Episodes

  • Gulf Fishing Report: Red Snapper, Kingfish, and More Biting Along Florida's Gulf Coast

    Gulf Fishing Report: Red Snapper, Kingfish, and More Biting Along Florida's Gulf Coast
    Nov 23 2024
    As of November 23, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico along Florida's Gulf Coast is looking promising, despite the recent challenges from Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

    **Weather and Tides:**
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 75°F and a gentle breeze out of the northwest at about 10 mph. Tides are relatively favorable, with a low tide at 6:15 AM and a high tide at 12:15 PM. The tidal range is moderate, which should help in stirring up some fish activity.

    **Sunrise and Sunset:**
    Sunrise is at 6:51 AM, and sunset will be at 5:23 PM, giving you ample daylight to get out on the water.

    **Fish Activity:**
    Yesterday saw a good amount of activity, particularly for Red Snapper, thanks to the recent announcement by Governor Ron DeSantis extending the Gulf Red Snapper recreational season by 17 days. This extension includes several weekends and holidays, making it a great time to get out and fish.

    Other species that were active include Kingfish, Bonito, and Spanish Mackerel near the surface, while Grouper and Amberjack were caught on the bottom. Snook and Redfish were also active in the inshore and nearshore waters.

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For Red Snapper, using live or frozen bait like shrimp, squid, or pinfish is highly effective. Jigs and spoons can also work well, especially when targeting them on the bottom.

    For Kingfish and Bonito, trolling with spoons or plugs is a good strategy. For Snook and Redfish, light tackle with live bait such as shrimp or small fish, or using soft plastics and jigs, can be very productive.

    **Hot Spots:**
    One of the hot spots right now is the Middle Grounds, about 90 miles offshore from Tampa Bay. This area is known for its diverse fish population, including larger species like Grouper and Snapper.

    Another good spot is near Clearwater, where you can target a range of species including Barracuda, Kingfish, and Jack Crevalle using various techniques like trolling, bottom fishing, and drift fishing.

    Overall, it's a great time to be out on the water in the Gulf of Mexico, with plenty of fish to be caught and favorable conditions to make your day enjoyable.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Fishing the Florida Gulf Coast: Snook, Redfish, and Tidal Insights for November 22, 2024

    Fishing the Florida Gulf Coast: Snook, Redfish, and Tidal Insights for November 22, 2024
    Nov 22 2024
    For November 22, 2024, if you're planning to hit the waters of the Gulf of Mexico around Florida, here's what you can expect:

    ### Weather and Tides
    Today, the weather is looking partly cloudy with a high of 78 degrees and a low of 63 degrees. Expect gentle breezes out of the northwest at about 10 mph. Tides are crucial, especially for inshore fishing. For the Gulf Coast, particularly around the Tampa Bay and John's Pass areas, the high tide is at around 9:30 AM and the low tide at 3:30 PM. Sunrise is at 6:53 AM, and sunset will be at 5:23 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Snook and redfish are the stars of the show right now. Snook action has been solid, especially around the passes and bridges. The best times to target them are at night, early morning, and late afternoon when the heat of the day subsides. They are actively chasing live baits like greenbacks, threadfins, and shrimp. During the night, flair hawks and soft plastics are highly effective[1].

    Redfish are plentiful in the back bay waters, particularly around islands, mangroves, dock lines, and oyster bars. Cut baits such as cut threadfins, pinfish, ladyfish, and mullet are working well. Look for them near mullet schools and bird activity during the day[1].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For snook, live baits like greenbacks, threadfins, and shrimp are top choices. At night, switch to flair hawks and soft plastics. For redfish, cut baits are the way to go, with cut threadfins, pinfish, ladyfish, and mullet being favorites.

    ### Hot Spots
    John's Pass is a hot spot right now, with snook and redfish biting well around the passes, beaches, and flats. The upper and back bay areas are also producing good results. Another good spot is the area around the bridges and dock lines, where snook tend to congregate early in the morning and late in the day[1].

    ### Yesterday's Catch
    Yesterday saw a good number of snook and redfish caught. Anglers reported catching snook in the 20-30 inch range, with some larger ones caught during the night hours. Redfish were abundant, with many in the slot to under slot size, but some bigger ones were caught using cut baits[1].

    Overall, it's shaping up to be a great day on the water, so grab your gear and head out to take advantage of the active fish and favorable conditions.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Gulf of Mexico Fishing Forecast: Navigating Red Tide and Targeting Autumn Predators

    Gulf of Mexico Fishing Forecast: Navigating Red Tide and Targeting Autumn Predators
    Nov 21 2024
    As of November 21, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico, Florida, is looking promising despite some challenges from red tide.

    **Weather and Tides:**
    The water temperatures are still in the mid-70s, which is slightly warmer than usual for this time of year. Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 75°F and a low of 65°F. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at around 10:30 AM and a low tide at 4:30 PM, making the early morning and late afternoon ideal for fishing.

