Apalachicola Fishing Report 3- 2012

Dr. Rob Bartosh takes a a well deserved "Fishing Break"!

80 Degrees in March? This spring break is proving to be the most favorable weather-wise in years! Forcast is for the unseasonably warm weather to continue at least into next week. For beach goers the water is swimmable and for you fishermen/women on my fishing report list, The Redfish are Biting! Oh, and so are the speckled trout. The warm weather now bodes well for our summer fishing season - we are so looking forward to being out on the water!

Dr. Bartosh fished with Capt. Tommy Holland on Friday March 9th when he caught the above Bull Redfish over 30".



Scott Johnson - 33 inch Redfish

Scott & Ray Johnson spent March 10th on the boat with Capt. Ken Finch where they both hooked up on some beautiful Reds...



Ray Johnson 30" Redfish

So, after this Pictorial essay, must I use my words to entice you to make your Spring Break Fishing plans NOW?

April-May Redfishing / Flats and Bay trips are still open and we do still have June & July Tarpon dates available. Capt. Chris Robinson had a cancellation for April 6,7 & 8 in Key West for Permit & Tarpon - first call, first served!

Capt. Bruce Millinder is back this year with his 36 foot Hattaras and Capt. Ken & Capt. Grayson are both offshore & inshore guides.

Cypress N Honey (Suite B at 44 Ave. E) has April - July availability if staying in Apalach is appealing.

Hope you have a bright & shiny weekend!
Don't forget the sunscreen!

Kathy Robinson (Realtor & Fishwife)
Robinson Brothers Guide Service
44 Avenue E - Apalachicola, Florida
www.FloridaRedfish.com
850-653-8896 or 877-6Redfish

Panhandle Fishing Report 8-26-2011

Report for 08/25/2011


Salt Water

PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
This week’s report includes an increase in flounder caught in the gulf canal and Intracoastal Waterway on live bull-minnows fished on a Carolina rig style. Scalloping remains good with the easiest and best scallop numbers coming from the flats between Presnell’s Marina and Oak Grove on the east side of the bay. On the west side, try between Blacks Island and Pigs Island in water waist-deep and deeper.

Reports of redfish are coming from the west side of the bay along the channel, starting outside the fire tower all the way to Pompano Point. Hit the flats early morning and late afternoon for your best chances at both the trout and redfish. A few flounder caught in the channels off Blacks Island and in the intracoastal canal on live bull-minnows fished on a Carolina rig along the drop-offs.

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
There are a lot of King mackerel catches being reported from both wrecks and around the buoys. Further out some nice sized Wahoo catches trolling high speed lures like the Yo-zuri bonito or a panhandler. A fair amount of Cobia have showed up lately. A welcome surprise for all involved. Most have been in the forty to fifty pound range but a few were pushing sixty pounds. Amberjack are definitely on the menu, lots of nice sized fish being jigged up or live baited. You will catch a few short fish but you will be able to get your keeper as well. There is nothing like a few reef donkeys to top off an offshore trip. There are plenty of Black snapper, Trigger fish, White snapper, and Bee liners to help fill the box on your bottom fishing trip, and on your way out or back in you will likely find some weed lines with Mahi-mahi or Triple tail on them. So many fish, so little time!!

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
Still a good Bull Redfish bite in the deeper channels and the pass, outgoing tide seems to be the best time to find them. They will hit just about any live bait, but a small live blue crab will definitely get slammed. Do not be surprised to see Tarpon rolling in the bay, or in the pass. It is also worth slipping up on crab balls and buoys in the bay looking for Tripletail. A few have been spotted recently and I am sure some have hit the dinner plate. A wily target for sure, but well worth the effort. Smaller Reds and Speckled trout are hitting well in the early morning, but can still be coaxed into a strike later in the day. Three to four feet of water seems to be their preferred depth, unless it has just rained and cooled the top layer of water down. Plan your trip for moving water, by that I mean a rising or falling tide, not slack tide. Remember, you need to run the boat so the gas does not go bad (here is your next excuse to skip mowing the grass!!).

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
The piers have been holding a lot of Spanish mackerel with some Bluefish and Ladyfish mixed in. A few King mackerel reported in the morning and late afternoon. Undersize Cobia are hanging around the pilings teasing everyone and feeding on the pretty good sized schools of baitfish (cigar minnows and herring). But there have been a couple of keeper sized fish caught. A pretty good run of Pompano came through last week and the week before. Some are still getting caught but the action has slowed a bit. Some Whiting are within reach of the surf anglers who have persevered through the August heat and the seaweed. Yes we are still battling the “green stuff” in the surf; doesn’t the June grass have a calendar? Some days are better than others and lately it seems to be clearing up.

DESTIN
Bottom fishing for Triggers and Mingo snapper in water 85-150 feet has been pretty good. The Amberjack have been good fishing live bait or butterfly jigging on the edge and big offshore wrecks in water 150-300 feet deep.

Trolling has been producing a few Kings near shore but many more trolling in the Nickey grounds, 18’s and timber holes. There are a few Blackfin tuna but they should be getting better by the day. For Wahoo and Dolphin the only pretty water I know of is a small patch running from the Ozark out towards the nipple.

Surprisingly the trout have started to bite pretty good at night under the dock lights even though it is very hot, Plenty of reds around most of the bridges. I would also expect the flounder to start to bite here any day.

On the jetties a few ladyfish, some blues and a few hard tails. In the surf and on the pier things have been fairly slow.

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.

Florida Panhandle Fishing Report 8-12-2011

Report for 08/07/2011
Salt Water


PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE

Lots of good reports from charters, local anglers and out of town-ers catching keeper Amberjack. No shortage of smoker King mackerel either, the bait has been easy to find and you can definitely tell from the smiles, stories and yes even proof positive, pictures! The heat has been nearly un-bearable, but those who have been able to talk themselves out have been rewarded with some really good fish. With the water temperature approaching bath water levels you will need to go deep when trolling. Lots of schoolie Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) getting caught anywhere there are sargasso weed lines, and there are plenty. Bee liners, Triggers, Red grouper and Black snapper are pretty plentiful out there as well. There have also been several nice sized (40/50lb. ) Cobia caught off the wrecks lately!!! It is always cooler out on the water than on land, so put up the bimini top or bring along a sombrero and get you some!

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM

Bull Reds, Spanish, Bluefish and Bonita reported in the pass early in the morning on the falling tide. This makes it difficult to decide between a steel leader or flouro-carbon. Steel is the safe way to go but it might cost you the attention of a Bull redfish. There have been a few reports of Tripletail in the bay this past week, so keep an eye peeled for these wary, sideways swimming delicacies. Crab buoys, or any other floating object can hold them. Several reports of Tarpon getting launched in the bay, watch for their tell tale roll and try to land your offering well ahead of them so not to spook them while still being in their path. Not easy, but if it was easy, everybody would be doing it! Trout and smaller reds have been harder to find, I am sure this is due to water temps, work a drop off "downstream" of a grass flat would be my suggestion. Early or late should yield best results.

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER

King mackerel are still getting caught but it is not gang busters all day, mornings and believe it or not night time have been best. Watch the fishing forecast for the best times and you will be using all the tools at your disposal to properly apply your "sweat equity". A fair amount of Spanish mackerel, not too many Bonita and some Ladyfish are getting caught but again this can be hot, then cold (you know how it goes). Large Redfish are feeding around the piers on the cigar minnows schooled up around the pilings. Frozen will work but a live wiggler will definitely work better so bring along a sabiki rig to catch your own. Surf fishing has been very difficult at best due to the June grass, so callahead to see the conditions or have a plan "B".

NAVARRE

PIER
King Mackerel- Some kings have been caught this week. Most anglers are using live cigar minnows, threadfin herring and hard tails. However frozen cigar minnows will work in a pinch. Baits are rigged with 40# to 60# wire leaders using a single treble or double hook stinger rig.

Spanish Mackerel- The Spanish bite can be hot and cold. There have been some caught this week using live cigar minnows, frozen cigar minnows and frozen LY’s. These baits are usually rigged with 18# to 40# wire using a single treble hook. Good artificials include the Gotcha plug, silver spoons and the local bubble rig.

Whiting- The Whiting bite has remained steady over the last week. Fresh peeled shrimp fished on the bottom will produce fish.

Pompano- There are still a few fish around. Live sand fleas and shrimp fished on the bottom will produce fish. Pompano jigs will also take them.

Bonito- There have been some caught in the last few days. Any fast moving spoon or jig will get the job done.

Redfish- A few Reds have been caught this week. Anglers are using live cigar minnows, hard tails, pinfish, live shrimp or cut mullet or menhaden . You can catch them with a fish finder rig and a circle hook.

SURF
Pompano- There are still some fish around. Best baits are live shrimp and sand fleas. Although fresh dead shrimp will work well. Most anglers are using a two hook bottom rig fished in a cut in the sand bars. Weight used is determined by the tide current and the sea conditions.

