Summer fishing arrived early in Fort Myers Beach
Capt. Rob Modys
April 3, 2012
Fort Myers - Saltwater Fishing Report
A much earlier than normal summer pattern has taken effect in both the Gulf and back bay waters. Snook are headed for the beaches, redfish are feeding nicely along the mangroves and tons of spanish mackerel are biting on the reefs. This is one of the best times of the year for catching the big one!
The nearshore rock piles, wrecks and reefs in the Gulf are producing a mixed bag of species including pompano, sea trout, spanish mackerel, bluefish, snapper, ladyfish, sharks and a few cobia and permit. Live shrimp drifted over the rocks will work along with cut baits. There are loads of threadfin herrings in the same area. Use a Sabiki Rig to catch a few and set them out on a free line for sharks, big macs or a surprise tarpon.
The backcountry bite in Estero Bay has been good for trout and just "ok" for redfish. As we get closer to the full moon, the better tides will come into play and that ought to bump the reds up quite a bit. Live shrimp on jigs is working well along with cut ladyfish. During the slower bite, move to the passes. They are holding a lot of fish and you never know what you might reel up.
The snook are still on catch and release status and are moving toward the beaches for spawn. They are fun to catch but please handle them with care. Leave them in the water for photos and if you have to lift them, do it by supporting the body of the fish and don't lift it by the mouth.
Sharks are moving in. We have started to get quite a few lemons and blacktips and it won't be long before the big bulls and hammerheads are closer to shore. Chunk baits work best and chumming with cut ladyfish will usually bring them running for more.
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