Intracoastal Waterway Jacksonville Report
Capt. Ron Schurr
February 26, 2009
Jacksonville - Saltwater Fishing Report
The past few weeks I have seen more schools of Redfish, than I think I've ever seen. The colder than normal weather has the water very clear in certain areas along the Intracoastal Waterway which in turn has allowed the redfish to naturally congregate in large schools.
We have had some banner day's sight casting to these bronze bombers. Mid morning and early afternoon high incoming tides have been best. The combination of relatively warmer incoming ocean water and dark mudflats that border the waterway creates comfortable feeding locations for the Redfish. Shallow bay's and creek mouths with oyster mounds and shell bottom are what I like to look for.
This type of fishing requires a silent approach, as the school is on high alert. I have abandoned the use of the electric trolling motor in favor of poling the boat into position.
If possible, I try to position the boat so the sun is at our backs. This enables the angler to better see the fish in the shallow water.
Soft plastics such as DOA jerk baits and Bass Assassin Shad rigged weed less create less noise and can cover a lot of water when searching the flat.
On a side note, my partner and I finished first place in the Cabela's IFA Redfish Tour event last week.
My partner has written a blog:
http://teamredfish101.com/
More Fishing Reports:
