Well, here’s a shocker—the weather is all over the place again. After a chilly Friday start coming on the heels of a front, it’s supposed to be sunny and more seasonal again over the weekend. I’m sure the fish will get the memo.
Last weekend’s new moon tidal swings produced good results for many, according to reports. Trout were scattered, but the smaller reds were all over the bars in the St. Marks River. Live shrimp resulted in big numbers with a few slot fish mixed in. Sheepshead were also coming to the net on live shrimp.
Good numbers of slot redfish were schooling on the shallow flats. But with the negative lows to start the day, those fish were super-skittish. Aqua Dream 1/4-ounce spoons in watermelon did coax a few. The water prior to the latest rain showers were crystal clear. Expect some murkiness this weekend, especially the creeks draining out of the refuge impoundments.
The high pressure system coming Friday will likely have the bite shut down. By Saturday and Sunday, however, things should stabilize and the action should be back on. At mid-week, the weather service was calling for northwest winds under advisory levels. Sunday looks to be the best opportunity with even lighter breezes clocking from the northern quadrant to the South by afternoon.
The in-between moon phase won’t produce super strong water movement. But there is a reasonable flow and difference between lows in the later mornings to high late in the afternoons. More than two feet of water will flood in at the crest, giving the cooler water a chance to warm all day. Look for fish over radiated oyster bars, mud flats and near rock piles.
If you’re in the market for a new or pre-owned boat or boating accessories, check out the Tallahassee Boat Show at the fairgrounds on South Monroe Friday through Sunday. Admission is free and the hours are 10-5 each day. Shields Marina and a number of other regional dealers will have all types of fishing boats on display.
Copyright 2020, Capt. Dave Lear. All rights reserved.