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Pensacola - Navarre - Perdido Key |
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Written by Capt. John Rivers
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 April 14th, 2008
With great catches of sheepshead and redfish it sure looks
like this spring is shaping up to be super. Last week it was a bit windy, but I
did manage to get out a couple of days; this week I was only able to get out on
Sunday and Monday, as the small craft advisories kept me grounded the rest of
the week. When I have been able to hit the water, the fish have been there and
they have been hungry. I’ve been drifting near the pass over rocks in some deep
water. Most of the fish are holding tight to structure near the pass and if
you’re not right on the spot, you’re not going to get a bite. Actually, it’s a
lot like bottom fishing in the gulf, but you’re inshore, and when you’re on the
spot, you better hang on, because it’s sure to be some rod-bending, drag-screaming
fun. The sheepshead this year have been running big; most are right around 5
lbs, but the past 3 – 4 trips we’ve boated a few over 7 lbs. These fish are
great eating, and man, do they ever put up a good fight.
On a few of these drifts, we hooked up some monster reds. On
Monday we hooked up a stud well over 25lbs! This fish gave Mike a run for his
money; it took him a good 15 minutes to land on light sheepshead tackle. This
was Mike’s first ever red, and as you can see from this picture he was stoked
about hooking into this trophy fish.
Early that day I had one of my repeats, Leighton from north
Alabama and his kids come see me each year, and what’s cool is they come down
different times to experience the different aspects of our fishery during the different
seasons. Last year they came down for the Redfish run, and this year they came
down for the Sheepshead run. Next year they said that they were going to try
and come down in July to go after some smoker kings. Leighton and his kids are
a blast to fish with, and we all have a great time. Watching them wrestle with
these big sheepshead and sharing the memories with their father is what makes
my job so enjoyable.
Not only have I been fishing near the pass for some tasty sheepies, but also
I’ve hit a few of my honey holes for specks and small reds. The bite was ok on
the flats, and we managed to boat a few specks, but the bite has not really
turned on just yet, however, give it a few more weeks and it’ll be on fire. We
did manage to hook up on a big Jack, but after a few minutes the hook pulled,
but we’ll get him next time out.
It looks like it’s going to be a great new season. Just remember to keep only
what you’re going to eat and release the rest for future generations.
Tight Lines
Capt. John
Mega-Bite Inshore Charters
Capt. John Rivers
850-341-9816
Email: megabite@bellsouth.net
Website: http://www.megabiteinshore.com/
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