Jekyll and St. Simons Islands Fishing Report
Capt. Vernon Reynolds
August 18, 2009
Jekyll Island - Saltwater Fishing Report
08-20-09 JEKYLL ISLAND FISHING REPORT
By Captain Vernon Reynolds
Fishing for Shark, Mackerel, Tarpon, Sea Trout, Flounder, Redfish and Whiting is good in local waters. The question is what effect the coming storms will have on our area and water conditions.
Sharks are being taken in area sounds and behind shrimp boats working two to five miles offshore. Sharks up to 200 pounds are being caught behind the shrimp boats. These boats produce a natural chum line as stunned baitfish and shrimp fall away from the net as it is pulled along. Add this to the 10 to one by catch that is dumped back into the ocean every three hours or so and a giant buffet is created for the toothy fined ones. Anglers pull up to the stern of a shrimp and begin a drift. Don't get too close or you will be in the net with the shrimp. Chunk out a live or cut bait about 10 feet under a float and the wait won't be long. Remember to release Sharks unharmed. If the hook is very deep it is best to cut the leader and let the fish have the hook. It will dissolve away in just a few days.
Tarpon remain active in local waters. They can be found working area sand bars. Look for "rolling" fish. These fish surface to grab a gulp of air and go right back down. Anchor the boat in a position that allows the bait to drift back to the fish. Tarpon are scavengers and will eat live or dead bait. I like to fish a couple of each. Tarpon have a boney mouth and it is a good habit to sharpen hooks often. When you get a fish on set the hook several times. Do not be concerned about hurting the fish, set the hook hard. Tarpon have no table fare worth so take a scale and release the fish unharmed.
Take a kid fishing. Captains Vernon Reynolds and Eric Moody operate Coastal Expeditions Charter Fishing & Dolphin Tours. For more information call (912) 265-0392 or go to www.coastalcharterfishing.com.
Target Species:
Shark & Tarpon
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