The perfect storm that makes fishing so great in the fall is about to begin. The combination of lower water temperatures, tons of bait and fewer fishermen on the water makes for fantastic conditions. The fact that cooler days will make fishing much more pleasant doesn’t hurt either!

As usual during this time of year, redfish will begin to increasingly take artificial baits. Paddletail shad lures fished on 1/4oz. jigheads are very popular and effective. You’ll find jigheads in all different colors. I usually choose unpainted but it’s just a matter of your preference. Texas Roach and Chicken on a Chain/Fiji Chix are hot colors for the grubs but check your local tackle shop to get an idea of what’s working.  Always try changing the speed of your retrieve as well as the color of the lure.

The biggest trout continue to be produced throwing topwater lures first thing in the morning. We’ve been consistently catching trout in the 2-3lb. class using Super Spook Jr’s with the black head/chartreuse body as our go-to color. When the topwater bite dies down, we have been switching over to MirrOLure suspended lures and finding more eager fish. Plenty of smaller trout are being caught by the handful using popping corks cast along grass banks and over shell rake. Using either live shrimp or artificial D.O.A. shrimp under these corks will do the trick.

Seasonal species are still present and put up impressive fights for their size. We’ve recently had some tremendous action with spanish mackerel and bluefish crushing topwater lures. These bluefish are only 12″-14″ but can really put a bend in the rod. Live shrimp under a popping cork will take ladyfish as well as bluefish. Don’t be surprised if a rouge bonnethead shark eats that shrimp too!

Fly fishermen had excellent tailing tide action in August. We frequently found multiple redfish happily eating at any given spot. Dupre’s spoon flies in either gold or root beer worked very well. Incidentally, we have also been throwing these flies at low tide on the flats with good results. Their flash and sparkle of spoon flies can be a real advantage when water clarity is an issue.

See you on the water!

Capt. Geoff Bennett operates Charleston Charter Fishing providing fly fishing and light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of fly rods, artificial and live bait fishing options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit his website at www.charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.