It's been a windier than average year, and a drier than average year so far. This is no good for the grass, but it doesn't bother the fish. The lacks of Thunderstorms in the afternoon have really helped with keeping the water clean and the salinity up. The runoff that we usually experience during the summer months hasn't been as bad as in years past, however this could change drastically in August. Fishing has been good, with the Snook spawn beginning to slow, and the Tarpon moving on, it's time to start looking toward the Redfish bite.
Don't misunderstand; the Snook bite is still strong. The key to the bite is a strong falling tide around any of the major passes in Southwest Florida. I prefer Redfish Pass and Boca Grande Pass. I recommend fishing the passes during the week days, as the weekends have too much boat traffic for me. When in Redfish Pass, be mindful of the other fishing boats. If you're not familiar with the process of fishing the passes, stay back and watch the boats on "the drift". Soon enough you will see the pattern, and at that point you can join the pack. Under no circumstance are you to anchor in the pass, it only takes one boat to ruin everyone's day.
The key to a productive day is bait, which has proven to be fairly difficult as of late. Just remember, big bait gets big fish. I have been using large pinfish in Redfish pass, as well as Boca Grande pass. We have had great luck with pinfish at the old phosphate docks at Boca Grande. Plenty of small grouper and very large Snook, 40+ inches in some cases. Always take care handling these fish, the water is warm and holds less oxygen. It's wise to use any fish holding tool when handling the fish to reduce stress. Always take the time to revive the fish and make sure they swim away under their own power. PLEASE limit time out of the water for photos, remember these guys are tired and worn out. A good West or Southwest wind and big bait on a falling tide is a solid combination for a productive day in Southwest Florida. So GET UP, GET MOVING, and "GO CATCH EM"
Captain Jason Marsh
www.anglerschoiceoutfitters.com
239-246-3579