November fishing has been good with lots of different species being caught. Seatrout, Redfish and Snook have all been attracted to flies. Baitfish patterns work well, and when the conditions are right Gurglers, Crease flies and poppers do well, especially on windy days…
Other species being caught are Gag Grouper, Ladyfish, Jack Crevalle, Bluefish, and a myriad of lesser species. The water has cooled to 73 degrees and the fish are active. We are approaching winter negative tides which will offer sightfishing for tailing Redfish in the backcountry. We will pole the mangrove islands and cast to tailers when conditions are right. Casts of 30 to 90 feet are required with an emphasis on accuracy. Weedless shrimp patterns as well as crab and baitfish patterns get the job done.
We are still waiting for False Albacore to make their annual appearance. Generally we will have plenty of schools that are northbound and eat flies readily….
We see blitzes of Jacks throughout the day and we try to get on them quickly…oftentimes there are also bluefish mixed in.
The weather is good with mild temps in the morning giving way to 70+ degree heat in the afternoon.
Fall is terrific time to fish Charlotte Harbor, The Gulf of Mexico and the backcountry.
Hope to fish with you soon,
Tight lines,
Capt. Al