Sarasota Fishing Report 11-29-09

Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Report for 11/23 through 11/29/2009


Anglers fishing Sarasota Bay with me on the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, during the past week had good action with trout, blues and pompano on jigs and flies. A couple of trips in lower Tampa Bay also had action with trout, snook and reds. Deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay have been the best option for variety and action.

George Alberici, from Sarasota, FL, and Sal DeVita, from Valrico, FL, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Monday. They caught numerous trout to 23” (4 ½ lbs), blue fish and pompano on CAL jigs with shad tails from Stephens Point to Long Bar.

Keith Roessler and Kevin Hunter, from Albuquerque, NM fished the same area with me on Tuesday except we also fished the coastal gulf. We spent a couple of hours off Lido Key and found lots of little tunny and Spanish mackerel feeding on tiny baits and being very picky. Keith hooked a nice little tunny on a white Clouser, but the rod broke, due to an equipment malfunction, as the fish made a blistering run, causing the fish to also break off. We came back into Sarasota Bay where they caught and released numerous trout, 4 bluefish (to 4-pounds) and 4 pompano (to 3-pounds) and a bonnethead shark on Clouser flies near Stephens Point.

Nick Frederick, from Lakewood Ranch, FL, and his son, Nick, from Arizona, fished the Terra Ceia Bay area with me on Wednesday morning. It rained hard until early afternoon as a front pushed through our area. It was young Nick’s first venture in saltwater with a fly rod. He caught and released several trout on Clouser flies while his dad did well with a CAL jig and a shad tail. That afternoon I fished the same area with part of a family group along with my friend, Capt. Ray Markham. Justin Barnes, his wife, Meredith (from Atlanta, GA) and her sister, Joy, from Dayton, OH, fished on my boat. We had steady action with trout to 23” (4-pounds), several snook to 22” and a 17”red. All fish were caught on CAL jigs with shad tails. Capt. Ray’s group also did well, catching a slam that included a legal snook, numerous trout, a red and a Spanish mackerel.

Bill Beauchamp, from Bradenton, FL, and his brother-in-law, Chuck Kushto, also from Bradenton, fished the Terra Ceia area with me on Friday. The previous day’s cold front had dropped the water temperature and slowed the action. They worked hard and we caught a few trout, a flounder and a small red on CAL jigs with shad tails. Friday’s trip in Sarasota Bay was similar. Fly angler Paul Stokes, from Sarasota, FL, fished Sarasota Bay with me on Saturday morning. We took a look in the gulf off Lido and found a big swell and dirty water. We saw a school of mackerel or little tunny, but they were up and gone fast. We came back into Sarasota Bay, where Paul caught and released several Spanish mackerel, a bluefish and several trout on a chartreuse/white Ultra Hair Clouser. Action was slow at first until we found a protected area, which was a couple of degrees warmer than surrounding waters and had some activity.

Next week’s negative low tides should be good for reds, snook and trout in potholes and along sandbars. Deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay should continue to be one of best options for variety and action. When the gulf calms down and the water clears up, action should heat up again for Spanish mackerel and little tunny. Remember that snook season closes on Tuesday, Dec. 1st and trout season remains closed in the south region through December. For details, go to www.myfwc.com.

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



George Alberici, from Sarasota, FL, caught and released this 4 1/2-pound trout on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.



Sal DeVita, from Valrico, FL, caught this nice pompano on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.


Keith Roessler, from Albuquerque, NM, caught this nice blue on a Clouser fly while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.

Indian River Lagoon Fishing Outlook 12-09

Mosquito Creek Outdoor's Indian River Lagoon Coast Fishing Outlook, December 2009

By Captain Tom Van Horn

Old man winter is once again knocking at the door here in Central Florida with the passing of the first set of cool fronts this season. Cooler conditions will force anglers to dig out their winter shorts in preparation for their day on the water. Like November, December is loaded with outstanding fishing opportunities, with the only difference being the impact of cold fronts on water temperatures and fishing conditions. Currently, surf and lagoon water temperatures are in the seventies with offshore water temperatures remaining near the eighty-degree mark. As these fronts approach and pass, gusty breezes will kick up the sea shutting down most offshore and site fishing opportunities.

In and around the inlets, look for oversized redfish feeding on surface baits during periods of slack tide. At both Sebastian and Ponce De Leon inlets, target these fish outside the inlets near the end of the falling tide in areas of bird and bait activity. These fish will hit artificial swim baits, but live pinfish, pigfish, and finger mullet are the most productive baits.



Snook fishing will also remain steady as long as the water temperatures stay warm, with Sebastian Inlet proving to be the prime location. It is best to target inlet snook during periods of slack tide drift fishing live pigfish or pinfish at night in the channel under the inlet bridge. This style of angling can be quite rewarding when the bite is on, but it can also be challenging due to the number of anglers competing for the same action. Snook season ends December 15th, so if you enjoy those yummy filets, your time is limited.

Flounder is another notable species worth mentioning when speaking of inlet fishing in December. The warmer than normal weather and water temperatures have delayed the traditional flounder migration from the lagoon to the warmer coastal waters. Normally the run begins in mid November and lasts through mid December, but as of this writing, the doormat size southern flounder have not arrived in quantities.



Along the beaches, look for pompano to begin moving off the inshore flats to the deeper troughs along the beach in search of sand fleas (mole crabs) their favorite winter food. Also look for schools of bluefish and Spanish mackerel shadowing pods of glass minnows and other bait ii the surf. To target both blues and Spanish, watch for birds working bait pods and through small jigs and spoons with a fast retrieval to avoid cutoffs.

Near-shore when the seas permit it, look for tarpon and sharks to be cruising the beaches working remaining bait schools as they move south. Also, solid concentrations of kings will be holding on the near-shore reefs and wrecks in 60 to 100 feet of water. Several prime locations to target kings are the north end of Pelican Flats and 8A Reef. The kingfish bite should remain steady as long as the water temperature stays above 74 degrees. To target these fish, slow troll live bait if you can find it, or troll dead Spanish sardines or cigar minnows (spinning minnows) dressed with skirts. When near-shore water temperatures approach the 70-degree mark, look for tripletail and cobia to begin to show up on the Port Canaveral buoy line and the near-shore water off the beaches and the bight of the Cape. These fish normally hold on structure such as floating weeds and other debris, but they also have a tendency to free swim on the surface once the sun warms the surface water.

Offshore, December is one of the best times to target grouper, snapper, and amberjacks. If sea state settles down, target hard bottom in the 21 to 27 fathom range. Additionally, dolphin, wahoo, and an occasional sailfish are still quality targets in areas of color changes, rips, and weed lines.

Inshore, both redfish and sea trout will remain in the skinny water as long as the water temperatures stay in the 70-degree range. Fish in protected areas and sunny spots, and look for fish to be holding in sand pockets (potholes) until the sun gets overhead. Now is also the time of year to begin looking for tailing black drum in the Banana River Lagoon No Motor Zone. Try fishing early in the day, and preferably with a west wind, and if you've never seen black drum tailing before, it's worth the paddle.



Lastly, do not forget about the American shad run which typically starts around Christmas and last through February. Last year's run was the best seen in years, and hopfully this year will be better.


