Marco Island, Ft. Myers & Boca Grande

Rat Reds and Bull Reds Most of the flats action right revolves around redfish and trout. Trout usually dominate the scene but this winter has produced more reds than trout on just about every trip. I have been using soft plastics for the most part but have had to fall back to live shrimp when the bite has been slow. The reds have been running very large or very small. The larger reds have been holding out on the open flats and tailing when the conditions are right. The smaller reds have been running with mullet schools and have been scattered in potholes near shorelines. Along with the reds, speckled trout have been keeping things busy. Most of the trout have been a bycatch while searching for reds. They have been good sized, averaging almost 20 inches. Look for the trout to be concentrated in the potholes during low tide. When the tide gets high the fish will move onto the grass. Top water lures are good choice if the winds are light. A few snook are still getting into the mix so don't be surprised if you catch a few in the sand holes as well. Good Luck! Capt. Scott Hughes Blackwater Charters 941-575-2389 home 941-628-4247 cell