After enduring oppressive heat in August with some water temps in the high 80’s in Charlotte Harbor, and,even though we had some good days casting to Tarpon, the cooler month of September is a welcome relief. September has been one of the best months to fish the Gulfcoast, Charlotte Harbor, and the Mangrove Islands in the Backcountry.
With cooler surface temperatures, more baitfish will start to reside in the Harbor on shallower grass flats which will have Seatrout prowling in the early mornings at lower tides, chasing Cuban Anchovies, pinfish, goby’s and even sardines.This is prime topwater time, and generally, the fish will be of larger size with Seatrout exceeding 22”s.
Poling the Mangrove Islands of the Backcountry, in gin-clear water ,gives an advantage to fly casters throwing floating lines and baitfish patterns. Snook will be cruising Mangrove roots and become very visible targets with some Snook close to 40”s. Snook will go find deeper pocket water to rest and ambush baitfish as current brings servings of Sardines and Anchovies.
Redfish will start to school in the Backcountry and are highly visible pushing big wakes and seemingly roaming to nowhere in particular…but constantly on the look-out for an easy meal. Topwater baits work well…Gurglers, and Crease Flies for fly casters and Zara spooks for spinfishers.
The Gulf gets into the party with mackerel and False Albacore showing close to shore. An intermediate or sink-tip fly line will get the job done. Flies are varied but Clousers are a good bet.
Tidal considerations are paramount in the Charlotte Harbor and Boca Grande area…Moving water equals moving and aggressive fish…Bait moves=fish movement.. it is that simple…Our winter tides are low during the day and high in the evenings…affording excellent poling water and sightfishing for all species.
September is the beginning of the “Magic Season”” with low daily tides, light breezes, clear water and excellent fishing. The bonus to all of this…Tarpon are still here and ready to migrate to their winter homes in the Myakka and Peace Rivers.
They will eat flies, albeit larger patterns of Herring and Ladyfish….and there are still smaller Tarpon in Bull and Turtle Bay…
Looking forward to seeing you in September! Don’t miss it…
All the Best to you and yours,
Capt. Al White
Boca on the Fly
