Captain's corner

By TROY P. SAPP
Published September 8, 2007

This time of year, we all know temperatures are at the upper limits of what is tolerable for all critters, even the ones that stay wet. With the days becoming a little shorter and the afternoon storms of late, there has been a subtle change in the water temperatures. To some species it means little, but to redfish it means time to go to school.

On the menu

Now is a great time to think about a variety of baits rather than putting 500 scaled sardines in the live well. Pinfish, grunts and cut bait such as ladyfish, sardines and threadfins are effective and easy to obtain. These are best fished with a circle hook because the baits are left motionless on the bottom "dead sticking" and might lead to deep hooking of the fish with J hooks.

Locating the school

The week preceding the new and full moon this month will bring strong incoming tides in the morning, allowing for air and water temperatures to be comfortable. Start by slowly approaching shoreline points, oyster bars, rocky bottom and significant bottom contour changes. The redfish will progress up with the rising tide to feed. Remember to be stealthy. If you are in the right place, you might have more than 200 sets of eyes watching out for you. It's a real easy way to get schooled.

Capt. Troy P. Sapp of Fins and Tails Guide Service can be reached at 813-920-6928.

[Last modified September 7, 2007, 20:23:12]