We also found some nice snapper working the rock piles, ledges, or holes with live shrimp. The key is the tide. The direction doesn't seem to matter, but water movement was key. When the tide was moving fast the action was also fast. It was the norm to see the Snapper swarming behind the boat seemingly waiting for their turn at your bait !
Along with Snapper, big Grunts were fighting for their place on the chew line, along with Sea Bass, Grouper, and Spanish Mackerel.
Back inside the Red fish action has still been going strong. With the best action on the rising tide. Fresh shrimp and both live and cut pin fish being the go-to baits. This hard fighting fish will continue to supply great action thru November, with the larger schools showing up in late August, and staying around until the end of October.
Starting early again this year was scallop season, and as usual it started out with a bang ! With plenty of scallops to be harvested, the main problem was finding a parking space for your vehicle and trailer. Plenty of scallops were in 3-7 feet of water, making it enjoyable for all ages to harvest. All the usual spots were producing from Chazz Point to Gomez Rock off Crystal River. You can't miss the hot spots, just look for the fleet of boats !
The Trout bite has been a bit slow these past two months. The reasons range from warm water moving the fish out to the deeper grass beds, to all the boating activity that goes along with scallop season. However, my clients have caught some nice trout up to 4 Lbs using live shrimp, and 1/8 oz jigs with the Miro Lure "Little John" in the bourbon color, working the deeper grass and drop offs.
Remember, patience at the boat ramp is the key to a fun day on the water. Long lines at the boat ramps can stir short tempers. Keep your goal in mind for "a relaxing, fun day on the water with your family and friends".
Thanks again, hope to see you on the beautiful waters of Crystal River and Homosassa.