Redfish- Anglers are catching some big bull reds while fishing for Pompano. The will hit the same baits, but don’t be afraid to try some cut mullet or LY’s.

Sharks- There are several species to catch and area anglers have been catching Black Tip, Spinners and Bull sharks. Most shark fisherman are fishing high capacity reels with 80# test line on a 50# to 100# rod. They are using fresh Bonito or Skipjack for bait and using a 6’ leader of at least 400# test with large circle hooks. They are placing the bait usually behind the first sand bar.

Skipjack (Ladyfish)- These are all through the surf and they have been caught all this week. They are not particular on what they hit. Live sand fleas and shrimp work well. Frozen shrimp, cut mullet and cut LY will work too. Almost any artificial spoon, plug, fly or jig moving at a very high speed will catch them.

Whiting- The Whiting bite remains steady. These are being caught using a two hook bottom rig with live shrimp or peeled fresh dead shrimp.

INSHORE
Speckled Sea Trout- Fishing for the trout has been very good all this week. I have had good reports of them being caught off the grass flats in 5’ to 7’ of water. Live shrimp is a great bait fished under a popping cork. A live Croker, Finger Mullet or Pinfish is also a great bait. They can be fished on a cork or on the bottom. Good artificials include silver spoons, DOA Shrimp, Yozuri Crystal minnows, MirroLure Mirrodine lures and Berkeley Gulp soft plastics.

Redfish- These have been caught on the grass flats as well with the same baits used for Trout. Although don’t leave home without a Johnson Silver Minnow in gold. Deep water docks, dock pilings and bridge pilings are all good places to find Redfish. There can be some good top water action early in the morning casting Skitter Walks and Top Dogs on the flats

Flounder- I have heard of some flounder being caught around structure this last week. Most anglers are using bull minnows, tiger minnows and finger mullet. I use as light of weight as possible when fishing with live bait for these. Don’t over look the jig and grub combination or jig and Berkley Gulp combination.

OFFSHORE
Trigger Fish- You can find these on the artificial reefs. I have had good reports of fish being caught on squid and cut Bonito. Use a fairly small hook to get these fish to take the bait.

Red Snapper- This season is now closed for harvesting. These fish are everywhere! From 2miles out of the pass to the edge. Live cigar minnows, threadfins, hard tails, pinfish and grunts all work well. Frozen squid, cigar minnows and Bonito chunks will work as well. Butterfly, Bomber and Williamson jigs will catch them too. Look for them on the artificial reefs and natural bottom.

Black Snapper- Good reports of these this week. Fish the same way as you would for the Red Snapper.

Scamp- These have been caught this week as well. You can use a lot of the same baits as with snapper, although live pinfish with the top fin cut off and the tail trimmed work for me. Look for them on any natural bottom or artificial reef.

Grouper- Don’t forget that Black and Gag are closed. However there are some Red grouper available. These will inhabit the same natural bottom and artificial reefs as their cousins and the Red Snappers. Live baits will produce fish, but so will the Butterfly, Bomber and Williamson jigs.

Amberjack- This season opened on August 1. Deep water wrecks in 60’ to 200” should hold some good fish. Live baits and Butterfly type jigs will catch their share.

King Mackerel- There have been kings caught on the beach all the way out to the edge. A favorite way among anglers is to cast out a fly line rig with a live bait while you are bottom fishing. Also, trolling a live cigar minnow, hard tail or large menhaden will produce good fish. Trolling a duster rig with a frozen cigar minnow is a tried and true method. Rapala, Yozuri and Stretch 25 / 30 are all good lipped diving plugs that catch fish.

Wahoo- There were some good catches last week around the Nipple and Spur. These fish can be caught on the Yozuri Bonito in purple/black and hot pink/black. A Wahoo Whacker is another great bait. These fish like to hang out around weed lines as well, so be prepared.

Dolphin- I have had reports of good fish being caught on some flotsam around the edge this week. Most fish have been in the 5# to 20# range. Look for anything that is floating on the water. Use a stealthy approach and make a cast to it with a jig or live bait. Sometimes you can chum them up with cut cigar minnows, and then stick a hook in one of the cigar minnow pieces. I have not heard of any weed lines this week, but they are very good to troll along the edges of. A tolled naked ballyhoo is one of my favorite baits.

Tuna- Schools of Black fin have been found within 20 miles. Look for birds working the water. Diamond and small Butterfly jigs are great lures to use. Also small poppers worked on the surface will take these fish. The Yellowfin report has been a little spotty. Last report I had was from a boat working the oil rigs 70 miles out. They caught some fish in the 60# to 100# range on chunk baits and trolling cedar plugs.

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.

Florida Panhandle Sailfish

Report for 07/22/2011

Salt Water


PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
Well, Red snapper is closed along with Gag grouper and Amberjack so there is a lot of talk about it not being worth going out. Hang in there though, Amberjack opens back up August 1st, and Gag grouper will re open for recreational fishermen September 15th through November 16th. In the mean time, there is a pretty hot pelagic bite, Kings, Mahi Mahi , and Wahoo have been found along the weed lines. Be sure to be ready for the finicky Triple tail, you will need a lighter rig for them, say 15-20 lb. flourocarbon leader and a small hook with a live shrimp or other small live bait. Some artificial baits will work as well, but sometimes you can not beat the attraction of a livey. Some days the weed line is close to shore, and some it is out a ways. High speed trolling lures are a good way to go on the hunt while still fishing. You are out there to catch fish and you can not catch fish with out a hook in the water!

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
Still a lot of reports of oversize Reds in the pass, and at both Tyndall and Hathaway bridges. Speckled trout and smaller Reds have been reported in good numbers in North bay, and West bay at day break. This early morning high tide we are experiencing is responsible for that. Those fishing with larger baits were catching fewer, but better quality fish. Flounder seem to still be around and local anglers are pretty tight lipped about where. Can you blame them? Don't despair though, this just gives you an excuse to try some new spots and tactics.



Tyler Weldon of Sugar Hill GA caught a 78 inch sailfish, Panama City 3 miles @ the whistle buoy using light tackle he was flat lining cigar minnows with a 4/0 circle hook! .

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
A few reports of Kings and Spanish mackerel at both the county and city pier. Bonita are there as well feeding on the schools of L Y's that have been spotted lately. This has also attracted schools of large Redfish. There has been a lot of June grass along the beach which has made surf fishing difficult but these conditions change daily, so if you are wanting to fish the surf have a plan B just in case the grass is a problem. Those that have managed to catch something have moved around until they found relatively clear water, and of those reports some Whiting, Ladys and Bluefish were reported.

DESTIN
We have heard of some nice trigger fish and Mingo snapper in water 65 to 150 ft both southeast and southwest of the pass. There have been some Red groupers on the east beach and along the edge. Wahoo and Dolphin are on the south edge and out to the Flats, 131 hole and nipple area. Kings are good along the beach and out to the timber holes. Amberjack season opens in a few days, August 1st.

Surf fishing is producing a few ladyfish and hardtails during the day and sharks at night. On the pier tarpon at first light and a few late in the day, Kings have been slow in the pier. On the jetties, lots of small jacks, a little redfish action and a few ladyfish make for a great day of fishing. In the bay, a good bite of trout, a few reds and some flounder. Almost all of the good bay fishing is under dock lights and bridges after dark.

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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 6-23-2011

Report for 06/20/2011


Salt Water


PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
The flounder caught this week came mostly from under the George C. Tapper Bridge and off the oil docks at PSJ marina. Bull minnows Carolina rigged with a size 1 circle hook using fluorocarbon leader material and a 1 oz or smaller egg weight is the bait of choice. The Spanish Mackerel caught off the oil dock wall is much improved this week and trolling off the tip of Cape San Blas peninsula will be productive too. Pompano are still with us and the hot spots are still the stump hole at Cape San Blas and along the Beach of St Joseph Park and a few at east beach and Mexico Beach. Most fish are being caught using shrimp on a double hook pompano rig. The Trout fishing has picked up with some nice 20” plus fish being caught in 4-6’ water outside the grass flats. A few hot spots are around Black’s island and in the channel by Pigs bayou. Some Redfish schools are working the flats between Eagle harbor and the tip of the cape.

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
Snapper are definitely on the menu! They are pretty easy to find and some very nice sized specimens are being hauled in on a regular basis. The water has warmed considerably and this has pushed the Kings and Mahi out to cooler waters, say twenty miles or so. Of course, every day is different and if a good southeasterly wind persists, we will get some cooler bluer water in a little closer. Some really nice catches of Triggers, Bee liners, and Red grouper have been reported. It's plenty hot, bite wise and temperature wise, so bring along some shade and plenty to drink because there are some quality fish out there waiting for your hook.

