August 4, 2022
I had a great day on the flats, wading and fishing for bonefish with small grubs on an 1/4 oz jig head.
I arrived at 8am and my plan was to fish until high tide at 12:30.
I was tight with my first bonefish by 8:15 and continued to enjoy a consistent bite right up until high tide.
RELATED: Best Time Of Day To Fish
All the bonefish were in the 2-4 pound range.
You would not believe how difficult it is to take a photo of yourself with a bonefish while standing hip deep in the water and balancing your fishing rod with your arm and your cell phone in your hand!
There was a steady supply of tarpon coming by my location, but I was unable to get them to bite.
Also saw a nice permit, but not until I had spooked him.
I was amazed by how many sea turtles were cruising the flat in water about chest deep. Seemed to be the same travel route as the tarpon.
RELATED: Florida Surf Fishing Species And How To Catch Them
The weather was perfect when I arrived, with a light southeast wind, but it picked up as the morning went on and I was dealing with some pretty good waves that were soaking me to my chest. I was into fish, so I fished with my back to the waves, which made it much easier.
The best part was that I had this flat all to myself and didn't see another fisherman all morning!
For tackle, I was using a St. Croix Premier fishing rod paired with a Shimano Vanford XG 4000 Spinning reel spooled with 10 pound test P-Line fluorocarbon fishing line. This is one of my favorite bass fishing rods and it is ideal for fishing the flats as well.
Can't wait to get back to the keys for another trip and maybe add a tarpon and snook to the mix!
It was a great day on the flats!
RELATED: Types Of Fishing Reels
Wish I was out there with you John! You paint a pretty picture. Loving the site, and hope it goes ballistic here shortly!
Thanks Vern! My favorite place in the world to fish!