Bill Russell

Most of the week we were on slow two a day tides, this generally results in a slower than average bite. Although the bite was a little slow the quality of the catch was much improved.

We did not catch the numbers of trout we expect for this time of year but the size was impressive. We actually had one day in north Matlacha Pass where we only caught five trout but they were all huge. The smallest measured twenty-two inches and the largest twenty-five inches, all were caught on live shiners in sand holes on the incoming tide, four came from one hole. On Saturday we were a kids boat for the Bobby Holloway Memorial Fishing Tournament (a great event with proceeds to help our island children) we finished up the day in a sand hole near the fish shacks in the Sound and caught a dozen or so fat trout that were all from eighteen to twenty-one inches, these were caught on the falling tide. There was also plenty of big trout over three pounds weighed in for the tournament. Look for trout fishing to get better each day with the warming waters.

Spanish mackerel continue to run through the Harbor and Sound and bluefish are beginning to get in the mix. There is an abundance of glass minnows they are feeding on, but live shrimp under bobbers, silver spoons, small shiny lures and live pilchards if you can get them are all working well. The mackerel we caught this week off of Bokeelia were a good bit larger than those caught last week. Look for a grassy bottom with sand patches in five to eight feet of water and watch for birds. We also caught our first snook of the year, not a lot, only three but they were sure fun and appreciated. The largest was twenty-nine inches and the smallest twenty-four. They quickly jumped on live shiners near oyster bars in Matlacha Pass. Remember snook season will remain closed until further notice, have fun catching them but release them quickly and safely to insure they return to the water healthy.

Sharks are showing up in good numbers, on one of the few sunny days with light wind I was really surprised how many I spotted cruising the channels between flats from Demere Key north to Bokeelia. They averaged from four to six feet and most were in scattered groups, if you spotted one you would generally sight another four to six within a hundred yards. We haven't fished for any yet but it is getting about time. Also heard a few reports of small pods of tarpon showing up in the Sound, more good news.

I can see a definite pattern with larger fish arriving each day. This will continue throughout the spring with each warming day. It's about time to put the heavier rigs back on the boat!

Please contact us at:

Phone: (239)-283-7960

Website: www.fishpineisland.com

E-mail: gcl2fish@live.com

"Catch the Action" with Captain Bill Russell

Fish Species: Snook, Trout, Mackerel
Bait Used:
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First snook of the year caught and released in Matlacha Pass
First snook of the year caught and released in Matlacha Pass

This twenty-five inch trout went for a live pilchard near an oyster bar
This twenty-five inch trout went for a live pilchard near an oyster bar


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Bill Russell

About The Author: Captain Bill Russell

Company: Gulf Coast Limited Professional Guide Se

Area Reporting: southwest florida including Sanibel, Pine Island Sound, Charlotte Harbor, Matlacha Pass

Bio: "Catch The Action" with Captain Bill Russell. As a native of Pine Island Bill has spent his entire life fishing the waters surrounding the Island and has been a professional fishing guide for fourteen years and loves to share the local knowledge and history of the waters. The waters surrounding Pine Island including Pine Island Sound, Matlacha Pass, Charlotte Harbor, Sanibel, Captiva and Boca Grande are a true fishing Mecca that provide a wide choice of angling thrills. We specialize in light tackle fishing for Snook, Tarpon, Redfish, Sea Trout, Sharks and a variety of other species. Not only do our waters provide World Class fishing opportunities our Islands and waters are also abundant with a wide variety of wildlife and beautiful scenery, so bring a camera! We customize each trip to ensure everyone on board has a great time and will return again. From the small child to the novice to the most experienced angler we will make your trip a memorable one. Spend a day on the waters of Southwest Florida and "Catch The Action" with Captain Bill Russell

(239)283-7960
Click Here For Past Fishing Reports by Captain Bill Russell