Fishing Report for the Florida Panhandle
Capt. Alex Crawford
August 10, 2004
Carrabelle - Saltwater Fishing Report
FISHY EVENTS
This coming weekend, August 13-15th at the Panama City Marina, Sportfishing Magazine hosts FishStock, a fishing festival and tournament for the whole family. There will be an inshore tournament for reds and trout, with a shot at a new 90 HP Mercury motor. Inshore and offshore seminars will be held Saturday and Sunday featuring local and internationally recognized Captains. This promises to be a fun weekend for kids and grown-ups alike. Hopefully, Tropical Storm Bonnie will not spoil the fun.
Also, coming up September 10-12th is the 2nd Annual Smyrna Redfish Classic on the Indian River in New Smyrna Beach, FL. Over $200,000 in prizes will be given to winners that may fish anywhere in the state, but check in must take place at the Riverside Park. Information is available online at www.smyrnaredfishclassic.com
On the Forgotten Coast the fishing report is always all good. Inshore, anglers are catching a few redfish in the two mile channel west of Apalach. Small pinfish are excellent baits. In the mouth of the Apalachicola River croakers are thick right now. These tasty critters are fabulous when prepared as fried croaker fingers. Just lightly dust them with flour after a milk and egg dip. Ice-cold beer, fried crab claws and croaker fingers, scrumptious!
Offshore, the snapper continue to be my most consistent go-to fish. Just about any natural bottom reef in 40 feet of water will produce red and gray snappers, as well as the superb-eating gray triggerfish. For those unenlightened souls who have never eaten trigger fillets, I am here to tell you that the white, firm meat is a gourmet delight. Try them sautéed lightly and served over your favorite pasta, a steamed artichoke and a bottle of California Chardonnay. And you already know about the jazz and candles.
Signing off from Apalach, gotta carve some triggers for dinner. Sea ya!
Till next tide, tight lines and solid hookups,
Captain Alex Crawford
Proud Member of the Florida Outdoor Writers Association, Florida Guides Association and Coastal Conservation Association
www.topknots.com
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