December 20, 2009
Typical winter weather patterns allowed for a few days to fish and the rest of the week was windy, wet and wild. Lots of rain the past couple of days have made it challenging for anglers to try and get out. Looks like the rain might end by Saturday, but we will just wait and see how it turns out. There will be lots of fresh water pouring into the river for the next several days. You can bet the water is pretty dirty for now as well.
Not too much to report this week on the river. Offshore, the sailfish bite has been good and some dolphin were also being taken out in the 150' range. Slow trolling ballyhoo was working for the boats that ventured offshore. The trout bite had been good south of Fort Pierce, but we will have to see what all this rain has done to the bite. Snook fishing has slowed down mostly due to less anglers heading out with the season being closed. Redfish are still hanging by docks south of Fort Pierce and should take a live shrimp or DOA shrimp. I did have several good reports of pompano along the beaches south of Fort Pierce. Live shrimp or Doc's Goofy Jigs are the favorite out there. They are constantly moving and if you happen to be there when they come by......look out! Bluefish have been in the surf, jetties and turning basin. The jacks, ladyfish and mackerel are around the inlet, too. Bright, shiny lures moving fast can get you lots of fun action this time of year. The bridges have been full of sand perch, croakers and black drum for the catwalk anglers. It has been a good week in spite of foul weather around the area.
Tip of the Week:
While most boaters and anglers check the local weather before venturing out.....there are still those that don't bother. It only takes a couple minutes to either turn on the TV or go online and check out weather sites to see what is in store for the area. You will find that most people check any number of different sites to try to get a better insight on the predictions. Nothing is ever written in stone, but you can get some idea on what the day might have ahead. Checking local radar is a great way to see weather patterns and direction of any coming rain clouds or systems. A couple minutes can make a big difference in planning for that day on the water.
Remember, fishing is not just another hobby....it's an ADVENTURE!
Happy Holidays!
Captain Charlie Conner
http://www.fishtalescharter.com/
captaincharlie@fishtalescharter.com
772-284-3852