Shallow Sensations

Anyone who has ever spent any length of time fishing anywhere in Florida’s vast backcountry will tell you shallow water angling provides a special kind of tranquility which words can barely describe. It’s an exciting world hidden deep in the mangrove forests where GPS machines and fancy fish finders will not come into play. Backcountry fishing is truly a “get away from it all” experience, leaving you completely mesmerized by the surrounding natural beauty. What’s even better, because you’re generally fishing protected waterways only a few feet deep, you’re not affected nearly as much by the elements as compared to being out in the open ocean, so it almost always calm and quiet.

Commonly referred to as “flats” or “skinny-water” fishing, there really is something for everyone in the serene, somewhat forgotten marine wilderness, which is why it really shouldn’t come as a surprise that over the last few years, more and more women have gotten involved in this type of angling. I don’t know if it’s because staying within close proximity and being able to see the shoreline and land in general is a prerequisite, or simply because backcountry fishing is an extremely relaxed atmosphere where women can feel comfortable being introduced to the sport. Maybe it is because the unspoiled beauty that completely encompasses your every sense is more than enough to grab and hold your attention. Catching fish is simply a bonus to an already picture perfect day.

Regardless if the opportunity arises to spend time in any one of Florida’s many rivers, bays, or better yet, in the lush Everglades, you should really jump at the chance. The scenery and wildlife is absolutely spectacular. You’ll have an opportunity to witness osprey, eagles, pelicans, spoonbills, and many other tropical and wading bird species for no admission fee. Porpoises, manatee, and alligators will undoubtedly be among the many sights you’ll come across during your expedition into our very own aquatic version of Jurassic Park.

What’s really nice about the backcountry is that women can master this form of fishing just as well as their male counterparts, who seem to all be under the impression that everyone enjoys rough weather and long boat rides. When fishing in the backcountry, easy to handle light tackle equipment is a must, and slimy bait a rarity.

Here in Southwest Florida lie the most prolific backcountry waters in the state. This includes Pine Island Sound, Chokoloskee, the Ten Thousand Islands, and of course the vast Everglades. Redfish, trout, snook, and tarpon are the most popular targets, while bonefish and permit create the most excitement amongst “skinny water” anglers in Biscayne Bay and along Florida’s southeastern shores. All of these fish live and feed in shallow water because baitfish, shrimp, and crabs are easy to chase down. Offshore, baitfish can elude capture in a 3 dimensional environment, but not so when the water is only eight-inches deep.

Fishing the backcountry generally requires slowly drifting and sight fishing. It’s an approach that doubles as a priceless escape from reality. The one thing that you will quickly learn is patience is a must, and it shouldn’t take you long to also realize that if you can see the fish you’re after, they can also see you. Something as simple as a shadow can spook skittish skinny water species in an instant, leaving only a splash or pocket of muddy water where they used to be. Quality polarized sunglasses with green or amber inshore lenses are a must as they dramatically cut back the glare and greatly increase your ability to see your targets before they see you. When stalking fish on the shallows, it’s also imperative to be as quiet as possible, adding to the serenity of the experience.

Recently, I had the opportunity to spend a day backcountry fishing with a couple who currently own a 65 ft. sportfishing yacht. Inshore fishing was something they had previously experienced on a very limited basis. It didn’t take long to realize it was obvious they were much more accustomed to catching billfish then redfish. They even said an “Inshore Slam” was a term they had never heard. After witnessing their joy releasing snook and redfish on relatively ultra-light tackle until their arms hurt, I do believe backcountry fishing will definitely be something they will be doing much more of in the near future.

I can also personally attest that catching fish in shallow water on light tackle is as good as it gets. When you’re going after one individual fish at a time, it’s like a game of cat & mouse. Your adrenalin level increases by the second as you close in on a tailing or cruising fish you spotted way out in the distance. Making a good cast and actually watching the fish swallow your bait is a memory that will stay with you a lifetime. What makes it even more exciting is that clear communication with your guide or fishing partner is a must. Regardless if only one person is physically holding the rod, it really is a team sport.

If you don’t have access to a shallow drafted skiff or are not fortunate enough to be married to a professional fishing guide, simple to operate and affordable canoes or kayaks will easily do the job and will allow you to access many of the treasures these hidden worlds hold. Paddling also makes for a great workout. Whatever you have to do to make it happen, you really should give shallow water fishing a try. Getting lost in the backcountry while fishing the day away is often just what the doctor ordered, both for a healthy life and a healthy relationship.