Captain's Report - July/August, 2007

by Capt. Dave Mistretta

This summer we got a pleasant surprise from one of the largest fish in the gulf. A 35 foot whale shark came over to us while fishing over a local wreck. With it, was a variety of amberjacks, cobias and other gamefish. Not only did we get some great photos of the huge shark, but all the rods were bent over, screaming in all directions. You got to love summertime action!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Water temps are creeping up into the high eighties in the shallower parts of the bays, due to extremely hot conditions. Lack of rain doesn't help, since the afternoon thunder showers are almost void from our once normal summer patterns. It doesn't seem to bother the inshore action if your tarpon fishing. They seem to be swimming at many locations in the bays and along our beaches.

Offshore the water temps are a bit cooler. These milder temps have kept the king mackerel chomping at many anglers lines. The artificial reefs that are holding bait are the best attracters for these summer time macks. Light winds have made the water clarity extremely clear requiring a definite down-scaling of tackle. Wire leader needs to be shortened in length as well as dropped a few sizes in diameter, in order to get more bites.

Early morning approaches for many game fish work best, since the suns angle is low. After chasing fish around in the dark all night and easier offering at daylight is often welcomed by a big gamefish. Plus, they can't see the knots, leaders and hooks, compared to mid day. Once the sun is high, an afternoon sea breeze will often help the big kings get activated again. The water gets chopped up from the wind allowing your presentation of baited baitfish more appealing.

Sunset is another option for the 9 to 5 working class. After a long hot day of sunny weather, a big fish will often grab a bite to eat as the sun gets ready to go down. This action is simply the opposite of a bite at daylight. The angle of the sun keeps the fish from seeing every twist in your knots and hides the heavier leaders.

Grouper action has picked up this past month allowing us to target big red groupers in 90 plus feet of water. Clients have enjoyed some great grouper dinners, working these depths. Mangrove snapper fishing is also picking up. This is due to their annual spawn coming up soon. Expect the action to remain strong thought the entire summer.

Captain's Report - July/August, 2007

by Capt. Dave Mistretta

Past Captain's Reports