Jensen Beach Fishing Report 3-31-10

FISHING 3/27/10



Finally the temps are warming, did not slow the wind or the direction but there is always next week. So let’s start at the beach, Blue Fish, Whiting and Pompano top the list. For the Blues it is a morning bite, excellent numbers, excellent size and easy to catch. These fish are in the trough well into the late morning and the best part is they will eat any thing that moves. Spoons of all shapes and size, top water chuggers (creek chub in chrome), big chrome Spooks and cut baits are all catching. These fish are up close, long cast not necessary. Keep in mind they like the cooler water so as the sun rises and the edge heats up they will follow the cooler water, this allows the Whiting and Pompano to come in. Late morning is the time, big Whiting and nice numbers of Pompano up close, not way out, short cast they are in the trough. For the Whiting it has been shrimp pieces, clam strips and fish bites it is an alternative to natural bait. Pompano are eating clams and sand fleas and yes they have finally shown up on the surf edge, bring your rake. Do not forget the ice.

Trout fish continues to be excellent, Herman’s Bay north to Bear Point, east or west side of the Indian River. Soft rubber, top water and live shrimp are all catching. Three feet of water and as the sun rises move into shallower water, that school of mullet, take a good look because they are Red fish all slot size but nice fish to take home. Trout are in the top of the slot and the cool thing is these fish are chewing most of the day, as long as the current is moving they are chewing. Pompano, strong bite at the Jensen and Stuart causeways on south across the Sail Fish flats to the east side of the channel. With no pattern to the bite time, incoming or out going you will just need to put in your time and if they are not one bridge it probably means the bite is at the other. Those Jigging spoons with a teaser hook have pompano waiting in line. But the Blues and Mac’s love them also, bring a few extra if you can find them. A few Flounder made the catch list this week but from unusual places, the trout anglers fishing shrimp found them, when they start to catch from the regular places that will mean they have arrived, until them incidental. No mater where one fishes in the river there is plenty of Jacks, Lady’s, Blues, Mac’s and all of the above to keep a rod bent.

Off shore this week it has been deep, 330’ is the first depth I heard of that was holding any fish. Wind direction has not helped, the Gulf Stream with its warm water has been push in and out buy the hour. Again this week look for the temp lines and stay on them. Warmer land temps this week may bring the every thing in so pay attention to your water temps. A few Kings and a few Dolphins even had two Cobia on the catch list but no pattern to any of it, plenty of live bait but Mother Nature has been less than polite, seas still hostile.

March comes I like a lion and goes out like a lamb,,,,,,,well I am Ready for the Lamb…………………………Henry



Snook Nook Bait & Tackle
3595 NE Indian River Drive
Jensen Beach, FL
(Just South of the Jensen Causeway)
(772)-334-2145
(Since 1949)
E-Mail: henry@snooknook.net
www.snooknook.net

Indian River Fishing Report 3-29-10

Central Florida Sight Fishing Charters Capt. Chris Myers Fishing Report and Newsletter March 28, 2010 Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report

It looks like the long cold winter may be coming to an end here in central Florida. The water temperature on the flats of Mosquito Lagoon broke the 70 degree mark yesterday and the manatee are beginning to return. Fishing for the past few weeks has been outstanding. We have been seeing hundreds of tailing redfish on each trip. Black drum have been plentiful as well. The baitfish schools will soon return and with them will come the trout, ladyfish and jack crevalle. April should be an excellent month if recent trips are any indication of what is to come.
With the fishing tailing aggressively, this is an excellent time for fly anglers to hook into a redfish. Tailing fish are usually feeding on small crabs that are easily imitated with flies.

The number one challenge for my fly fishing clients this month was getting the fly to the fish before they became aware of our presence. Once this happens they usually will not eat. The ability to hit your target with one or two false casts will significantly increase your chance of getting a bite.


Earlier this month, I was joined by Bill, an angler visiting from Canada. We found an area holding some large trout and scattered redfish. Bill used a five inch DOA CAL in silver mullet to land several trout. As I poled down the shoreline, he had consistent shots at single redfish. By mid morning, the winds were pushing twenty knots. With most of the boats hugging the shoreline, we left the crowds and headed out to open water. Bill was rewarded with a 38 inch redfish.



Last Saturday brought some beautiful weather. While conditions were near perfect, it seemed like everyone who owned a boat was on the water by 8am. Lewis, my client for the day, had shots at hundreds of tailing redfish as the sun was rising. While he never quite got his bait to the reds, he did manage to hook into a nice black drum.



This week brought some of the best fishing of the year to Mosquito Lagoon. Redfish were tailing throughout the day on every trip. Wind can be a challenge on some days but as long as the sun is out, the fish have been easy to find. Tuesday, I spent a windy day fishing some of the less populated areas with Capt. Drew. The reds didn't mind the wind and were happy to eat the three inch DOA CAL in Arkansas Glow as well as a black crab fly.







The next two days, clients had encounters with various sized schools of redfish throughout the morning. Unfortunately, their casts did not quite hit their mark and they did not hook up. Yesterday, John landed several redfish on his first trip to Mosquito Lagoon. The fish were tailing when we arrived and were still doing so when we left at the end of the day. An excellent day on the water.



There is no better time for sight fishing than when the fish are tailing. If you can see their tails coming up, you know for certain they are eating. The DOA crab, shrimp, and three inch CAL are your best bet when casting to these fish. Getting the lure in front of them quickly is the key. Often times, missing your mark by only a foot can mean the difference between getting a bite and the fish never seeing your lure. Stealth is also important when targeting these shallow water fish. Trolling motor blades hitting the bottom or breaking the surface as well as any noise on the deck of the boat will alert them to your approach.


Fly Fishing Seminars

Several people have been inquiring about the next fly fishing seminar at Mosquito Creek Outdoors in Apopka. There are two different seminars available. Introduction to Fly Fishing covers what you need to get started, where to fish, types of flies, and how to catch fish. Introduction to Fly Casting is a hands on class covering the fundamentals of fly casting. The fly casting class size is limited and both classes are free. If you are interested in attending a class, contact Rory at Mosquito Creek Outdoors at 407-464-2000. He is compiling a list of interested students and a class will be scheduled when there are enough requests.
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You can receive my latest flats fishing articles as well as important fishing news by siging up to follow me on the Florida Flats Fishing Exmanier. If you have any ideas for some how to articles you would like to see, send me an email.
The need for speed
On most trips, is not uncommon to see hundreds, if not thousands of redfish on the flats. Many times, anglers catch only a few, sometimes none at all. Sight fishing the flats can be a game of inches and casting certainly plays an important part, as does stealth. Another important element of sight fishing is speed and quickness. Once you spot a fish on the flats, the clock begins ticking. If you can see them, it certainly will not be long before they see you. Once they do, you have lost the element of surprise and getting them to bite can be nearly impossible. While stalking fish, you should be ready to make your cast the second you spot the fish. The longer you wait, the lower your chance is of catching that fish. Having spotted the fish, never take your eyes off the target. Looking down at your reel means you will have to spend several precious second to locate the fish again. Lost time always works in the fish's favor. Should your first cast miss its mark, retrieve you lure as fast as you can possibly turn the handle if you want a second chance. Even the best bait or lure in the hands of the most accurate caster will not catch fish that are swimming at full speed to get away from the boat.

