Well as you would expect the weather has played an important role in the days we are able to get on the water. Strong winds and weekly cold fronts have made for some challenging days on both the Indian River Lagoon and the Mosquito Lagoon. The water levels can drop out in the course of a day to levels lower than ever before. While this may sound catostrophic in a sense in all actuality it is a wonderful opportunity to do some of the best sight fishing this area has to offer on the days where we are having blue bird skies and calm to light winds. Shallow water conditions have their advantage in the pressure of the fish is limited to those who know where they are. we spend several days on the water keeping up with the patterns and migrational habits of the fish in the area in order to provide the best opportunity possible under any circumstance.

Average size schools of redfish are numbering 15 to 25 fish per group and the larger groups of fish have not formed as of yet. Sight casting to these smaller groups with small soft plastics has been very effective early in the morning. Simular pods of larger fish have also been active and agressively taking topwater lures when first approached. Fly anglers are having the most success with the latest creation of my "Crab Spoon" a version of my epoxy spoon that has been very effective this time of the year. Several Black Drum have been taken on this pattern and I am very happy with the results.

The topwater action for Gator Trout is simply amazing as groups of fish in the 4 to 7 lb class are average and many topping out well over 9 lbs. Most of these fish are aggressively taking smaller lures that immitate wounded baitfish fished in close proximity of the baitfish schools. A light chop on the water is also desirable as it allows for more approachable fish. The numbers of larger fish are showing signs the areas fishery is in great shape as a result in many coservation efforts.

As the month ends we will begin to have higher water levels along with an increase of baitfish on the flats as the water temperature starts to rise. Larger groups of slot sized as well as breeder trophy redfish will begin to forage on the flats and provide some fantastic days on the water.

0 Comments