Chokoloskee, Everglades City, and the Everglades National Park
November is one of my absolute favorite months here in the Everglades National Park! The reasons are numerous and I could go on forever describing them, but some of the highlights are…. 1) Mild weather patterns with little rain and light winds, 2) Fish are actively following and feeding on the huge bait pods just off the coastal beaches, 3) Daytime temperatures are comfortably hovering in the high 70's to low 80's, 4) Migratory birds are actively arriving for the winter……. and the list goes on!
The change of seasons has started to affect our tides tremendously. Watch out those extreme negative low tides of the new moon the mornings of the 11/12 through 11/17, and the 11/27 through 12/1. A low tide of -.04 with a NE wind will drain the bays and certainly could ruin your day if you did not anticipate it and plan around it. If you are out on the water, use these low tides to educate yourself as to where those shallow oyster bars and deep pockets lay.
The near coastal areas are chock full of Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Jacks, Ladyfish, and other energized fast swimming species. Look for the flocks of birds feeding on the scraps of an underwater frenzy. Send out any bucktail type jig, about ¼ - 3/8 oz, tipped with a small piece of shrimp for immediate action.
Around the Islands, look for tailing Redfish on the incoming tide that are poking around the oyster bars or underwater grass reeds. Use a D.O.A. Deadly Combo Root beer Shrimp and Berkley GULP shrimp to get their attention. If you have live shrimp, send one out either free lined or under a popping cork. Pop that cork often…. It's like ringing the dinner bell.
Stock up on D.O.A. Baitbusters and Terror Eyz and head backwater to battle with the Snook as they head way back in the creeks and rivers for the winter season. As the tide is outgoing, fish the eddy side of the points. For some fantastic action, throw them a handful of live pilchards followed by one on a circle hook. Hang on!
Captain Pete Rapps
Captain Rapps' Charters & Guides
www.CaptainRapps.com
Captain Rapps' Charters & Guides offers expert guided, light tackle, near shore, and backwater fishing trips in the 10,000 Islands of the Everglades National Park. Capt. Rapps' top notch fleet accommodates men, women, & children of all ages, experienced or not, and those with special needs. Between their vast knowledge & experience of the area, and easy going demeanors, you are guaranteed to have a great day. Book your charter 24/7 using the online booking calendar, and see Capt. Rapps' first class web site for Booking info, Videos, Recipes, Seasonings, and more at www.CaptainRapps.com