To improve your success on the flats, remember SAS - Stealth, Accuracy, and Speed.

Capt. Chris Myers
Central Florida Sight Fishing Charters
http://www.floridafishinglessons.com/
321-229-2848

Sarasota Fishing Report 3-29-10

Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Report for 3/13 through 3/28/2010

Anglers fishing with me on my flats skiff the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had steady action during the past couple of weeks with trout and ladyfish on jigs and flies on deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay and Gasparilla Sound. Most trips averaged 15 -20 trout and a few ladyfish. Fly anglers scored with Grassett’s Flats Bunnies and Super Hair Clousers on intermediate and intermediate sink tip fly lines while anglers using light spinning tackle caught their fish on CAL jigs with shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos.

Steve Koerner, from CO, and Peter Widmann, from CA, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Saturday, 3/13. They caught and released trout and ladyfish on Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails along the west side of the bay. Dick Hume, from MN, and his son-in-law, Chris Leu from TX, caught and released trout to 18” on Grassett’s Flats Bunnies, Super Hair Clousers, CAL jigs with shad tails and DOA Deadly Combos in Gasparilla Sound with me on Monday. The best action was over deep grass outside of Bull Bay.

Rick Peregord, from MI, fished Sarasota Bay with me a couple of days that week. He caught and released trout and ladyfish on CAL jigs with shad tails along the west side of Sarasota Bay from Bishops Point to Buttonwood Harbor. Greg Baumeyer, from Chicago, IL, caught and released trout to 17” at Stephens Point and near Buttonwood Harbor on Grassett’s Flats Bunny and Clouser flies on Wednesday, 3/17.

Ladd Weinberg, from CT, and his son-in-law, Dave from MA, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Friday, 3/19 and caught and released trout and ladyfish on Grassett’s Flats Bunny flies and CAL jigs with shad tails. The best action was near Buttonwood Harbor. Rich Hunter and Tony Booth, both from NJ, caught and released trout to 18” on Grassett’s Flats Bunny flies and CAL jigs with shad tails at Stephens and Bishops Point on Saturday morning, 3/20.

Fly anglers Nick Reding and Jim Ewoldt, both from St. Louis, MO, fished Sarasota Bay with me last Monday, 3/22. They caught several nice trout to 19” on Grassett’s Flats Bunny flies near Buttonwood Harbor. Fly angler Ladd Weinberg, from CT, fished a couple of days in the Terra Ceia Bay area with me last week. We strictly sight fished for reds and he had lots of shots, but they wouldn’t eat our flies.

Stephen Lewis and his sons Danny and Sam, all from New York City, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Wednesday afternoon. They had fast action with trout on CAL jigs with shad tails at Stephens Point and near Bishops Point. Denny Parker, from Lake Wales, FL, and his son Jeff, from VA, also had fast action with trout in the same areas on Friday with flies. They caught and released more than 15 trout including a 3-pound and a 2 ½ pound trout on Ultra Hair Clouser and Grassett’s Flats Bunny flies.

It seems as if spring has finally arrived and fishing should only get better. Next week’s tides are favorable as we head towards a full moon on March 30th. Fishing may be better late in the day if fish feed at night.

Tight Lines,

Capt. Rick Grassett
Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc.
FFF Certified Fly Casting Instructor
(941) 923-7799
E-mail snookfin@aol.com
www.flyfishingflorida.net and www.snookfin-addict.com



Steve Koerner, from CO, with a nice trout caught on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.



Jeff Parker, from VA, and his dad, Denny Parker from Lake Wales, FL, with a nice Sarasota Bay trout caught and released on a Clouser fly while fishing with Capt. Rick Grassett.

Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report 3-29-10

Mosquito Creek Outdoor's Indian River Indian River Lagoon Coast Fishing Report, March 26, 2010

By Captain Tom Van Horn

Up Coming Events

March 27th, Free Cobia and Tripletail seminar from 10 am to noon at Mosquito Creek Outdoors in Apopka Florida, 170 South Washington Avenue. For more details visit www.mosquitocreek.com/fishing.

April 24th, Free Hook Kids on Fishing Program from 10 am to noon at the Apopka Foliage Festival. After completing the five learning stations, each child will receive a free fishing rod, reel and tackle box. To preregister your children, visit Mosquito Creek Outdoors in Apopka Florida at 170 South Washington Avenue or contact them at (407) 464-2000.

This Week's Report

Although showing some improvement this past week, cooler weather has prevailed during the month of March, and the cloudy and windy conditions are predicted to last through the weekend.

On the flats, the combination of wind, clouds, and cold made sight fishing a challenging again. We did see a little more sun this week, but overall it was tough conditions.

On Wednesday, I had the honor of going cobia looking with my good friend Larry Carter. We launched out of Port Canaveral and headed south looking for warm water. We had heard reports of cobia being caught off of the wrecks so we worked out deeper going south past Melbourne Beach and we didn't find any water temperatures warmer than 64 degrees. Although we had good sun and visibility we didn't see a single fish. We did manage to catch some small bluefish just inside the Port, but that was it.



Chris's Monster Black Drum

My next charter was on the flats as I was joined by father and son team Mike and Chris Carey. Our initial goal was to fish for redfish and black drum. We arrived on the flat just after sunrise, and we quickly located tailing redfish. Although there were a good number of tailing fish, they were scattered here and there, and they were playing a game of hide and seek. When we would approach one, it would disappear, and another one would show up further away. After chasing tails for about an hour I opted for a move to a new location, where Chris hooked up with our only respectable fish for the day, a 30 pound range black drum. As Chris landed the drum, the wind began to increase and we were able to locate the school a second time and we finished the day catching small sea trout and bluefish in some deeper protected areas. The black drum was caught fishing a ¼ ounce DOA jig head with a live shrimp, and the sea trout were caught on rootbeer colored DOA Shrimp.

Besides chunking bait, blind casting in the deeper canals and holes has produced some decent sea trout this week. Try fishing with DOA Shrimp, rootbeer and glow colors very slow. Target these fish by casting up against the shoreline and fish the DOA Shrimp extremely slow just bumping the bottom as you work in down the drop-off.

Also, if you're not sure how to fish for cobia, but would like to learn, be sure to attend the free cobia and tripletail seminar tomorrow at 10 a. m. with Captain Chris Myers and yours truly at Mosquito Creek Outdoors. For more details and directions on the seminar, please visit Mosquito Creek's website at www.mosquitocreek.com.

Also, be sure to check out the March addition of Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando in print and online for free at www.coastalanglermagazine.com.

As always, if you need information or have any questions, please contact me.


Good luck and good fishing,

Captain Tom Van Horn
www.irl-fishing.com
mosquitocoast@cfl.rr.com
407-366-8085 office
407-416-1187 on the water

For all you outdoor shopping needs, visit Mosquito Creek Outdoors at www.mosquitocreek.com.

