BIG LAKE "Redfish fishing continues to be off the charts", according to Captain Kirk Stansel of Hackberry Rod and Gun. He gave some different info concerning a pattern that he has been using to catch multiple limits of reds. A common pattern is to catch them on the banks along small cuts/openings along the shoreline.
However, while that is still a successful approach, he has been working areas off the east shoreline from Commissary Point south to the Old Jetties area to find bunches of reds. He describes the distance off shore would be about 3-4 casts which would be in the neighborhood of 100 to 150 yards. So if you are fishing the shoreline with minimal success, the best area might be behind you.
Stansel also stated that the best bait for reds is Berkley's Saltwater Gulp! in 3-4 inch Shrimp as well as Gulp! Swimming Mullet with best colors being New Penny, Nuclear Chicken (Glow), Glow, Molting and Lime Tiger Glow.Gulp! Sand eel in both 4 and 5 inch versions are also great lures for both reds and specs.
For the best chance of a big trout currently, the Big Lake guide suggested anglers may want to get out of the boat and slowly/quietly wade fish the shoreline. As far as baits for wading, he suggested the well-known Corkys and other suspending baits like Berkley Gulp! Jerk Shad. These baits must be fished slow with long pauses. Stansel can be reached at 337-802-1594
