The local bait shrimper – Thunderbolt Bait House is reporting lots of bait shrimp in the creeks and rivers. When bait is plentiful the reds and sea trout will fatten up. There are lots sea trout in the creeks about an inch or two from keeper size. The best sea trout action is usually early in day and on days with “good current”. A good current is about walking speed. Fishermen have done well with sea trout on subsurface lures, shrimp and mud minnows. Little redfish, the young of the year are showing up around oyster rakes. These fish will fatten up as summer progresses. According to Georgia DNR (Department of Natural Resources) the number of sea trout and redfish around Savannah look good.
There have been reports of large school of menhaden (pogie) and tarpon just south of Savannah (in Ossabaw and Green Island Sounds. In Savannah we’re not seeing large schools of menhaden yet but likely any day now. There are some tarpon working the bars off of Little Tybee. There are sharks in the sounds as well of plenty of whiting . As menhaden push in sharks, tarpon and jacks will follow.
Generally best fishing is either early or late in day. Fisherman prefer fishing neap tides. Simply put tides that have the least range between high and low. A tide just after the first or third quarter of the moon. That said look for current. Current will move the bait and can trigger fish to bite. Days with little current can be some of the most challenging fish. For sea trout look for clean water and current. Lately some sea trout drops have been over run with ladyfish. Ladyfish can be a hoot to catch but can be mess. That said ladyfish are a great bait for shark or tarpon.
Days with little current can be good days to fish for black drum, flounder and whiting.
I hope this is of interest and help!
Fish On!
Capt. Jack McGowan
Coastal River Charters