Merritt Island Fishing Report 3-2010

Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island Fishing Report, March 2010

Signs of Snook alive on the flats

The cold weather and wind continues to hamper fishing but on a recent trip I found some good news to report. It was a cold and windy day with partly cloudy skies. The fish had not cooperated at all.

Trips up a favorite canal and some favorite flats had produced only on sea trout. It was spotted flushing out of some mangroves. I also saw one gar about 20 inches long swimming along the shoreline.

Numerous blind casts had produced nothing. Then, a huge black image appeared in the distance and I could tell there were some fish moving towards me. To my surprise it was a school of snook. The fish ranged from an estimated 15 inches to maybe 24 inches. They were swimming slowly, meandering down the shoreline over sandy bottom.

After that first school passed I saw another coming from the same direction and it was obvious they were going to come my way as well. I made a few casts with plastic baits that were summarily ignored. They just swam on by.

In another area I saw three or four larger snook, easily going over 30 inches, warming themselves in the afternoon sun.

Some of the fish looked a little beat up and not so healthy. I wondered what that was all about so I sent an email to Alexis Trotter of FWRI. She studies snook for a living and has been collecting data on the recent cold weather event that took its toll on many snook.



Alexis informed me that “There’s still pretty cold water temps for most of their region, so they probably won’t be feeding too well until it warms up a bit more. The ones that look a little beat up may have some infections (generally fungal) as a secondary effect of the cold. Some may succumb to those infections, some will be fine. Once the water finally warms up though, I think we’ll see snook in their normal routine.”

It was very encouraging to see a good number of snook roaming around and trying to get back to normal. I think we just need some warm weather and fishing of all types will improve.

That’s what it’s all about. Good fishin’.

Captain Ron Presley
www.inshorefishingadventures.com
presleyr@bellsouth.net

You can purchase my book, Secrets from Florida’s Master Anglers on the Snook Foundations website with proceeds going to the foundation.

The Snook Foundation

Indian River Better Each Day

Bite is Heating Up!
The fish are schooling up and the bite is getting better each day. There are plenty of redfish and black drum to choose from. The trout are chewing too. Booking trips for March and April. Just call 407-405-0819 and lets' go catch some fish. Check out our photos. We catch a variety and have a lot of fun doing it! Please check out past reports for this time of year. We consistently catch fish over the years!
09 Mar 2010 by Captain David Rogers

Captain David Rogers
AAA Hawgwild Saltwater Charters LLC
Host The 'Hawgwild Fishing Show'
WAMT 1190 Saturdays 8-10 am (407-273-1190) Live call-in
ESPN WHOO 1080 Sunday 7-9 am/ replay - www.hawgwildradio.com
407-405-0819 Book Charters
www.aaahawgwildcharters.com

Tarpon Springs Fishing Report 3-24-'10

Well, what do you say to a client when they are disappointed that the fish are too big to keep? I guess you just keep patting them on the back and telling them that you’re sorry that the fish are too big. You see, here in Florida, we have a slot size limit on speckled sea trout. Fish much been between 15″ and 20″ for the majority of your limit and you can only keep on e fish per person over the slot size limit. Today, like most recent trips, the hard pert is not putting fish in the boat, it’s putting fish in the “box”. This is the time of year where we get big trout. Really big trout. Today we struggled to find fish small enough to fit the slot size. Many of the fish were over slot.

Tarpon Springs and Clearwater are both famous for producing large trout this time of year. And now that the water is warming up, they are chewing the bottom out of the boat on an incoming tide. Shimp, pinfish and sradines (yes I said sardines… they’re around if you know where to look) fished under a popping cork are producing great numbers of really large trout in the Tarpon Springs, St. Joseph Sound and Clearwater areas. Fishing charters in the Tarpon Springs and Clearwater areas have produced 50+ fish days while most fish have been big enough to make it hard to reach our 4 fish per day limit.

Fish grassy areas and rocky areas in 3-6 feet of water with good tidal flow during the incoming tide. The incoming tide has been absolutely essential to get on a good bite and the bite usually lasts about 2 hours. Once the trout bite slows, we’ve headed off in search of redfish and though we’ve found plenty to play with, it’s been a little tough to get them to bite. I think it’s due mostly to us spending the best part of the tide wearing out the trout. Also, it wouldn’t hurt for the water temps to come up another few degrees to really get them turned on. Good news is that 70+ degree temps are forecasted for the foreseeable future so the reds should be turning on soon.


Tampa Bay Fishing
Captain Clay Eavenson
813-300-2147
http://www.captainclay.com/
gofishing@captainclay.com

Apalachicola Fishing Report 3-2010

I'm scared to even look at the weather forecast anymore but if you are fortunate enough to be feeling the effects of spring where you are, Enjoy!



According to Capt. David Heinke, he saw his first POMPANO of the year skip on March 19th while on a chartered Flats fishing trip with Ralph Harvey, so he went back on March 20th and caught 2 of them himself! His BEST BET suggestion is Speckled Trout - he's seeing good quality fish right now and with the river down and the water clearing sight fishing is again an option. He's finding Reds that are either real small or really big, no keeper size fish and when he does find them they are REALLY hungry and are beginning to move back to shallow water. Capt. Nathan Donahoe has been Flats fishing all around our barrier islands recently and has hooked up on some big ol Bull Reds. Capt. Adam Hudson was flyfishing for Redfish out of Carrabelle the past 3 days and reports a good showing. Yay! We ARE going to have a spring this year after all.

The past couple of days the Apalachicola, St. George Island and Carrabelle areas have become much more fishable than they have been. Capt. Jr. Holland reports catching 75 speckled trout while Bayfishing on March 18th and on the 19th his anglers limited out on trout and caught 67 large whiting. (Whiting on the beaches is a good sign of spring!) Capt. Tommy Holland's crew also limited out on specs on the 18th & caught his first whiting of the year.

And in the Lower Keys where Tommy & Chris are Permit fishing, they are seeing plenty of fish - however as flyfishermen know, permit are exceedingly tough on a fly but so worth doing. Tarpon, Bones & Cuda's are also being targeted right now. Chris is still open Easter weekend if you can make a fast break!

Find us on Facebook!! Capt. Chris & Tommy Robinson have been posting their most recent fishing photos to Facebook every other day or so. Become a fan of Robinson Brothers Guide Service & check out the fresh fish pictures!

In the market for Real Estate Bargains? Check out Robinson Real Estate Listings on 17th St. and Ave. E in Apalachicola. www.rafgc.com

Reporting from Sugarloaf Key, this is Kathy Robinson, Out!

