Lots of SCALLOPS and red fish in Hernando Beach!

The water clarity finally cleared up in this area of the nature coast which made for some better fishing and scalloping conditions. The cleaner water combined with some good morning high tides should make for some great back country action. Look for red fish at the mouths of creeks near structure. Focus on areas that have a lot of mullet action because the reds will follow along with them and feed on what they stir up. I like to work these areas early with a top water plug like the Rapala Skitterwalk in a white or mullet color. Another "go to" tactic of mine is to set up just within casting distance of the rocks, grass, and mangroves and cast live pin fish or cut mullet. Use a 3/0 circle hook with a 20 - 30 LB. leader and when you feel the fish just reel to set the hook and hold on! Trout fishing is also improving with this cleaner water. Target shallow water in the 2 - 4 ft range early, and as the sun gets higher in the sky, move to deeper water. I prefer casting top water plugs early. When going to deeper water use a lure the will target the lower 3rd of the water column. A white 3" GULP on a 1/4 oz. jig is a great option in the deeper flats. This scallop season has been the most productive I have seen in years. We are getting are limit on trips in short time every trip and the scallops are big. Target 6 - 8 ft of water from Aripeka to Bayport. The bigger scallops seem to be in deeper water so target these depths on a low tide to make things easier. Good luck out there and tight lines! Capt. Keith Tomlinson Bulldog Fishin Charters www.bulldogfishin.com (352)238-3581