By Jimmy Tomazinis
Wow, what a summer it has been and we are only in August. The shrimp run started with a bang and remains strong from the Buckman to the Shands. I’ve had reports of 100-150 shrimp per throw. Limits in under an hour. If those numbers hold through this month while they continue to grow, we are in for something special this fall. Let’s all cross our fingers to make that happen.
The water is very warm, but the rains help mitigate it some since we do not get much relief from cooler ocean water this far upriver. Hot water can cause fish to be less active and even stop feeding. Because of this, finding areas that are slightly colder will help you find fish that are more likely to bite.
Redfish have been everywhere from bridges, docks, and drop offs. Most of them have been slot sized but a few have been caught close to 40 inches. Finger mullet, shrimp, and crab would be that natural baits of choice. Lots of different artificials will work as long as they resemble a small baitfish or shrimp.
Drum and sheepshead are around docks and bridges. They are very keyed in on shrimp right now, but they will still take clams if you would rather use them. Look for drum in the deeper areas around the structures. Sheepshead will be there too but they are much easier to catch in shallower water, especially when baits are on the bottom.
Tarpon remain a possibility if you enjoy chasing them this time of year. Bridges are one of the most consistent places to find them. They also can be extremely mobile following bait schools up and down the river. They are most active at night, but you might be able to find them by looking for rolling fish early and late in the day. Try larger live baits like mullet and croakers where you see them rolling and you might just get a bite.
Another fun thing to do would be to catch some shrimp and take them up some of our creeks in the area to target bass. Bass absolutely love our river shrimp and will put on quite a spectacle trying to catch one on the surface. Rig the shrimp free-lined or under a float and see what you think about it. Drink plenty of water and stay safe out there.
Tight lines.
