Sightfishing the Everglades in late spring
Capt. Jeff Legutki
April 25, 2008
Ten Thousand Islands - Saltwater Fishing Report
Had a wonderful week in the infamous Everglades National Park. Fishing out of Everglaged City provided every option an angler could want on a saltwater fly fishing excursion. We started out with sightfishing for red fish and snook on the outside points and flats.
Low tide first of the incoming provided endless oppertunities in mere inches of water. Snook would blast helpless finger mullet and we would pole within range and sight cast to them. We nailed a dozen snook in the upper slot and four up to 36 inches, as well as too many to count under size snook. Such skinny water made visibility excellent for the angler as well as the fish. Low sidearm cast were in order, and was better to lead fish off and let sit until fish was close. One or two little hops and the fish would either slam it or run for the near by deepwater.
Flies of choice were white and chartuece muddlers that floated over the grass were the ticket, and as the tide got higher we switched to black streamer style flies as we followed the tide into the deep back country. Waters were gin clear yet stained tannic.
Redfish were hiding in the pot holes tipping down and exposing their tails, as well as their whole back at times when they slid over high spots to get to another pot hole or patch of grass. We saw lots of pairs and even groups of four and five fish working shorelines together. The singles were a little more cooperative than the groups.
We took one day and looked for tarpon. The mornings were too chilly, yet the afternoons were warm, and the water temp would climb to almost 80. Well long story short, we found 5 -6 fish at every spot, and made some great shots with proven flies but they showed no interest. We found them laid up pretty high in certain spots making them visible 200 feet away! We got several to follow all the way to the boat, but never committed. I felt like I was casting at 6 foot mullet with the results we were getting. I guess thats what makes them tarpon, its a love hate relationship!
All in all fishing is coming together. Water is about to warm up to the point were the tarpon will be rolling in every calm cove thoughout the 10,000 Islands and Everglages N.P. The snook are gorging themselves for the upcoming spawn, and the redfish, well redfish are willing and there to be had. The weather has been getting better and much more consistent, less wind and glassy mornings. The bugs aren't out yet and the afternoon are very comfortable with the gentle seabreeze. Water will remain clean and green until the summer showers start.
Get out and witness natures perfection! Tight lines and screaming drags to all.
Capt. Jeff Legutki
Anglers Addiction Guide Service
www.naplesfloridaflyfishing.com
Ten Thousand Islands Fishing Forecast:
Look for snook and tarpon on the outside points and channels. redfish and smaller tarpon in the quiet calm coves.
Target Species:
Anything willing to eat a fly !
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