SWFL Fishing Forecast for October, 2018

Hello fellow anglers, according to the calendar, fall has arrived to South West Florida. As far as temperatures are concerned, It’s still going to be hot. That’s just how things work here in Florida. As for the fishing we do have something’s change. One of the biggest changes is schools of redfish showing up in the harbor. Locating these schools takes a little work, and knowledge of the fishery. Probably the most important aspect needed to sustain a large number of fish in a area is a food source. So normally these schools are found in open water. Areas that have nice grass flats and oyster beds. Mangrove shorelines can also sustain a large number of fish as long as there is food. Another thing I look for when trying to locate schooling reds is mullet. I’m not talking about a few mullet jumping along the shoreline. I’m talking about a large school stirring up the bottom as they move down the flats. Mullet are vegetarian, but they stir up the little things in the grass that reds like to feed on. When locating fish on open flats stealth is very important. Try to position yourself with the wind at your back for a long cast if necessary. The chances of you being the only angler looking for schools of reds is pretty slim. So if you encounter other anglers try to show them the same respect you would want. Often times two boats working a school together can benefit both party’s if done correctly.

Another fish that’s going to be on the move is snook. This time of year these guys will be moving to areas closer to deep water. Snook are a tropical fish and don’t do well in colder water temps. I know its still a few months before we got to worry about cold fronts. Luckily for us we have calendars and weathermen. Food sources will be key also for locating large numbers of these guys. This is the time of year snook will being feeding to add fat for this winter. Look for fish around oyster bars, and close to deeper creeks adjacent to flats with lots of forage. I’m sure the word is out, but just incase you have not heard! The FWC has placed a closed season on SNOOK and REDS until further notice. This is due to the severe red tide we have experienced this summer.

This month can be a great month for Tarpon also. A lot of anglers over look this time of year. These guys will be looking to migrate soon, so feeding for the trip is on their minds. Normally big bait is not required to catch large tarpon. How ever I encourage it this time of year, baits such as mullet and ladyfish. These larger baits also require a larger hook. A 8 or 9/0 hook works great for this, anything smaller its hard to get a solid hookup.

If you have any youth anglers in the house that you want to introduce to fishing? If so October is a great month to do so. Outside most of the bars you can find large schools of ladyfish. These guys are the least picky eaters in the harbor. I know sometimes it can be hard to keep young anglers attention on fishing. Well if you put some young kids on a school of these it will be a fish every cast. You don’t need any fancy lures or special bait. Just a jig head and a paddle tail, cast catch repeat that simple.

If you would like to experience some of Southwest Florida’s finest fishing give me a call or send me an email. All of our trips are private and customized to fit you and your parties needs.

You can also follow me on Twitter @ backbayxtremes for daily and weekly updates.

Captain Dave Stephens * (941) 916-5769 * Back Bay Xtremes * PO Box 510746, Punta Gorda FL 33951

Flats Fishing Charters for Charlotte Harbour, Punta Gorda, Florida