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
Really good reports on the Speckled Trout bite from West bay all the way to East bay just before the high tide when the relatively cooler gulf water is pushing up into the bay. Smaller reds will also be found at this time. If you find schools of LY's you have found fish. Bigger reds still working the channels and they are not very finicky, any good live bait will do but a live crab will do best. Reports of Flounder are still pretty strong with bigger ones in deeper water down current of a grass flat, like deep water and redfish points.

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
The King Mackerel bite has slowed lately but there are still a few being caught. There are very few if any Spanish. Bonita and Ladyfish are getting caught pretty regularly and will make good bait for the sharks that are also readily available. Big Redfish are hanging around the piers and will give a run for your money, but will probably be too big to keep. Be sure not to gaff them as there are rules against gaffing a fish that is either over or under size. There has been some live cigar minnows but not a lot. Live bait has been a little difficult to find and catch lately I'm told, so you may want to bring along some frozen as back up. The surf fishing scene seems to be rather slow, save for some Black tips and the occasional Catfish, but it still beats a stick in the eye!



PROOF THERE ARE STILL LARGE RED SNAPPER OUT THERE
31lb. Red Snapper caught aboard the Captain Mike docked at Captain Anderson's Marina

DESTIN
Fishing is fantastic. Red snapper continue to dominate the docks along with some huge wahoo.

Bottom Fishing Red snapper are plentiful in water from 60 to 200ft deep. You can almost pick your favorite method and it will surely work. I fished last Thursday with the Charter Boat Lady Em and I did very well butterfly jigging. The other people on the boat almost seemed to do better on fresh bonita strips than live cigar minnows. Included in our catch was plenty of mingo snapper, trigger fish, about a 12lb black snapper, and 3 nice red grouper. We fished in 100 to 125 of water down the east beach.

Trolling near shore Kings are on again and off again this week. We are on a full moon so the king bite is very early in the morning, very late in the day and a short run for an hour or so around noon. Lots of bonita, a few Spanish, and dolphin.

Trolling off shore About 35 mile almost due south or 10 miles south of the Ozark there has been a nice color change with quite a few wahoo and dolphin. Further off shore, just south of the spur has been another nice area with some yellowfin tuna and several blue marlin.

Pier Fishing A few kings again very early and very late, and a few tarpon hooked this week. Hardtails and ladyfish have been very plentiful and a few reds and blues are being caught after dark.

NAVARRE


SURF
Hopefully the weather will stabilize a little this week and offer some fishing opportunities. Area fishermen have been experiencing some of the best fishing in recent memory. We should see good numbers of Jack Crevalle in the 20# range as well as small schools of bull Redfish. The Jacks are hitting best on top water poppers and Rapala Skitterwalks. The Black Tip Shark bite is also heating up. Live Hardtails or cut mullet have been the go to bait. The Pompano bite has remained steady with most fish being landed on fresh dead shrimp and live sand fleas when you can find them. On calmer days Kayak fisherman can reach the King Mackerel just at the drop off in 20’ of water. Look for the schools of threadfins and cigar minnows and troll with deep diving hard baits. Try trolling live baits around these baitfish schools as well.

SOUND AND BAYS
Area anglers can expect to see great Trout fishing around the grass flats from Tiger Point to the grass flats just east of the bridge. Redfish and Flounder are also in the same waters with most of the fish caught on live shrimp under a popping cork. Also try using a 1/4oz jig tipped with a GULP! shrimp or jerk shad under the same popping cork. The DOA popping cork and shrimp is a good combination also. There have also been plenty of Trout and Redfish landed in East Bay from the Garcon Point bridge up to the power lines crossing the entrance to the East River.

NEAR SHORE – GULF
King Mackerel are still the hot bite near shore and continue to bite strong in and around the passes and inshore reefs in 60 to 80 feet of water. Trolling or fly lining live cigar minnows when anchored up has been the top producer. Dolphin continue to show up in increasing numbers especially around anglers fishing for bottom species. Just remember to have a rod ready and rigged with a pitch bait when they do show up. The near shore reefs and wrecks are also producing good numbers of Amberjack, Grouper, Black Snapper, Lane Snapper and Triggerfish. The Grouper are being caught on large pinfish, threadfins or hardtails with their tail clipped to make it easier for the grouper to catch them. Keep in mind that both Black and Gag grouper season is still closed.

OFFSHORE – GULF
Red Snapper has been the top predator on most reefs and wrecks this week and we should continue to see more of the same this upcoming week. They are hitting jigs, live bait and deep running hard baits trolled over shallow reefs and wrecks. Amberjack are almost on every wreck from 60’ on out with the largest fish being caught in deeper water of 100’ or more. With all the bad weather last month the Grouper have almost been left alone. Look for them on the near shore reefs and wrecks. Fish in the 10# to 15# range will hit pinfish, threadfins and hardtails. You will have to remove the tails from the Hardtails; otherwise they are next to impossible to get to the bottom on a light weight. The amount of debris in the water has also increased this last week. So has the amount of Dolphin and Triple Tail on it. King mackerel are being caught daily around the mouth of the passes and buoy lines on cigar minnows slow trolled or free lined.

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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 6-10-2011

Report for 06/07/2011

Salt Water

PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
The flounder caught this week came mostly from under the George C. Tapper Bridge and off the oil docks at PSJ marina. Bull minnows Carolina rigged with a size 1 circle hook using fluorocarbon leader material and a 1 oz or smaller egg weight is the bait of choice. The Spanish Mackerel caught off the oil dock wall is much improved this week and trolling off the tip of Cape San Blas peninsula will be productive too. Pompano are still with us and the hot spots are still the stump hole at Cape San Blas and along the Beach of St Joseph Park and a few at east beach and Mexico Beach. Most fish are being caught using shrimp on a double hook pompano rig. The Trout fishing has picked up with some nice 20” plus fish being caught in 4-6’ water outside the grass flats. A few hot spots are around Black’s island and in the channel by Pigs bayou. Some Redfish schools are working the flats between Eagle harbor and the tip of the cape.

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
The Kings are back, and there are lots of anglers reporting great King mackerel hook ups both close in and out over the wrecks. Mahi-mahi showing up again as well and with the southerly winds prevailing, this will only get better. Gag Grouper is closed now; along with Amberjack. Red snapper is open and has been great! Lots of large snapper to be had and they are hungry! Butterfly style jigs, frozen and of course live bait all work great for these voracious beauties. Once you get your limit of snapper be sure to bring what is needed to target Triggers and Bee liners as they are plentiful out there and make a great addition to any fish fry.

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
Still a good Bull Redfish bite in the deeper channels and the pass, outgoing tide seems to be the best time to find them. For the "pups" (smaller reds) they have been feeding further up in the bay on schools of LY's and on the small pinfish in the grass beds on an incoming tide. The Flounder bite has improved this past week, they seem to be all over the bay system with the larger ones getting caught in deeper water. The Speckled trout have been hard to find for some early in the morning, but the afternoon bite seems to be better, probably an after effect of the recent full moon. Anglers report a good return on their live shrimp investment around local docks and up in canals. There are plenty of Ladyfish, Spanish mackerel, and Bluefish around to entertain so if you have some young ones to keep busy, it may be time to have some lessons on how to cast a spoon or Gotcha. Be careful, you don't want to join the "Gotcha club". I am sure neither you or your young needs that memory.

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
Lots of King mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and Ladyfish around the piers. Live cigar minnows are best for the kings and have been easier to find lately. Large schools of Redfish have also been reported around the piers and they will readily hit a live minnow. Still some Pompano and Whiting around both in the surf and the piers but not as many as a couple weeks ago. There also still Jack crevalle catches reported along the beach and at the jetties. They have hit small live baits and a good buck tail jig like the Spro green and white in a 1/4 or 1/2 ounce size. Fish the jig fast, don't give them time to think about it, make them work to catch it. Be ready for a fight though, they are tackle busters!

DESTIN
Wow! What a start a start to Red Snapper season. Looked like the Spanish Armada went fishing on opening day and from everyone I talked with they had a great day. Many anglers reported limits of fish easily caught and many of them had very nice sized fish ranging up to 25lbs. Other bottom fish filling the coolers included Trigger Fish, Mingo Snapper, Scamp, and Red Grouper.

Kings are still just on the moderate side. They seem to bite about every other day. Trolling live cigar minnows and Yozuri pink lures have been the best producers.

In the bay, a good bite of Reds around the bridges and flats on both tide changes. Roaming the flats are lots of Ladyfish, a few Spanish, and a few Trout.

In the surf, some nice catches of Pompano, Ladyfish, and Hardtails in the day, after dark the Sharks and Blues move in and get caught on cut mullet.

On the pier it has been slow, an occasional King, plenty of Ladyfish, and a few Hardtails.

