As we are entering our summer on the Big Bend there will be a transition of fish that are easier to catch than others. Trout for instance will move from the nearshore flats out to deep water or near deep channels. The deep water stays cooler so if you want to target them first light in the morning or after a few days of rainy days helps.

Redfish are our homesteaders and will be the best bet around the keys and backcountry. This is the time of year when I use live or cut pinfish, ladyfish and mullet. Shrimp work too but the baitfish will pick it off the hook most times before the reds find it. 

The nearshore rocks are where I find the most action.

Mangrove snapper are some of my favorite fish to catch and eat. I like to fish them just as the tide changes, that’s usually a few hours in advance of the incoming tide near the river mouths. Drift over the structure without the motor running and if they’re there you can see the in the water. If you see them then anchor up tide and use a 1/8 oz. jig head cast back towards the structure. Let the bait fall naturally with the current to get the bite. Do not shut the bail until the bait makes its way to the bottom. 

On the offshore side, gag grouper have been coming in around the 30-foot mark and red snapper starting at 50.

High incoming tide this weekend will be mid-morning. 

Homosassa Weekly Fishing Report from Captain William Toney

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