Hot Weather Mixed Bag in Naples Backwaters
Capt. Todd Geroy
August 15, 2013
Naples - Saltwater Fishing Report
It's mid-August, and while typically the hottest time of year in SW Florida, there are still some good fishing opportunities. With recent temperatures soaring into the mid 90's each day, it is a good idea to get on the water early to take advantage of the short window of activity. The shallow waters of the back bays heat up quickly and the fish often become lethargic and go on "siesta" by mid day.
I have been targeting a variety of species on my trips lately. We have had good success with baby tarpon, snook, redfish, goliath grouper and some pretty nice mangrove snapper.
The tarpon are working along deeper shorlines at high tide, often found rolling on the surface, giving away their location. On lower tides, I have concentrated on deep channels,especially around creek mouths and where channels form a crossroads of currents. Live baits are a sure thing for a bite, but a variety of plugs and flies get the strikes as well. Typical fish that we have been hooking are 12 to 25 pounds.
Snook fishing has slowed a little in the last week or so with hot water temperatures making them a bit sluggish. There are still plenty in the passes, along the beach and scattered in the bays. It is just a matter of hitting them during the short window when they are actually feeding to get the most bites.
Redfish have made a showing on just about every trip. I have taken them along the mangrove points in moving water as well as near docks where they are seeking shade. All have been nice fish when we find them, in the 23 to 28 inch range. Redfishing usually really gets going by early September. We are looking forward to the fall run.
-Capt. Todd Geroy
Naples Fishing Forecast:
We are expecting more in the way of rain and clouds the next few days. I expect the water temperature to cool down at least a few degrees which should give a boost to the action.
Target Species:
tarpon, snook, redfish
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