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

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

Good luck an

Captain Tom Van Horn
Mosquito Coast Fishing Charters
www.irl-fishing.com
(407) 416-1187 on the water
(407) 366-8085 landline

Visit www.mosquitocreekoutdoors.com for your outdoor adventure needs, its Where the Adventure Begins!

Belize Bonefish Trip '09

Capt. Rick Grassett’s Turneffe Flats Lodge Report for 11/14 through 11/21/2009


I hosted a group at Turneffe Flats Lodge in Belize from Nov. 14-21. This was my second visit to the lodge, which is 30 miles off the coast of Belize City. We had near perfect weather and as a result, fishing was good. Although there was only one permit caught at the lodge while we were there, all of us had shots at permit. Numerous bonefish to 7-pounds were caught and released.

Capt. John Hand and his wife, Leslie, from Ruskin, FL, John and Deb LaManna, from Lakewood Ranch, FL, Les Fulcher, from Longboat Key, Fen and Joann Sartorius, from Santa Fe, NM and Joe Bursel and I from Sarasota all met up at the Tampa Airport on Saturday morning for the flight to Belize City through Miami. Ben and Sue Estes, from SC, flew direct to Belize City from Charlotte and met up with the rest of the group there. My friend, Capt. John Meskauskas, from Stuart, FL, was also at the lodge with a group of 6 anglers, including long time friend Twig Tolle and his wife, Jean.

Turneffe Flats Lodge is a cut above other lodges that I have visited. The guides, staff and accommodations are outstanding; meals are delicious and presented well and there are lots of activities for non anglers. Deb LaManna and Joann Sartorius participated in the Atoll Adventure package and had their own guide, Abel, for daily activities that included shelling, snorkeling, birding and much more. They saw lots of sea life while snorkeling, including a variety stingrays and Moray eels. They collected Mayan pottery and glass bottles discarded by pirates that once roamed the area, including the infamous Blackbeard. They treated us to a slide show one evening that was like a National Geographic special!

Although most bonefish averaged 1 ½ to 2-pounds, there were numerous 3-pounders caught and several in the 6 to 7-pound class. An angler in Capt. John’s group, Rob, caught and released an 8 or 9-pound permit while wading with guide, Elvis, on the last day of the trip. Most anglers had shots at permit ranging from singles and doubles to large schools. Capt. John Hand and his wife, Leslie, fishing with guide, Eddie, had shots at permit every day, landed bonefish of 4 ½ and 6 1/2-pounds and lost an 8-pounder. Ben and Sue Estes, fishing with guide, Michael, caught so many bonefish (to 4 ½-pounds) that they lost count. Joe Bursel also caught and released lots of bonefish (about 100 for the week). He focused on action and had several “double digit” days while fishing with guide, Willie. Joe was also successful with bonefish while wading on his own at the lodge. He even caught one off the sea wall!

Fen Sartorius and I fished together several days with guides, Dubs and Dion. We focused on larger bonefish and permit, staying ready for one species while targeting the other. Fen also scuba dived a couple of days. He hooked up with me and Dion at lunch one day and after a successful dive, he caught 3 nice bonefish in the afternoon! Les Fulcher also had good action with bonefish, including several 3-pounders he caught on his own while wading in front of the lodge. John LaManna had great action with bonefish, landing 7 bones to more than 6-pounds while fishing with guide, Dubs, one day. He was very successful with a fly of his own creation that featured a tuft of rabbit fur as a wing and a small pheasant tail. John and I fished together with Dubs on a rainy day, the only inclement weather day that we had. I caught a “tailer” at the end of the day that was very rewarding given the conditions. The more challenging the conditions the more rewarding the catch!

This is one of the best run fishing lodges that I have visited. I had a chance to visit with the owner of Turneffe Flats, Craig Hayes, while at the lodge. He has done an outstanding job of constantly updating the lodge to make it one of the top destinations not only for fly anglers, but for divers, snorkelers and adventurers. Craig was also instrumental in getting the government of Belize to protect bonefish, permit and tarpon, which is rare in most tropical fishing destinations. This is definitely a place that you can bring your spouse and also experience great fishing!

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


Fen Sartorius, from Santa Fe, NM, with a bonefish he caught and released at Turneffe Flats Lodge in Belize.

Les Fulcher, from Lonboat Key, FL, with a bonefish that he caught and released at Turneffe Flats Lodge in Belize.

Capt. John Hand, from Ruskin, FL, with a nice bonefish caught while wading one of the outer edge (reef) flats out of Turneffe Flats Lodge.

Capt. Rick Grassett with a Turneffe Flats "tailer" caught in the rain at Turneffe Flats Lodge.

Event Program

Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando Fall Festival
Saturday November 28, 2009
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM


Sponsored by Dealer's Choice Marine
Presented by BMC Boats

Location: 'The Barn' in Sanford Florida - 1200 S. French Ave., Sanford, FL 32771

Fun for the whole family - Contests, Games, Raffle, Prizes - Over $5,000 in prizes

Kid's Zone sponsored by Jungle Adventures - live animals, games and prizes

Free Fishing Seminars:
11:30 AM - Near Shore - Port Canaveral with Captain Keith Kalbfleisch
12:30 PM - Freshwater - Lake Monroe Crappie with CAM's Charlie McCullough
1:30 PM - Inshore - Banana River No Motor Zone with Captain Tom Van Horn
2:30 PM - Inshore - Mosquito Lagoon with Captain Chris Myers
3:30 PM - Redfish on Fly - Captain John Kuminski
4:30 PM - Conservation - Coastal Angler Magazine Founder Captain Rodney Smith

Contests:
Casting for Accuracy Adults, Casting for Accuracy Kids,
Cast Net Throwing for Adults, Cast Net Throwing for Kids
Casting Competition - sponsored by Bass Pro Shops Orlando
(win one of 10 rod and reel combos)
Cast Net Competition - sponsored by West Marine
(win one of 6 cast nets)
5:00 PM - Contest Finals

Raffle Prizes sponsored in part by: Bass Pro Shops Orlando, West Marine, Rapala,
DOA Lures, Flying Fisherman Sunglasses, Dri-Grip Sunscreen, Daiichi Bleeding Bait Hooks, Road Runner lures, SOL Sunscreen, Tru-Turn Hooks, Flambeau, Irish Setter Shoes, Sun Day Afternoons apparel, Maui Jim Sunglasses, Boat Rentals from BoatClub.com, 2 tickets on the Auto Train, 2 tickets for Rivership Romance Cruises, 4 tickets to Jungle Adventures, 4 Sea World Tickets from BMC Boats, 2 ATV coupons for Revolution Off Road, 12 Fathom Jigs, and much, much, more!

Food hosted by Fish on Fire Restaurant - Fish Tacos, Smoothies, Burgers, Dogs and more...meet the famous Jay Herington as seen on the Chevy Florida Fishing Report

Live Music: 'Hayfire' as seen on Nashville Star, concert starts at 9:00PM

This Charity event benefits Anglers for Conservation, the 501C parent of Hook Kids on Fishing.

