9/18/15 Mid September Backcountry Fishing Report

September is half way over and we've had some wet weather recently.  The last few days we had more rain than we have likely had in a couple months!  Wednesday it was solid rain most of the day which we rarely see here, though yesterday was much more scattered and localized, and today so far has been nice and sunny.  Anyways the islands needed it that is for sure!  Things look to be getting nicer though for the weekend as far as that goes.  Fishing has been decent still a handful of guides have been getting out every day.  Capt. Rick Stanczyk has fished a few days each week and is still reporting some tarpon action.  He has reported catching tarpon just about every outing though most days you may only get a shot or two.  Some days you get lucky though and can get in a hungry pack.  The shark action has been very slow though which usually is nice as filler while you are waiting for that tarpon, though yesterday Capt. Rick did say the sharks seemed to bite much better they got a nice bull and a few big blacktips along with a big 90 lb tarpon.  As things start to cool off he says the sharks should move back in.  Capt. Mike Venezia last week reported some stellar fishing they landed multiple tarpon he also reported action with some snook, redfish, trout, and got limit of snappers for dinner.  Capt. John Johansen has also reported tarpon action still in the backcountry.  Capt. Bill Bassett reported good action in the bay on several morning trips with limit of snappers and some trout and big ladyfish mixed in.  He also reported a lot of activity on light tackle with bonnet head sharks and sting rays while trying to catch a bonefish, he said the rod stayed bent most of the day and the customers loved it even though they did not get a bonefish.  Capt. Chris Daly said last week they had a good day catching some snook and reds in shallow water, while trying to catch some baby tarpon they saw lots of but were not able to get to feed.   Capt. Dave Morris has been doing some lobster trips still and has had some good luck with that.  If you are interested in lobstering now is a good time to go as the crowds are gone and the lobster have had a chance to settle down after being hit hard during the beginning of the season.  As we get further into the Fall look for the snook and redfish fishing to get better and better.  Pilchards, mullet, and the like should start to show up strong for a while as we get some northerly breezes but before it starts to get really cold.  October can be stellar fishing and that is right around the corner!

Capt. Rick Stanczyk