Robinson Brothers Guide Service
118 Commerce St.
Apalachicola, FL 32320
850-653-8896 or 877-6-Redfish
Robinson@FloridaRedfish.com

Islamorada Fishing Report 3-22-10

Friday, March 19, 2010
"The Sun has returned" and Fishing is great Offshore of Holiday Isle Resort & Marina in beautiful Islamorada, Florida Keys!!
The sun with a touch of warmth has returned to Holiday Isle Resort and Marina in beautiful Islamorada, Florida Keys. The past two days have been most beautiful with sunshine and temps in the 70's. Captain Steve Leopold of Yabba Dabba Doo Charters, along with angler Tom Fuller from Oklahoma had a great day with catches of Mutton Snapper, Yellowtail, Almaco Jacks and Hogfish. Angler Tom kept just enough to keep stocked in fish for dinner. Mr. Fuller said it was such a gorgeous day that it felt like 'fishing in air conditioning'.



At right, (from left to right), mate Justin Baker, angler Tom Fuller, and Captain Steve Leopold.



Captain Chuck Schimmelman of Dee Cee Charters also had a great day with a hefty catch for anglers from Minnesota.



Capt. Bruce Anderson of Capt. Easy Charters, with a family from Peoria, Illinois, had a great day with the "young 'uns" landing a big Jack.



Anglers aboard Gold Reserve Charters with Capt. Kevin Brown served up a rack of Kingfish.

Other charters that left the dock, no photos available, were Pirate's Choice, Capt. J.R., Killer White and Vagabond. Catches of Mutton Snapper, Yellowtail, Blackfin Tuna, Kingfish, and Jacks were on tap for all anglers.


If you would like to join us in the Sun and have a memorable Fishing excursion, please contact us at 305-433-9942 and book your charter today. Fishing/Room packages are available. You may also contact us online at http://www.holidayisle.com/ and click on Fishing to 'Meet our Captains' and Book your trip today. Come on down....we'd love to have you.

Until tomorrow................


Sunday, March 21, 2010
Offshore fishing in Ahh,, Islamorada, the most beautiful water in the world...





We had another wonderful day. The sun shining, with a gusty wind from the southeast, waves eight feet, but that doesn't stop the fishing. we had the Gold Reserve catching dolphin and a huge amberjack. We also had the Yabba Dabba Doo with these two photos of mutton snapper and a huge king mackerel.





and of course the Dee Cee pulling in with huge amberjacks, with one body missing (sharks), some mackerels and dolphins, the anglers from New York said they got quite a work out hauling in those huge fish and only vomited once ok twice... Everyone truly enjoyed themselves.. If you would like to delve into the wilds of the Florida Keys now is the time...Here at Holiday Isle Marina fish is our business...come experience first hand...call nicci-jean or nikki at 305-433-9942....we will put together a fantastic adventure offshore for you and your family...

Nikki Holiday Isle Offshore 800-327-7070 Etc 642

Holiday Isle Resort and Marina
84001 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-2321 ext. 642
Direct: 305-433-9942
www.holidayisle.com
kharper@holidayisle.com

Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report 3-19-10

Mosquito Creek Outdoor's Indian River Indian River Lagoon Coast Fishing Report, March 19, 2010

By Captain Tom Van Horn

Up Coming Events
March 27th, Free Cobia and Tripletail seminar from 10 am to noon at Mosquito Creek Outdoors in Apopka Florida, 170 South Washington Avenue. For more details visit www.mosquitocreek.com/fishing.

April 24th, Free Hook Kids on Fishing Program from 10 am to noon at the Apopka Foliage Festival. After completing the five learning stations, each child will receive a free fishing rod, reel and tackle box. To preregister your children, visit Mosquito Creek Outdoors in Apopka Florida at 170 South Washington Avenue or contact them at (407) 464-2000.


This Weeks Report

Although the weather has shown some improvement this week, the winds of March and cloudy overcast conditions continue to make sight fishing tough. Despite the difficult conditions, we still managed to catch some substantial fish.

On the flats, the combination of wind, clouds, and cold made sight fishing a challenge. I can live with the wind as long as it's sunny, but when you combine the wind with the clouds your quality shots at fish are limited, and that's when you need to consider changing up your strategy.

As mentioned above, I had the pleasure of fishing with Gary Nyquits and his son Eric from Albert Lea Minnesota this past week. We had already postponed our trip once due to weather, so we opted to fish despite the conditions. We worked three different flats only seeing a few fish, so on the way back to the ramp I opted to chunk a few blue crabs I picked up at the bait shop for just this purpose, and we were rewarded by two quality fish. Eric hooked the first one, but the fish managed to cut him off on some structure about five minutes into the fight, very disappointing. Next, Gary hooked up to a big fish, and after a 20 minute battle we landed a 48 inch redfish. I know chunking bait isn't as sporting as sight fishing, but try telling Gary that.



Besides chunking bait, blind casting in the deeper canals and holes has produced some decent sea trout this week. Try fishing with DOA Shrimp, rootbeer and glow colors very slow. Target these fish by casting up against the shoreline and fish the DOA Shrimp extremely slow just bumping the bottom as you work in down the drop-off.

Near-shore, the water temperature off of Port Canaveral have begun to warm up, so we only need a few more warm days with southeast winds to reach the magic numbers of 68 - 72 degrees. The run is late this year, so when they do show up, maybe Sunday, you need to make sure your equipment is ready, so watch the weather and the seas. Also, if your not sure how to fish for cobia, but would like to learn, be sure to attend the free cobia and tripletail seminar Captain Chris Myers and I are giving at Mosquito Creek Outdoors on March 27th. For more details and directions on the seminar, please visit Mosquito Creek's website at www.mosquitocreek.com.

Also, be sure to check out the March addition of Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando in print and online for free at www.coastalanglermagazine.com.

As always, if you need information or have any questions, please contact me.

Good luck and good fishing,

Captain Tom Van Horn
www.irl-fishing.com
mosquitocoast@cfl.rr.com
407-366-8085 office 407-416-1187 on the water

For all you outdoor shopping needs, visit Mosquito Creek Outdoors at www.mosquitocreek.com.

Panhandle Fishing Report 3-16-10

Report for 03/16/2010

Salt Water


MEXICO BEACH/PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE
Once again, this week, cold wind, and rain have blown another week of fishing into history but the local charter captains are booking a few early season trips and we will soon have more details about fishing offshore. Check next weeks fishing report for further information.

ST. JOE BAY
Spring is approaching quickly now with warmer weather and warming water temperatures. Anglers are reporting the concentrations of trout in the ICW are slowly dispersing back to the bay. There are few reports of baitfish schools, anglers do however report seeing, and catching squid in the deeper areas of St Joe Bay. The baitfish will not be far behind. Overall things are shaping up nicely for a great fishing season. On another note, the flounder bite is by all reports, beginning. Get ready!

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND BAYS
Bonita are being caught around the pass and up and down the beaches. The Amberjack bite has been steady over the bridge spans and any large structures. Glow jigs and Butterfly jigs work well and if you can manage to find some live bait works as well. Beeliners and white snapper (Porgy) have been steady in the 120 ft range on frozen squid. Grouper season will remain closed through March 31st.