Dealer's Choice Marine and Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando's Fishing, Boating, and Outdoors Fall Festival, Presented by BMC Boats Saturday November 28, 2009 11 am - 7 pm Vendor Booths: (Booth #, Company Name) Booth 1: Coastal Angler Magazine Booth 2: Coastal Angler Magazine - Captain's booth Booth 3: Seminole Power Sports 35x15 Booth 4: Dealer's Choice Marine 100x40 Booth 5: BMC Boats 80x40 Booth 6: Fish on Fire Restaurant (Central Florida Food Works) 40x20 Booth 7: Sea Tow Central Florida Lakes Division 40x20 Booth 8: FWC Florida Wildlife Commission 40x20 Booth 9: Auto Sport Body Works 40x20 Booth 10: Bass Pro Shops - Pro Staff Wrapped Boat Display 24x15 Booth 11: Revolution Off Road Booth 12: Castaway Scuba Booth 13: Royal Bliss Linens Booth 14: Seminole Power Squadron Booth 15: CFOA Central Florida Offshore Anglers Booth 16: Solar Consulting Booth 17: Investments and Insurance Services Booth 18: Jewelry Jackpot Booth 19: Fred's Mobile Mechanic Booth 20: Mary Kay Cosmetics Booth 21: ApodanUSA Booth 22: Mudhole Custom Tackle Booth 23: Robert Butler - Artist Booth 24: Instant Replay Archery, Gun & Pawn Booth 25: Ceballos & Moenckmeier Law Firm Booth 26: Fun2Dive Scuba Booth 27: Monroe Harbour Marina Booth 28: Rivership Romance Booth 29: BoatClub.com Booth 30: Instant Insurance Booth 31: Sunny 105.9 FM Radio Booth 32: First Class Motorcycle Tours Booth 33: Snook Foundation Booth 34: Kel's Rod and Reel Booth 35: Deadwood Photography Booth 36: Deadwood Photography Booth 37: 12 Fathom Lures Booth 38: 12 Fathom Lures Booth 39: Black Dog Bait and Tackle Booth 40: Black Dog Bait and Tackle Booth 41: Backcountry Fly Fishing Association Booth 42: Backcountry Fly Fishing Association Booth 43: Orlando Kayak Club Booth 44: Orlando Kayak Club Booth 45: Outdoor Girls Booth 46: Outdoor Girls Booth 47: Plattinum Products Booth 48: Plattinum Products Kids Zone: Jungle Adventures

Mosquito Coast Communications, 540 Lake Lenelle Drive,Chuluota, Florida 32766, (407) 366- 8085

Jensen Beach Fishing Report 11-26-09

Fishing 11/20/09


How about that off shore action, remember last weeks wind ? That blow is what we needed to bring in the Dolphin and it has. Trolling ballyhoo in ninety to one hundred and twenty feet of water has been the zone. These fish have been in the twenty pound class with plenty in the ten pound class, look to the color lines and grass and you will be in the fish. Now while you are out there, trolling, put a bait deep. A big bally or a mullet on a planer with an Islander on it will find the Wahoo, bigger Dolphin or a smoker King to add to the box. Sails have become the picky eaters, lots of talk just not that many takers or maybe the Dolphin just get there first. The seas have been a little sporty at the inlets but when out there the waves are far apart, so come on down. Lots of Spanish Mac's from the inlet south to the King Fish Hole, glass minnow chum and Mylar jigs is the combo.
Surf has been all about Blue fish and Mac's on spoons and cut bait. Early is best with cooler water and the bite has been strong. Looking for the Whiting wait till the noon hour, let that edge warm and they will be there along with a few Croakers and slot Snook. Pompano for that long cast but most are small, give it a couple weeks.
Did I tell you about skipping Pompano in the flats? How about jigging them from the bridges ? Pompano have arrived, nice size fish, mid to late morning in the flats, bridges it is all about that high tide. Now if you are going to the bridge bring two rods because when the Blues and Macs come through biting every thing off you will have that other rod rigged and ready with a wire leader. TROUT SEASON IS CLOSED, so they are biting any thing you put in front of them and there is plenty of trophy size fish, camera time. Red fish has been good, with over cast mornings these fish have stayed in the skinny water well into late morning. From Bear Point to the Sail Fish flats lots of good reports of slot fish. Plenty of Drum, Sheephead, Jacks, Blues to keep you busy, Snook, dark hours at the bridges on Flair Hawks.
Do not forget the camera, you will need it and the great thing about a picture it lasts forever, filet on meal................................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

Key West Fishing Report 11-09

November 2009

Flats Fishing
The flats are cooling off this month. This brings us a great new fishery to the Key West Flats Fishing with some King Sized Barracudas that will eat an artificial or fly.

A great sport fish target for November are Permit. On top and tailing in the higher winds we have for November these fish make for an easy target to toss a crab to.

Tarpon Fishing will be around in the warmer days on the edges of the channels but sight fishing for them on the flats is not so hot.

I really enjoy fishing the flats in November. The weather is 60/40 but when conditions are right we really nail it and have a great time sight fishing the shallows.

Backcountry Fishing
This is the game to go on. November offers a TON of opportunities in the Key West Backcountry. The cooler waters start to set in for the winter species. Species such as Trout, Pompano, Ladyfish, Big Barracudas, sharks, and many more hard pulling high volume fish. It is not uncommon in November, December, January, February and March to catch over 25 different species of fish counting only the ones that are 18 inches or bigger. Its all good in November.

Tarpon fishing in the channels of the Key West backcountry can be fantastic on some warmer days in November. Book a Key West backcountry fishing charter with us and every day we try to catch a tarpon. What a bonus in the off season.

November holds for me a transitional month for fishing here in Key West. Here at Dream Catchers we really like the ease of the fishing. It takes little or no skill to catch fish and fee like a hero. We regularly take 4 people out and have everyone catching fish all day, it's truly great to see the smiles and hear the stories.

Wrecks and Reef
Traditionally black fin tunas are the ticket offshore on the reef here in Key West for the month of November. Right on the sub wreck or adjacent waters many angler focus their light tackle skills there. Using live bait pilchards for chum bringing these extremely fast football shaped powerful fish right to the transom of our specially designed go fast center consoles. Catch a 20 lb black fin tuna on 12# test spinning gear and HOLD ON what a fight.

Wahoo are also a real treat both November and December just before, during and just after the full moon. We fish for these very powerful fast fish with live bait such as speedos, threadfin's and blue runners. just off the reef not 20 minutes from Key West.

Kingfish start to show up in November in good numbers as well. Not super big fish just yet but many catches in the 20 - 35 lb range for a days fishing is not unheard of.

Kite fishing is fun in November to kick off the start of the sailfish run. Not super consistent in November traditionally but can be really kicking some days. Generally a good cold front with winds from the North East to 20 mph can spark a fire for this fishery.

We dont run a ton of trips to the wrecks and reef in November. Most of this is related to the weather and the fact it is still slower season here. The rest of the world is getting ready for Christmas and Turkey Day and have not really been buried in snow yet. Picking your day is really easy as we are not super slammed.



Deep Sea Blue water
Sailfish, Wahoo, Tuna, Kingfish are all the rage in November 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 gonna 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.



Fishing News
It's happening faster than we can think. I have seen it go before and now it is at EPIC speed and effect. Back in the early 90's I saw the National Marine Sanctuary come in and take over the Florida Keys very fast and against our local vote. This was the beginning of what is coming to the end now for Florida Keys recreational fishing.