NAVARRE

SURF
We are now into June. Hopefully the weather will stabilize a little this month and offer some fishing opportunities. Area fisherman have been experiencing some of the best fishing in recent memory. We should see good numbers of Jack Crevalle in the 20# range as well as small schools of bull Redfish. The Jacks are hitting best on top water poppers and Rapala Skitterwalks. The Black Tip Shark bite is also heating up. Live Hardtails or cut mullet have been the go to bait. The Pompano bite has remained steady with most fish being landed on fresh dead shrimp and live sand fleas when you can find them. On calmer days Kayak fisherman can reach the King Mackerel just at the drop off in 20’ of water. Look for the schools of threadfins and cigar minnows and troll with deep diving hard baits. Try trolling live baits around these baitfish schools as well. Skipjack (Ladyfish) have also invaded the surf. Any small spoon, diving hard bait or live bait will catch them. Though the food value is very poor they are a lot of fun to catch on light tackle.

SOUND AND BAYS
Area anglers can expect to see great Trout fishing around the grass flats from Tiger Point to the grass flats just east of the bridge. Redfish and Flounder are also in the same waters with most of the fish caught on live shrimp under a popping cork. Also try using a 1/4oz jig tipped with a GULP! shrimp or jerk shad under the same popping cork. There have also been plenty of Trout and Redfish landed in East Bay from the Garcon Point bridge up to the power lines crossing the entrance to the East River.

NEAR SHORE – GULF
King Mackerel are still the hot bite near shore and continue to bite strong in and around the passes and inshore reefs in 60 to 80 feet of water. Trolling or fly lining live cigar minnows when anchored up has been the top producer. Dolphin continue to show up in increasing numbers especially around anglers fishing for bottom species. Just remember to have a rod ready and rigged with a pitch bait when they do show up. The near shore reefs and wrecks are also producing good numbers of Amberjack, Grouper, Black Snapper, Lane Snapper, and Triggerfish. The Grouper are being caught on large pinfish, threadfins or hardtails with their tail clipped to make it easier for them to catch them. Don’t forget the Gag Grouper is closed until September 16, 2011.

OFFSHORE – GULF
Red Snapper has been the top predator on most reefs and wrecks this week and we should continue to see more of the same this upcoming week. They are hitting jigs, live bait and deep running hard baits trolled over shallow reefs and wrecks. Amberjack are almost on every wreck from 60’ on out with the largest fish being caught in deeper water of 100’ or more. With all the bad weather last month the Grouper have almost been left alone. Look for them on the near shore reefs and wrecks. Fish in the 10# to 15# range will hit pinfish, threadfins and hardtails. You will have to remove the tails from the Hardtails; otherwise they are next to impossible to get to the bottom on a light weight. The amount of debris in the water has also increased this last week. So has the amount of Dolphin and Triple Tail on it. King mackerel are being caught daily around the mouth of the passes and buoy lines on cigar minnows slow trolled or free lined. If you can get out the blue water bite is still smoking hot. Yellow Fin, Black Fin, and Wahoo are being caught around most of the deep water oil rigs. Poppers, jigs and slow trolled ballyhoo continue to be the go to baits. The bigger fish are coming off the bridled Bonito or large Blue Runners bump trolled around the rigs.

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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 5-20-2011

Report for 05/20/2011

Salt Water


PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
The flounder caught this week came mostly from under the George C. Tapper Bridge and off the oil docks at PSJ marina. Bull minnows Carolina rigged with a size 1 circle hook using fluorocarbon leader material and a 1 oz or smaller egg weight is the bait of choice. The Spanish Mackerel caught off the oil dock wall is much improved this week and trolling off the tip of Cape San Blas peninsula will be productive too. Pompano are still with us and the hot spots are still the stump hole at Cape San Blas and along the Beach of St Joseph Park and a few at east beach and Mexico Beach. Most fish are being caught using shrimp on a double hook pompano rig. The Trout fishing has picked up with some nice 20” plus fish being caught in 4-6’ water outside the grass flats. A few hot spots are around Black’s island and in the channel by Pigs bayou. Some Redfish schools are working the flats between Eagle harbor and the tip of the cape.

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
Well the full moon has had an effect on the bite as well as the cooler temperatures. The Kings and Mahi have pushed out further off shore along with the sargassum weed, and the afternoon bite is definitely better than morning. Good reports on Red Grouper out past nine miles on live bottom using pinfish and small squirrel fish. Around your bigger wrecks, a larger live bait or butterflied frozen northern mackerel is the ticket for Gag Grouper. Loads of large Red Snapper are being caught in the process, but this bodes well for our upcoming snapper season (June1st.). Amberjack, Triggerfish, and Bee liners are plentiful in say eighty feet or more. Whether you choose live or frozen bait, or even jigs and artificial, there are some quality fish to be had. So gear up, Snapper season is almost upon us!

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
There are lots of reports of Redfish hitting topwater on a hard running, out going tide. Deep water like the jetties, and even around the Hathaway and Tyndall bridges have been the places to be. Everything from gold spoons to artificial crabs and of course live bait is working. Most will be too large to keep but they sure are fun to catch! Lots of Ladyfish, Spanish Mackerel, and Bluefish around still, and they have been pretty easy to find. Flounder are being caught pretty dependably on bull minnows and artificial grubs. Seawalls, docks, and any drop offs are good places to try for them. Speckled Trout have no doubt been feeding at night with the recent full moon, but the evening bite is still producing keepers especially on a falling tide. Try a bait that has a glow in the dark ability. Ever look at a shrimp in the water after dark with a light? Their eyes seem to glow or reflect light, either way glow baits work well in low light situations.

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
Reports of Pompano and Whiting catches are pretty good both at the piers and in the surf. Twenty to thirty pound flourocarbon should keep you from losing your jig to a Bluefish or Spanish, but bring some spares just in case. King Mackerel reports have been almost non-existent lately, but warmer weather is coming and with the upcoming high pressure, they should return soon. Some nice sized Jack crevalle have schooled up and are being caught along the beach. They love a fast moving, brightly colored topwater plug or, a free lined bait tossed in with a little live chum. And boy can they give you a run for your money on light tackle! I have even seen some recipes popping up for them lately! I guess I'd try just about anything once.

DESTIN

PIER AND SURF
The pier has been quiet this week, a few Kings in the afternoon, a few Spanish throughout the day, and a few Ladyfish and Hardtails. In the surf the Pompano bite has been quite good fishing with frozen sand fleas.

BAY
Reds, Spanish, and Hardtails jave been caught at the jetties. The Spanish on gotcha lures, Reds on shrimp (live), and Hardtails on Sabiki rigs. In the bay, plenty of Reds around the Coast Guard Station and the Destin Bridge, Trout are on most tidal flats and biting on live shrimp and gulps.

GULF TROLLING
Kings are biting very good on Pink Yozuri lures and live cigar minnows. In the early morning, they are near the Sea Buoy and later in the day the broken bottom and southeast rocks are the best. Offshore in the 25 to 40 mile range, there are some nice Wahoo and small Dolphin.

GULF BOTTOM FISHING
Amberjack and Grouper are biting in wrecks that are in water 150 to 350 feet deep. Triggers and Mingo are biting in the 18’s and the Nickey grounds. Many of the charter boats are reporting more Trigger fish right now than in the last 20 years.

NAVARRE

SURF
The Cobia have just about gone for the season, but there are plenty of King and Spanish Mackerel to keep us busy. The Tarpon have showed up early too. Pompano, Redfish, Bluefish, and Skipjack (ladyfish) are showing up in increasing numbers as the water continues to clear. This week should see an increase in landing if the wind stays mild. The Pompano and Redfish are hitting best on live sand fleas and fresh shrimp just outside of the first sand bar. Silver spoons and Bubble rigs are working best for the fast moving Spanish, Bluefish, and Skipjack.

SOUND AND BAYS
Navarre area anglers can expect to see Redfish and Trout on the flats early and late in the day. They should also see an increase in Flounder landed as they continue to migrate into the shallows to chase bait fish. The Trout are responding best to a popping cork rig with a live or D.O.A. shrimp. Spanish, Blue, and Skipjack are also making a good showing with small schools popping up along the area flats. These fish are feeding on the schools of menhaden and threadfins that have begun to show up in increasing numbers. Speaking of increasing number, Flounder are being caught around docks in the sound with Tiger minnows. Gold spoons are taking their share, but it may be time to break out the 1/4oz jig head with GULP! Shrimp or jerk bait combinations and specifically target the Flounder. These same baits will also take the Redfish, so it’s a win-win situation for you.

NEAR SHORE – GULF
King are biting strong in and around the passes and inshore reefs in 60 to 80 feet of water. Trolling or fly lining live cigar minnows when anchoring up had been the top producer. Dolphin have also started to show up on the few weed lines that have begun to make their way toward shore. 1/2oz to 1oz buck tail jigs or live cigar minnows free lined near the weed line or any floating structure will get the job done. Just remember to leave one hooked fish in the water to keep the school around when you encounter a large school. The near shore reefs and wrecks are also producing good numbers of Grouper, Black Snapper, and Trigger fish. Just remember to have a spinning rod rigged up with a pitch bait in case a Cobia shows up.