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
A few Pompano are showing up along the beaches. Black Drum and Sheepshead are being caught around the jetties with live shrimp and fiddler crabs. White Trout and Whiting can be found in deep water under the Hathaway and Tyndall Bridges, but some searching to find the schools may be in order. Use live shrimp on a Carolina rig for best results. The Bull Reds are still being caught with live shrimp and pinfish around the jetties. Speckled Trout are being caught in deep bayous, creeks, the intracoastal waterway and the hot water discharge canal.

DESTIN
Spring has arrived and the season is once again ready to kick off. Lately there have been a few Sheepshead and Redfish around the Destin Bridge and Jetties. A few reports of Pompano along the beaches but not a lot. Offshore there has been a good bite of Amberjack, Triggers and Mingo Snapper. A few bass are starting to move in the golf course ponds.

Cobia should arrive some time over the next three weeks, The water temp is 57 degrees and needs to be 63 degrees to get one along the beach. Reports of Cobia about 20 miles out but none on the beach.

Same for the Spanish mackerel as they could show up any day now that it is warming, the old wife’s tale for them to start biting is after the 3rd day of heavy fog.

Fresh Water
Local tournament officials tell us that bass fishing is hot and getting better as water temperatures continue to warm. Bass are starting their spring spawning patterns. Anglers should be looking to the shallows for bedding bass. Lake Wimico and Depot creek, along with Howard creek are all producing nice stringers of bass this season.


Half Hitch Tackle
850-234-2621
2206 Thomas Dr
Panama City, FL 32408
www.halfhitch.com


Fishing Report prepared by Half Hitch Tackle Staff.

The Captains Corner Fishing Report is provided by local charter captains and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of Half Hitch Tackle.

This report is dedicated to the memory of Al Hubbard.
Al Hubbard was a field editor for Florida Sportsman magazine, an outdoor writer for the News Herald and a board member of the Florida Outdoor Writer's Association.
Mr. Hubbard was also the owner of Al's Outdoors Outfitting Services.

Tarpon Springs Fishing Report 3-17-10

Finally! Warmer Weather for Tarpon Springs Fishing Charters!

March 8, 2010
Post image for Finally! Warmer Weather for Tarpon Springs Fishing Charters!



Finally! Some warm weather today for fishing charters in the Tarpon Springs area! And, the best news is that the weather is forecasted to be warm for the foreseeable future. Not to say that we won’t see any more cold fronts at all but the prospects of 70+ degree days for the next week or more is great news. Even better is that the fish love the warm weather too!

Today I had Joe and Pearl on the boat. They had scheduled a trip with me last year and ended up having to leave town early before we could get out and fish. This year though, we were able to go and it was a good thing that we were. The day started out slow as the tide didn’t move much until around 10:30am but once it did, we were able to pick up a few nice trout and a couple of really nice sheephead in the Palm Harbor area. Our next move was to the Spoil Island in St. Joseph sound so that we could hammer the trout on the incoming tide. Fishermen were ready, as there were 5-7 boats on each island, but the fish weren’t. I only saw one trout landed while we were out there.

So, we headed to a spot that the trout seem to hang out at when they aren’t at the islands and sure enough, they were there sunning themselves in shallow water. There must have been at least 150 large trout on the flat and we were excited to see that they were willing to eat. We had about 2 dozen shrimp left at this point and we ended using them all on the nice 18-24″ trout.

Trout in the Clearwater, Palm Harbor and Tarpon Springs areas really like the incoming tide this time of year. So if trout is your main target, I would plan your trip around being able to hit your spots around the incoming tide. If you visit the spoil islands and the fish aren’t there, head to shallow water. They seem to wait for water temps to hit 60 degrees before they hit the spoil islands and today was no different. The water temp never got above 58 degrees and those big trout were happy to be sunning themselves in less than two feet of water.

Look for water temps to continue to rise this week but not as fast as it did today. The cloud cover we will have for the next 4 days will slow to water temperature rise but the fishing should still get better with each degree that the water temp ticks up. Redfish are around in good numbers but we didn’t have high enough water today to chase them. Tides next week should be favorable for being able to put more redfish in the boat.


Tampa Bay Fishing
Captain Clay Eavenson
813-300-2147
http://www.captainclay.com/
gofishing@captainclay.com

Jensen Beach Fishing Report 3 16-10

FISHING 3/13/10



Cold, rain and wind what is with this March weather? We get one good day and the rest you know the story. About the only thing for sure is Blue Fish in the surf and every else. These cool windy days have kept the water temperatures cool, but the sun has been shining. So finish breakfast and then come down, let the sun warm the shallow water and then you will know where the fish are, unless Blue fish is the target.

Surf anglers have had plenty of action, top water, spoons or cut baits have put plenty of Blues on the beach. Neither time nor tide controlled the bite time, it was all day. This species love the cool temps, travel in large schools and will eat any thing that moves. They do prefer some flash and they have a mouth full of teeth, careful. Lots of bites, lots of fun and yes they are good on the table. I would like to tell you about all the other fish but their bite time and location were short and not enough to target. Another week the pompano win, now if the surf would lie down, let some of the turbity leave and come up just a few degrees we would have a Pompano bite to report.

Strange weather, with the wind changing directions, overcast then sun shine and rain it has been hard on anglers but the fish are all ready wet, they just don’t mind. Excellent Red Fish reports from north to south, schools from large to small both in size and numbers. The west bank of the Indian River from Bear Point to south of the Stuart Causeway, they may look like large mullet but they are not. Traveling in the clouded water, rooting in the bottom stirring up the mud, yes those were Reds you were watching. Get ahead of the school, cast your bait out and wait till they come to you is the way. Take the fish from the outer edges and watch to see witch way they scatter, all slot fish. The Trout are coming out in the late morning waiting for the sun to warm the sand bars, look to the edges for these, slow presentation will get the bite. A few Pompano at the bridges but the wind and rain has kept most anglers in. Now if the temps to pick up and winds slow some of the turbid water will lie down and the Pompano will be there. It was a strange week we had two anglers limit out from the bridge, yes in all that rain. Been looking ever since, a few here and a few there but not enough to establish a pattern. This could be the week.

How about the Cobia, early in the week these fish were every where, then the rain, wind and 3’ to 5’ seas moved in and again hard on the anglers the fish are already wet. From 40’ out the Cobia and the Rays were keeping all busy, these were not big but perfect for the grill and there were plenty of them. Casting that Gulf Stream Cobia Slayer put a lot of fish to the boats. Chartreuse is the favorite, white a close second, yellow or pink for cloudy water. It is the middle of March is it not time for the weather change???????

Till next week keep your foul weather gear handy………………………………..Henry

Snook Nook Bait & Tackle
3595 NE Indian River Drive
Jensen Beach, FL
(Just South of the Jensen Causeway)
(772)-334-2145
(Since 1949)
E-Mail: henry@snooknook.net
www.snooknook.net

Islamorada Fishing Report 3-16-10

Tuesday, March 16, 2010
yesterdays fine catch..oh what a day
Here in Islamorada, every day is a great day to fish..These photos are taken off the stern of the Yabba Dabba Do..our anglers were very successful on catching a fine bounty...We also had the Gotcha go out with anglers from North Carolina. These guys were so delighted to be eating fresh fish tonight. They couldn't wait. And if you can't wait either to catch your dinner and a nice suntan call us here at Holiday Isle Marina at 305-664-2321 x642.







