Good bite. Seatrout, redfish, jacks and sharks in Estero Bay
Capt. Rob Modys
April 17, 2014
Fort Myers - Saltwater Fishing Report
Weather has been the key player in fishing over the past several weeks and will continue to be so for another week. It seems that Mother Nature doesn't want to let go of the continuing cold fronts that keep heading our way. Spring is in the air and while air and water temperatures have risen, we are still a bit behind from where we should be this time of year.
Overall, fishing has been good despite the constantly changing weather. Seatrout have been a bright spot. They are moving into the backcountry in good numbers and there are quite a few slot and over slot fish in the mix. Look for them in the passes at the beginning of the inbound tides. Live shrimp on jig heads worked slowly across the bottom has been the ticket to getting the bite. On the early part of the tide they are closer to the shoreline. As the waters rise they move out into the deeper channels. They can also be found on the flats in Estero Bay. Mid to upper tides are best with plenty of moving water. Go with the same jigs used in the passes, but place them under popping corks. Live or artificial shrimp will work.
The redfish seem to like the higher part of the afternoon high tide. Live shrimp on jigs has worked to get the bite along with cut ladyfish and mullet. Have patience. Set your baits and wait them out. It may take a half hour or so for the first red but you should get several after the initial fish.
We've been catching some huge jacks in the oyster bar areas of the Bay. Several have been in the 14 to 17 pound range. Look for the schools chasing bait near the bars.
Sharks are chewing in the nearshore waters. We've been getting some nice size blacktips in about 14 feet of water. Anchor up, chum with some cut bait and then set lines with cut ladyfish, jacks or grunts.
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