• Fishing the Gulf Coast: Red Tide's Impact on Florida's Inshore and Offshore Fishing

  • Nov 14 2024
  • Length: 3 mins
  • Podcast

Fishing the Gulf Coast: Red Tide's Impact on Florida's Inshore and Offshore Fishing

  • Summary

  • As of November 14, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico, particularly along Florida's Gulf Coast, is mixed due to various environmental and weather conditions.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather remains warm, with highs near 90 degrees, and there is a possibility of a hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico, which could impact fishing conditions. Tides are moderate, with a high tide expected around 10:00 AM and a low tide around 4:00 PM.

    ### Sunrise and Sunset
    Sunrise is at approximately 6:45 AM, and sunset is around 5:20 PM, providing a good window for both morning and evening fishing trips.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been affected by the presence of red tide. According to the latest reports, the red tide organism *Karenia brevis* was detected in several areas along the Gulf Coast, particularly in Southwest Florida. This has led to background to low concentrations of *K. brevis* in counties such as Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee, causing some respiratory irritation and fish kills in these areas[1].

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Despite the red tide, some fish are still active. Inshore waters are seeing catches of redfish, tarpon, and snook, especially in areas less affected by the red tide. Offshore, there have been reports of catches including grouper and snapper, although the recent red snapper season closure for federal for-hire vessels has just been announced to reopen on November 18, 2024[5].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For inshore fishing, light tackle and fly fishing are recommended. Use lures such as spoons, jigs, and soft plastics to target redfish and snook. For tarpon, live bait like mullet or pinfish is effective. Offshore, use deep-diving lures or live bait like sardines and shrimp to target grouper and snapper.

    ### Hot Spots
    - **Boca Grande Pass**: Known for its tarpon fishing, this area remains a hot spot despite the red tide, as it is less affected.
    - **Charlotte Harbor**: This area is good for inshore fishing, targeting species like redfish and snook, and is relatively less impacted by the current red tide conditions.

    Remember to check the latest red tide updates and fish kill reports before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly. Always practice safe and responsible fishing.
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