Estero Bay Report

The fishing in the backbay has been tough for anglers this past week. There has been plenty of action, just not much size. The spotted seatrout bite remains good over the grass flats in 3-5 feet of water near the passes. Shrimp under popping corks seems to be the best method. Anglers will also pick up ladyfish which can be used as cut bait for redfish. The reds can be found on the oyster bars on higher water and cut bait or shrimp tipped jig heads will work best. There is some live bait starting to show up along the beaches and if you can find it the snook will eat it. Free lined baits on 3/0 circle hooks around the floating docks near the passes is the ticket. The passes are producing variety for anglers in terms of seatrout, whiting, ladyfish, sharks, and even a few pompano. Dragging shrimp on the bottom or under popping corks is the go-to method.