By Jimmy Tomazinis
mail@floridanewsline.com
I know summer is far from over, but August still seems like an end of one summer at least. Kids go back to school and that means a lot of routines go back to normal. The traffic is more predictable in the morning and there’s fewer people on the water during the week. It also gets people settled to staying around the house for a bit since the busy summer travel season comes to a close. I found myself doing a good bit of traveling this summer to fish familiar but very different waters down south. How special it is to actually have clear water and be able to just watch fish. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again — fishing different areas will make you a better angler. Understanding why fish are in a spot and not just knowing a spot is huge. So, if you didn’t or don’t make the point of fishing somewhere new, I’d highly recommend it.
Since we’re settling back into being around the house more this is what the river’s got to offer. Shrimp were very slow to show, but they will be bigger and more plentiful. Docks and bridges are great places to try them. It’s still hot, so shade is a good thing. Trout should still be around our area, but you might have to go north if we get a decent amount of rain. They are one of the few summer residents that like a little more salt. Flounder should also be picking up around structure and drop offs. Remember that if one flounder likes a spot there’s a pretty good chance that others will as well.
I will also be watching the surf this month for tarpon and the beginning of our fall mullet run. If we get any strong east or northeast winds it can get the mullet started, especially as it gets closer to September.
I also want to put a little PSA out there since unfortunately it is algae bloom season. Doctors Lake has been bad the last few years and there’s always a chance in our area. If you see algae in the water, it’s best to avoid it since there’s no way of knowing if the toxins they produce are present or not. You can also report any blooms you observe to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Let’s hope for the best. Tight lines.
