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By DOUG HEMMER
© St. Petersburg Times, published July 9, 2001
When the afternoon sun is at its brightest, look for action in shaded areas of docks and bridges. Most game fish vacate grass flats when the water is at its warmest point of the day. Deep potholes and channels hold cooler water and are the first areas to try. The problem with fishing these spots is there are no targets to pinpoint. That's why I like to fish structure. Docks and bridges provide shade, which attracts game fish.
The challenge of afternoon structure fishing is getting fish to feed. They didn't go there to eat -- they escaped the hotter water. Chum the area to get the fish feeding. Sardines and white baits are good but can be hard to fish. Their radical action and speed means they can snag tackle in the structure.
Shrimp won't swim around as much. They also make great chum diced and sprinkled around the fishing area. When the current is strong, throw chum upcurrent so it can drift back to the fishing area.
Fishing in the heat can be difficult. At times it is better to fish for the junk slam. This week's hot times will be the late afternoon outgoing tide. Beach fronts and passes with strong currents hold snook, pompano and large trout. Drifting the passes with free-lined pinfish is the preferred technique for snook.
- Doug Hemmer charters out of St. Petersburg. Call (727) 347-1389.