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Report for Naples, Marco Island and the Ten Thousand Islands
Capt. Matt Hoover
May 15, 2001
Marco Island - Saltwater Fishing Report
Sunshine
The winds subsided to a dull roar this past week and the weather warmed up. That created an increase in the water temperature. We need the water temperature to climb a bit more. As a result, the fish turned on with some consistency. There were moments when the wind hampered us, but the overall picture was good.
Most of the fishermen that I talked to used sardines. Some of the guys threw flies and jigs. All of us caught plenty of snook of all sizes. They have been in the back bays, middle islands and the front of the islands on the higher phases of the tides. I had no problem catching keeper size snook on most of my outings. There have been some real tackle busting snook out there too. Jacks, ladyfish, and trout were a pleasant bycatch. There have been some large mackerel mixed in with the catch as well. Redfish are very spotty. Let’s hope that they make a better showing this year.
There are some tarpon out there but they have been spotty. If you want to catch one, you will have to put in your time for them. Soaking a piece of cutbait in or near a pass is one of your best bets. Look carefully for signs of them while you are working the shoreline. I have had numerous stories this season of surprised anglers getting hooked up to tarpon on light tackle. The tarpon aren’t rolling that much because the water has been on the cool side for this time of the year.
The weather is supposed to be fair in the next week. Temperatures are supposed to remain in the eighties due to a large high-pressure cell in the area. There may be some stiff breezes associated with it. Hey, we can handle it. We need warmer water. Once all of these elements come together, I would expect the fish to really turn on.
Warm calm weather may bring in some big tarpon. Don’t put the big guns away because the show isn’t over yet. Look for laid up tarpon in the small quite bays while you are pounding the bushes for snook and redfish. Tarpon may start rolling in the passes.
Trout will be over the grass flats off of Romano and the islands. The Caxambas area has cleared up nicely. Get out early to avoid the boat traffic. It has to get better with time. Warmth is inevitable. I’ll see you on the water.
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