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South Indian River, Port St Lucie & Fort Pierce
Capt. Charlie Conner
August 18, 2005
Port St. Lucie - Saltwater Fishing Report
South Indian River Fishing Report
August 18, 2005
INSHORE:
Obviously, Dog Days have arrived here on the Treasure Coast. The highs are in the low to mid 90's and the heat index is much higher. Early morning, late evening or night fishing is the best times to get out and beat part of that heat. Keep hydrated out there and use plenty of sunscreen. The winds have been mild and should continue this pattern into next week.
Ladyfish have been throughout the river and in a feeding frenzy at daylight. I started the week with a red and white Zara Spook that now has half the paint missing. I love hearing a top water lure getting blasted just before the sun starts to light up the sky. Jacks are also out there ripping through the bait pods. Find some deep holes with structure and you will find plenty of snapper. While most will be smaller, there are keepers lurking amidst them. Some good snapper fishing can be found along the deeper cuts of the spoil islands. Live shrimp works best.
Snook and trout are on the flats early in the mornings and hitting top water for a few short hours at daylight. Largest this week was a 30" snook in one foot of water on that red and white Zara Spook. Move to deeper water around the docks and mangroves later in the mornings with live bait or soft plastics. Look for clean water and you should find the fish. Harbor Branch and Bear Point are producing some nice catches.
The redfish schools are heading up on the flats at first light and working them for a few hours before heading off to deeper grounds. They are in schools up to over a hundred fish and most are slot sized from 20 - 27 inches. Once this week, we were totally surrounded by reds circling the boat. They are hitting top water, but expect a lot of misses this way. Gold spoons have remained the best choice of lures along with live or cut baits. Keep the noise down and movement to a minimum so you won't scare them.
Some tarpon are still in the river. Best bets are the Moorings, Big and Little Mud Creeks. If you don't get there early, look for little cooperation from these fish. Top water and live baits have been working well for the early birds.
The Fishing Center of St Lucie now carries Falcon graphite rods. Stop in and check them out along with Star, Rogue and many other rod choices. How old in your fishing line? Clint or Kelly can re-spool your reel with your favorite fishing line. Need some advice on fishing? Stop by and find out what's biting today. On US 1 just south of Seaway Drive in Fort Pierce.
Tip of the Week:
Keep a hook file in your tackle box to sharpen the hooks on your favorite lure. Many fish are missed or get off by not getting a good set on your hook. Tarpon especially have an iron mouth and unless your hook is very sharp, you will most likely lose it. They are inexpensive and can help make your fishing more rewarding. Just don't hook yourself!!
Have a great week on the water. Remember, fishing is not just another hobby.....it's an ADVENTURE!
Good Fishing,
Captain Charlie Conner
email me at: [email protected]
visit my web site at: www.fishtalescharter.com
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