Its summertime and the baits easy, and the fishing too, at times.  What can you do to increase the odds during the summertime?

Inshore–

Top Species include Snook, Redfish, Trout, Tarpon, Sharks, Mackerel, Mangrove Snapper

Choose your times to fish during the day…early and late if possible to avoid the high water temps and intense solar radiation from the sun. Better yet, go at night, avoid the crowds and the heat.

Incoming tides can be cooler as the gulf is actually cooler than shallow bay in the summer.  2-3 degrees can make a big difference in the activity of the fish.

If you fish midday, look for the birds that can indicate actively feeding fish (or a shallow grass flat).  Around the mangroves, the fish will have some area’s they frequent thanks to

Offshore–

Top Species will include Grouper and Mangrove Snapper, Permit, and the relatively short Red Snapper season.  For challenging and super fun action, there are also Barracuda and Goliaths to target and the King Mackerel that are around the same structure holding these larger fish.

Baits–

With live bait so plentiful, there is plenty to use for live chumming and for hook baits.   White Bait and Pinfish are great. Cut bait includes Ladyfish, Mackerel, and Jack Crevalle.  Occasional Bluefish are almost a shark guarantee.  A pinfish on a popping cork drifted over a flat 4-6 ft deep will locate the fish.   A highly effective technique for novices and experienced anglers alike.  Pitched up against the mangroves in areas of good flow and depth changes will often result in great action.

Artificials can be extremely effective on Schooling fish and ambush spots.  Jigs including Bucktails, slipper Jigs, tipped with shrimp or soft plastic swimbaits such as DOA and Z-Man are nearly irresistible.   Don’t forget the 1/4 to 3/8 oz Gold or Silver spoons.  Fantastic for everything that swims.

So grab a kid or a buddy and get out and enjoy the experience.

Capt Paul