A few months ago The SAMFC decided to shut down grouper fishing in the Atlantic for the months of January through April. Everyone said no, they said yes and did it.

A month or so ago we had an exploratory meeting here in Key West about Fishing quotas and catch limits pertaining to the different groups such as Recreational, Charter, and Commercial. They were working off of completely inaccurate data and admitted it.

This week there is a meeting in Key Largo. Tuesday the 10th of November 09'. This is another exploratory to find out who will bitch about them closing the Red Snapper and completely closing fishing deeper than 240 ft of water indefinatly.

As you can see, things are getting tight for our local charter guides here in South Florida and the FLorida keys. With an already crappy economy because of people just like the ones taking away fishing running this country we are headed for even more job losses and making fishermen outlaws just to make a living.

I am not usually one to bitch. My company Dream Catcher Charters is very diverse. We offer both inshore and offshore fishing. So far the rules for inshore have not been affected. However.. Take all the guys who charter offshore and tell them they cant do that any more and see what happens to our inshore fishery. It will be destroyed as 3 times the pressure comes in on it.

People want to fish, take a fish home and eat it. We have practiced stringent catch and release policies to both save the resource and make our people happy. Why shut it down, why not just say, one per person or something like that.

Capt. Steven Lamp...
Twitter "DrCatcher"

Capt. Steven Lamp
Dream Catcher Charters - The Key West Fishing Team
www.fishingkeywest.com
www.chartersofkeywest.com
5555 College Road
Key West, FL 33040
http://www.fishingkeywest.com
888-362-3474

Marathon Angler Says... Wahoo!

Friday, November 20, 2009 Oh What a Wahoo at Holiday Isle Resort & Marina on the Yabba Dabba Doo!


Justin Baker mate of the Yabba Dabba Doo fillets up this 40+ lb Wahoo for the Carlson party from North Carolina!



Fishing had been a little slow the last couple of days as it was just perfect weather for anything but fishing.



Captain Leopold texted me this picture MMS right from the boat.
What happy faces here at Holiday Isle Resort & Marina.

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

Sebastian Flounder Wait For Cooler Water

Mosquito Creek Outdoors Indian River Lagoon Coast Fishing Report,
November 21, 2009

By Captain Tom Van Horn

First and foremost, I would like to wish everyone a joyful Thanksgiving holiday. Although times are tough, I have many blessing to be thankful for, great family, good friends, and fun jobs, and let us not forget those brave men and woman here and abroad, protecting our freedoms, God Bless.

Up Coming Events:
The First Annual Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando's Fishing, Boating and Outdoor Fall Festival will be held on November 28th from 11am to 6 pm at the Barn in Sanford, Florida on Hwy 1792. The one day event is a fund raiser for Anglers For Conservation " Hook Kids on Fishing Program" and it features seminars by our areas leading anglers, new boats, over 40 venders, food by Fish on Fire, fun and games for both kids and adults, and a kid's adventure area provided by Jungle Adventures from Christmas Florida. In addition to the fun, food, seminars and games, over 5000.00 in raffle prizes will be awarded. So please consider supporting this event and the AFC, and I will see you there. The cost is 5.00 at the gate and there is a 2.00 off coupon in November's Coastal Angler Magazine Orlando. For more details visit the Coastal Angler Magazine website and click on the Fall Festival banner at www.coastalanglermagazine.com. Also contact me if you would like to volunteer at the event.

The Orlando Kayak Fishing Club meeting will be held on December 1st at Mosquito Creek Outdoors, 170 South Washington Avenue in Apopka Florida from 7 - 9pm. The guest speaker is renowned fishing guide and author Captain Ron Presley who will be discussing his latest book "Secrets of Florida's Master Anglers". In Captain Ron's book, he ask 20 of Florida's top professional fishing guides statewide focused questions about fishing and conservation, and he has assemble their answers into an easy to read and enjoyable manuscript loaded with tips and information from 20 different Captains including myself. For more details and directions to Mosquito Creek Outdoors, visit their website at www.mosquitocreek.com/fishing.

On December 12th, Anglers For Conservation (AFC) will be conducting the Conservation Angler Certification Class at Mosquito Creek Outdoors, 170 South Washington Avenue in Apopka, Florida. The free event will run from 10am - noon, and the instructors are Captains Rodney Smith, Chris Myers, John Kumiski, and Tom Van Horn. This class will provide anglers with instruction on conservation, boat operations, fish and wildlife handling, good ethics, and leaving a lighter footprint while enjoying the value of our angling and outdoor resources here in Florida. For more details and directions to Mosquito Creek Outdoors, visit their website at www.mosquitocreek.com/fishing.

In 1982 my wife Sandi and I purchased a timeshare apartment in Sebastian, Florida, and 26 years later we're still enjoying our annual one week adventure in Fish Heaven. Life is good while living in paradise, and that is where my adventures carried me last week. You never know what to expect from year to year in late November as weather conditions apply. Over the years we've experienced hard freezes, tropical storms, rainy and windy frontal conditions, and of course, absolutely gorgeous weeks like the one past. In addition to great fishing, it is always pleasurable to see and fish with old and new friends and past clients.

Another challenging event that also varies from year to year is the flounder run. On some years we've loaded the boat and on others, like this year, there were no flat fish to be found. Out of 5 days on the water, we targeted flounder at one point each day, and I only witnessed one small flounder caught. Apparently, our warm fall has not cooled the water temperature enough to trigger the run, so you flounder pounders out there should stay tuned, and maybe the next cold front will trigger the run.

Although the flounder fishing was meager, there is always something to catch at Sebastian as we averaged 40 fish days all week. Our best action came from tossing DOA Shrimp and 12 Fathom swim tails on ¼ ounce jigs with Woodies Rattles at first light in the area of spoil islands along the ICW. We would set start our drift upwind of the islands and we found good numbers of sea trout up to 5 pounds, small redfish, black drum, bluefish, Spanish mackerel, jacks, and ladyfish in close. We also witnessed a good number of pompano skipping around the islands, but we never got any to eat. All in all it was a great week of fishing, and I'm already fantasizing about my return next November.

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
407-416-1187 on the water
407-366-8085 land line

Visit www.mosquitocreekoutdoors.com/fishing for your outdoor adventure needs, its Where the Adventure Begins!

