As we roll into the heart of fall, the water temperatures start to dip, and the cleaner water will eventually make its way into the Northeast Florida area. Look for schooling redfish on the mud flats warming. Focus on flats adjacent to tidal creeks or the ICW. Fish this time of year travel the Creeks and ICW searching for bait. In other words, look for bait, then look for fish crashing bait pods in and around these areas. The last of the outgoing tide and first of the incoming is normally the easiest of all the tides to target fish.
The trout bite has been exceptional in recent weeks and is only going to get better with the colder weather. A soft plastic on a ¼ oz. jig head fished in the current is a very effective tactic. Pitch the lure of your choice, (I prefer a Slayer Paddle Tail) up-current and try various retrieve methods.
The flounder bite has been very steady. Target rocks, docks, rip rap, and eddie’s. Be sure to use enough weight to hold the bottom. You cannot use a slow enough retrieve. A mud minnow pinned to a ⅜ oz. jig head will do the trick. If you prefer artificial, a Reel Habit Jig with a Gulp swimming mullet is also very effective. Once again, a slow retrieve is a must. Once you locate a flattie, make sure to cover that area with several casts. If you find one, its highly likely you will find a few more.
The weather is definitely getting cooler, and more enjoyable, so get out on the water. If you have any questions please feel free to call or email me, or if you would like to spend a day on the water catching fish, I would love to have you.
Good Luck and be safe on the water.
Captain Don Taylor, Jr
904.318.9906
inshoreoutdoorsfishing.com