OFFSHORE – GULF
Wahoo and Dolphin have been showing up in greater numbers this week. Most of the hoos are being caught while fast trolling between bottom spots. The Dolphin are being caught while trolling the edges of increasing weed lines or by free lining live baits near the weed lines. Tripletail are on the same weed lines as well, so keep an eye out for them. Keep a rod rigged and ready so you can cast a live shrimp or small baitfish to them when the opportunity presents itself. Without a doubt the hottest bite this week has definitely been Red Snapper. Most fish caught have been in the double digits. Just remember that Red Snapper opens June 1, so release them until then. The Grouper bite has remained strong with the larger fish coming in 150 plus feet of water. Fish the largest bait you can find. The blue water bite has exploded this week with the influx of clean water. The Yellowfin bite has been exceptional with most fish being caught during daylight hours. Poppers, jigs and slow trolled ballyhoo will all work. But for the really big fish, a bridled bonito or large blue runner bump trolled around the rigs is the way to go.

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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 5-13-2011

Report for 05/13/2011


Salt Water




PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
The flounder caught this week came mostly from under the George C. Tapper Bridge and off the oil docks at PSJ marina. Bull minnows Carolina rigged with a size 1 circle hook using fluorocarbon leader material and a 1 oz or smaller egg weight is the bait of choice. The Spanish Mackerel caught off the oil dock wall is much improved this week and trolling off the tip of Cape San Blas peninsula will be productive too. Pompano are still with us and the hot spots are still the stump hole at Cape San Blas and along the Beach of St Joseph Park and a few at east beach and Mexico Beach. Most fish are being caught using shrimp on a double hook pompano rig. The Trout fishing has picked up with some nice 20” plus fish being caught in 4-6’ water outside the grass flats. A few hot spots are around Black’s island and in the channel by Pigs bayou. Some Redfish schools are working the flats between Eagle harbor and the tip of the cape.

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
There were several reports of Mahi-Mahi sightings and catches as close in as the Whistle buoy. Further out, anglers have gotten into a few Wahoo as well as the some Mahi high speed trolling, and a lot of King Mackerel on down riggers or flat line. Amberjack and Trigger fish are hanging out over the bridge spans and taller wrecks. Jigs work great on the jacks, and a 4/0 Mustad or Owner circle hook baited with squid will catch the Triggers. Red Grouper and Black Snapper catches over hard bottom have been dependable, and live bait has been easy to find. Inside nine miles Gag Grouper were biting pretty good as well. We finally have had a little relief from the winds that have kept a lot of us from getting out offshore and it's about time!

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
Lots of Ladyfish, Spanish Mackerel, and Bluefish around and pretty easy to find, troll along the edges of the shipping channels with a spec rig, mackerel tree or clark spoon. Flounder are getting caught all over the bay on soft plastics and live bait. They seem to be recovering from their low numbers of the past few years. Redfish are feeding up in the shallow flats at dawn and dusk, a live shrimp or other live bait will definitely get their interest but a spinner bait or soft plastic can work as well. In the deeper channels like the pass and around the bridges drifting a live pinfish or bull minnow will likely get you a Bull Red or Black Drum. Speckled Trout feeding at daybreak just like the Reds and will hit the same baits. Good reports up near the Intra-coastal waterway in West bay. If you have the opportunity to fish a lit up dock at night, you will likely find bigger Trout than during the day (and no sunburn to boot !).

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
The King Mackerel bite slowed a little this week but they are still around, early mornings are best and live bait is what works. Ladyfish are there to entertain you while you wait and Spanish Mackerel are intermingled with them. Pompano and Whiting are getting caught about halfway down the piers and in the surf when you can get past the Ladys and Spanish. Anglers are still seeing Tarpon around and they can be a ball when hooked. They will put on a show launching themselves out of the water trying to shake your hook and they are very good at it. A wide gap SSW owner circle hook does a pretty good job of catching them around their jaw bone but remember you have to cut the line to release them as it is not legal to handle them unless you hold a Tarpon permit. Get a good picture of them while still hooked in the water and you will have all the bragging rights you need!



Blackfin Tuna caught by Lee Jones


DESTIN

PIER AND SURF
The pier has been quiet this week, a few Kings in the afternoon, a few Spanish throughout the day, and a few Ladyfish and Hardtails. In the surf the Pompano bite has been quite good fishing with frozen sand fleas.

BAY
Reds, Spanish, and Hardtails jave been caught at the jetties. The Spanish on gotcha lures, Reds on shrimp (live), and Hardtails on Sabiki rigs. In the bay, plenty of Reds around the Coast Guard Station and the Destin Bridge, Trout are on most tidal flats and biting on live shrimp and gulps.

GULF TROLLING
Kings are biting very good on Pink Yozuri lures and live cigar minnows. In the early morning, they are near the Sea Buoy and later in the day the broken bottom and southeast rocks are the best. Offshore in the 25 to 40 mile range, there are some nice Wahoo and small Dolphin.

GULF BOTTOM FISHING
Amberjack and Grouper are biting in wrecks that are in water 150 to 350 feet deep. Triggers and Mingo are biting in the 18’s and the Nickey grounds. Many of the charter boats are reporting more Trigger fish right now than in the last 20 years.

NAVARRE

PIER
Fishing remains great on the pier. Although the Cobia bite has slowed, there are still some fish being caught. The King Mackerel bite has been going off for a better part of a month. There are still a lot of fish to be caught. Try the live cigar minnow, hard tail, or large spoon for best results. The Spanish Mackerel bite has slowed a little, but there are days when the fishing is great! Try the Gotcha Plugs and Bubble Rigs for the best results, although small live baits work well too. The Pompano can still be caught with sand fleas, fresh dead shrimp, and jigs.

SURF
The Cobia fishing has slowed, but there are still some fish around. The good thing is there are plenty of King and Spanish mackerel to keep us busy. The Tarpon have showed up early to. Pompano, Redfish, Bluefish and Skipjack (ladyfish) are showing up in increasing numbers as the water continues to clear. This week should see an increase in landing if the wind stays mild. The Pompano and Redfish are hitting best on live sand fleas and fresh shrimp just outside of the first sand bar. Silver spoons and Bubble rigs are working best for the fast moving Spanish, Bluefish and Skipjack.

SOUND AND BAYS
Navarre area anglers can expect to see Redfish and Trout on the flats early and late in the day. Lately the Mirro Lure MirrOdine has been a hot bait for both. They should also see an increase in Flounder landed as they continue to migrate into the shallows to chase bait fish. The Trout are responding best to a popping cork rig with a live or D.O.A. shrimp. Spanish, Blue, and Skipjack are also making a good showing with small schools popping up along the area flats. These fish are feeding on the schools of menhaden and threadfins that have begun to show up in increasing numbers. Speaking of increasing numbers, Flounder are being caught around docks in the sound with Tiger minnows. Gold spoons are taking their share, but it may be time to break out the 1/4oz jig head with GULP! Shrimp or jerk bait combinations and specifically target the Flounder. These same baits will also take the Redfish, so it’s a win-win situation for you.

NEAR SHORE – GULF
King are biting strong in and around the passes and inshore reefs in 60 to 80 feet of water. Trolling or fly lining live cigar minnows when anchoring up had been the top producer. Dolphin have also started to show up on the few weed lines that have begun to make their way toward shore. 1/2oz to 1oz buck tail jigs or live cigar minnows free lined near the weed line or any floating structure will get the job done. Just remember to leave one hooked fish in the water to keep the school around when you encounter a large school. The near shore reefs and wrecks are also producing good numbers of Grouper, Black Snapper, and Trigger fish. Just remember to have a spinning rod rigged up with a pitch bait in case a Cobia shows up.

OFFSHORE – GULF
Wahoo and Dolphin have been showing up in greater numbers this week. Most of the hoos are being caught while fast trolling between bottom spots. The Dolphin are being caught while trolling the edges of increasing weed lines or by free lining live baits near the weed lines. Tripletail are on the same weed lines as well, so keep an eye out for them. Keep a rod rigged and ready so you can cast a live shrimp or small baitfish to them when the opportunity presents itself. Without a doubt the hottest bite this week has definitely been Red Snapper. Most fish caught have been in the double digits. Just remember that Red Snapper opens June 1, so release them until then. The Grouper bite has remained strong with the larger fish coming in 150 plus feet of water. Fish the largest bait you can find. The blue water bite has exploded this week with the influx of clean water. The Yellowfin bite has been exceptional with most fish being caught during daylight hours. Poppers, jigs and slow trolled ballyhoo will all work. But for the really big fish, a bridled bonito or large blue runner bump trolled around the rigs is the way to go.

