GULF OF MEXICO JUNE 2004

Backwater-to five miles out, inshore-to twelve miles out, offshore:

The inshore waters are teaming with fish. How many times can we hear that one? Learning where and when to fish is far more important to most. Well you would not be reading this if you were not interested in learning. So lets look at what happens at this time of year on the near shore waters. The waters get warm. Fish are the same temperature as the water, I am told. Are they uncomfortable? I do not think so, I feel the fish just follow the same patterns each year. Yes there are many factors that come into play for each season. Temperature is one. I believe the fish do just about the same things each year. I am referring to fish movements. The fish move inshore and in some cases all the way to the backwaters, in the winter months and in the spring, brings them back out to deeper waters. Some inshore fish lay eggs offshore. If you keep a good record of your catches this will help a lot in future trips.

The Nature Coast is doing well for the water conditions we have now. The water is warm and clear. A lot of people are not catching as many fish as they do in the spring. Some advice I would give you (if you have not already done it) downsize your fishing lines. Longer cast are better for catching spooky fish in the clear water. Braided lines are very visible so try longer leaders and different lines then find a line that works for you. The same holds true on the offshore waters. A lot of boaters think they should be fishing more offshore than they are. A good friend of mine Capt. Jim Bradley and our friend Capt. Billy Prior and family went out in not so deep water, less than forty five feet and caught there limit of fish and left them biting. Good job Capt.… Remember one thing in shallow water fishing if you can see the bottom, the fish can see you; so try not to disturb the waters you are about to fish. If you do! Have patience till things calm down before you wet a line.

I will not be on the offshore waters for a few weeks; I am waiting for a new boat to be built so by the next report I hope to fill you in a lot better.

On the inshore waters I have had many trips. I have been working in about seven foot of water using Salt Water Assassins and one-quarter ounce jig heads. I tried top water lures in this depth of water but the grass floating deterred this method of fishing. We have been doing wonderful on Redfish but only in the early morning. Beats me but on artificial baits the bite is early. Mirror lures, Assassins, Gold and silver spoons, Spinner baits all are working. Live baits will generally work all day.

Keep a tight line till next time

Capt Frank Bourgeois
http://www.alwaysfishing.com