The dog days of summer are starting to wind down, and with them, some of the intense heat. That’s good news for anglers across the Florida Gulf Coast, as fish are becoming more active and feeding patterns are shifting slightly.
While the heat can still be a factor, especially during midday hours, early mornings and evenings are proving to be prime times to cast a line.
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Nearshore and Inshore:
- Redfish: With snook season reopening on September 1st, redfish have been taking center stage inshore. They’re still hanging around mangrove shorelines, oyster bars, and docks, readily taking cut bait, live shrimp, or artificial lures like gold spoons or soft plastics.
- Spotted Seatrout: Trout action remains steady, particularly around grassy flats and deeper channels. Look for them near potholes and drop-offs, where they’re ambushing baitfish. Topwater lures at dawn and dusk or live shrimp under a popping cork throughout the day can be very productive.
- Spanish Mackerel: These speedy predators are still patrolling the beaches and passes, chasing baitfish schools. Trolling with spoons or casting Gotcha plugs can bring some exciting topwater action.
- Mangrove Snapper: Bridges, jetties, and docks are all good places to target snapper. Live shrimp or small pinfish on a light jighead will get you hooked up. Remember to check size and bag limits.
Offshore:
- Grouper: Red grouper season is open in federal waters, and anglers are reporting good catches on ledges and wrecks. Live pinfish or frozen sardines are the go-to baits.
- Amberjack: These powerful fish are still providing a challenge for anglers venturing offshore. Live bait or large jigs worked near wrecks and reefs will tempt them to bite.
- Kingfish: As the waters cool slightly, kingfish are becoming more active. Trolling with live baits or skirted lures along the edges of reefs can be very effective.
- Mahi-Mahi: While not as abundant as in the summer months, mahi-mahi can still be found around floating debris or weed lines. Keep an eye out for birds diving, and troll ballyhoo or small lures in the area.
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General Tips:
- Early mornings and evenings: With the heat still lingering, the best fishing is often during the cooler parts of the day.
- Live bait: Live shrimp, pinfish, and threadfin herring are all excellent choices for a variety of inshore and offshore species.
- Check regulations: Be sure to review current fishing regulations for size and bag limits before heading out.
- Stay hydrated: It’s important to drink plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun, even as the weather cools down a bit.
Tight lines and good fishing!
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