It’s starting to get really good offshore with blue water in only 60-70ft. We got out Tuesday despite breezy west winds and storms south of the port. There were not any pogies off the beach, but we did see a few tarpon while trying. Unfortunately, the weather forced us further north and way shallower than where I think would have been the best bet. We still managed to get a few snake kings and the usual red snapper in 100ft. What you didn’t get to see was a mangrove and a big lane snapper.
Other than a few days in February and April, this year has been below average for mahi. There’s still a chance from wherever you hit blue water east as far as you dare. Inside the stream, you’ll have to deal with bonitos, cudas, and maybe kings while trolling. Near and in the Gulf Stream, there’s a far outside chance of a blackfin, sail, or wahoo.
There aren’t many gag or red grouper left out of Port Canaveral because all the “critically endangered” red snapper, goliath grouper, and sandbar sharks have taken over and forced them south. The best chance at them is way southeast from the port over rock bottom. Look particularly for subtle structure because there will be the least competition. It’s often not subtle underneath what you mark. Upward sticking structures such as wrecks will not hold many grouper because all the “critically endangered fish” will eat them, their food, and their eggs.
For those of you who still remember the good ole days, the northern third of the Indian River Lagoon system has been dying rapidly over the past few years while the amount of boats fishing has been rapidly increasing. My usual grand slams have been replaced with algae slams. It’s so brown that you can’t see bottom unless you’re in less than 8 inches of water. Manatees have eaten all the seagrass and it cannot regenerate. Green algae is reaching the surface and has grown several feet tall. Red algae is also present.
Due to these issues, I’m suspending my inshore reports indefinitely. I’ll still do videos and pictures, but they won’t be publicly shared until at least 14 days. All my fishing will continue to involve picking up trash, catch and release, and very careful handling. I will be touching trout as little as possible and keep all fish in the water as much as possible.
thanks for the detailed report, Kurt.