My favorite time of the year to fish backcountry is late summer and fall. The more we get into fall the more interesting the fishing will become. More baitfish will begin to gather around around passes, shorelines, and key feeding grounds. All of the spots that you find the bait, you will also find gamefish at one time or another.
The weather and water temperatures have still been warm enough to keep things on the move and feeding. Expect to see some more action right before the fronts arrive. Fishing for redfish, snook, and trout has been good around Flamingo and points north. There has also been activity with jacks and permit all along coastwise.
I have continued to use Fishbites and Gulp baits primarily. It saves time and very effective even though I carry a cast net with me. I feel that when used correctly-the jighead and shrimp combo will catch just about anything out there. For colors be sure to mix it up. Water color changes this time of year due to tides and wind. Bring light and dark colors shrimp lures. And a popping cork is always good to have. I like the ones that you can change easily.
Biscayne Bay waters will have action on the flats before it chills. Get out there early and pick a rising or falling tide. Don't for get live crabs. Crabs for the permit and mutton snapper in the finger channels. They will congregate in there. Get out on the water and enjoy one of the best times to fish in the backcountry. Call me if you have questions. And be sure to check out my website: www.captainariel.com
