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Fernandina to Saint Augustine & St. Johns River
Capt. Bob Cosby
November 10, 2005
Jacksonville - Saltwater Fishing Report
November 10 Fishing Report For Jacksonville Area Waters
Once the "bull" reds spawn, be they male or female, they have a mighty hunger and a need to replenish fat stores depleted during the spawning process. There was a major spawn during the full moon phase in October. Consequently, now is a good time to try for the big fellows (and gals) under any bait pods you find along the beach.
I noticed acres of pogies today along the Mayport/Hannah Park beach. Pogies are an oily baitfish and perfect food for the ravenous reds. Sure enough, the reds were underneath them. I caught four over 20lbs in about an hour in water no deeper than 12 feet. My technique is to drift through the pods while slowing the boat by dragging a small anchor. I use fairly heavy tackle and a 10/0 circle hook to facilitate a quick release. You can get by with a light sinker (1 to 2 oz.) because the water is so shallow. I prefer 80 lb mono leader material. I'm going to try my 12 weight flyrod with a sinking line and a pogie fly next time out.
There have been numerous reports of great sheepshead catches both in Jacksonville and in St Augustine. These good eating fish should only bite better as the water cools down. Today the water temperature was 68 degrees. Fish along the rocks with fiddlers for best results.
Whiting, bluefish, pompano, drum, and redfish are all being caught in the surf. The speckled trout are being very cooperative in the River and ICW. It's also a good time to try for flounder. Actually, this is a great time to fish in NE Florida. You just have to watch the weather closely as the cold fronts and northeasters move through.
CAPT Bob
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