Fishing has been excellent this week, thanks in large part to the full moon tides. Trout have been smashing topwater lures and many of them are hefty. We’re just getting started with the dog days of August, however, so early morning forays are still the best times to go.
The water on the flats is still in the low to mid-80s. It’s super clear right now and the floating grass isn’t as bad as it has been earlier this summer. All those factors are ideal for a noisy surface plug like a Rapala Skitter Walk, Heddon Super Spook or MirrOlure Top Dog. Reds are also popping the plugs but not with quite the same enthusiasm.
By mid-day, the topwater bite has generally shut down. That’s the time to switch to touts, shrimp lures and jerk baits and target the mid-column depths. There have been consistent catches of keeper trout out to 10 feet or so. To get in the zone may require increasing weight up to 1/2 ounce and working the lures slowly so they dance just above the submerged sea grasses.
There’s no shortage of jacks and ladyfish right now, either. Watch for erupting bait schools, jumping fish or diving birds to pinpoint the location. Small silver casting spoons are the top choice and faster retrieves will mimic the action of the fleeing bait.
The marine forecast looks favorable for more action this weekend. High tides will crest before dawn and fall all morning, setting up the ideal scenario. The water exchange will be more than two feet so that should trigger some appetites. Keep an eye on the horizon for pop-up thunderstorms in the afternoons.
Copyright 2020, Capt. Dave Lear. All rights reserved.