Cold snapp will slow the bite, but a quick warmup is forecast
Capt. Rob Modys
February 16, 2013
Fort Myers - Saltwater Fishing Report
A shift in the weather to much cooler temperatures will be temporary with a gradual warming starting in the middle of the week. This will affect the fishing. Winds will be the biggest problem along with water that is stirred up. Start in your favorite spots but be quick to move if you don't get a bite. It's best to look for the cleanest water you can find. Even a slight change in water quality can make all the difference in finding fish.
The redfish bite has been very good, especially near the creeks and rivers in Estero Bay. Good moving water is the ticket and the top of the tide has been working best. We've been using live shrimp on jigs and under corks... jigs on the bottom near the oyster bars and under corks when working the mangrove islands and shorelines.
The snook bite has been great but that's going to change with this push of cooler weather. They'll most likely pull back from the bays and head up into the rivers and creeks to escape the drop in water temperature. Your best bet is working around docks with free lined live shrimp. Keep the presentation slow and you may get lucky.
Sea trout are on the flats in 2 to 3 feet of water. The recent winds have muddied the water up some, so do your best to find a little clearer spot for the best bite. The north part of Estero Bay and southern end of Matlacha Pass has been where the action is for ladyfish, jacks and a mix of spanish mackerel, pompano and small sharks. Popping cork rigs with live shrimp are working well but don't overlook artificial lures.
The offshore bite has been good, when boats are able to get out there. There's been a mix of grouper, snapper and sheepshead on the nearshore reefs biting on live shrimp and cut baits. It's going to be tough to venture out this weekend but things will improve by mid week.
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