Hello, Flagler News Weekly readers! Captain Adam Morley here, owner of Genung’s Fish Camp and The Inlet Beach and General Store at the Matanzas Inlet. This week’s fishing report is about as hot as the summer days we’ve been facing.
As we head deeper into summer, the water temperatures have been heating up, making fishing a bit easier for the folks with deeper drafting boats because when the water is this warm, many fish tend to retreat to deeper, cooler areas. So get ready, I’ve got some tips and insights to help you make the most of your time on the water, even in these steamy conditions.
One of the best ways to beat the heat and still have a productive fishing trip is to try nighttime fishing under dock lights. The cooler evening temperatures and the attraction of baitfish to the lights make docks a prime spot for various species. When fishing under dock lights, look for the light line where the illuminated water meets the darkness. This is where predatory fish like snook and trout will often hang out, ambushing smaller fish drawn to the light. A live shrimp or a small baitfish on a light jig can be very effective. Cast just beyond the light and let your bait drift into the illuminated area for the best results.
Speaking of live shrimp, they’ve been doing wonders for anglers targeting mangrove snapper lately. These feisty little fighters have been thick around rocks, docks, and pilings. Using small live shrimp on a bare hook or a simple rig has been producing great catches. Mangrove snapper are not only fun to catch but also make for some delicious table fare.
The redfish bite has also been strong. With the warmer water temperatures, you’ll find them in the deeper, cooler channels during the day. At high tide, redfish tend to move into the shallower grass lines where the water is a bit cooler and they can feed more actively. A recent trip out in the early morning yielded some nice redfish for a friend of mine, who managed to limit out within 20 minutes using live finger mullet in these deeper channels. The trick is to match your bait to the conditions and the fish’s behavior.
Flounder have been plentiful as well, with some nice 20+ inch catches being reported. Targeting flounder around creek mouths, drop-offs, and other structure with live bait or a well-placed jig can lead to some great catches. These fish tend to sit on the bottom, waiting to ambush prey, so a slow, methodical presentation works best.
When fishing in these hot conditions, it’s crucial to take steps to keep yourself cool and hydrated. Wear long-sleeve sun-protective clothing to shield yourself from the sun. Modern fishing apparel is designed to keep you cool while offering maximum UV protection. Additionally, always bring plenty of freshwater on your boat or in your vehicle. Dousing your clothing with freshwater can provide a refreshing cool-down and help regulate your body temperature.
Early mornings and late evenings can also be productive times to fish, as the temperatures are slightly cooler and the fish are more active. Topwater lures can be particularly effective for redfish during these times, especially along grass lines and oyster bars. The visual appeal and movement of a topwater lure can entice even the most cautious fish.
To sum it up, while the summer heat can present some uncomfortable conditions, there are still plenty of opportunities to have successful fishing trips. Nighttime fishing under dock lights, targeting deeper, cooler waters during the day, and taking advantage of early morning and late evening bites can all yield great results. Remember to stay cool, stay hydrated, and enjoy the beautiful waters of our area.
Tight lines, everyone, and happy fishing!
-Captain Adam Morley
