Hurricane Helene wrecked catastrophic damage to many areas of the SE United States. SW Florida had some flooding and damage but nothing like areas north of Naples.
The seas were extremely rough during the hurricane with waves washing over the beach dunes dumping water and sand on streets flooding neighborhoods and houses.
The water has since cleared up, the bait has shown up and the fishing is great, or was yesterday. Yesterday I fished a long time client and friend Eric S. from IN and we had a stellar morning. First two stops we didn’t catch a fish then the third spot the snook were fired up. In fact they were so hungry and prevalent all we had to do was drop a bait over the side of the boat and we’d catch one and the water was only 3-4’ deep. Actually it got boring and we left to find different species. In addition we caught redfish, speckled sea trout and snapper.
Going forward October is typically a great time of year to fish. The weather and water starts to cool. Bait fish will be thick along the beaches and the near shore waters and predator fish will be feeding fattening themselves up for winter.
Bonita (false albacore) will show up. Tarpon should also show on their fall southern migration along the beaches and passes. Snook, redfish, spanish mackerel, snapper pompano and trout will all be available.
I’m also starting to book Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks which are always busy so call ahead and book now.
SPANISH MACKEREL FISHING
Here are some key facts about Spanish mackerel fishing in Southwest Florida:
Species Overview
- Scientific Name: Scomberomorus maculatus
- Appearance: Spanish mackerel are characterized by their streamlined bodies, sharp teeth, and distinctive dark spots on their upper bodies.
- Size: They typically range from 18 to 30 inches in length and can weigh up to 10 pounds.
Best Fishing Seasons
- Spring and Fall: The peak seasons for Spanish mackerel fishing in Southwest Florida are usually in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).
- Winter: Some fishing can occur in winter, but catches are less frequent.
Ideal Locations
- Inshore Areas: Look for them around bridges, piers, and along beaches.
- Nearshore: They are often found around reefs, wrecks, and schools of baitfish.
- Estuaries and Bays: During migration, they may also be found in these areas.
Tackle and Techniques
- Rod and Reel: A medium to light action rod with a spinning reel is ideal.
- Line: Use a 20-30 lb braided line with a 20 lb fluorocarbon leader to withstand their sharp teeth.
- Lures: Popular choices include spoons, jigs, and topwater plugs. Live bait like shrimp or small minnows can also be very effective.
- Chumming: Chumming with bait can attract mackerel to your fishing spot.
Fishing Regulations
- Size Limits: There are size limits that vary by state, so it’s essential to check the local regulations.
- Bag Limits: There are also daily bag limits; familiarize yourself with the current regulations to ensure sustainability.
Tips for Success
- Timing: Fish during early morning or late afternoon for the best results.
- Look for Birds: Diving birds often indicate the presence of schools of baitfish, which attract mackerel.
- Watch for Surface Action: Mackerel often feed on the surface, so look for breaking water.
Conservation
- Spanish mackerel populations are generally stable, but responsible fishing practices help maintain healthy stocks. Always follow local regulations and practice catch-and-release when possible.
Bull Shark fishing
Here are some key facts about bull shark fishing in Southwest Florida:
Species Overview
- Scientific Name: Carcharhinus leucas
- Appearance: Bull sharks are robust with a blunt snout and strong jaws. They can be recognized by their grayish coloration and slightly lighter underbelly.
- Size: They typically grow between 7 to 11 feet in length and can weigh up to 500 pounds, although some larger specimens have been recorded.
Best Fishing Seasons
- Year-Round: Bull sharks can be caught year-round in Southwest Florida, but certain months (late spring through early fall) may yield better results due to warmer waters.
Ideal Locations
- Inshore Waters: Commonly found in estuaries, bays, and rivers, as they can tolerate freshwater.
- Nearshore: Look for them around reefs, wrecks, and in deeper channels.
- Shallow Flats: They often hunt in shallow waters, especially during low light conditions.
Tackle and Techniques
- Rod and Reel: A heavy-action rod with a strong reel is recommended due to their size and strength.
- Line: Use 50-80 lb braided line with a steel or heavy monofilament leader to withstand their powerful bites.
- Bait: Live bait like mullet, ladyfish, or pinfish is effective. Cut bait and larger baits can also work well.
- Chumming: Chumming with cut fish can attract bull sharks to your fishing area.
Fishing Regulations
- Size and Bag Limits: Be sure to check local regulations, as size limits and bag limits can vary. Many areas promote catch-and-release for larger sharks to support conservation efforts.
Tips for Success
- Timing: Early morning or late afternoon can be the best times to fish for bull sharks.
- Look for Signs: Signs of feeding activity, like birds diving or fish jumping, can indicate the presence of bull sharks nearby.
- Patience: Bull sharks can be cautious, so be prepared for a potentially long wait.
Safety Considerations
- Be Cautious: When fishing for bull sharks, be mindful of their strong jaws and teeth. Use caution when handling and releasing them.
- Proper Handling: If practicing catch-and-release, minimize handling time and use wet gloves or towels to protect the shark’s skin.
Conservation
- Bull sharks are vital to marine ecosystems, and responsible fishing practices help maintain their populations. Always follow local regulations and consider catch-and-release to promote sustainability.
- Enjoy your bull shark fishing adventures in Southwest Florida!