Fun times and screaming drags for this fall. The Redfish are breading, Snook are fattening up for the winter and Seat Trout are just about every where. This time of year is just about my favorite. The weather starts to cool and the fish are feeding on every tide.
Let’s start with the Redfish. This time of year they push in from the gulf wrecks and ledges to breed in the mangrove forest. October also known as Red October is the best time of year to get multiple fish in the 20 to 30 inch range. They are targeted with multiple rigs, my prefered rig is a popping cork rig. It is easy for my clients to use and very productive. The pop that cork makes is like ringing the dinner bell.
Snook are usually the bicatch , but this year they were very plentiful. One of the baits that works well is Ladyfish. You may hear me say we are targeting ladyfish first on the trip to catch the bigger fish and they can be the challenge. Snook love to eat ladyfish steaks and big Redfish as well. Pitched under the roots of a mangrove and 15 mins is all you need to get a fish on.
Sea Trout is a very plentiful fish this time of year. They are just about every where. Popping cork, Paddle Tail Jigs, and of course shrimp are the best baits. They are a great fish for the kids to learn on how to catch fish. They are very plentiful when the waters start cool and very eager to take a bait. Also taste very good on the plate. I hope to get you and your family out this season. Plan in advance, it is the beginning of the winter season here in Naples and it does get very busy. The weather is just about perfect all day. Morning and afternoon trips are available Monday to Friday.
Tight lines and thank you,
Captain Jim Fortman,
239-325-7109
jstickum@gmail.com
Backwater Fishing in Naples & the Ten Thousand Islands 