Spring winds and warm water
Capt. Jeff Legutki
April 6, 2008
Ten Thousand Islands - Saltwater Fishing Report
Well the spring winds are still blowing, yet the water temps are rising. As the water increases to rise in temperature the water clarity is getting worse as the the diatoms and phytoplankton starts to bloom. We have had strong winds from the SE stirring up the waters on the outside flowing in with the tides.
The best chance for sight fishing has been on the last two hours of the outgoing tide. Pat Wells fished with me on the 27th of March and had perfect conditions. Clean, low water made sight fishing a dream. Pat landed 12 redfish on the fly and lost dozens from angler error. It was like the fish were starving and would attack anything that moved. Everywhere we went we found hungry fish, and even saw schools of reds in several different spots. It was 2 days after our last strong front and the fish didn't eat the 2 previous days, and it was apparent by their behavior.
The following day I fished Mike Mathews and landed 4 nice reds on the fly and some big jacks along with several dink snook. The day was completely different from the day before.
Tarpon have moved in, yet are not here in full strength yet. I fished Dick Dyer of Maine for three days and only came tight on two fish. Fish are spread out, yet willing if you can get the right cast on the right fish. Both fish threw the hook after a couple jumps, but exciting none the less. There is a lot of fish off Cape Ramano if you can get out there, check inside the channels that flow through the flats. Cut bait or live bait will find the action, just keep your eyes out for rolling fish first thing in the morning.
Past couple days have been extremely tough with SE winds blowing 20 - 30 knots making fishing tough and challenging to say the least.
Looks like summer patterns are on the way with the rain we have had lately, when weather stabilizes fishing should get more consistent. Good luck and tight lines and screaming drags to all.
Ten Thousand Islands Fishing Forecast:
Look for tarpon off Cape Ramano on the calm mornings or off the beaches. Easy to find by looking for rolling fish. Snook will also be heading to the outside to the passes with the rising water temps.
Target Species:
Anything that eats a fly!
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