The big chill blew last Friday and then was reinforced by several days of building high pressure. Often as guides and fisherman, you rarely here us speak of how bad things are or were. Well, this will be one of those exceptions. I have filed days earlier this week in the "U" file. That’s "U" for ugly. Basically, overnight water temperatures dropped some 20 degrees on the flats and the moon was bright and full. Winds continued out of the north and northwest, and though visible in our gin clear waters, the fish were not much interested in the flies and/or the scaled sardines we have offered during these bluebird days.

Winds became light last night and have begun to turn to a more easterly direction. The warming trend has begun. Fishing under the extreme conditions saw most of the fish in typical late summer and fall transition spots. Winter honey holes were near vacant. The fish have been warned and this good jolt of air will get things moving. Though not unusual, but extreme for this time of year, periods in between the fronts will see the best of fall fishing.

Prior to the recent drop in water temperature, good numbers of snook and gator trout were being taken. Spanish mackerel were thick on the reefs, passes, and deeper grass flats. Grouper were fired up in 8 to 30 feet and a few scout kingfish were being reported off of Clearwater. Reds were spotty just prior of the front. Tarpon still remain in the picture as well as plenty of jacks.

The front was a temporary set back and peak fall fishing should resume during the weekend. The tides are quartering and best bets will be mackerel and gator trout.

The next several weeks will see some great fishing between and just before the passing of a high pressure system. Further, water temperatures should hold in the mid to low 70’s and the next dark moon may very well see the best it’s been this fall.

Screaming drags and tired arms!!!!

Robert McCue