Spring fishing on Sanibel & Captiva has been outstanding, and all signs point to a busy, and exciting start to summer!
If you’ve visited Sanibel & Captiva this year you know the islands have been busy with visitors from all over the country. This spring I’ve had the pleasure to meet many new folks from every corner of the USA, as well as having the chance to see many of my long-term friends & repeat customers. It’s been a busy year, so it’s a good thing I love what I do!!!
April fishing has been nothing short of stellar. Sure, we had a couple of tough, windy, post cold front days that were a challenge but we still found a way to bend the rods and help make some memories!
Inshore
Inshore the Redfish, Snook & Trout have remained strong. We’ve seen good numbers of big healthy Redfish and Snook in the passes and on the oyster bars. Speckled Trout remain thick on the grass flats. All have been happy to pull on the other end of the line when offered live bait or even a jig. I can’t say enough about the rebound that these species have made thanks to their “catch and release” status due to the red tide events a few years back. Lets hope Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) continues to nurse the fishery back to where it needs to be! (For updates on all the current regulations and closures from FWC visit https://myfwc.com)
Nearshore / Offshore
When the winds allowed, the nearshore / offshore bite has been strong, and diverse. I don’t think I’ve ever caught as many Flounder as I have this year! It’s a welcome addition to our fishery! Flounder are fun to catch, and can be tasty guests at the dinner table. Additionally, the Mangrove Snapper bite has been outstanding and I expect it will get even better as we move closer to the dog days of Summer! (Please remember Nearshore / Offshore trips do require some extra travel time from your trip.)
Tarpon Trips!
The annual Tarpon migration is in full swing! In the past few weeks they have started to return to the beaches of Sanibel & Captiva and all across Pine Island Sound. Within weeks we should be in full on Tarpon madness! While not for everyone, Tarpon are a true “game fish” and well deserved of their title of Silver King! You’d be hard pressed to find a fish that will fight harder, be more elusive and offer the all around challenge to experience and novice anglers alike. If you want to fight one of these beasts, now is the time! (Tarpon Trips are a minimum of 6 hours in order to provide the best opportunity for the angler.)
Book Early, Book Often!
Speaking of Summer, never have I ever been as happy to have some shade on the boat. Some of you may remember, around the end of last summer I had a nice large Bimini top made for the boat. Just to provide a break from the harsh summer sun. I’ve only used it a few times so far this year, but It has been a great addition. Particularly, on those shelling and sightseeing trips! I don’t always have it on the boat, so if you think going to want some shade on your day, please remind me to bring it the day of your charter.
As I mentioned above, It’s been a busy year which is great, but it can pose some challenges when it comes to scheduling. Especially when summer weather patterns can change on a dime! But if your patient and flexible with me, I’ll be patient and flexible with you! If you’re looking to book a charter for May and June, please book as early as possible. I’ll be on the water almost every day Mother Nature allows and I’ll do my very best to accommodate you and your guests. You can submit your dates here.
I hope everyone is safe and sound and I hope to see you all very soon!
Tight Lines,
Capt. Bryan Dollar