Saturday, March 13, 2010
Fishing the Fabulous Florida Keys @ Holiday Isle Offshore
Extreme fisherman from Spain on the Captain JR! Jacks are abound at Holiday Isle Offshore. Bring on the dolphin. Captain JR had the distinct pleasure of fishing these hardcore fisherman from Spain who brought their own equipment and according to the captain, taught him a thing or two. "They worked like a well oiled machine," Captain JR told us. Wow no kidding.





Nikki Holiday Isle Offshore 800-327-7070 Etc 642

Holiday Isle Resort and Marina
84001 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-2321 ext. 642
Direct: 305-433-9942
www.holidayisle.com
kharper@holidayisle.com

Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report 3-15-10

Mosquito Creek Outdoor's Indian River Indian River Lagoon Coast Fishing Report, March 5, 2010

By Captain Tom Van Horn

Up Coming Events

March 27th, Free Cobia and Tripletail seminar from 10 am to noon at Mosquito Creek Outdoors in Apopka Florida, 170 South Washington Avenue. For more details visit www.mosquitocreek.com/fishing.

April 24th, Free Hook Kids on Fishing seminar from 10 am to noon at the Apopka Foliage Festival. After completing the five learning stations, each child will receive a free fishing rod, reel and tackle box. To preregister your children, visit Mosquito Creek Outdoors in Apopka Florida at 170 South Washington Avenue or contact them at (407) 464-2000.


This Weeks Report

Despite the fact that it stormed all day yesterday, and it is storming at 5 am as I'm writing this report, we had some nice fishing days last week both on the St. Johns River and the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoons. It's hard to say how the 6 inches of rain will effect fishing next week, but here's what we found last week.

On the lagoons, tailing redfish were easy to find. Most of the fish I found on the IRL were in very shallow water where mullet were holding. The reds were not schooled up very tight, but spread out through a given area. They were also very difficult to approach and even harder to catch. For what ever reason, they were not interested in artificial baits, and live shrimp were the most productive.



Larry Peterson's Fat 26 inch Redfish


In the deeper canals and holes, small sea trout were plentiful. While fishing with DOA Shrimp , rootbeer and glow colors, we lost count of the small sea trout we caught. We fished in two different canal systems and we caught fish in both. When targeting these fish, cast up against the shoreline fish the DOA Shrimp extremely slow just bumping the bottom as you work in down the drop-off.

Near-shore, the colder water temperatures have kept the cobia down south of Jupiter Inlet. The water temperature here off of Port Canaveral has begun to warm up, so we only need a few more warm days with southeast winds to reach the magic numbers of 68 - 72 degrees. The run is late this year, so when they do show up we are likely to have only a few days of good fishing before they move north up the coast of Florida. So, get your rods and boat ready so you don't miss the boat when they do show up. Plus, be sure to make the free cobia and tripletail seminar Captain Chris Myers and I are giving at Mosquito Creek Outdoors an March 27th.



Bill Massy's American Shad


On the St. Johns River there are still a few American shad around, but it's anyone guess what 6 inches of rain in two days will do to the bite. It's a bit early for the catfish to move into the creeks, but the flooding condition and increased current may make it worth while to target the big channel catfish in the bends on the creeks and rivers.

Also, be sure to check out the March addition of Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando in print and online for free at www.coastalanglermagazine.com.

As always, if you need information or have any questions, please contact me.

Good luck and good fishing,

Captain Tom Van Horn
www.irl-fishing.com
mosquitocoast@cfl.rr.com
407-366-8085 office 407-416-1187 on the water


For all you outdoor shopping needs, visit Mosquito Creek Outdoors at www.mosquitocreek.com.

Sarasota Fishing Report 3-12-10

Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Report for 2/22 through 3/12/2010

Anglers fishing with me on the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout and ladyfish on jigs and flies during the past couple of weeks. The best action was on deep grass flats of Gasparilla Sound, Little Sarasota Bay and Sarasota Bay

Martin Marlowe, from NY and his son, Bruce, from RI, fished Little Sarasota Bay near Midnight Pass with me on Weds, 2/24 and had steady action with trout to 18” and ladyfish on CAL jigs with shad tails. Keith McClintock, from Lake Forest, IL and Jack McCulloch, from Englewood, FL, fished Gasparilla Sound with me the following day. We found water temperatures in the low 50’s in skinny water, however it didn’t bother trout. They caught more than a dozen trout to 18”, with most of them in the slot, on CAL jigs with shad tails.

Weather conditions were poor the following week. We had 20 to 30 mph winds on Weds and Thurs, 3/3 and 3/4 which forced me to reschedule trips on those days. I was on the casting pond giving a seminar on “Saltwater Fly Fishing” at the Tampa Tribune’s Frank Sergeant Outdoors Expo on Friday afternoon and Capt. Ed Hurst and I were instructors for a CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school on Saturday.

I was back on the water on Sunday, 3/7 with Dave Kinnamon and Jim Russ, both from WI. We fished deep grass flats in Gasparilla Sound and near Bull Bay, and caught more than 25 trout to 17” on CAL jigs with shad tails. The action was slow to start but turned on in the afternoon. Ryan Morse, from VA, and his dad, Eric Morse, fished the same area with me on Monday. They had similar results with trout to 21” on CAL jigs with shad tails and Clouser flies.

Martin Marlowe, from NY, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Tuesday afternoon. He caught and released a dozen or more trout and a couple of blues on Clouser flies near Buttonwood Harbor. We found lots of reds near Long Bar, but they ignored our flies and jigs. Harry Beaty, from Canada, and Tom Schalk, from MI, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Wednesday. They had steady action with trout to 20” on CAL jigs with shad tails, including 4 slot-size fish. Mike Sprague, from NJ, fished a few hours with me on Thursday morning before high winds, associated with an approaching front, forced us off the water. He caught and released more than 20 trout and ladyfish on CAL jigs with shad tails near Stephens Point.

Next week’s tides are good as we approach the new moon on March 15th. Water temperatures have finally warmed to about 60 degrees, so action should continue to improve. The best action should be with trout on deep grass flats, although reds should also become more active as the water warms.

Tight Lines,

Capt. Rick Grassett
Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc.
FFF Certified Fly Casting Instructor
(941) 923-7799
E-mail snookfin@aol.com
www.flyfishingflorida.net and www.snookfin-addict.com


Eric Morse caught and released this over-slot trout on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Charlotte Harbor with Capt. Rick Grassett.

Tom Schalk, from MI, caught this nice trout on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.

Key West Fishing Report 3-'10

The Key West Fishing Report

Brought to you by
Capt. Steven Lamp's - Dream Catcher Charters

Featuring In depth fishing reports for

Flats - Backcountry - Wreck /Reef - Deep Sea



March 6th 2K10

Lets Review

February was a month that frankly I could have done without. We did have some great fishing but the temps were just brutal with 55 degrees being a common occurrence. As I write this on March 6th it is 58 degrees with a North wind around 18. Here at Dream Catchers we were busy with probably one of our best February months ever in numbers of trips run. However the fishing stories were lacking.

