This full moon has proved to get the shrimp "pooring" out of the river 2 days before and 2 days after. On my way out with my clients the other day I spoke with a couple fisherman that had been shrimping untill daylight with the late out going tide in Oak Hill. All of them said they had at least 4 gallons with most dip netting their limit of 5 gallons. I would think during our next full and new moons should produce the same action in May, so dust off the nets and bust out the lights to get a mess of shrimp!!
Watch for redfish and trout to start moving over the grass flats and out of the back waters. Find finger mullet this time of year and you can bet the reds will be right along with them. Hand picked jumbo live shrimp will continue to be the live bait of choice. One tip, break off the tail of the shrimp to give it more scent, you will definantly tell the difference on the amount of action you will get.
As for artificials, go with topwaters early in the morning for both gator trout and reds. Walk the dog lures have been working great with a pause for a couple seconds as your working your lure. As soon as you start moving your topwater again if a game fish is interested, watch out, he will knock it clear out of the water of course unless you get a connection! Jerkbaits will also work well in the Rip Tide new penny color.
Trips are booking fast so give me a shout for some hot pre - summer action.
- Capt. Jeff