The past week in and around Estero Bay

This past week the fishing was up and down like the waves. The wind made it difficult to get to the tarpon grounds and the nearshore reefs. On the days the wind laid down the tarpon were easy to find and willing to eat. Free lined thread fin herrings on 7/0 circle hooks worked best. Calmer days provided a mixed bag on the reefs of sheepshead, ladyfish, spanish mackere, pompano, jacks, and trout. Shrimp on a jig head was the go to bait. In the back, the redfish continued to eat well around the oyster bars and mangrove islands on higher water. Free lined shrimp or on a jig head worked best. Work the pockets in the mangroves and be patient.