Southwest Florida Fishing: Be cautious on the water for pollutants and bacteria
More than three weeks since Hurricane Ian’s passing, the cleanup continues on and off the water. For many, returning to a normal routine, even just for a day is a huge boost and a reprieve from the post-storm stresses, fishing or just getting back out on the water is an excellent option.
Shallow water anglers enjoying some much-needed salt therapy are still contending with navigational hazards both floating and submerged. Within the marked channels, the debris is becoming less prevalent. However, venturing outside the channel boaters need to proceed with great caution.
Once safely on the scene, snook and redfish are taking the bait during both phases of the tide. Windy Gulf conditions have limited many from procuring baitfish. Therefore, live shrimp, jigs and lures have proved effective in fooling the gamefish duo.
Previously: Southwest Florida Fishing Report for Oct. 20: Pay attention to onboard electronics for debris
More: Southwest Florida Fishing: Anglers easing back after Hurricane Ian for saltwater therapy
Post-storm water quality has naturally been a hot topic of conversation and concern. While beaches are technically closed, boat launches and select marinas are open for business. Remember, while out in the field caution should be taken seriously as the opportunity for pollutants and bacteria to be present is always possible.
Several local and state agencies and advocacy groups are conducting daily testing up and down our coastline. It is a good measure to keep informed on these results and plan accordingly.
Beyond the horizon, angling efforts remain low. For those making the run, snapper, gag grouper, mackerels and shark are keeping the rods bent.
Artificial reefs, rock piles and ledges located in 55 to 90 feet of depth are the best areas to concentrate effort and eliminate red grouper dead discard possibilities over wide open hard bottom areas.
Offshore
“When we have been running, we have been catching fish for our groups,” said Capt. Gene Luciano. “Conditions have been mixed bag out in the Gulf matching the catch.”
Departing from the Naples City Dock, Luciano’s Dalis Fleet has enjoyed a steady pic of snapper and gag grouper. Concentrating on ledges and artificial wrecks in the 18- to 25-mile range, his skippers have been returning to port with happy customers and vibrant fish boxes.
Luciano reports that yellowtail, mangrove and lane snapper dominated the week’s catch along with keeper-sized gag grouper. Cut squid, herring and live pinfish were used for bait.
Naples/Estero Bay
“The snook bite has been good to great,” said Capt. Chris Turner. “Overall the best action is occurring close to the open Gulf and early in the fishing day.”
Turner and his crews have found snook success casting live sardines and shrimp toward rock jetties and residential docks. Rigged on a 2/0-3/0 Kahle hook/ 40-pound fluorocarbon leader combination, snook catches to 38-inches made their way into Turner’s landing net. Bonus catches of mangrove snapper, jack crevalle and redfish also kept the lines tight.
With Gulf waters slowly cooling, Turner expects some seasonal species to begin making a showing. To prepare, Turner suggests stocking up on various jigs, trolling/casting spoons and popping corks to begin targeting speckled trout, pompano and more.
Ten Thousand Islands
“Fishing is good right now in the Ten Thousand Islands”, said Capt. Joe Cassaro of Joe Snook Fishing Guide Service.” The islands and waterways are beat up but there are some fish to be caught.”
Cassaro has been focusing his guiding prowess along outside shorelines, points and middle bay shorelines south of Fakahatchee Pass. Casting jigs and top water lures, Cassaro and his anglers have been hooking up with snook, redfish and a scattering of juvenile tarpon. Cassaro reports that the waters remained stained and full of debris, but the fish are responding.
If you have a report to share email captwill@naplessportfishing.com.
Anglers, email your photos to news@naplesnews.com and we will compile your images into an online gallery that’s featured each Thursday morning at www.naplesnews.com. Do not submit photos of fish caught illegally.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: SW FL Fishing: Concentrate on ledges, artificial wrecks 18- to 25-miles out
