The past few days, there has been a major influx of fish on the flats in the upper bay regions. Feisty redfish, slot-sized snook, large trout and beefy cobia are giving us a fall fishing preview.

Redfishing will remain strong. Numerous catches are being made along mangrove shorelines and oyster beds during incoming and outgoing high tides. Scaled sardines and small pinfish are the most effective baits.

Schools of huge snook are moving into deeper pockets and troughs along most flats, but they're not readily taking bait. On recent charters, I've had to approach the same school two or three times a day to catch them during feeding time. Once snook are spotted, broadcast live bait chum, and if the snook don't feed within 10-15 minutes, move on and try again later. Large trout have been flushing from depressions in the grass, mixed with redfish around mangroves and oyster beds. One notable change has been the increase in stingray and cobia activity. When presenting bait to cobia that are trailing rays, maintain a good distance from the ray so it doesn't get spooked. Once a cobia has paired with a ray, it follows its every move and will swim only as fast as the ray. Cast corked baits just beyond their path so they approach naturally.

-- Capt. Wade Osborne operates Afishionado Guide Services out of Tampa and can be reached at (888) 402-3474 or by e-mail at wade@wadefish.com.

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