After the long hot summer extended clear through October, it’s not surprising that the fish are pretty confused right now. And with another cold front barreling our way, anglers will have to make adjustments yet again.
The flats have been hit or miss of late. Quality trout are coming to the net, but there are lots of smaller fish as well. Shrimp lures like DOA or touts like the local source Sureketch are effective as the shrimp make their way out of the marsh and creeks and move offshore. Natural colors are good, but if the water is stained or cloudy, don’t be afraid to mix it up. The fish have to find the lure to eat it. Adding scent or noise will enhance those odds. Those same type of lures, along with shad tails on a jig head will also work on flounder. Go as light as possible to detect subtle bites.
Redfish are roaming the oyster bars, backcountry creeks and flooded shorelines. Aqua Dream or Capt. Mike’s willow blade weedless spoons retrieved slowly along the bottom are great fish-finders. The pink version are a good choice now, along with the proven gold. Jerk baits rigged with worm or circle hooks are also effective search baits.
The pelagics are mostly gone by now or will be with next week’s expected front with overnight lows into the 30s. As a result, watching the forecasts and timing will be keys to successful trips. Fish tend to turn off with high pressure and the sudden shock of drastic temperature changes. Once the weather stabilizes, however, they’ll be back on the feedbag. The winter season also means lower tides, which might be even more pronounced with strong northerly winds. Bear that in mind when launching the boat or getting into skinny water.
Friday and Saturday don’t look too promising with winds predicted at 15 to 20 knots. It’s supposed to lay down by Sunday, still from the Northeast. For those off on Veteran’s Day, the winds will clock around to the Southeast. Tides will be decent with lows before daylight before cresting mid-day. Tuesday is the full moon. The prime solunar window will be an hour or so either side of high noon as the moon is down.
Whether you’re able to fish or not on Monday, be sure to thank a veteran for his or her service to our nation.