Nearly incessant thunderstorms and lightning have made inshore fishing difficult in recent weeks, but when windows do open up, the results can be good. Santa Rosa Sound’s water clarity has a slightly silty tint due to the run-off and winds. Sight-fishing is still possible though. Water temperatures are in the middle 80-degree range. Floating grass, which is problematic for topwater plugs with treble hooks, is thick in spots on certain tides.
There is no shortage of bait of all variety. As a result, “matching the hatch” is difficult. Tried and true lures like rattling topwater plugs, DOA shrimp and plastic shad tails or touts, still get the job done. For those anglers who prefer the real thing, a cast net will quickly fill the livewell.
Redfish are mostly singles in the smaller sizes to mid-slot. They are cruising the nearshore depths, typically. The trout bite has improved also, with some nice fish coming to the net. Surface plugs with internal bearings are calling both species into the strike zone and the fights are vigorous in spite of warm water. It never hurts to have a heavier rig at the ready in case the wolf packs of jack crevalle or a rolling tarpon pops up.
Early morning trips are the most productive since boat and jet ski traffic is down and the waters are generally cooler and calmer. It still pays to keep an eye on the horizon for thunderheads to build and expand.
With Thursday’s new moon, the rest of this week looks promising. The solunar tables, which are generally accurate, are useful guides as to the peak feeding times.
The first two STAR-tagged redfish have been caught and the Pathfinder and Contender prizes have been claimed. But there is still one other boat, motor, trailer package available (19 Spyder flats). Tons of other great prize packages are up for grabs. The younger crowd also has a chance to win college scholarships. New this year is the ALTA Equipment Company special prize of $50,000 if a Super-STAR-Tagged redfish is caught. You have to be a CCA member and registered beforehand to win prizes. Fishing continues through Labor Day Weekend so don’t forget to register at https://ccaflstar.com
Copyright 2022, Capt. Dave Lear
All rights reserved.