The beaches are holding snook, redfish and trout. They can also be found moving in and out of the passes and swash channels parallel to the beach. One of the best ways to locate fish is to walk the beach while casting artificial lures. Target bridges, swash channels, rock piles and points where the water from the gulf flows into or out of a pass.
Topwater plugs work early in the morning, at sundown and at night during a full moon. Most of the strikes will come in 5 feet of water or less. Plugs that have a loud rattle will help the fish locate the lure. You can work a topwater plug with or against the current.
Jigs are probably the most productive. Cast them up-current and slowly drag them along the bottom. The jig will puff sand as it bounces off the bottom and attract the attention of fish. Colors should be light, such as white, pink, silver or a green blend, because most of the baitfish around the beach turn to a light shade in order to blend with the sand. Use darker colors when the water is murky. My favorites are a small white hair jig or a clear shad tail with black stripes.
The weight should be heavy enough to keep the jig on the bottom. Keep your tackle on the light side. Spools should be packed with 10- to 12-pound test. Use 15- to 30-pound leaders depending on water clarity. The clearer the water, the lighter the leader.
