. Let's begin with the jumbo trout action. Flamingo's grass flats and basins have been holding some pretty large and spunky trout. We have been fishing them on Gulp and Fishbites on ¼ to 3/8 oz jigheads and having outstanding results. I have also had some results with Bett's popping corks and topwater baits early in the morning. The key has been to find some moving water. We have been catching limits of seatrout every trip plus releasing dozens of fish as well. While fishing the same areas we have encountered ladyfish, bluefish, tarpon, and sharks. And of course, jacks and snapper. Fishing has been good if you are at the right time and place. My suggestion is working the tide and starting early. This is fun fishing at its best.
The tarpon fishing has really improved and has been pretty awesome. Early morning and eves have been good for fly and live baiting. Keys-style flies and live crabs are good baits. Location is important as many of the tarpon have moved off due to our cold winter. In the backcountry, Whitewater Bay has been worth checking out as the deep cuts and rivers. In the Biscayne area, all the Oceanside flats, deep cuts and mainland canals are worth a try. The bit should be pretty consistent as long as temperatures stay warm enough. I prefer drifting or staking out as anchored quietly for these fish.
Poling around Biscayne Bay has seen many schools of bonefish on the flats to 3 foot depths, bayside and oceanside. The bonefish are eating shrimp and crabs and dark, slow-moving flies. Some of the ones caught are up to 33" in length. That's a big, fast fish.
Summer fishing should be at its peak with consistent, good all-around action. There will be a bit more boat traffic on the weekends due to expected warm and nice weather. I have also been getting calls for pre-purchase marine surveys so there will definitely be more new boat owners using their new tools. If you have any boating or fishing-related questions never hesitate to call me.
