pompano rich

30# permit caught on my pomp rig baited with a large blanched sandflea..

I have coordinated my fishing trips around the New Moon with the next one being Oct.27th. The solunar cycle surveys this day as an all-day potential bite. Of course, forecasting with only that in mind defies cooperation from the weather. A positive menu would include a ENE 10 to 15 breeze, a polite 2′ to 4′ sea and a stable or falling barometer. Additionally, knowing the water temp at different beaches is truly advantageous!

Migratory pomps are very reactive to a 1 to 2 degree sea temp drop. For example, sea temps in North Carolina have dropped from 78 to 66 in the past two weeks. Their comfort zone is around 70 degrees. Delaware is 58 degrees. Severe Nor Easters move entire bodies of cold water and entire populations of fish move south to new comfort zones. Whether it be Jekyll Island or Fernandina, super sources in Fernandina expect today the pomps will be biting. More will be revealed soon.

Here’s a quick synopsis on what changes water temperatures besides Northern blows. Strong easterly winds will push cooler offshore waters shoreline. I don’t find this wind rewarding. South winds warm it up. Several days of westerly winds will suck out the colder waters of the estuaries resulting in influential changes. To successfully analyze temperature patterns, study the links. I like SST sea surface temps. Following these patterns will undoubtedly help put more fish in the cooler.

This week, the waters made a remarkable transition from brown to powdery blue. From Ft. Pierce Inlet through St. Lucie Inlet, the sea shore became full of life. Pelicans and gulls piercing the surface for menhaden, sardines and minnows. Bluefish, jacks and ladyfish are abundant in the clear, brackish water. The Aqua water infusion provided whiting, croaker and very nice 12 to 16 inch pompano.

With clearer waters in our estuary, schools of finger mullet and glass minnows ignited the Jensen and Stuart relief bridges. Jigging with attached quills scored some bag limits of the golden nuggets. Many smacked small Spanish mackerel with Gotchas and spoons. Throw out a live bait and, KABOOM, a thunderous big Crevalle! There is no mystery any more, THEY ARE HERE!

On a personal note, I made my first trial beach surf fishing trip since May 4th. I, as many mature anglers do, pretend to cruise at speeds of when younger and seemingly immortal. I honestly don’t want you folks to think I believe that I have just stereotyped everybody. Sometimes in personal defeat I speak as if I need acceptance. Well, after a major medical event and two surgeries (and maybe a third), I’m kinda back! Relentless gym work, pilates and physical therapy will allow me to participate in a moderate way. Thanks for letting me share…

Yesterday I found freedom and fulfillment on the treasured seashore sand. Beautifully overcast and drizzling, I fished with a great friend for support. The blacktips and their puppies enjoyed a steady diet of pompano. Oh and by the way they were provided by us! Eventually even the catfish we landed were mutilated. With one rod out 120 yards while sitting on our coolers Terry suddenly stood up and said my rod was doubled up. He said probably a shark. I said no, he’s already been on for 20 seconds. Walking in mushy sand with a horseshoe graphite tightly gripped while arching my ole back I wrestled this thing for 45 minutes. Playing the drag as if was a potential IGFA record. I thought I saw him as a huge Bull Shark made his play for my weakened fish. The whole time I knew it was a permit and even did fishy prayers that it would be. And sure enough a 30 pounder hits the beach! As the two of us take turns walking it back all I could do was smile, I found my “Serenity…”

Thank You. Peace!