Finally the waters have warmed over 70 and are likely to stay above 70 this year. With the warming temps at 74-75 the magic number for many species. Redfish are again showing up in number, Snook is improving every day. And the first Tarpon have pushed into the bay for the dedicated die hard tarpon addict.
I will switch primarily to tarpon around mid April as the waves of fish continue to push in. If you’ve not fought a Silver King, your missing one of the greatest fishing adventures you could ask for. Strong and acrobatic, we had a near 200 lb fish pull us 4.5 miles in the Gulf, a 24 ft Pathfinder with 3 people on board. Incredible. I’t wasn’t all “pull” we have chase to get 300 yards of line back as it kept nearly spooling us. Not doing so would have risked a cut off by a passing boat.
One of the more interesting things this spring is the number of slot sized permit being caught, in the gulf beach zone and in the Mangroves. Tipped Jigs with Shrimp and on a float is getting the job done. Pompano are running near the passes, and the lighthouse Bar. Cobia are starting their annual run, Kingfish wont be far behind. Triple Tail on the crab bouy’s, Big Trout are prowling the flats. Opportunities abound. The nearshore and offshore wreck and reefs are loaded with snapper, grouper and cobia.
This 4-5 week period from now forward will offer some of the years best fishing in the Sanibel Captiva and Pine Island Sound area.
Send a request with your dates below, Im on the water most days but will call you in between trips or at the end of the day.
Tight Lines!
Capt Paul Primeaux