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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 5-6-2011

Report for 04/29/11

Salt Water

PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
The Pompano catches were great this week and they are biting from Crooked Island all the way down to Indian Pass. The wind and weather curbed the bite until water clarity improved. Anglers are using shrimp on a double hook, pompano rig, or a regular pompano jig tipped with shrimp. Flounder fishing is picking up nicely off the PSJ marina wall using live bull minnows, Carolina rigged. The Spanish Mackerel off the oil dock is intermittent this week with wind keeping anglers at home.

The Trout fishing has improved with some nice 20” plus fish being caught in 10-16” water outside the grass flats. Live shrimp is the bait of choice under a Cajun thunder float or just enough weight to keep it on the bottom. Some nice Redfish schools are working the flats between the city boat launch and Presnell’s. Gold spoons are the top artificial baits, and live shrimp is definitely your best live bait option. The whiting bite is ok, with a few bigger fish caught while anglers are fishing for Pompano.

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
The King Mackerel bite has been really good, trolling deep diving plugs or duster rigs with a dead cigar minnow have produced some 30 to 40 pound Kings. If you are drifting a wreck try free lining a live bait out behind the boat while you are bottom fishing. You will more than likely be hollering for the gaff. Amberjack catches have been very good, you may have to weed through some shorts to get a keeper but there are keepers out there. Try really heavy weights or jigs to get past the smaller fish and down where the big ones are. Gag and Red Grouper catches have been pretty good, you just have to fish the Federal water first for the Reds, then State waters for Gags to stay out of trouble if checked. Still hearing about some rather large Bee liner catches, so don’t forget the squid and smaller circle hooks for these guys, they are some of the better tasting fish out there. Fewer Cobia catches reported but I for one will still try to be ready, more than a few have been missed because a pole was not rigged and ready.

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
A good Redfish and Trout bite in the bay area, they are hitting well on live shrimp. The best reports have been on a falling tide in about 6 or more feet of water. Most of the Reds have been “pups” but a few upper slot fish are there as well (same for the Trout). Still a lot of Spanish Mackerel and Bluefish being caught, best reports for Spanish have been in the Deep water point area and along the shipping channels. For the Blues a hard running current like that at the end of the jetties is home to them. Flounder are on the move, some nice sized flatties have been hauled in around deep water, Hathaway bridge, and Tyndall bridge. It might be time to plan a night trip, better charge up the batteries and sharpen up the gig.

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
King Mackerel are keeping anglers at the piers busy (while hoping to see a Cobia). Plenty of Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and Ladyfish are there to occupy your time (and provide cut bait). Redfish, Pompano, and Flounder are making their way down the beach as well. There have been good schools of cigar minnows and tinker mackerel along the coastline and the piers. If you have the opportunity to catch yourself some of these, you will have exactly what the Reds, Kings, and Spanish are looking for. Jack Crevalle and Tarpon are being spotted too, so load up and go when you can, it’s game time!

DESTIN

PIER AND SURF
Kings, Spanish, and Pompano are daily catches. You can throw in a Cobia once in a while. Kings on live or frozen cigar minnows, Spanish on gotchas, and Pompano are caught on sand fleas and jigs.

BAY
Reds are caught on live shrimp around bridges and docks. Trout are caught on Gulps and live shrimp on the flats and around boat docks. Spanish are caught on gotchas and spoons around the jetties and crab island.

GULF TROLLING
Kings are being caught on live or frozen cigar minnows, Yozuri lures, and Bomber lures. You can also get some Bonita and Spanish Mackerel.

GULF BOTTOM FISHING
Mingo Snapper and Trigger fish are a staple, and caught on cut squid and mackerel. Amberjack and Grouper are in water 150 to 300 ft deep and being caught on cigar minnows, thread fin herring, and butterfly jigs.

OFFSHORE TROLLING
Wahoo and Dolphin are in the 25 to 40 mile range and being caught on ballyhoo, Islander lures, and Moldcraft Soft heads. Some Swordfish are in the mouth of the canyon and being caught at night on whole squid and whole Spanish Mackerel.

NAVARRE

PIER
The fishing has been very good on the Navarre Pier this week. The Spanish Mackerel are being caught with the tried and true Gotcha plugs. Although other bright silver spoons will work if they are retrieved extremely fast. Bubble rigs will also get the job done. Don’t forget your leader! The Whiting bite has begun to slow down as the water temp climbs. Live shrimp fished on a fish finder rig is a good way to catch them. Sheepshead are there too, try small live shrimp or fiddler crabs. Redfish and Black Drum are also being caught. They are not too particular this time of year, but cut mullet is hard to beat. The Cobia fishing has been good as well with multiple landing of nice fish each day. The fishing for these gamesters should continue to be good all though April. The King Mackerel have showed up this week. Any live bait you can get to them will produce. I have had some reports of some cigar minnows and speedos starting to show up. Always a good sign! The Pompano bite has been improving this week as well. Small Pompano jigs, sand fleas, and fresh shrimp will do the trick. If you want a serious pull make sure you throw your plug at one of the oversized Jack Crevalle that has been cruising the pier. They aren’t particular what they eat, just get it to them!

SURF
The Pompano bite has been really good this last week. Best baits remain live sand fleas, with live or fresh dead shrimp coming in at a close second choice. Redfish, Bluefish and some Spanish Mackerel have been caught. Redfish will hit the sand fleas and shrimp, although cut mullet will produce fish. The Blues and Spanish prefer small silver spoons or Gotcha plugs traveling at high speed. Be sure to use a heavy mono leader in the 50# range or light 27# wire. Fishing should get better each week as the water temp increases. I expect the Skipjack (Ladyfish) to be on the beach at any time.

SOUND AND BAYS
The Trout have moved up on the grass flats. I have heard there have been dink Trout and nice Trout caught on the flats this week. Bigger fish have been caught around the canal mouths and rock piles throughout the sound and bays. Don’t overlook fishing the drop off edges in the sound and bays. Live shrimp fished with a popping cork will produce on the flats. Live shrimp on a split shot cast around the structure will yield good results. Good articicial baits this week have been the Mirro Lure Mirro Dine, DOA ¼ oz shrimp and GULP shrimp. Redfish can be found cruising the grass flats and stacked up on deep water docks and pilings. Johnson Silver Minnows in gold in ¼ and ½ oz sizes score well. Don’t overlook the top water baits, Gulp!, Mirro Lures, Yozuri's and soft plastic baits for both species.

NEAR SHORE – GULF
Red Snapper are everywhere! Live pinfish and frozen cigar minnows will catch them. Jigging the Shimano and Williamson jigs are also very productive. The season is still closed so make sure you throw them back. Trolling for Spanish Mackerel should only get better. The King Mackerel are here! Try trolling some Mann’s Stretch 25 or 30 baits, Yozuri and Rapala swim baits will work too. Duster rigs with cigar minnows is a very productive method for catching the Kings. The oversized Redfish will hit them, along with Cobia, and big Jack Crevalle as well. The Black Fin and Yellowfin Tuna bite at the rigs has been very good. Butterfly jigs have been producing well. Most fish have been caught in the 60 to 100 foot depths. There have been some Amberjack caught at wrecks in the 300 foot depths. Most have been really nice fish. Jigs and live bait have been producing well.

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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 4-9-2011

Report for 04/01/11

Salt Water


PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE

The Spanish mackerel have arrived in greater numbers this week and have become the leading bite along the coast from Crooked Island to East Point. Anglers are having great success trolling the bays, channels and the beaches.

The cobia' have shown up in good numbers all along our coast. Reports of catches range from the buoy line off Mexico Beach to Crooked Island and along the Cape San Blas peninsula. Anglers report spotting several cobia in the vicinity of cape shoals.

The Pompano numbers are increasing as the spring run heats up and can be caught in good numbers from the surf along Cape San Blas.

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE

Grouper opens today in state waters (within nine miles of the coast). So set those traps and wipe the dust off your lucky bottom fishing rig, it is time to plan a trip offshore. While you are out there be sure to have what you will need to target Amberjack, Trigger fish Bee liners, even King mackerel, because different techniques are required for best results. Be aware of what may swim up to the boat while bottom fishing because it is not uncommon to have a curious Cobia come up to see what all the commotion is about. The Cobia are definitely still a hot topic inshore, several tournaments are scheduled, and there have been some very nice catches both from boat and pier. Jigs are working well especially if you tip it with something to give a scent trail. If they don't give chase to your favorite jig, maybe a nice sized live bait will coax them into eating.

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM

Boat loads of Spanish mackerel, and Bluefish to occupy your day on the bay. This would be a good time to take the kids out, plenty of action to hold their interest. Good Trout and Redfish populations working in the grass flats and around docks. Live shrimp will definitely get their attention. Some nice Flounder have been found dragging a grub around some of the rip rap along the seawalls, and along the edges of the grass. Sheep head are out in good numbers feeding around just about anything that has barnacles, especially the pass and around your local bridges. If you can't get a bite out there right now, you don't have a bait on!

