To those who were expecting a May fishing report last month, I apologize, I couldnât find the time to get the report written with a busy fishing schedule and ended up missing the deadline. This monthâs report is part catch-up as a result.
Going back to May, we had no âcolor change tailing conditionâ as we often have early in the month. Wind and current were never right to create this phenomenon. Instead we had excellent Dolphin fishing beginning the first week of May which is a bit earlier than normal. This first of the season push of fish is characterized by the presence of Frigate birds following these migrating fish and by the tendency of these fish to be relatively close to shore. (from 400â in to the reef edge) These first run fish also tend to be relatively large sized. In addition to the Dolphin, May fishing produced quite a few Wahoo, typically found under debris or along current breaks or weedlines. Most of these spring Wahoo are small fish from 10 to 25 lbs with only the occasional larger specimen. Billfish bites were relatively common particularly in the first half of the month, with the vast majority being Sailfish. The May moon was on the 25th and a large fleet was on location to target the Mutton Snapper spawn. Poor weather and spotty results rapidly thinned the fleet.
Looking at June, first and foremost it represents the official start of Hurricane season and right on cue, our weather has changed. Low pressure, large areas of moisture and abundant cloud cover will typify our weather. Boaters venturing offshore will want to carefully check radar imaging before and during their trip. This time of year squall lines can pack dangerous winds and lightning strikes. As for the fishing, the best of the Dolphin run is already over but schoolies will be plentiful. Finding larger fish will be hard work on many days. Paying close attention for bird life and floatsom is a must. Big fish âare where you find themâ and that of course could be anywhere from the reef edge to well outside the wall. The June full moon will offer another chance to target Mutton Snapper as well as Mangrove, and Yellowtail. A pleasant reef trip can be had by departing the dock around 5:00pm and fishing through the sunset till full dark period. Good luck and tight lines.
Capt. Brad Simonds