The constant cold has not gone without its affects on our fishing here. Some good and some bad. Either way we are anticipating a warm recovery that will certainly add much value to the weeks to come.

About the fish kills that everyone keeps talking about. I cannot express to everyone how this is just not the case in Key West. We are actually catching many new species we have not seen this far south.




Flats Fishing In March

Traditionally March is a month for permit.. Big ones too. The March Merkin permit fly fishing tournament is held this month and offers the Best Of The Best, the Who's Who in fly fishing the shot of winning a prestigious tournament fishing for the hardest fish to catch using fly fishing gear. The winds make these larger smarter fish more approachable giving our anglers a great shot at a Key West Flats Fishing fishing Trophy.

Look for some very large Barracudas that will eat an artificial or fly. Look for these guys in the warm water trends of water coming on and off the flats as they sun themselves looking for an easy snack.

Bonefish are usual to be making an appearance in the month of March. I think this is something that could happen, however toward the later part of the month.

Tarpon Fishing Season. March is our target date for the beginning of the big fish coming in out of the Gulf to eat. Book your fishing guides soon for the migration. Here at Dream Catcher Charters we are offering all the tarpon trips that are possible in the coming months. Fish the Key West harbor, Channels, flats and backcountry for your shot. Morning, day and evening trips are available.

Backcountry Fishing

The Key West Backcountry is the place to be. The ides of March will indicate a steady wind fro the east, some days quit brisk. Dont wait around or cancel your days due to wind or you may never get off the dock. See my Wind Wars section below. Take your day when it comes as 15 - 25 kts out of the east is normal for March and very fish able for the exception of the fly fisherman.

Tarpon fishing in the channels of the Key West backcountry will be rock solid now. We have been hitting them pretty regular as the warmer days were here in between these bitter cold spells. Look for and pray for the easterly and south easterly wind shifts and know that it will be "Tarpon Time"

The short wrecks (the ones close by) will hold Huge and numerous permit most every day. This can be a magical time to fish the backcountry as there is always a chance that among the sharks and the wrecks you will have a shot at an angry cobia to have some fun.

Wrecks and Reef

Fishing in March is a pick your weather kind of month. Flexibility and durability is a must this time of the year to fish the offshore reefs and wrecks.. The fishing can be absolutely AWESOME with a great Snapper bite and the left over of the huge kingfish on the reef.

Sailfish will become more numerous as they march down the Easterly wind driven waves searching for some bait fish to harass. Dont miss out on a shot at these guys as they get warmed up for April.

Sizable Amber jacks will be around to entertain those wishing to get bent on the wrecks along with the smaller tuna. In the gulf the Kingfish will be out there to entertain as well.

The wrecks in the Gulf of Mexico will hold Many and large permit and cobia.

The Gulf will still have a closure on Grouper for the month of March with an opening the first of April.

Deep Sea Blue water

Sailfish, Wahoo, Tuna, Kingfish are all the rage in March for the Key West Deep sea guys. We troll the reefs and deep reef for these palagics coming through looking for a bite to eat. The winter days seemingly get easier for the offshore deep sea fleet. Not as far to run to find fish means more fishing time with lines out and trolling.

Our sport fishing fleet is loaded with some great captains. Guys who have lived here most of their lives and really get off on taking folks out to see what's gonad bite. We offer deep sea fishing trips on boats from 38 - 47 ft. all with experienced captains just different amenities and of course they vary in cost. Bigger boat more money.

We also run Key West deep sea fishing trips on our 32 ft center console the "Intense" here at Dream Catcher Charters for folks to "live the dream" stand up fishing from the Kite or trolling. Also using live bait. Whatever you want, however it is that you like to fish, we have a trip for you.

My Thoughts on the forecast..

March is by far the Do more be more month for fishing guides. The time for maintenance should be completed now its time to put the props to the water and make a living. March is shaping up to be very much like a March I remember back in the 90' Great tarpon fishing and offshore will be just great.

Fishing News

The passing of Capt. Mel Bereman was unexpected. A legend in his area up in West central Florida. I respected Mel greatly growing up and worked with him on ht internet here as colleagues. He did allot to put West Central Florida on the Map for fishing charters.

Here at Dream Catchers we have ordered another Yellowfin 24 Bay boat to add to the fleet.



Capt. Steven Lamp...
Give us a call 1-888-362-3474
www.chartersofkeywest.com
www.thekeywestfishingreport.com

5555 College Road
Key West, FL 33040
www.fishingkeywest.com
888-362-3474

Twitter "DrCatcher"
Face Book "Dream Catcher Charters"

Tampa Bay Fishing Report 3-2010

March Tampa Fishing Report

Thursday, 04 March 2010 10:50 | Written by Stewart Ames



The winter that never ends is still hanging on. The first week of March will deliver evening temperatures in the neighborhood of forty degrees...but the end is in sight. March is always the transition month where winter gives way to spring and this year should be no different. Mid month is typically the time when spring fishing goes off. Last year, that magic day was March 12th. Early indications that improving fishing is on the way were evident during the last week of February. On days were the weather was "typical" for this time of year with mid day temps approaching the high sixties, the trout bite caught fire. Several trips yielded healthy double digit numbers of quality sized fish. Fish responded to bobbered shrimp and pinfish but also ate jigs.On days when the bite was a little slower, going to a shrimp rigged with a small split shot would sometimes do the job. By methodically hopping the shrimp back to the boat along the bottom, strikes could be triggered from these sometime lethargic fish.



Another effective technique for catching really large trout right now is fishing oyster bars on the higher phases of the tide. Take a large shrimp on a #1 circle hook and cast it right to the outer edge of the bar. Simply let this shrimp sit as any large trout will usually find him if given a few minutes. You'll have no trouble feeling the bump and the pull of these healthy fish when they finally come across your shrimp.If there is a favorable wind...one that will take your bait along a whole stretch of the oyster bar...shallow bobber your shrimp for an equally effective approach. Oyster bars will hold heat and these big trout, and redfish, like coming up on them in the winter.



Redfish are really the only other fish being actively targeted at this time but this fishing has been highly unpredictable. Pre-front days with good tides have been consistently good but beyond this, there has been no solid pattern to finding feeding fish. There are decent numbers of fish out there but they appear to be moving a fair amount. Their movement may be explained by the lack of food due to the unusually cold weather. Although certain food sources such as crabs are still readily available, they may have to search new areas each day after picking one area clean.Whatever the case, the good news is that the fish out there are of upper and over slot size and have even begun to gather in larger sized schools.




One week of solid temperatures in the seventies should ignite these relatively unpressured fish. Fish have continued to eat shrimp and pinfish on days when they're cooperating. As mentioned last month, go with a quiet presentation when fishing shallower areas using an un-weighted shrimp. Also consider using smaller hooks and lighter leader in these situations as fish seem to be especially spooky right now. Weighted cut pinfish is still effective when fishing up under docks.

