Spring has sprung along the Panhandle coast, but the inshore waters are not quite at optimum temperatures just yet. Mid-day highs are still hovering around the mid-60 mark and the cooler overnight lows expected this weekend probably won’t nudge them up much more. That will change by next week. Once the thermometer reaches 68-plus, the bite should really turn on.
Bait is returning to the flats in growing numbers. Schools of mullet, from buck size to big roe, are flipping and flopping throughout the shallows. Pinfish, mud minnows and needlefish are becoming more prevalent as well. Shrimp won’t be far behind. And with the influx of bait, the game fish will be turning on to regain some pounds for spawning (trout) after a chilly winter.
Redfish continue to prowl the flats and they have been finicky as usual. One-quarter-ounce Aqua Dream weedless willow blade spoons are the best bet. As the bait thickens, small shad tails like the DOA CAL series in Stark Naked or similar patterns, rigged with a weedless worm hook, will get their attention. Shrimp and small crab patterns are the top options for fly casters.
Sheepshead have been gathering around jetties and other structure as part of the spring spawn. Live fiddler crabs or shrimp on small hooks will fool the convicts. Use the lightest terminal rigs as possible to detect the subtle takes. A spade or hoe comes in handy for scraping barnacles and shells off the pilings or rip rap to add some enticing chum.
A few pompano are being caught. Sand fleas, Fish Bites or Nylure jigs and Pompano Rocket flies will fool these tasty scrappers. Work the troughs and funnels along the beach for the most consistent action.
Spanish mackerel haven’t made their return just yet, but it could start any day now. Bluefish, jacks and cobia will be right after. Macks provide great fun and a tasty treat on the grill. Troll small silver spoons, Christmas tree rigs on light tackle. Or watch for birds and bait to get into the zone for tossing weighted spoons (Kastmaster, Deadly Dicks) or Gotcha lures.
The recent heavy rains have created murky conditions in Escambia Bay. The water towards the river resembles Yoo Hoo drink. It starts clearing the further south you run. The Sound is clear, with a slight amount of sediment noticeable in the water.
The 2022 Coastal Conservation Association state-wide STAR tournament kicks off Memorial Day weekend and last through the summer. Tagged redfish can win one of three boat, motor and trailer packages (Contender 22 Sport, Spyder and Hewes Redfisher flats boats). Junior anglers have chances at college scholarships. Kingfish, mahi and grouper are eligible offshore species. You have to be registered and an active CCA member to win. for more information, visit: www.ccaflstar.com
Copyright 2022, Capt. Dave Lear. All rights reserved.