Redfish

Within the bays and sounds that surround Charlotte harbor, redfish have evolved to become one of the most abundant gamefish on our flats. They grow relatively quick and after the first year they’re over a foot long. They’re primarily a bottom feeder and will readily eat a shrimp pattern but also seem to really like the Puglisi baitfish patterns as well. In addition to being abundant, they’re also a good year round bite. They tolerate the cold and tend to hang out under the mangroves during the heat of Summer. In October, spawning season, the big bull reds come in from offshore and school up on the flats making for some good fly fishing.

Charlotte Harbor fishing report

Charlotte Harbor fishing report

Over the past week, I've been exploring the east side of the upper harbor between Alligator Creek and Pirate Harbor. We have been going through a rainy period as the winds have switched around from the west and are bringing lots of tropical moisture in from the Gulf....

Charlotte Harbor fishing report

Charlotte Harbor fishing report

As August begins, I'm on the water early at first light and typically back to the dock by 11:00 A.M. For the most part, it's flat calm and really nice for a few hours. For sure, I'm looking for rolling tarpon but if they don't show I have no problem working one of our...

Charlotte Harbor fishing report

Charlotte Harbor fishing report

As we officially begin our summer season, I'll begin moving a bit north of Pine Island Sound where the bite has been consistent all spring and start to explore the our mangrove habitat around the east wall of the upper harbor. First of all, it's closer to home and...