Fishing Update - Oct. 8, 2012

The nearshore waters are loaded with big spanish mackerel. The macks are following large bait schools over most hard bottom from 30 feet on out. The King mackerel run has not developed yet. I think we need a drop in water temperature to push the big kings in our direction. Grouper are cooperating in 40 to 60 foot depths. They are hitting on pinfish and large shiners. Take advantage of grouper fishing now since they will be closed on November 1. Bay fishing has been active on the stronger tides. We are seeing better snook fishing. Their numbers are improving after the freeze over two years ago and are still off limits for harvesting. Trout have still been on the smaller side but their sizes should increase as the water cools. Reds have been streaky. They have been on the move in just about every bay. One day we will rally on them and have to search the following day. Flounder fishing has been good around the docks on Longboat key. Bob Winfree and crew from Winter Haven picked up a half dozen flounder over 20 inches. Tom Chaya