“Wind again?” was a familiar refrain over the past few weeks. Even blustery weather couldn’t hold back warmer water temperatures and the arrival of bait. Seasonal species like spanish mackerel, shark and bluefish were right behind. In spite of the breezy days, anglers have a lot to look forward to over the coming months.
As water clarity slowly improves, redfish are eating artificial plastic lures, especially those that mimic the glass minnows so abundant in our waters. Zman’s 3 ¾” streakz in smokey shad is an excellent choice. I pair this lure with a 1/8oz. jighead. When possible I try to bump this lure along the bottom then pick it up sharply once or twice with a flick of my wrist. Often, the fish will crush it as it pops up.
It’s that time of year for topwater trout action at first light. Heddon’s Super Spook Jr. in their silver mullet color works great but my favorite is the chartreuse and black. Vary retrieve speeds as you work these lures back to the boat. Here’s a lure that you should reel tight to the fish before raising your rod tip. Good luck with that as a violent boil erupts around your lure!
Spanish mackerel and bluefish are beginning to show up especially in the harbor. If you find schools of fish slashing across the surface, throw reflective casting jigs and reel them quickly through the school. Alternatively, if you know fish are present but not up top, try trolling Clark Spoons at different depths and different speeds. Remember to check your leader often as it only takes catching a few of these teethy fish to cut through it.
With the warmer water temperatures, sharks have returned to our waters. You’ll start to see the fins of bonnethead sharks slicing through the water as they seek out prey. Chunks of blue crab or live shrimp both work well on these predators. Fishing for sharks can be a great way to get younger anglers involved as sharks are usually hungry and put up great fights.
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.
