After too long of a hiatus, I am finally getting back on the water. The move to Santa Rosa County and subsequent boat barn/tackle room project kept me busy all summer long. But now, with a new outboard on the skiff’s transom,I am ready to start re-learning the western Panhandle in earnest. My weekend foray to Santa Rosa Sound gave an opportunity to put some more break-in hours on the Yamaha and find some fish. The operative word there is FIND, not catch. Still it was good to be back on the flats.
Redfish were common in the shallows. Singles and pairs were most prevalent, but some groups of four to five fish were also seen. With the negative low coming off the full moon and chillier than expected water temperatures, the fish were super spooky. Most were not interested in the shrimp lures offered or sniffed and turned away. Sizes ranged from smaller reds to over-slot fish and they were moving in depths less than two feet. Some quality trout were also in the mix, albeit in limited numbers.
Water clarity was exceptionally clear. Temperatures ranged from 61+ degrees to start before warming to just over 65 by mid-afternoon. Despite the cooler water, there is limited bait around. Schools of glass minnows and pilchards were still on the flats, along with some ballyhoo. No pinfish were spotted on the grass. A few mullet were jumping amongst smaller schools of fish.
There have been reports of scattered trout moving into the coastal rivers and upper bays. As the water continues to cool, slower presentations are necessary. Flounder should still be inshore until a prolonged cold front and the sheepshead will be turning on again soon.
If you are in need of outboard service, sales and accessories, I can highly recommend Mike Ingham and his team at Gulf Breeze Marine Service on Highway 98. They did an excellent job rigging my new engine, with expert knowledge and great communication at a fair cost. They are an authorized Yamaha dealer and can also work on a number of other brands. www.gulfbreezemarine.com
I wish everyone a blessed Thanksgiving holiday. Be safe and enjoy the bounty of our great nation.