Inshore: Great weather conditions have prevailed throughout the Treasure Coast, providing good fishing weather for anglers. Looks like it should continue for now, so plan a trip on the water soon. Tides have ran low of late, so a lot of the fishable flats were too shallow for most boats.
Bobby Altieri holding one of his five redfish caught on the flats.... Schools of redfish are still out there on the flats. I spoke to Doug of Florida Fish and Hunt and they had found another school north of the Fort Pierce bridges. Harbor Branch, Queen's Cove and Round Island should all be holding redfish. They are not always easy to find, so study the water carefully and look for anything out of the ordinary. Bob Altieri and his son, Bobby boated six nice slots of 26-30" this past week with me. We had a school hanging around for several hours. Gold spoons, DOA shrimp and top water have all worked for us. I love the redfishing here!
Bob and Bobby with another redfish.... Snook have been all around the inlets, jetties and bridges. Everyone is excited and getting prepared for snook season opening on Sept. 1st. Remember.....27-34 inches with the tail pinched..... Live bait has prevailed for snook fishing, but Rapalas, jigs, Storms and DOA TerrorEyz have all been catching their share. Work the slower sides of the tides. Fish the flats early with top water and the mangroves later in the day. Check your licenses and snook stamps, too.
A double hookup early in the morning.... Trout fishing picked up on the flats this week. Some nice size trout are being caught around Round Island, Harbor Branch and Queen's Cove. Live shrimp or pinfish along with top water and jerk baits are the best choices for baits. Work them in 2-5 feet of water.
Snapper fishing along the channels and structure has steadily improved. Reports of catches of one to two pound fish have been reported this week. Live shrimp is the first choice. Some croakers, sand perch and sheephead are being caught off the bridges.
Tip of the Week: Safety equipment is an important part of boating. It's a good idea to check it several times a year to make sure it is in good condition. Many safety items have expiration dates and must be current to be legal as safety equipment. Flares and fire extinguishers should be to make sure they are in-date and in good condition in case of emergency. It is your responsibility to insure that your boat is safe and is equipped with the proper equipment. Let's all keep boating safe!
Remember, fishing is not just another hobby....it's an ADVENTURE!!
Good Fishing and Be Safe,
Capt Charlie Conner
www.fishtalescharter.com email: captaincharlie@fishtalescharter.com 772-284-3852