February 5, 2010
Other than quite windy, it has been pretty nice out lately. Weekly weather patterns have set in, so you have many windy days and one or two that are calmer. With another front closing in this weekend, it will be anther challenge to get out fishing.
We did manage to get out this week on one those calmer days. After having to cancel the week before, Paul Styspeck made it back from Orlando and we found a good day to get out on the water. As soon as we made it to the first spot, we didn't need to move for most of the morning. The trout were once again having a field day on the flats. About forty fish later, it was time to move on. Paul caught more trout than we could try to count. All were slot size or bigger. Most were in the 18 - 22 inch range. There were a few jacks and ladyfish mixed in, but the majority were nice, healthy trout. Shallow running Mirrolures worked good to begin the morning, but the DOA CAL jerk baits kept the reels busy most of the time. Our best fishing lately has been in two to four feet of water on the grass flats.
It was too windy on the flats for us to sight fish any redfish, but they are out there in the shallows. Live shrimp, DOA shrimp or CAL jerk baits can find them when you can fish some of the better flats. Paul even caught a small snook. First one I have seen since the cold weather left us. It was nice to see one that made it! We should have a good spring this year with trout and redfish.
Bridges continue to give up sand perch, black drum and sheephead. Live or dead shrimp works best. Bluefish are around the river and inlet. Work a silver spoon or anything shiny around the inlet and jetties. The ladyfish and jacks are back to their usual antics on the flats. You will probably find quite a few around the river now. It has been nice to see the fishing continue to improve after the cold winter we have experienced so far.
I lost a fishing partner this week. Tom Hull was a cousin and good friend who frequently drove down to help me scout out fishing areas on the river. After a battle with cancer most of last year, he passed away quietly. I will miss a good fishing buddy.
Remember, fishing is not just another hobby....it's an ADVENTURE!
Good Fishing and Be Safe!
Captain Charlie Conner
http://www.fishtalescharter.com
captaincharlie@fishtalescharter.com
772-284-3852