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER

King mackerel have made their slightly early presence known with a few rather large catches from the local piers. Spanish mackerel, Bluefish, Sheep head, Redfish and Pompano are feeding around the piers and in the surf. If you have not yet planned a trip to wet a line you are missing out. We must not forget to mention the big brown brute (Cobia). Get yourself some good polarized sunglasses and keep your eyes peeled. They are definitely on the spring run to their spawning grounds. They require some hefty tackle choices so if you do not know how to target them be sure to ask someone who does or you will be out gunned in short order!

SOME PICTURES FROM THIS WEEKS CATCH
   

Half Hitch - Panama City employee Mike with a Black Drum
   

Captain Jeff Moorman & Captain Kyle Pitts with a couple of nice Cobia

DESTIN

What a great week to really get the spring fishing going, Spanish, Spanish, everywhere Spanish. Whether you are trolling the pass or out along the sand bar straw rigs and spoons are doing great. Casting Gotcha lures from the jetties, pier or surf is producing fish for shore bound anglers.

Cobia have arrived in good numbers, and as for size the largest of the week was caught from the pier, it was just over 90lbs.

Bottom fishing is good for amberjack, mingo, snapper, and triggerfish. April 1st also marks the reopening date of grouper in state waters out to 9 miles.

Surf fishing for pompano has been very good especially just east of the eastern most jetty.

In the bay, good numbers of reds and trout on Mann's Hard Nose Mullet.

NAVARRE

PIER

The fishing has been very good on the Navarre Pier this week. The Spanish Mackerel are being caught with the tried and true Gotcha plugs. Although other bright silver spoons will work if they are retrieved extremely fast. Don’t forget your leader! The Whiting bite has been steady for the last couple of weeks, but I expect this to slow down as the water temp climbs. Live shrimp fished on a fish finder rig is a good way to catch them. Sheepshead are there too, try small live shrimp or fiddler crabs. Redfish and Black Drum are also being caught. They are not too particular this time of year, but cut mullet is hard to beat. There have been a few Cobia sighted and caught. The fishing for these gamesters should continue to improve as we head into April. The King Mackerel shouldn’t be too far behind. I have had some reports of some cigar minnows and speedos starting to show up. Always a good sign!

SURF

The action on the beach remains consistent. I have had good reports of the Pompano bite starting to pick up. Best baits remain live sand fleas with live or fresh dead shrimp coming in at a close second choice. Redfish, Bluefish and some Spanish Mackerel have been caught. Redfish will hit the sand fleas and shrimp. The Blues and Spanish prefer small silver spoons or Gotcha plugs traveling at high speed. Be sure to use a heavy mono leader in the 50# range or light 27# wire. Fishing should get better each week as the water temp increases.

SOUND AND BAYS

As the water temperature warms more Trout will continue to stay on the grass flats. I have heard the trout have still been on the small side on the flats this week. Bigger fish have been caught around the canal mouths and rock piles throughout the sound and bays. Don’t overlook fishing the drop off edges in the sound and bays. Live shrimp fished with a popping cork will produce on the flats. Live shrimp on a split shot cast around the structure will yield good results. Redfish can be found cruising the grass flats and stacked up on deep water docks and pilings. Johnson Silver Minnows in gold in ¼ and ½ oz sizes score well. Don’t overlook the top water baits, Gulp!, Mirro Lures, Yozuri's and soft plastic baits for both species.

NEAR SHORE – GULF

Red Snapper are everywhere! Live pinfish and frozen cigar minnows will catch them. Jigging the Shimano and Williamson jigs are also very productive. The season is still closed so make sure you throw them back. Trolling for Spanish Mackerel should only get better. The King Mackerel will show up a little later this month. Try trolling some Mann’s Stretch 25 or 30 baits, Yozuri and Rapala swim baits will work too. The oversized Redfish will hit them along with Cobia and big Jack Crevalle. The Black Fin and Yellowfin Tuna bite at the rigs has been very good. Butterfly jigs have been producing well. Most fish have been caught in the 60 to 100 foot depths. There have been some Amberjack caught at wrecks in the 300 foot depths. Most have been really nice fish. Jigs and live bait have been producing well.

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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 12-1-2010

Report for 11/30/2010

Salt Water


PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE

Bottom fishing remains steady this week for Triggerfish, Mangroves, Red Snapper, Grouper and Amberjack. Remember! Red snapper season closes for 2010 at 12:01 am local time on November 22nd. Lastly there are still plenty of King mackerel haunting our inshore reefs and wrecks. Both trolled lures and live bait have put them in the box.

Mexico beach anglers are reporting white trout catches around the pier and canal jetties. White trout aren’t the only biting in that area, several King and Spanish mackerel were caught from the pier and many flounder in the Mexico Beach canal. While flounder are actively biting throughout St. Joseph's Bay the hot spot remains beneath the George Tapper Bridge. In the surf from Mexico Beach to Cape San Blas anglers are enjoying Pompano, Whiting and occasional big Redfish.



PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE

There have been some brawny Black snapper caught this past week out on your larger wrecks using butter flied Northern mackerel and grunts. Grouper were caught as well using the same method. Some nice King mackerel are still being trolled up and large Spanish are still tearing up spoons and Gotchas. Follow the birds they will let you know where the feeding frenzy is going on. If you just want to stretch your string, there are plenty of Amberjack in close, even by the whistle buoy. Most if not all of them are too small to keep but they will entertain your crew if nothing else. If you want keepers all you have to do is go out further to one of the stages or bridge spans. Deepwater jigs work real well, or if you prefer they will readily eat Blue runners or other large live bait. Fish them up in the water column (1/3 to ½ of your overall depth), bring along some chum to get their interest even if you are jigging, sometimes it takes a little something to turn them on. Don’t forget to try for Flounder on your closer in wrecks and live bottom, there have been lots of flatties stacking up in 80 feet or less.



ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM

Trout and Redfish are hitting well at daybreak again. Artificial’s and hard baits are producing well. Time to try some of the canals and slews on incoming tides, they will be there looking for the bait that is moving towards warmer water. Drag a live bait or a grub along a nice drop off and you may find Flounder laying in ambush mode. Be sure to have some heavier mono (or even better fluorocarbon) to use if needed to prevent getting bit off by the Spanish mackerel that are still around.



PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER

Spanish mackerel are almost a pest at the piers and the beach. I say this for those anglers that are trying for Pompano and Flounder. A lot of jigs and grubs have been lost in the attempt. Bring along some wire or heavy mono / fluorocarbon to do battle with them. Some Pompano and Flounder have “walked” off the pier and over the beach walks this past week. The bite has been best either early or late. Some nice King mackerel catches reported off the piers during the day and Redfish have been feeding at night around the pier pilings. There are still some Whiting around hitting everything from squid and dead shrimp to Gulp!, but they are not as thick as they were the past couple of weeks.

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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 11-12-2010

Report for 11/12/2010
Salt Water


PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
Bottom fishing remains steady this week for Triggerfish, Mangroves, Red Snapper, Grouper and Amberjack. Remember! Red snapper season closes for 2010 at 12:01 am local time on November 22nd. Lastly there are still plenty of King mackerel haunting our inshore reefs and wrecks. Both trolled lures and live bait have put them in the box.

Mexico beach anglers are reporting white trout catches around the pier and canal jetties. White trout aren’t the only biting in that area, several King and Spanish mackerel were caught from the pier and many flounder in the Mexico Beach canal. While flounder are actively biting throughout St. Joseph's Bay the hot spot remains beneath the George Tapper Bridge. In the surf from Mexico Beach to Cape San Blas anglers are enjoying Pompano, Whiting and occasional big Redfish.

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM



Picture sent in by Mike Twyford, "Monday I caught this speckle on a gulp shrimp under a cork not far from Bailey's bridge on north bay. I was standing in two feet of water! I was amazed. Big fan of Berkeley gulp now."

NAVARRE

SURF
The Pompano have showed up along the beaches. There have been some reports of a few good fish being caught. Best baits remain live or frozen sand fleas and live and frozen shrimp. Pompano jigs will catch them too. The Bonito are in the surf too. Any bright colored lure worked fast will catch them. As the water continues to cool, the Pompano bite will increase. There are a lot of Ladyfish (skipjack), Spanish mackerel and Bluefish to be caught as well. Bright spoons, Gotcha plugs, Straw Rigs, Top Water and regular plugs will catch them. Live and frozen Shrimp will take them too. Redfish have showed up on the beach as well. Some will be slot size fish but for the most part they will be over the slot. Live, frozen and cut baits, especially cut mullet will catch them. There have been reports of the occasional Flounder being caught, some will be some nice fish over five pounds. Best baits are Tiger, Bull minnows and live finger Mullet.

