This week in Estero Bay

Capt. Jon Fetter
September 13, 2012
Estero Bay - Saltwater Fishing Report

Now is a great time to get out and try some new things. The artificial bite has been really good for redfish early in the a.m. Try throwing top water plugs like Rapala Skitterwalks or Zara Spooks over the shallow grass flats. They are moving around In the mullet schools and will take top water offerings. Look for the mullet schools and make the longest cast possible to work the most water. As the sun heats up the water and the fish move to deeper water switch gears to gold spoons and jerk baits, i.e. zoom flukes or gulp jerk shads. With the jerk shads anglers might have to use a small split shot or weighted worm hook to help reach the desired depth. You will also pick up sea trout and snook with these methods. If artificial's just are not enough try cut baits like ladyfish and mullet for redfish. While you are throwing your artificial's put a few chunk's of bait on a 3/0 circle hook's and let the smell work for you. If the red's are around it won't take long for them to pick up the scent and move on your baits. The only problem with using cut bait is catfish and sharks, anglers will catch plenty. Bonnet heads and black tips will often take the cut baits on the flats.

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