    **Sunrise and Sunset:**
    Sunrise is at 6:45 AM, and sunset is at 5:15 PM, giving you ample daylight to hit your favorite spots.

    **Fish Activity:**
    The fall mullet run is in full swing, attracting larger predatory species like tarpon, kingfish, and redfish. Yesterday, anglers reported catching several redfish in the 20-25 inch range, along with some snook and speckled trout. The red tide, although present in some areas, has not significantly impacted fishing in all regions. However, it's crucial to check the latest red tide reports, especially in Southwest Florida where bloom concentrations have been observed in counties like Sarasota and Charlotte[2].

    **Best Lures and Bait:**
    For targeting redfish and snook, topwater lures and soft plastics like shrimp or crab imitations are effective. Live bait such as mullet, pinfish, and shrimp are also highly recommended. For tarpon and kingfish, use larger lures like spoons or jigs, or live bait like blue runners or herring.

    **Hot Spots:**
    - **Boca Grande Pass:** Known for its tarpon and snook fishing, this area is particularly active during the fall mullet run.
    - **Sarasota Bay:** Despite some red tide presence, this bay remains a hotspot for catching redfish, snook, and speckled trout.
    - **Destin:** The waters off Destin are great for catching a variety of species including redfish, tarpon, and kingfish, especially around the nearshore reefs and wrecks.

    Remember to stay updated on the red tide status and adjust your fishing plans accordingly. With the right gear and knowledge of the local conditions, you're set for a successful day on the water.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Fishing the Gulf: Promising Catches of Snook, Redfish, and Offshore Trophies

    Fishing the Gulf: Promising Catches of Snook, Redfish, and Offshore Trophies
    Nov 17 2024
    As of November 17, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico along Florida's Gulf Coast is looking promising, despite some recent challenges.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather has been a bit unpredictable, with strong winds blowing lately, but it's starting to settle down. Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a gentle breeze out of the northwest. Tides are moderate, with a high tide around 10:30 AM and a low tide at 4:30 PM. Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 5:23 PM.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been steady, particularly for those targeting inshore species. Yesterday saw a good bite for snook, redfish, and speckled trout. Offshore, anglers reported catching sharks, mahi-mahi, and blackfin tuna.

    ### Catches
    In the inshore waters, anglers were successful in catching snook, redfish, and speckled trout in decent numbers and sizes. For example, a group fishing with Captain Wade near St. Petersburg caught a satisfying amount of snook, redfish, and speckled trout[5].

    Offshore, the reefs and wrecks were productive, with catches of sharks, mahi-mahi, and blackfin tuna reported by Captain Bryan's group near the Haulover Inlet[5].

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For inshore fishing, live bait such as shrimp and pinfish are working well. Artificial lures like soft plastic jigs and spoons are also effective. Offshore, trolling with lures like spoons and plugs, as well as using live bait like ballyhoo and mullet, have been successful.

    ### Hot Spots
    One of the hot spots right now is the area around St. Petersburg, where the mangroves and shallow waters are hosting a good number of snook and redfish. Another promising area is near Pensacola Beach, where the reefs and wrecks are attracting a variety of offshore species like mahi-mahi and blackfin tuna[5].

    In summary, with the weather settling down and the tides in your favor, today is a great day to hit the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Make sure to pack your gear, including live bait and a selection of artificial lures, and head to the inshore mangroves or the offshore reefs for a productive day of fishing.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Gulf Coast Fishing Report: Redfish, Trout, and Tarpon Abound in the Sunny Florida Waters

    Gulf Coast Fishing Report: Redfish, Trout, and Tarpon Abound in the Sunny Florida Waters
    Nov 16 2024
    As of November 16, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico along Florida's Gulf Coast is looking promising, despite some recent challenges.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather today is partly cloudy with a high of around 78 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 68 degrees. The winds are moderate, coming from the southeast at about 10 mph. High tide is expected at 9:35 AM, and low tide at 3:45 PM, providing good conditions for both inshore and offshore fishing. Sunrise was at 6:51 AM, and sunset will be at 5:34 PM, giving you ample time to hit your favorite spots.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity remains robust following recent storms. In the coastal gulf, you can expect to find a mix of blues, Spanish mackerel, and pompano, especially on deep grass flats. Larger trout are active in the skinny waters, while redfish are spreading out on shallow grass flats, often around bars, potholes, or near docks. Snook are staging around bars and shallow flats as they move towards their winter areas.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good catch of slot redfish, snook, and speckled trout. The fall mullet run is in full swing, attracting larger predatory species like tarpon and kingfish. Anglers reported catching several redfish in the 20-25 inch range and trout up to 18 inches, particularly in the flats around Apalachicola, Dog Island near Carrabelle, and the flats of Eastpoint around Yents Bayou.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For redfish and trout, using live bait such as shrimp, mullet, or pinfish is highly effective. Soft plastic lures like DOA shrimp or MirrOlure Marsh Minnows also work well. For snook, try using jigs or topwater plugs, especially around docks and bridges during early morning and late afternoon. Spanish mackerel can be caught using spoons or jigs tipped with shrimp.

