Charlotte Harbor fishing report

It’s been dry and the lack of rainfall has created some clear water conditions. In addition, releases from Lake Okeechobee at the S-79, Franklin lock, have averaged 1934 cfs (cubic feet per second) for the last 14 days which is in the optimum flow envelope of 750 – 2,100 cfs. As a result, I’ve been able to spend most of my time sight fishing. There are plenty of tarpon in Boca Grande Pass and on the beaches but I’ve been spending my time closer to home and around the flats and bar system along the east and west side of the what could be considered the upper harbor. It’s always nice getting away from the crowds. Typically, you can find yourself with some space when most of the crowd is around the passes. This time of year, I’m always looking for tarpon and being a bit closer to the back country allows me the bonus of keeping an eye out for snook and redfish. With the water warming, 86 degrees, they’ve pushed to the outside cuts and shorelines which is in pretty close proximity to where I’m looking for tarpon. Because of the heat, it’s a good idea to get out early. At first light, I do like throwing gurglers and I’ll switch over to a baitfish style pattern as sun rises up over the mangrove tree tops. As I’m working what are shallow water flats, I’ll throw a floating line. I like to switch on and off or experiment with different rod combinations but typically I’ll throw an eight-weight for snook and redfish and have either a nine or ten-weight ready for a shot at a tarpon.