Even though it is only mid May, it seems as the fish have already moved into their summer homes. Most of the bigger trout that we were catching on the near shore rocks have moved out to 14 feet of water and can be caught using ¼ ounce jigs with a Berkley gulp shrimp or a gold metal flake Exude 4 inch dart. Look for hard bottom with patches of grass, rocks and sponges. Not only trout will be there but also a lot of short grouper, sharks and mackerel. Closer to shore, pods of tarpon have been on the flats along with large cobia up to 60 pounds have been caught . In the back waters redfish have been holding tight to the outside keys between Pine Island and Chassahowitzka in 2 feet of water or less. Look for keys with rocks and oyster bars. These fish are are extremely wary, long accurate casts are your best bet. Top water plugs such as the Rapala Skitterwalk SW8 have been extremely effective. Snook are in the passes, cuts, and along the beaches. Look for areas of moving water and good tidal flow. Top water plugs and suspending lures such as a Mirrodine and Mirrominnow will work well.

Hope to see you on the flats!

Captain Larry Roderick  5/14/08