Inshore report - Bulldog Fishin Charters

Our area has had a taste of spring the past week and it looks like it is going to last a while. The bite has been good so get out there and wet a line. There are some closures in effect right now. Species like trout are strictly catch and release for February but the red fish have been willing to take up the slack and bend a rod. The red fish bite has been good out of aripeka. They are really on the move and feeding on a moving tide. I have seen schools of 4 - 6 fish in the past week, but many areas will only be holding 1 - 2 fish. Be ready to target a variety of spots until you find these "bronze bombers". Points and spoil islands are great locations to fish. Be sure there is adequate structure like mangroves,oyster bars, and grass. I find a lot of reds in 10 - 16 inches of water with many small clusters of rock. These areas provide cover for reds and hold mullet,crabs, and small bait fish. Red fish are often found near big schools of mullet feeding on whatever they stir up. I have had the most success on recent trips with shrimp. As the water warms and the pin fish invade I switch to lures or cut mullet. In February, a big select shrimp placed on a 3/0 circle hook will draw the attention of a red if he is near. Pinch the tail to put some scent in the water. I like to use a small cork for my clients to give them a "visual aide". When the cork goes down, just count to 3 and reel! NO HOOK SET! The circle hook will do all the work for you and 99% of the time it will seat itself right in the corner of the mouth. Trout season opens March 1st, but we have many inshore species to bend a rod in the meantime. We covered reds, but don't forget about the mangrove snapper, sheepies, and black drum. These guys will also put up a good fight and also provide for some great table fare. Good luck out there and tight lines! Capt. Keith Tomlinson Bulldog Fishin Charters www.bulldogfishin.com (352)238-3581