11-04-2010 ST. SIMONS & JEKYLL ISLAND FISHING REPORT
By Captain Vernon Reynolds
Red-Fish are every where. Bull Reds can be found on sound sand bars and River Reds are feeding on river oyster bars. Bull Reds, Red-Fish over five years of age and about 27 inches, move from offshore waters to inshore and near shore waters in the spring and fall. They remain in these waters six to eight weeks and then move back offshore. Bulls are easy to catch during these times because they take up residence in shallow water and feed heavily. Cut Whiting and Mullet fished on the bottom are baits of choice. All Bull Reds are over the legal limit of the maximum size of 24 inches and must be released unharmed.
River Reds, fish under five years of age and less than 27 or so inches are working river oyster bars preparing for the winter. These Reds can be taken with shrimp fished under a cork. The depth of the bait is set to suspend just above the oyster shells, thus reaching the Red-Fish but avoiding hang ups on the shells. Reds are scavengers and will hit dead shrimp just as well as live. Legal Reds are over 14 inches and under 24 inches. Release all Reds not in this slot.
Trout are hitting live shrimp on drop offs ranging from six to12 feet. The Trout cork is used when fishing such depths. This rig has a slip knot tied above the cork and the fishing depth can be adjusted by sliding the knot up or down the line. This is helpful because the depth changes from fish drop to fish drop and even as the tide rises or falls at the same drop. Trout must be 13 inches or better to be legal.
Some of the by-catch while Red-Fish and Trout fishing include Bluefish, Flounder, Black Drum and Sheepshead.
TAKE A KID FISHING. Coastal Expeditions offers charter fishing and Dolphin Tours departing Jekyll Harbor Marina daily. Call (912) 265-0392 to book a charter or go to www.coastalcharterfishing.com for further information.
