As a seasoned angler and captain exploring the waters of the Matanzas River, I’m thrilled to share the latest buzz in the local fishing scene. Surf fishing has been a hit, with pompano and whiting reports aplenty, especially after the water temperatures dropped. Sheepshead hunts have been triumphant near the rocks and bridges, thanks to bottom sweeper jigs baited with fiddler crabs and live sand fleas. Bluefish encounters have added an electrifying touch, requiring caution due to their sharp teeth. Speckled Trout pursuits have flourished, and Black Drum expeditions have yielded fascinating tales.
Redfish sightings have kept the adventure alive, particularly in the Mantanzas Inlet, offering ample opportunities for enthusiasts. Snook sightings have weaved their way into the fishing community’s tales, with many memorable encounters captured. Join me on the “Take A Bow with Captain Adam Morley” YouTube channel to explore more about the local fishing landscape. Let’s celebrate the joys of angling, nature’s wonders, and the indomitable spirit of the fishing community together.
– Chris from Skinny Water Lures mentioned this weeks bite has been awesome. This week was packed with multiple days of a Waxing Gibbbous and a Hunters Full moon on Saturday. For those that are not familiar with moon phases a Waxing Gibbous is a 85%-95% full moon. The Hunters full moon is 100% full. What that does that have to do with fish you’re probably asking. That means the saltwater tides are more substantial during full moon due to the pull of gravity. stronger currents mean more active baitfish and prey, making optimal fishing tides. Also, a full moon radiates more light on the water during the night, affecting the feeding habits of fish because it’s much easier for them to see and feed at night. That being said this week the bite has turned up leading into that full moon.
– For REDFISHÂ we found the topwater bite has slowed a little. We found good numbers of redfish closer to the bottom, using a 3/16 or a 1/4 jig heads paired with a Skinny Water Lures paddle tail. Areas of choice on an incoming or outgoing tide were areas around oyster bars, thinned out grass or off points. Any island or land that has a point with be holding fish.
– For TROUT we found that jigging a paddle tail or a curly tail grub with a chartreuse tail or body had them chewing. We focused on the deep holes or areas with good water flow on the incoming and outgoing tide. These trout would bite these lures on the down fall, so focus on a high jigging motion depending on water depth.
– For FLOUNDER we found areas just outside of pinch points that had good water flow. Throw up current and work the lure down current. These flounder will be sitting just outside the current waiting on the bait fish to swim by. Focus working a jig or a small skinner blade on or close to the bottom.
– For SNOOK we found working pinch points or areas with structure. Use a twitch bait, paddle tail or topwater early morning. If fishing around structure remember to up your leader line. Snook are stronge fighters and will run you back into the structure or cut your line on their side gill plates.
– GET OUT THERE AND GET YOUR FISH ON!!
Capt. Adam Morley
904.540.7245