Jensen Beach Fishing Report 11-20-09

FISHING 11/14/09


Finally the wind weapon has slowed, not stopped but slowed. Seas are settling and the bite is on.
Starting on the surf edge, it is that time of the year, Blue fish, Spanish Mac's and Pompano, the cooler water temps will bring them to your toes. Favored bait, spoons, chrome, if it flashes and dashes they have to have it. Size of the spoon depends on your equipment and conditions. Stronger surf means heavier spoons, you need something that will pull in those bigger waves, and wire leaders are necessary, these fish have lots of teeth and they bite through mono. Sun up will be your best time but they are there all day, in and out, 3 to 5 pounds excellent table fare. Pompano for the long cast then move your baits in slowly, they may be at your toes. Sand Fleas and Clam strips top the bait list for pompano, cut baits for the Blues and Macs. When the Whiting show the Snook will be there, so pay attention.
Trout is closed, take the barbs off the hooks for a fast release, they are every where, they know the season is closed. Red fish like the cooler water and will stay in the shallows longer looking for breakfast. Soft rubber baits, medium to small in size are favored and a live shrimp will get them all. From Bear Point south tithe power lines , east or west side, County line south to Conchy Joe's on the west side very busy. Sail Fish flats, around Boy Scout island and south also a busy zone, that is the area where most of the Flounder have been found. Throw in slot Snook, Blue Fish, Ladies and Jacks and I am sure you will busy fishing.
Off shore it was all about Dolphin, in the 200' zone, you had to go that far before the wave were far enough apart to fish. This is a new week and the seas have slowed, pulling bally hoo in 100' zone will find them. Fish in the twenty pound class in good numbers both north and south of the St. Lucie inlet. A few Sails, a few Kings but it was the Dolphin that got all the attention. Quiet seas and cooler temps will make for excellent fishing this week. come on down.
Till next week, PLEASE WATCH THE LITTER, if you bring it out bring it back. It only takes a minute to put a NO FISHING sign but it takes a long time to get them removed.....................................................................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

Panhandle Fishing Report 11-12-09

Report for 11/12/2009 Salt Water


MEXICO BEACH/PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE
The weather is a vast improvement over last weeks & the rough seas are lying down considerably. The grouper bite is improving with the more favorable weather conditions & again this week the reports indicate deeper water for the best catches. Of course, live bait is going to be your best bet & following that are jigs. Braid Slammers & the Shimano Butterfly jigs are doing the job. If you are using traditional styled jigs try tipping them with squid.

ST JOSEPH BAY
You can catch all the trout you like this week. Reports say that they are plentiful & hungry too. Throughout the bay, both trout & redfish are feeding & it should not be too difficult at all to catch your limit. Overall, live shrimp is the ticket. Longer cooler nights are finally putting the redfish into a predictable pattern. Fish the falling tides if you are in the bay. Try to station yourself along channels & the mouths of creeks & bayous as the current begins to flow out. Do not forget to try the intercoastal waterway. Sheepshead, as well as trout & redfish are congregating from the mouth of the ICW beneath the Tapper Bridge all the way up to the T. Again live shrimp is the way to go.

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND BAYS
Flounder are all over the inshore wrecks in large numbers right now. Use live bull minnows or pilchards on a Carolina rig & target the edges of the wrecks. Redfish are starting to move offshore, some are being caught along the beach & in the pass. Amberjack are closed in Federal waters Oct. 24 through the end of the year, state waters are still open, & remember the new 30” length limit. The King Mackerel are still biting very well, look for water temps around 70 degrees or higher, coastal water temps are cooling off & pushing them out. Grouper are being found well offshore from 20+ miles out, best bet is to use large live baits. Wahoo are still being caught from 20-40 miles out. Hi speed trollers, like the Yo Zuri Bonita & Marlin Man, are a sure bet.

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
The White Trout bite is in full swing. They can be found in deep water under the Hathaway & Tyndall Bridges. Use live shrimp on a Carolina rig for best results. The Redfish action is heating up on the flats in East & West Bays. Slowly & quietly drift the flats in 3’ or less water using a ½ ounce Gold Spoon or your favorite Top-water Plug. The Bull Reds are still being caught with live shrimp & pinfish around the jetties. Speckled Trout are biting well on the flats in 3 to 5 feet of water with top-water lures early morning & live shrimp or Gulp under a popping cork later in the day. Larger Trout are being caught free-lining live LY’s. Mangrove Snappers are very plentiful under the bridges & at the jetties. Use live shrimp. Flounder can still be found making their way towards the pass, fish slowly along sandy patches in the grass & drop offs with Bull Minnows or artificial grubs on a jig head.

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.

Trout Come Back Strong

Capt. Dave Sipler's Jacksonville Fishing Reports

"CHARTER FISHING FOR ME ISN'T JUST MY J-O-B. IT'S A LIFE STYLE, THAT I SHARE WITH OTHERS"

Wednesday, November 18, 2009
11/17 - They're back....BIG time.

It always bothers me, when it's November and I'm not finding my Trout friends stacked up like cord wood, East of the boat ramp. Because this is "the time". And for numerous reasons to include gale force winds, high seas, winds from the East, lack of a decent tide. Are just some of the reasons why they seem to vacate the area. With the majority of the frustration, due to not having prime tides and or low winds.
So this morning it was supposed to beautiful, with a high tide in the 9:30-10am range. Which would be perfect for some R&D (research & development) all by my lonesome. It's been enough days after the big blow. And things should be getting back to normal.....Normal for around here!

So I got up early, loaded the boat and took off towards the bait shop. I got 5 dozen live shrimp, and a five gallon bucket of ice. I had the rods rigged, and even brought the heavier tackle, just in case I had to bottom fish for some Black Drum. If I didn't find my Trout friends.

Right as I was about to depart the bait shop, I run into friend, Dr. Dick M. He's a float freak too, and he was coming by to get some shrimp and go hit the river also, in his own boat that he keeps at his dock. In a brief conversation, we decided that he should grab some rods and go on the JETTYWOLF, with me.

So I went to the boat ramp, and he followed after a quick run to get his tackle. This was gonna be great. Two Float-Freaks out doing the R&D stuff.

As we took off, I had a definite plan. A game plan. Which included fishing the rest of the incoming tide in one area, then on the first of the falling on another. Then, if all else fails a few more areas that were ALL East of the boat ramp ONLY!

Well, we weren't on the first spot more than a few minutes, when my first drift of my float had me hooked up with a decent fish.....that I lost! Dick was on his second drift of his float and nailed a BIG fish. I looked at his rod thumping and the run it made on his float rig and we both seemed to be in agreement it was Brutus T. Redbass...."not a Trout".

But what do we know (as serious Trout Trackers!!!) The fish came to the surface and it was a monster Trout!



It was a real Stud......with it's tail bit clean off! We quickly put the fish on the scale and it was around 5 pounds. (I believe, it was possibly heavier) but in the excitement. We just wanted to get lines back in the water, fast!!!

We found them. As Dick caught more Specks, and I was into the Yellowmouths. But the tide was fading fast. So diligently we worked as much out of it as we could. Boxing more Specks up to 18" and Yellowmouth's to 17".



When the tide slowed, the bite slowed too. So I had plans to toss some jig-n-shrimp combo meals over on the north Jetty, in hopes for a Redbass, or Black Drum. Like on Sunday.
Over on the north, it was dead slow. My first hook-up was on a "pup" Red about 16 inches. A few 3" Seabass, and that was it. Dick and I went back to the float-rig...."it is a more relaxing way to fish, no doubt." No hanging up, just set the float's depth and let the shrimp, "do it's thang".

And that's when I was started to play catch-up. While looking over at Dick talking to him, my float went down, I felt the run of line under my thumb as I fed out line. And I set the hook on the most perfect 27 inch Redbass. Which of course was great because it was my target fish....but initially only on a jig. Catching it on the float (in my book) makes it that much more gratifying, of course.



After the nice Red. It was just dead, so we looked around a bit. And decided to try another area.

But before we left, D.O.A. Rob who was sitting next to us hooked up a nice Red on his float rig, too. He was in an all out pursuit to upgrade a Redbass that he needed for one of those "on-line" fishing tournaments. D.O.A. Rob, is pretty addicted to those tournaments. So he was happy he stuck it out and got his fish.



