Charlotte Harbor fishing report

In the mangrove backcountry, adjacent flats and around the outside bars fishing early is still key. Snook fishing, catch and release, has been consistent along many of these mangrove edges. Moreover, there are good numbers of small snook around which holds lots of promise for the future of this fishery. Redfish numbers have also been decent and they’re beginning to group up as they prepare to spawn this time of year. Because they do tend to group out on the open flats adjacent to mangrove shorelines, they can be put on the defensive from any kind of boat pressure so keep an eye out in the distance. Like the snook, they’re still a catch and release fishery. Spotted sea trout should eat well first thing in the morning anywhere in two to four feet where there’s a mix of sea grass and sand holes. Although our summer tarpon have been slow to show around the deeper holes off the west wall and Burnt Store we are expecting this to improve once we start getting back to our typical summer rain pattern.