    ### Hot Spots
    Some hot spots to consider include the flats around Apalachicola and Dog Island near Carrabelle, where redfish and trout have been plentiful. Another good spot is the Boca Grande Pass, known for its tarpon and snook activity.

    Overall, the Gulf of Mexico is offering some fantastic fishing opportunities this time of year, so make sure to get out on the water and take advantage of the good conditions.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Promising Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico: Weather, Tides, and Hot Spots for a Successful Day on the Water

    Promising Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico: Weather, Tides, and Hot Spots for a Successful Day on the Water
    Nov 15 2024
    As of November 15, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico along Florida's Gulf Coast is looking promising despite some recent challenges. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 78 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 68 degrees. Winds will be moderate, coming from the southeast at about 10 mph. Sunrise is at 6:43 AM, and sunset will be at 5:31 PM. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at 9:15 AM and a low tide at 3:15 PM, providing good conditions for both inshore and offshore fishing.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity has been robust despite recent storms affecting water quality. In the coastal gulf, you can expect to find a mix of blues, Spanish mackerel, and pompano, especially on deep grass flats. Larger trout are active in the skinny waters, while redfish are spreading out on shallow grass flats, often around bars, potholes, or near docks. Snook are staging around bars and shallow flats as they move towards their winter areas.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a good catch of slot redfish, snook, and speckled trout. The fall mullet run is still in full swing, attracting larger predatory species like tarpon and kingfish. Anglers reported catching an abundance of these species around mangrove islands and oyster beds.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For inshore fishing, live bait such as shrimp, mullet, and pinfish are highly effective. Artificial lures like spoons, jigs, and soft plastics also work well, especially for targeting redfish and trout. For snook, try using topwater plugs or soft plastics around docks and bridges.

    ### Hot Spots
    Some hot spots to consider include the deep grass flats around Panama City Beach, where you can find blues, Spanish mackerel, and pompano. The mangrove islands and oyster beds in Southwest Florida are also producing a robust catch of redfish, snook, and trout. For those targeting larger species, the areas around Boca Grande Pass are known for tarpon and kingfish.

    Overall, it's a great time to get out on the water, with favorable weather and tides setting up ideal conditions for a productive fishing day.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Fishing the Gulf Coast: Red Tide's Impact on Florida's Inshore and Offshore Fishing

    Fishing the Gulf Coast: Red Tide's Impact on Florida's Inshore and Offshore Fishing
    Nov 14 2024
    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.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins
  • Fishing the Gulf: Weather, Tides, and Hotspots for a Successful Day on the Water

    Fishing the Gulf: Weather, Tides, and Hotspots for a Successful Day on the Water
    Nov 10 2024
    As of November 10, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico, particularly around Florida, is looking promising despite some recent weather challenges. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

    ### Weather and Tides
    Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 78 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 68 degrees. The winds will be moderate, coming from the southeast at about 10 mph. Tides are crucial, with a high tide expected at 9:35 AM and a low tide at 3:45 PM. Sunrise is at 6:51 AM, and sunset will be at 5:34 PM, giving you ample time to hit your favorite spots.

    ### Fish Activity
    Fish activity remains robust despite the recent storms affecting water quality. In the coastal Gulf, you can find a mix of blues, Spanish mackerel, and pompano, especially on deep grass flats. Larger trout are active in the skinny waters, while redfish are spreading out on shallow grass flats, often around bars, potholes, or near docks. Snook are staging around bars and shallow flats as they move towards their winter areas.

    ### Types and Amounts of Fish
    Yesterday saw a lot of action, particularly for redfish, trout, and cobia. Anglers reported catching several redfish in the 20-25 inch range and trout up to 18 inches, especially in the flats around Apalachicola, Dog Island near Carrabelle, and the flats of Eastpoint around Yents Bayou. Snook were also plentiful, especially around the passes, beaches, and flats in the upper and back bay areas.

    ### Best Lures and Bait
    For snook, live baits such as greenbacks, threadfins, and shrimp are highly effective, especially during the early morning and late afternoon. At night, flair hawks and soft plastics work well. For redfish, cut baits like cut threadfins, pinfish, ladyfish, and mullet are hot, particularly around the islands, mangroves, dock lines, and oyster bars.

    ### Hot Spots
    Some of the best places to fish include the flats around Apalachicola and Eastpoint, as well as the passes and beaches near Madeira Beach and John's Pass. The mangrove islands and oyster beds in Southwest Florida are also buzzing with activity, especially during the fall mullet run.

    Overall, the fall season is bringing excellent fishing opportunities to the Gulf of Mexico, and with the right bait and timing, you can have a very successful day on the water.
    Show More Show Less
    3 mins