The weather today is absolutely gorgeous! We're looking at sunny skies with temperatures already climbing into the 80s. It's definitely hot out there, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Sunrise was around 6:30 this morning, and we'll see sunset close to 8:00 PM, giving you plenty of daylight hours to hook some beauties.
The tarpon bite has been absolutely on fire lately! After a somewhat tough April, the warmer water temps have really got these silver kings active. Captain Rick reports he's been on a hot streak in the backcountry with multiple hookups per trip. These big girls are running 80-100 pounds, fighting hard and putting on quite an aerial show.
Beyond tarpon, we're seeing a nice mix in the backcountry - Sheepshead, Snook, and Speckled Seatrout have all been plentiful this past week. Out deeper, folks are landing Yellow-tail Snapper, Jack Crevalle, and even some Cobia. One lucky angler even battled a 150-pound shark last week!
For bait, live shrimp and pilchards are working well for the snappers and trout. If you're targeting the big tarpon, crab patterns and mullet are your best bet. For artificial enthusiasts like myself, try DOA shrimp patterns in the backcountry channels or silver spoons along the flats during moving tides.
Speaking of tides, we've got an incoming tide through mid-morning, perfect for fishing the channels. The outgoing this afternoon will create some good opportunities along the mangrove edges.
Hot spots this week include the deep backcountry channels (worth the early morning run) and the bridge channels for tarpon. The flats near Snake Bight have been producing good numbers of trout and snook. If you're looking for snappers, the patch reefs just offshore have been consistent producers.
Local tip: The water's been crystal clear lately, so use lighter leaders and be extra stealthy on those flats. And remember, it's getting mighty hot by mid-day, so early morning and evening fishing will give you the most comfortable conditions.
That's it for today, folks! Whether you're with a guide or heading out on your own, the fishing's been great, and the weather's cooperating. Tight lines, and I'll catch y'all next week with another report!
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