants in the next week or two.