Summertime fishing is in full swing, sharks, snook, redfish
Capt. Rob Modys
June 10, 2014
Fort Myers - Saltwater Fishing Report
June has finally arrived and with it comes the first day of summer and the beginning of hurricane season. For most Floridians, June 1st actually rings in what we refer to as "rainy season". It's a good thing. Our lawns, bushes and flowers finally get watered almost daily, but more importantly, the fish respond by feeding more readily during and after showers. The point is, don't be afraid to get a little wet. Yes, a good rain suit will be required, but anglers will find that fishing in the rain can be very productive. One note... if you hear thunder it's time to head for the dock.
The past week's fishing was very good in both the backcountry of Estero Bay and in the Gulf waters. Wind and storms got in the way every now and then, but not enough to slow the fishing or angers down very much. Seatrout and redfish were the focus in the bay with a good number of both brought to the boat. The redfish were hanging out around oyster bars during the outbound tide. We worked points with live shrimp on jigs and under popping corks and also had success with topwater lures. Best was the Rapala Skitterwalk. Trout were also around the oyster bars and were eating shrimp as well.
Mangrove snapper were just about everywhere but the top spot was under overhanging bushes, especially ones that were touching the water. Small circle hooks and a split shot for weight tipped with live shrimp worked well. It didn't take long to get dinner.
The nearshore Gulf reefs and rock piles were loaded with fish. Most were mangrove snapper and spanish mackerel but there were quite few seatrout, pompano, grunts and blue runners. It translated to "plenty of action". Shark fishing was very good. We set up in about 13 feet of water, chummed with cut threadfin herrings and baited up with whiting, ladyfish or jacks. Each trip produced a half dozen or so sharks with a couple in the the 6 to 8 foot range. There are some big boys out there now, so beef up your tackle.
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