Hernando Beach summer fishing

Summer has officially set in and it is crucial that anglers apply summer fishing tactics to increase their chances of bending a rod. WHEN, WHERE, and HOW you fish in these summer conditions are all things to consider when planning a trip on the water. WHEN - "The early bird gets the worm!" Getting out early when it is the coolest part of the day can be very productive. Fish are on the move and feeding during these times and will slow down and move less as the day heats up. This especially hold true in the skinny waters of the back country because the shallow water found here heats up quickly which in turn can often shut down the bite. Anglers can also target the early evening or night time and have great fishing conditions. WHERE - The red fish seem to be holding near the mouths of the many creeks, rivers, and bayou's that litter this part of the Nature Coast. Look to the mangrove shore line with near by oyster bars or saw grass. These areas provide cover for protection and allow the reds to ambush passing bait fish. The best trout bite seems to be on the deeper flats in 8 - 10 ft of water. Fish grassy bottom with a 1/4 oz. jig with a white 3" GULP. Bounce your offering across the grass and pop it off bottom and allow it to free fall back down. Most strikes will happen on the decent. HOW - The best bait for the red fish lately has been live pin fish or white bait, but they will eat a variety of artificials. Top water, jerk baits, and subsurface plugs will all produce, but I get the most hook ups when working these baits slowly. I prefer working the 1/4 jigs for the trout with the GULP or a white ZOOM Fluke. The trout seem to like a bait on the move and the jig gives that "wounded fish" look. Good luck out there and tight lines! Capt. Keith Tomlinson Bulldog Fishin Charters www.bulldogfishin.com (352)238-3581