Sanibel Island's Surrounding Waterways - Fall Migratory Fishing
Capt. Jeremy Stewart
November 25, 2012
Sanibel - Saltwater Fishing Report
In late fall, the air in Sanibel is crisp and the water gets cooler as well. Fishing in Sanibel Islands's bayous and creeks gives you a front row seat to the hot spot of fishing activity especially with water temps in the 60's. We can say that we're witness to lots of movement of fish.Sheepshead are definitely commencing their winter in an elaborate heavy way. While they are nibbling at barnacles on the oyster bars, they are on the lookout for a quick meal, too. Sheepshead are infamous for robbing the bait from the hook before your can reel them in. So, you have to be ready for that.
Our Fort Myers fishing charter customers are very glad and occupied because trout are on the bite. Just as the fronts are passing you will find these fish along the grass, but deeper flats they can be in water 6 feet or deeper. Bright coloured jigs and offerings of shrimp and sardines are an attraction for the trout. Live bait like shrimp under a popping cork is one way to get a trout's attention. It should only take 3 pops of the cork. Though your purpose is to attract the trout, other predators are likely to be attracted to it, enabling you to add variety in your catch. Get creative and test other rig combos at will. Depending on the depth of water, good bait can be as simple as shrimp on a bobber.
At this moment, all the creeks and inlets around the sound are teeming with young red fishes. Shrimp on a jig head and cut bait are irresistible for these eager kids. Never fear, the grass flats and oyster beds located near deeper water are still teaming with large, roaming redfish.
Big schools of mackerel are in the passes. In the last few weeks before they migrate to the southern regions, they are very active and these groups are combined with ladyfish and trout. Whem fishing with light tackle, the mackerel can really put up a good fight, since they've grown very large--up to about eight pounds.
Snook prepare for slower metabolism in the winter by stocking up on the baitfish that are moving south down the river. Generous chumming will still produce snooking results in between changing weather cycles.
All the movement that is happening just under the surface can be working in your favor during late fall as it is the best season for that. Smart fishers will follow the seasons, change things up, and reap the rewards.
Target Species:
sea trout, speckled sea trout
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