Shrimpers so far this year are having good year. When shrimpers are catching shrimp fishermen can anticipate a good bite. One fishing guide says when you see shrimp boats off the coast it time to look for triple tail. A former fishing guide and friend (former Carolina triple record holder) says typically fishermen will fish twelve structures off the coast to find triple tail on one. While fishing around the barrier islands for reds and sea trout we saw a triple tail going air borne chasing bait. Spinner sharks and rays occasionally can be seen breaching the water again while chasing a bait.
Summer is typically the growing season. Its the time of year when lots juvenile reds are showing up around oyster rakes. When fishermen find clean water lots of small sea trout and can be found. By early fall these small fish will be keeper size. On a recent family trip with a granddad and grandson we caught quality reds and several nice flounders. That said summer is a little hit and miss. There are lots small fish in the estuary.
Prior to a push of tarpon in local waters we’re seeing a wide variety of sharks: from smaller to larger. While fishing a smaller rods with carolina rigs whiting can be found along the sand bars. Whiting are fun fish on tackle and make a good bait for big reds or a shark. On another recent trip a blind angler with the help of couple able friends brought a top black tip along side the boat. We’re seeing some jacks showing up. When menhaden show up big fish will follow. So far menhaden haven’t shown up consistently. Low salinity, and wind stronger more often than called for has made fishing challenging. That said when conditions have set up favorably spanish mackerel can be seen in the sounds. Several times we’ve caught some spanish while fishing for sea trout. During the summer if sea trout fishermen haven’t caught their fish by noon it’s best fish for another species.
During the summer we starring most days early before conditions get hot. During the afternoon a sea breeze and thunderstorms are typical. During the summer its best to fish early or late in the day.
Fishing around Savannah looks pretty good. We’re seeing lots of small fish but its that time of year. Lots of shark. So far not much to report on tarpon pushing in but the sounds south of Savannah should start seeing tarpon any day. Redfish bite looks pretty good. In general fish either early or late, late in the day. We’re seeing more boats on water so be prepared to be flexible and don’t crowd. If you come to close to another boat you’ll likely mess up your bite and their as well. If you’re keeping some fish, keep what you want to eat and release the rest. Fish that go the freezer usually end up in the trash so only keep what you intend to eat fresh. If you fish don’t make the measure – remember what another guide (top Southeast fly fisherman) says its not who caught the most its about who had the best time.
Names have been off not to embarrass and to protect the innocent. I hope this is of interest and help.
Capt. Jack McGowan, Coastal River Charters
Fish On!
Savannah, Georgia