We stopped to talk to a few friends of mine to see what they were doing. And then pulled up to a spot that was usually pretty good, if they Trout are there. Easy to fish, and shallow water.

Well, here is where we ended our day after several hours of pure way-lay. The Trout were stacked up in one spot. And gave us several hours of setting hooks and rod bending action.

As it turned out, I thought the Mangrove Snappers had almost vanished since the big winds of last week. But like my Trout friends, showed back up eating our shrimp, again. And we got a good box of nice keepers. Along with one pesky Sheepshead, that I kept for Mom.



We headed back to the dock to clean our fish, in the day light. But it wasn't long after that the sun went down on one hell of a beautiful, and mighty productive day.

Captain Dave Sipler's Sport Fishing
904-642-9546
charters@captdaves.com
JacksonvilleFishingReports.blogspot.com


Posted by Capt. Dave Sipler at 11/18/2009

Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report 11-18-09

Central Florida Sight Fishing Charters
Capt. Chris Myers
November 17, 2009

Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report

Not much of fishing report to give as I have only been out one time since the last update. Extremely high winds forced the cancellation of some charters and kept me inside until yesterday. The forecast looked good so I decided to check out Mosquito Lagoon and watch the Space Shuttle launch. Unfortunately, the weather was not as predicted. High winds and solid cloud cover made sight fishing nearly impossible. I did find several redfish tailing and fooled them with a 1/4 ounce DOA shrimp. I threw the 5.5 inch DOA CAL in Morning Glory to some sand holes and picked up a few trout over 24 inches as well. The wind never died down but the clouds did give way just before the launch.



The water level is still very high in the Lagoon giving the fish plenty of places to roam. Redfish can be found nearly anywhere but I like to concentrate on the most shallow water I can find. The big trout are holding around sand bars with mullet schools on them. All trout must be released through the end of the year.

Hopefully, the winds will subside and allow for some improved fishing conditions. When they do, look for the reds to be tailing throughout the day. The DOA shrimp and crab are my go to lures for tailing fish.


Upcoming Seminars

Saturday, November 21, 10-12pm - Basic Fly Casting
Mosquito Creek Outdoors, Apopka - Free Class
Call 407-464-2000 to register

Saturday, November 28 - Sight Fishing the Flats
Coastal Angler Magazine Fishing Boating and Outdoors Fall Festival
The Barn - Sanford
Thanks to the Readers
I want to thank everyone who receives this newsletter for their support and positive comments. If you enjoy these reports, please share them with your friends. You can also join my Central Florida Sight Fishing Charters page on Facebook for up to date reports and news.
Holiday Gift Certificates
Gift certificates are available for the holidays for fishing charters or personal fly casting instruction. You will receive a personalized gift certificate. The recipient can contact me upon receipt to reserve a date.
Fly Casting Lesson Winner


Thanks to all that entered the contest for the free fly casting lesson at the Seminole County Tourism Expo last week. The winner was Mike Maslak. If you are interested in getting a fly casting lesson, contact me at 321-229-2848. Gift Certificates are available for the Holidays.

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

Jacksonville Fishing Repotr 11-16-09

Monday, November 16, 2009 11/15 - On deck, class room.
Had Chris M. on board today, of course another reschedule from last Friday. Because of the heinous winds, that took my whole week and jumbled it up. Saturday, I went out to try a new anchor I'm playing with. Since it was also pretty damn nice....finally. And all I can say is after this weekend......"where the hell are all the big Trout?"

Because on Saturday, all I did was go east of the boat ramp and fished for awhile. Didn't even leave till noon. So I could catch some falling tide and incoming as well. And all I came up with was 2- 14 inchers. Is the inconsistency monster out of the cave again???

So I told Chris, let's not leave till 10am. The new moon tide had the water so high it was up in the parking lot of the boat ramp. And I wanted nothing to do with that!

Even at 10am on Sunday. The water was still very high. But we took off and headed east.

Today it was a class room on the boat. Chris did his charter to learn a few things, like #1, how to float-rig fish. But honestly, I figured we just needed to start with the real basics first. And catch a few fish. So since there's no sense in float-rigging for Trout, eastward. We started out pitching jig and shrimp combo meals at the jetties. Jiggin' and Shrimpin'.....oh how it's been awhile since I've done that, myself. But it's getting to be that time of year, for it. And of course this weekend was finally calm enough to head over to the North jetty and give it a try.

Chris got the hang of it right away. And was up on me by four hook-ups, before I could say boo. But they were hook-ups......no fish to the boat. Then, he caught a small pup Black Drum, about 13 inches. Last year, on November 14th, Nick W. and I sat way-laying 25 Black Drum from pups, to 9 pounders, on jigs and shrimp at this exact location. So maybe some bigger ones would come down the rocks, like that again.

Out deep, the bottom fisherman, were catching Black Drum. But as usual, I like it light & active, not deep and heavy . So we pitched some 3/8 oz. jigs. I then connected to a pup Drum. A 14 incher..... Guess nothing this fall is going to be even remotely like last fall?? Because for starters, I wouldn't have to be even doing this. I'd be float-rigging instead.

This fall so far has been mighty inconsistent. One day I'm on them (way back on Nov. 1st: http://jacksonvillefishingreports.blogspot.com/2009/11/111-one-sweet-day.html) and like all week, the Trout toward the East, just seemed to be far and few between on the falling tide.

Chris did catch a 14" Speck on the jig. But it's not like I ever catch a box load of good sized Trout where we were anchored.

Then, we finally got two Redbass, at 27 inches each.



So the tide was down now, so we moved on and took the class room elsewhere. Chris needed to see tackle, couldn't wait to see the float-rig, but it certainly didn't hurt him to know about a jetty standard, such as jig fishing, the rocks.

When all else fails, and you don't want to hang 4-12 ounces on you line. Tie on a jig, pin on a live shrimp, and work the rocks for their inhabitants.

We moved our way down river. Talking about areas to fish, looking at a few spots. Got ate alive by gnats on one area, while I caught a 14" Trout. But the bugs ran us off. So we pulled up on another area, and as the sun went down, we each caught a few Yellowmouths on the float-rig. Packed it in and headed back to the dock in the dark.

Again, on the last spot. The incoming tide was just starting to push in. My timing was perfect. But like it's been lately, there was no specks to be had. Last time I fished this exact spot on the first of the incoming tide. We had no less than 25 Specks and 10 Yellowmouth up to 5 pounds, boxing our 10 limit and catching more for the fun of it. Today? Not a Speck in sight. Yep, bit again by the inconsistency monster?

If Chris learned one thing and one thing only. It's that whatever you did last week, or even yesterday, doesn't mean anything. Because it all changes, in as little as over night sometimes.
I feel sorry for the guy who fishes once or twice a month.....sometimes.

But I believe, his day of learning a few things, which was the objective was worth him booking his day. And he went home with plenty of meat, too. He went home with two Yellowmouths, a pup Drum, and two 27 inch Redbass, to clean. Too bad we fished till dark, because he may have benefited from a fish cleaning class also.

My fellow Trout freak friend, D.O.A. Rob, went kayak fishing on Sunday too. He called me and said he only caught one Trout all day. But it was a 5 pounder! But he's like me, I think. He'd take 20, two pounders over one 5 pounder, any day.


