Charlotte Harbor fishing report

As we approach the half way mark of May, our water clarity has been mostly clear and clean. The lake Okeechobee discharges have been reduced to a tolerable level and we’re seeing the results. We can all thank Captains for clean water for their hard work. We’re in the heart of tarpon season but I’ve decided to stay away from the crowds and work and explore the backcountry and outside bar system along the east side of the harbor from Punta Gorda down to Matlacha. For the most part, there’s still plenty of trout out on the bar system moving in and out with the tide where the grass is healthy. Here, the clouser deep minnow is my fly of choice. After fishing trout most of the winter, I’m putting more time in working the outside shorelines looking for snook while keeping a sharp eye out for rolling tarpon. As the water temperature warms, the snook will make their way to these outside shorelines looking for cooler water temperatures that also are more oxygenated. Here, with the influx of their favorite prey species, the pilchard or scaled sardine, I’m throwing more bait fish patterns with the Puglisi peanut butter being one of my favorites. Of course, when throwing up against the mangroves I’ll tie a weedless pattern. If i do spot some rolling tarpon, this fly will work fine. However, if I spot some rollers first thing in the morning, I’ll definitely tie on a gurgler for a few shots. Once we start getting some daily rain, I do expect to see more tarpon as they’ve been a bit scattered as of late. Lastly, there have been some redfish mixed in with the snook and the same baitfish patterns will work just fine. The secret is to put the fly in their path before they feel the pressure of the skiff. That, is easier said than done. All that being said, always remember, ” The process is far more important than the result.”