SOUND AND BAYS
Trout remain on the grass flats in three to five feet of water. If you have no luck there try to go deeper, say five to nine feet. You can catch your biggest Trout early and late in the day on top water baits and on live baits. Live Shrimp, Tiger Minnows, Pinfish, Menhaden and Mullet all catch Trout. Now is a good time of year to throw the top water baits early in the morning for the bigger Trout. Redfish can be caught on the same live baits and artificial lures. Work all visible and underwater structure to increase your chances at hooking up with a red. Skipjack, Jack Crevalle, Bluefish, Spanish Mackerel and Flounder can all be caught in the bay this time of year. The Flounder fishing should start to pick up with the gradually cooling water. Finger Mullet, Bull Minnows and Tiger Minnows are hard to beat. Mangrove Snapper on are the bridge pilings, tie on a 12” piece of 10# to 12# fluorocarbon leader, a #1 hook, ½oz sinker and a live shrimp. This rig will take Sheepshead as well. The upper part of east Bay has been good for Redfish and Trout. Try fishing around the power lines and the surrounding oyster bars. King Mackerel will be in the bays from now until the water gets to cold. Try slow trolling live baits in the pass, along the three mile bridge and in front of the Palafox Pier should prove productive. Don’t overlook trolling a big Rapala bait for these fish as well. You can also anchor and chum for them with Menhaden Oil or cut up Menhaden. Put your live bait under a balloon and wait for Mr. King to come along.

NEAR SHORE – GULF
There have been some good reports of King Mackerel and Spanish mackerel caught right off the beach and outside Pensacola Pass in the last few weeks. Live Cigar Minnows and Blue Runners (hard tails) are the bait of choice. If there are large schools of bait around the King and Spanish Mackerel are not far away. The big Redfish have begun to show up in the pass. Jigs, cut bait and live bait all take these fish. You may encounter a slot Red while fishing, but be sure to put the big ones back. This is a good time of year to look for the big schools of Redfish to be on top just outside and within one or two miles of the pass. Try looking for birds working the schools. Throw top water baits for some great action or a large spoon or jig. For the fly rod enthusiasts this is prime time. Any pattern that imitates a large baitfish will serve you well. Live baits or jigs will catch them to.

OFFSHORE – GULF
The bottom fishing for Snapper and Grouper remains very good. Live bait and frozen bait will work on both. Don’t be surprised if an Amberjack shows up, especially if you are jigging with a Butterfly jig or fishing with live Hardtails. Black Snapper have been on all the reefs this year. Use live shrimp and live Tiger Minnows. However, they will eat the same baits as Red Snapper. I have had some good reports of Yellowfin Tuna being caught around the offshore oil platforms. The Destin rodeo has weighed in two fish over 100 lbs so far. Most anglers are trolling, jigging or chumming. Look for weed lines and floating debris if you are interested in catching some Mahi Mahi, Wahoo and other species. I had a report today of a couple of Wahoo in the 30lb and 50 lb range being caught recently.

Half Hitch Tackle
850-234-2621 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              850-234-2621      end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              850-234-2621      end_of_the_skype_highlighting
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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 11-5-2010

Report for 11/05/2010

Salt Water


PORT ST JOE OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
Red Snapper weekends are a success! Anglers taking advantage of the re-opening have been rewarded with their limit of big fish. The sixteen inch size limit isn’t a problem either, more often than not anglers are reporting that they have caught some of the largest snapper ever. However, the weekend warriors fishing the close to shore wrecks report a great bite but overall sizes are smaller than our anglers fishing in deeper waters. Black Snapper, Amberjack, and Triggerfish are also biting well over these deep water wreck and reefs. King Mackerel are still around and again this week the clue you’re looking for is bait fish and birds.
Flounder catches are steadily improving along the forgotten coast. Anglers are reporting a consistent bite thorough out the bay and shore fishermen are doing particularly well beneath the George Tapper Bridge and its surrounds.
Speckled trout activity is changing with the smaller trout beginning to start their migrations into the creeks and bayous while the larger fish are hanging tight on the flats. Early in the morning still remains your best bet and nothing gets the blood flowing like using top water plugs. Fish early and be home for brunch.



PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
Not much Red snapper season left now but there are plenty of big snapper being caught. They are of course hitting cut bait as well as live, but jigging for them is also productive and a lot of fun. The Red snapper season is now thru Nov. twenty first on Friday, Saturday and Sunday only. Some very nice Gag grouper have been caught on those offshore numbers that are pretty deep say 120 feet plus. Black snapper are present and accounted for on the wrecks and reefs, and can help you to fill the box, especially on those non Red snapper days. Amberjack have almost become a nuisance on the bridge spans, but they can definitely be a nice addition to the box. Trigger fish, Beeliners and Seabass have been showing up in numbers and they love a chunk of squid. Closer inshore some reports of Flounder showing up so don't forget to fish the outer edges of your favorite inshore spot. Even though we are staring down a fall back for daylight savings time, there are still a lot of King mackerel being caught! Not your usual November target.

ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
More and more Flounder getting caught, their fall migration is in motion. Speckled trout and Redfish are being sight fished in the flats early in the morning and were hitting everything from topwater plugs to live baits. Have not yet seen the fall run start for Reds, but it should not be long. Please don't forget these fall runs are when these fish spawn so handle them accordingly. A true sportsman knows how to release them quickly and with as little injury as possible. The oversize Reds can produce millions of eggs so they are the suppliers of our future "epic fishing trips". Some very big late season Spanish mackerel to be found. They will of course hit a Gotcha plug or spoon as well as live bait. Either use heavy mono (50 lb.) or wire to prevent getting bit off.

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
There have been some very good King mackerel catches lately and the pier tournaments have been a lot of fun. Flounder, Spanish and Pompano have graced some of the lucky angler's hooks. Plenty of wind to stir up the action in the past week. Surf fishers have had some nice Flounder and Pompano to show for their efforts. They are taking advantage of the fact that there are less swimmers and jet skis scaring off fish. Plus cooler water brings with it Flounder and Pompano. Grab a sand spike and go claim your spot, the beach is public don't let anyone tell you different.

DESTIN
Fishing is still great as we enter November. Remember that we still have red snapper for the first 3 weekends of November on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Bottom fishing will be good for Triggers, Mingos, Red Snapper, Grouper and Amberjack well into the end of the month. Kings are definitely still biting on most inshore reefs. In the bay, plenty of Trout on the east end, Reds, Sheephead and Black Drum around the jetties, Destin Bridge and Mid Bay Bridge. White Trout are around the Shilimar and Cinco Bayou Bridges along with Flounder in the harbor. On the pier, a few Kings, Spanish, Pompano and Reds are still biting. In the surf, Pompano and Whiting and a few really big Reds will be caught all month. On the jetties, expect Reds, Blues, Sheephead and maybe a occasional Pompano.

Half Hitch Tackle
850-234-2621 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              850-234-2621      end_of_the_skype_highlighting
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.

Panhandle Fishing Report 10-22-2010

Report for 10/22/2010

Salt Water

PANAMA CITY OFFSHORE AND INSHORE
The Red Snapper season we have been waiting for is here (Oct. 1st thru Nov. 21st on Friday Saturday and Sunday only). The weekend produced some nice big Red snapper out in 100 plus feet, and in closer will still get you something to keep. Black snapper have been unwittingly helping to fill in for the Red snapper on the days you can’t keep the reds, so it is still worth going fishing during the week. There are still plenty of Kings and Spanish around to make a trolling trip productive. Work a tide line or watch for any kind of floating debris, it does not take much. Some very nice Gag grouper and Amberjack caught this past week. Their preferred baits seemed to be Bonita strips, grunts and anything butter flied. There were a few nice Wahoo caught high speed trolling. You might as well fish while you are burning gas!


ST. ANDREWS BAY SYSTEM
Looks like we may have the beginnings of Flounder making their way towards the pass. Some nice catches made last week and this cooler weather should turn it on. Speckled trout are definitely working the grass flats. A lot of “dinks” but every now and then an over slot fish will make your day (especially at daybreak or just after dusk). If you are using live bait in a grassy area, use a float of some sort to keep it up near the surface. Redfish are also starting their fall run, most of the ones you will catch in the pass and in deeper channels will be oversize, but it sure is fun! Still plenty of Spanish mackerel to be found, good sized ones too. They will of course hit a Gotcha plug or spoon as well as live bait. Either use heavy mono (50lb) or wire to prevent losing your plug or hook.



Picture sent in by Buddy Barron with this comment, "I have had a great two weeks fishing. Thank you Half Hitch Panama City Beach!! See you all soon!"


PANAMA CITY BEACH SURF & PIER
A lot of algae to deal with this past week, but lately it has moved closer to shore and you can get past it at the pier. Plenty of Spanish mackerel feeding around the pier and along the beach (out past the algae).A few King mackerel in close enough to catch. No reports of Flounder or Sheephead yet but it should not be long, a few more of these cooler nights should do it. Pompano are around (out past the algae) but they seem a little finicky. Persevere and you may still catch something to take home for your efforts.


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.