BTW....here's Nov. 14th last year. Float-rigging the Jetties and pitchin jigs at the jetties, that's all, not one single sinker on the bottom, with Nick W. This is only what were were allowed to keep:




Captain Dave Sipler's Sport Fishing
904-642-9546
charters@captdaves.com
JacksonvilleFishingReports.blogspot.com

Posted by Capt. Dave Sipler at 11/16/2009

The Promise of Fall October 16, 2009




The weather man says that fall weather is coming tomorrow. He said the same thing two weeks ago. I want to believe him this time but it’s hard to do considering the excessive heat we’ve had to deal with this past week. However, this time it looks like his prediction is for real. So, I’m excited. Luckily, although the typical fall fishing hasn’t arrived yet, typical summer fishing has been great. Spanish mackerel, bluefish, bonita, sharks, trout and a few nice snook have been willing participants every day. I just can’t wait for cooler weather so that the redfish will begin schooling up in great numbers again.

This past week we had catch numbers in the 50+ range of mackerel, trout and even some awesome upper slot snook. Even though the water temps haven’t dropped yet from the summer heat, the snook’s internal clocks are telling them to start heading for the creeks. And that’s exactly where we’ve found them. Trout on are the grass flats in 4-8 feet of water and though they are typically smaller while water temps are still warm, we’re getting plenty of keepers for dinner. The mackerel have been veracious and all have been keeper size near the area passes.

This weekend’s cooler weather, should the weather man be right, could be just what the doctor ordered to kick off another great fall redfish bite. Every Fall, with the cooler weather, redfish group up in hordes. It is tremendous fun finding groups of fish in the hundreds that are turned on by the higher oxygen levels that cooler water temps bring. Prowling the grass flats, they seek and destroy any editable nugget they can find and when they run into us, we wreck ‘em. The Tarpon Springs and New Port Richey areas really come alive in the fall with redfish. Areas with shallow turtle grass flats with patchy bottom, oyster bars and submerged limestone rubble mixed in are places where these newly schooling fish will gather. The crystal clear water that the cooler water temps bring help us find the fish as we can often see them rolling on their sides, flashing their signature copper sides, from a distance. We’ll approach the fish slowly and quietly so not to disturb them and present them with scaled sardines which they have a hard time refusing.

High temps in the upper 70’s are predicted for next week! It should be a blast. Bring a light jacket for the morning run out and then enjoy Florida at it’s best in shorts and t-shirts by 10am. Nothing beats Fall fishing in the Tampa Bay area.

Tight lines and leave some fish out there for me!


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

Middle Keys Sailfish Red Hot

Monday, November 16, 2009
Sailfish season in full effect in the Keys!

The dropping water temperatures in the Fla. Keys signal one thing: the beginning of red hot Sailfish action!! Every boat that went out yesterday from Holiday Isle marina caught and released the targeted species of the season: SAILFISH!



A group of lady anglers from the Ladies Let's Go Fishing Program went out on the Killer White with Capt. Aaron Brower and Capt. Bruce Anderson performing first mate duties. Julie Johnson, Lizzette, Aimee Riley, Laurie Beals and Beth Beals had a blast catching 2 Sailfish, 2 Kingfish, 2 Yellowtails and a Cero. Way to go ladies!!

Meanwhile, aboard the Capt. JR with Capt. JR Rudzin, returning customers Ken and Myra Trull caught a whole bunch of nice fish as usual! The couple from Davidson, N.C. caught a Sailfish, 2 large Mutton snappers, 2 Barracudas, 1 Kingfish, 1 Cero and a Yellowtail snapper. Quite a Florida Keys offshore sampler!!



(A lovely lady in pink, Myra Trull from North Carolina, with a lovely and large pink Mutton Snapper! Dinner time!!)



And finally, the Sailfish champions for the day were a group of anglers from Ofallon, MO who caught and released 3 beautiful Sailfish aboard the Dee Cee with veteran Capt. Chuck Schimmelman and first mate John. Janet Laurie, Henry Laurie and Kathy O'Brien had a Florida Keys fishing trek they won't soon forget!

If you too would like to have a memorable Florida Keys fishing adventure of your own, just contact me Ernie or Nicki at 305 664 2321 x 642 to book an exciting offshore fishing trip with the best Captains in the biz, the experienced captains of Holiday Isle Resort and Marina! See you and your catch "REEL" soon!!

Posted by Let's Fish at 7:14 AM

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

Sebastian Inlet Flounder Run

Mosquito Creek Outdoors Indian River Lagoon Coast Fishing Report,
November 13, 2009

By Captain Tom Van Horn

As you step outside here in Orlando, you will clearly notice winter is in the air. Earlier this week, squally conditions brought on by a late season tropical blow, Ida, settled in across Florida and the southeast states and was eventually pushed out into the Atlantic by a cold front. Although Central Florida did not experience a significant rain event, clashing barometric pressure systems created increased winds which blew out any chance of safely fishing the near-shore and offshore waters of Florida as a whole. These blustery and cloudy conditions also shut down sight fishing opportunities on the inshore Lagoons, so I opted to take advantage of the situation by keeping my feet dry ground and prepare for my week of fishing ahead in the Sebastian Inlet area.

For the past 20 or so years, Sandi and I have migrated south to Sebastian Inlet for our one week pilgrimage on a quest for flat fish (southern and gulf flounder). This quest is always a wager due to the temperament of Mother Nature. On some years we have hit it right and loaded the boat with flounder, and on others, we missed the run by not hitting the conditions right. Flounder usually start moving through the Inlet when water temperatures reach 68 degrees along the beach and our warm fall has kept the water temperatures elevated well within the 70 degree mark. Although the flounder may not be running, there are many other specie of fish to catch.

Currently, it looks as though the weather will remain blustery through Sunday, but after that, there are some fishable days in the forecast. Either way it doesn't matter much because I'll be on vacation and in fish heaven rain or shine, so stand by for the details in my next adventure.

If you chose to fish in the lagoons, try fishing in the leeward areas of the causeways and shorelines and work in close to the bank. Many of the redfish caught in the past few weeks have been loaded with small oyster and fiddler crabs, so look in very close and try fishing with small soft plastics like the DOA CAL, Shrimp or Crab in green and brown shads. Additionally, the water may still be warm enough for snook and ladyfish so give that a shot, epically in the southern reaches of the lagoon. Lastly, remember sea trout season is closed until January 2010.
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
407-416-1187 on the water
407-366-8085 land line


Visit www.mosquitocreekoutdoors.com/fishing for your outdoor adventure needs, its Where the Adventure Begins!

Sarasota Bay Fishing Report 11-14-09

Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Report for 11/7 through 11/13/09

Anglers fishing with me on the Snook Fin-Addict, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, caught and released trout, bluefish and pompano on jigs and flies on a couple of trips this week. We fished deep grass flats on both sides of the bay as we dodged wind from Hurricane Ida, which was passing us by in the gulf.

Dick Meeker, from Aspen, CO, and his son-in-law, Jeff, fished Sarasota Bay from Stephens Point to Long Bar with me on Tuesday. They caught and released a dozen or more trout to 22” on CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms. Jeff also hooked a large bluefish, but it was able to bite through our heavy fluorocarbon leader before we put out hands on it.

