Capt. Alex Crawford
August 2, 2002
Carrabelle - Saltwater Fishing Report
One of the most overlooked fisheries on the Panhandle Coast is the Apalachicola River and its tributaries. This major river system offers a lifetime of opportunities for both the freshwater and saltwater angler. The river is tidal several miles north of its mouth at the Apalacicola Bay. Brackish water gives the fishing enthusiast a shot at many species.
While fishing at the well-known train tressel recently, this angler was fortunate to catch striped bass to 7 pounds, a pair of slot redfish, a 3 pound flounder, several sheepshead and a few largemouth bass. All of this on one tide, using live shrimp for bait. Where else could this happen?
The Apalachicola River also offers some world class bream fishing. Sunfish and their cousins are prolific in this super-fertile estuary. Flyrodders will find this to be a compelling opportunity. Or, pack your ultralight stick and 100 crickets and spend a day of fun. Hand-sized bluegills in fresh peanut oil is hard to beat.
One bonus to your fishing trip up the Apalachicola is all the flora and fauna. Included in the scenery will be giant cypress trees, miles of marsh grass, beautiful water lillies, bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons and large alligators. So, take a black water trip for a change and enjoy one of mother nature's best handi-works. You will be glad you did.
Captain Alex Crawford is a full time guide who has fished the Florida Panhandle offshore for 26 years. He specializes in grouper and snapper trips with light tackle on live bait. Custom trips for companies with multiple boats will be arranged.
Inshore trips targeting specific species and custom eco trips are available for birding, gator watching, shelling, picnics and barrier islands.
Contact Captain Alex for a fun and productive trip on Florida's Forgotten Coast.
