Summer Pattern Redfishing Working In Estero Bay
Capt. Rob Modys
May 16, 2012
Fort Myers - Saltwater Fishing Report
A summer like weather pattern, with overcast morning skies followed by afternoon storms, has really turned the fish on. The water temperature in the back bay is close to 85 and there is bait everywhere. The only trick is to get your trips in early to avoid the storms and enjoy one of the best times to fish in southwest Florida!
The main target this past week has been redfish, followed by snook and seatrout. The reds are along the east wall and feeding well up under the mangrove overhangs. Live shrimp on a jig or cut ladyfish on circle hooks have been working equally well.
Snook are going after live bait. Use a Sabiki rig near the bridges to get the large threadfin herrings. Head to the back and toss them up close to the mangrove on a 2/0 or 3/0 circle hook. You might want to trim the tails down on the bait to slow it down a bit. The snook will chase them, but not for long. Remember, snook season is closed so handle them with care. Leave them in the water while releasing and keep photo time to a minimum.
Trout are on the grass flats in about three to four feet of water and going after live shrimp under a popping cork. You can also target them with most lures that imitate a baitfish. They will also readily hit top waters in the summertime.
We've also been getting a nice mix of fish around the mangrove islands. Jacks, snapper, pompano and quite a few small permit have all been feeding on live shrimp on jigs or under corks.
The nearshore reef bite has been good with lots of spanish mackerel, snapper and pompano. Sharks are everywhere! Tarpon have moved in along the beaches and are going after live threadfin herrings. One note on the tarpon... they are eating best early and late. Seems they want to take a siesta in the middle of the day and there isn't much an angler can do to get them to bite.
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