With the wind clocking around to the west, Norm and Francie Boardman, from Sarasota, fished the west side of the bay with me on Wednesday. The afternoon was better than the morning, but they caught and released 12 or 15 trout to 22” and a 4-pound pompano on CAL jigs with shad tails and Clouser flies.

Next week’s negative low tides in the morning should be good for reds, snook and catch and release trout in potholes of Sarasota Bay. Look for action with little tunny and Spanish mackerel to get hot off the beaches when the coastal gulf calms. CB’s Saltwater Outfitters will be holding their Fishing Extravaganza on Saturday, November 21st from 9 AM to 4 PM. The event will feature seminars, including Mark Nichols of DOA Fishing Lures, fly casting, fly tying, fishing boats on display and clothing and fishing tackle on sale. Contact CB’s at (941) 349-4400 for more info.

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



DickMeekerSBCALjigtrout2 caption-Dick Meeker, from Aspen, CO, caught and released this nice trout on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.



NormBoardmanSBCALjigpompano caption-Norm Boardman, from Sarasota, FL, with a 4-pound pompano caught by his wife, Francie, on a CAL jig with a shad tail in Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.

Monster Reds Abound!!!

Monster Reds Abound!!!
Report Date: November 4, 2009



Checkout this great underwater shot of a nice Refish. These fish don't hesitate sucking up a Berkley Gulp!!

Finally, the dog days of summer are behind us. Passing cold fronts and cooling winds have finally prevailed and our fish are finally starting to take hold of their fall and winter feeding grounds. Shallow flats, deep holes and scattered oysterbars are all targeted terrains during this transition phase. Some are better than others but at least most of our fish have returned from their summer time, deep water haunts. With the cooling temps and lack of rain you can really notice the water starting to clear up for the winter. Normally our local waters are crystal clear year round but when the summer rains have subsided and the runoff is all ran out our local waters and flats become so clear you spot a tailing fish from a great distance away.

Spotting tailing fish is prime right now with a variety of tailing species feeding heavily for the winter. Redfish, Speckled Trout, Sharks, Cobia and even Huge Black Drum have been targeted while tailing in inches of water and should remain in this phase for another month or two. Talk about a rush! It is one thing to target Big Fish, but it is a whole other ball game when you target Big Fish is shallow water that you can actually see. Normally, when we target tailing fish we arm ourselves with a variety of different baits and artificials. I have had my best luck using live shrimp with a bare 1/0 or 2/0 circle hook. The circle hook is preferred because most of the fish we are targeting are Way Out of the 27” slot. As for artificials you can not beat a Berkley Gulp! Shrimp Texas rigged with a 1/0 worm hook. Johnson spoons and Rapala Skitterwalks also work well but remember when a fish has his face deep in the grass or the rock he/she is more or less foraging around for hidden shrimp and crabs. The key when fishing these tailing fish is to first take 2 Deep Breaths. The second step is keep an eye on which way the fish is facing. And finally place your bait 4-5 ft in front of the fish and watch its reaction. Normally it only takes a second from a hungry Redfish and your bait and line will be off to the races.



Dick Beard toped his previous Redfish by sight casting to this 33" PIG!

If you don’t believe me as Dick Beard who was fortunate enough to find out just how fun and exciting it can be to catch a Monster Redfish that you actually can see. Fishing in less than a foot of water and with our eyes glued to every flicker and disturbance in sight Dick and I all spotted this huge fish from a great distance away. After Dicks first cast was engulfed by a hiding 15” Rat Red, Big Daddy became a little excited. Dick’s second cast with a live shrimp didn’t last 10 seconds before Big Daddy lit up like a Christmas tree and immediately engulfed his jumbo shrimp. After a 10 minute battle through the mangroves and kelp grass we were finally able to put this 33” 13lb Redfish in the net. After a few great pictures this fish was released to bring more enjoyment and excitement to another lucky angler.

All in all the last 3 weeks have led to some of the most awesome fishing action I have seen all year. Huge schools of Black Drum, Huge Tailing Reds, and Monster Sharks on the prowl. Now is the time if you want a shot at fish of a life time. So if a long drag screaming run and an unforgettable fight is what you have been craving give Red Hot Fishing Charters a call today.



What a Black Drum!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Capt. Kyle Messier
(352) 634-4002
kylemessier@yahoo.com
WWW.REDHOTFISHINGCHARTERS.COM

Watch The Weather For Best Fall Fishing

Tampa Fishing Reports November 2009 Fishing Report Monday, 02 November 2009 16:09 | Written by Stewart Ames



Summer is begrudgingly giving way to fall, as the first few cold fronts have pushed their way into the area. This time of year can provide some of the very best fishing but watching the weather is very important. Fishing immediately preceding a front can be outstanding...the next day, however, may be one that leaves you wondering if there are any fish within miles of you. Wind direction is also key. Light or east winds mean clear water, which means that bait, and everything that eats it, will be closer to shore. These are the days when kingfish can be caught just a stone's throw from the beach. Let those northwest winds start to blow though and the near shore bite, and bait, will disappear. All of the above has already played out in October and will continue on in to November.

There were numerous days of very good fishing in the last month, both inshore and near shore. Mackerel and the occasional small to medium sized kingfish were several hundred yards from the beach on some mornings and provided great light tackle sport. Other days, fish were a little deeper at the five mile reefs. Fishing over these structures usually yielded good catches of snapper and big mackerel, plus the occasional kingfish, bonita, cobia or grouper. Using spinning tackle in the 15 to 30 lbs class made this fishing both exciting and challenging. A small split shot would do the trick for snapper but when the surface bite would get going, throwing out a medium sized white bait on a #1/0 hook attached to a 4 inch piece of wire would result in steady action from a variety of fish.



Inshore, snook were scarce this month but some unseasonably large trout were already in residence. Usually, our 20 inch plus trout don't show up in numbers until late November but numerous large fish were found this last month, mostly in areas with access to deeper water. Fly lined pilchards on #1/0 hooks on 20 lbs flourocarbon leader were the ticket. Once pockets of these fish were located they could be chummed into a frenzy, at times. Consistent with what's expected this time of year, many of these trout were12 to 15 inches, but the occasionally big boy would show up. Do remember that, in the south region(south of Fred Howard Park), trout season is closed for the months of November and December.



October is historically an outstanding redfish month. The early part of the month lived up to expectations, both in terms of numbers and size of fish. The last few weeks were sporadic at best. With strong tides in the first week of November, hopefully we'll see some good numbers of fish before they begin to thin out for the winter.



Large breeders should be available for the next month on near shore rock piles and at the mouths of passes so, if you want to catch the redfish of a lifetime, use large baits such as medium pinfish or large chunks of cut ladyfish with a sinker to hold them in place. Cast these out and be patient. Using big baits serves two purposes...first, it's what these big reds want and second, smaller fish are discouraged from messing around with these over-sized portions, allowing more time for a big red to find the bait.

As long as our water temps stay in the seventies, there are a broad range of fish to be caught. Some of our best weather of the year is here right now, so get out on the water and enjoy it. 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

© 2007 Captain Stewart Ames, Gone Fishing Charters, Tampa, FL
727-421-5291

Last Updated (Tuesday, 03 November 2009 22:50)