Fishing Report for the Florida Panhandle
Capt. Alex Crawford
September 23, 2002
Carrabelle - Saltwater Fishing Report
When the wind blows from the East, fishing is least. When it blows out of the East at 15 to 20 knots for several days, the Apalachicola Bay turns into chocolate milk with 3 foot rollers packed tight as sardines. Only place to escape is up in the River and creeks.
Yesterday, a hardy group joined me for a day of inshore fishing. Conditions were tough to say the least. However, we were able to boat a half dozen redfish before the wind got up. We fished the Saint Vincent Drybar on a falling tide. Be prepared with a heavy anchor, because this area is loaded with oysters and the currents rip on the way out of the huge West Pass. Also, it is wise to fish floats if you are fishing live baits. The sharp oyster shells play havoc with leaders and light monofilament lines.
With East winds, this is mostly a redfish spot. Trout require clear water, not the soup that is always stirred with an Easterly blow. Don’t let the hardhead catfish bother you. They will keep you on your toes for that photo op red.
Offshore this week was difficult going with Hanna and then swelling conditions spinning off of hurricane Isadore. So far we have dodged a bullet with Isadore slamming the Yucatan. Hopefully, she will not turn back North in the Gulf.
I was able to squeeze in one offshore trip this week and following are the results. We caught gag and red groupers, triggers, black seabass, and snappers. It was bouncey out there and we ate some salt, but we medicated ourselves at the dock with some cold brew. It is truly amazing how the pain subsides with 800 milligrams of ibuprofen and a large volume of sourmash whiskey.
Until next tide, tight lines and solid hookups,
Captain Alex Crawford
Proud Member Florida Outdoor Writers Association
Proud Member Florida Guides Association
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