Based on all of the above, for those of you who live locally or will be in the area, get your gear ready to go because once that first week of warm weather shows up, fishing should be off the hook. Good luck and good fishing.

Captain Stewart Ames
Gone Fishing Charters
US Coast Guard Licensed Captain
Member Florida Guides Association
sames001@tampabay.rr.com
(727) 421-5291


Last Updated (Thursday, 04 March 2010 12:55)

Jensen Beach Fishing Report 3-6-10

FISHING 3/6/10



Cold and wind and cold, I have tired of this weather after the second day and this is the thirty first day. Some cool is good just not this cold or for this long.

Most of our fish like the warmer water that is the reason we live in Florida, so sleep in and wait for mid morning to come, big sun warms the water, then the fish will be on the on the sand bars, against the concrete walls and in the shallows. When that sun beats on these surfaces they will warm quickly and the fish will be on them keeping warm. Reds, Blues and Jacks with a mix of Spanish Macs are keeping most river anglers busy. The Reds have been thick north of North Bridge south to Walton Road. Favored baits have shrimp, soft rubber paddle tails and small gold spoons. Chances are those schools of mullet you saw were Reds, schools of six or eight, long cast to the front of the school and let the fish come to the bait. As one takes the bait pay attention to the way the school travels so you can get to them again. Stay off in the deeper water and look for the schools, they will be on the edge of the grass in the shallow warm water. Trout will be on top of the sand bars but moving very slow, slow presentation to get them to bite and it will be a soft touch not a strike. Just when you get that pattern in move the Blue Fish eating any thing you throw and scattering the targets, have a second rod rigged and ready. The Pompano have made a strong show just not for very long and not in the same place but every where. The area south of the Stuart Causeway at differing hours daily, the channel fro the House of Refuge south, the

Sail Fish Flats and just as many other locations again differing hours daily. Pompano fishing has been good you just need to keep at it till you find them, no special hour, anglers just keep looking they will skip then it is up to you and pay attention to the pattern and where they run.

Surf anglers, there have been days this week when it was one cast one fish, yes Blue Fish and lots of them. I heard from more than one angler that said “I just got tired of catching”. Some days the bite was all day, other days conditions just were to difficult to fish, big surf and strong winds were in favor of the fish. Pompano had their days, the Hobe Sound beach and south it may have been cool but the fishing was hot, the next day it was Bath Tub and north. These fish are on the move, no special time, no special direction one has to put in the time, clams and jigging spoons were the favored baits.

Off shore with the 3’ to 5’ or 4’ to 6’, the ocean has been less than polite. Anglers report looking fro warm water and not finding it till they were in 250’ of water, then trolling that temp line found a few fish but not as many as they thought were going to be there. Some Dolphin, a few Kings, free jumping Sails and plenty of Bonita’s. Now for the interesting part of last week the weed line in 50’, anglers that slowed noticed Rays and more Rays. Cobia in the twenty pound class with some to fifty all in 50’ from north of the inlet to south it was 50’. Plenty of Cobia on casted Jigs keep that pitch rod rigged and ready.

Till next week the only thing to say is “keep warm”……………………………………………………HENRY

Snook Nook Bait & Tackle
3595 NE Indian River Drive
Jensen Beach, FL
(Just South of the Jensen Causeway)
(772)-334-2145
(Since 1949)
E-Mail: henry@snooknook.net
www.snooknook.net

Titusville Fishing Report 3-'10

February 25, 2010 - Fish, Fish Everywhere
As spring tries to push ole man winter into the recent past there are hungry fish emerging everywhere in the Indian River Lagoon from Titusville to Sebastian Inlet. Capt. Peter and I have been having a blast fishing the east side of the river up north as a massive school of huge black drum continues to entertain along with big redfish, our normal residents. And Capt. Roland has been catching big numbers of a variety of slot-sized fish along the west side of the river from Melbourne south to Grant. Here are summaries of our most recent trips.

Tuesday the weather was perfect with near calm winds and mid 70 degree temperatures. I had the day free to scout fish for upcoming charters and grabbed a couple of dozen hand-picked shrimp from Capt. Roy Allen’s Bait Shop before continuing north. Since there were several boats already staked on my intended flats I headed even further north in search of solitude and tranquil waters. My tack could not have been better suited for the day. Staking down amidst numerous tailing drum, I abandoned ship for the serenity of wading amongst the schools. Over the next two hours the two dozen shrimp disappeared as huge drum after huge drum was hooked, fought and released. The smallest fish weighed 20 pounds with several twice that size. Add a couple of communal redfish to the constant parade and you’ll understand why my arms ached at the end of the afternoon. By the way, I estimate that this school of big drum has fanned out across five miles of shoreline. It was a perfect day of fishing with a perfect day of weather to enjoy it.

Capt. Peter had a similar experience several days before with locals Chuck and his son Mason in some of the same waters. They hooked a number of the big drum in the morning before switching over to the long rods to throw a few flies at the beast. Peter estimated seeing 1500 fish on the day with reds running to 30 pounds and the drum ranging to 50 pounds. Peter was so preoccupied on the poling platform that the only photo snapped from the charter was of a 30 pound sting ray caught by Mason on a fly.



I was also on the water at the same time since my charter canceled the night before and wound up spending part of the day protecting Peter’s crew from two other boats curious about how he was catching so many fish. At one point the two boats had poled and trolled to within a boat length or two of Peter to watch. When not having to protect Peter flank, I stalked several of the big redfish lurking nearby. It was a great day of fishing all around and I felt sorry for the party that had been scheduled but declined to participate.

During this same stretch of time Capt. Roland took three charters into the Indian River from Melbourne to Grant. His Saturday crew consisted of Vince and Aubrei Blumberg down from Michigan for the third straight year. This time around 12 year old Aubrei bested her father catching a dozen fish to his six. The biggest fish was a 32 inch redfish which brought a huge grin to Aubrei face and archived by Vince’s camera. The Blumbergs are already looking forward to next year.






On a rare Sunday charter for Roland, the Kalb family joined him in the Grant area for a fabulous day of fishing. The gorgeous sunny skies and mid-70 degree temperatures fueled an intense feeding frenzy in which the Kalbs landed an estimated 25 fish consisting of upper slot reds, black drum, sheephead and trout. The action was so hot that at one point during the feed Capt. Roland had to stop the fishing so he could finish unhooking and releasing fish already boated. Everybody in the family of five caught fish except for mom who was too busy taking pictures to pick up a rod. The two photos below were shot by her, by the way.






On Tuesday Gary Greenough from Arizona and Dwight Entwistle from Indian Harbor Beach chartered Roland in the same waters. The skies started out overcast and there were a few sprinkles before the weather cleared and the serious fishing began. Using shrimp on light tackle Dwight and Gary caught an estimated 15 fish including numerous reds, black drum and trout on their half day charter. The couple wound up taking the following red and drum home for a fish fry later that evening.





Posted by Rocky Van Hoose on February 25, 2010 at 09:52:56 AM