Sunday, May 2, 2010
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Fishing St. Simons Island Georgia - Georgia Fishing Charters
St. Simons Island Georgia - Beauty of the fishery and why....
Capt. Richie Lott
April 2, 2009
St. Simons Island GA - Saltwater Fishing Report
A little about St. Simons Island and it's Estuary System - It all forms EXCELLENT FISHING!
By: Capt. Richie Lott
**NOTE: You must copy and paste the entire video links into your browser. The links normally will not work from the report page itself.
St. Simons Island ... It is indeed very unique. We have 3 major freshwater rivers that dump into the ocean in this area near St. Simons Island. One of the larger river bodies dumping just north of Sea Island Georgia is the Altamaha river. The others I would like to mention dump into St. Andrews Sound which is a body of water/Sound are between Jekyll Island and Cumberland Island Georgia. These 2 freshwater rivers are named The Satilla River and The Little Satilla River.
This (dump out of fresh into salt water) creates a tannic/Murky water on our coast, but make no mistake, it is not polluted or dirty, but a nutrient rich compilation that creates a habitat for fish and other water wildlife unlike anywhere in the US. This area ranks similar only to the Louisiana delta area... Very, very unique and laden with all types of fish and other wildlife including Wild Horses, Hogs, Blue Heron and White Heron, Egrets, Pelicans and many more. St. Simons area video - www.youtube.com/watch?v=45Yi5a4O5rE
(A MUST SEE TO LEARN ABOUT THE ARE IN GENERAL)
These Marsh and Inshore areas are home for so much wildlife it is amazing. Alligators included! The Marshes are where everything happens. The shrimp grow up in the grasses of the backwater, and fish lay eggs on the full moon tidal stages so their eggs run into the marsh grasses to cling where they will be safe from many predatorial fish as they hatch. Redfish (Red Run) are well known for this tactic and explains why there are so many huge spawning Redfish in our area during the Fall months. The Bull Redfish head in to the beaches to eat menhaden and mullet, and to lay eggs. The Reds are hungry after the spawn and during October, catching 5-15 Redfish over 30 pounds in a day is very common. (See my video on Bull Redfish -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtADYI58nv8
These areas are within 15 miles of each other by crow fly which makes our area rich with backwater/inshore marshes, oyster beds HUGE estuary systems loaded with Trout, Redfish and Flounder. With this scenario of fresh water meeting salt (also known as brackish water) comes TONS of Georgia shrimp. The best tasting shrimp a person can buy. Shrimp boats target them from May through November heavily.
Also, during the heaviest season of the shrimp movement which is in the Fall season comes thousands of small Redfish (Red Drum). One of the most popular inshore game fish in the US. The reds move into the inshore waters to eat the shrimp, as do the saltwater speckled Trout. Both are year round resident fish, but seem more abundant in the Fall and early Winter seasons. Also, both are excellent targets for light tackle fishing and the table fare of the Speckled Trout is hard to beat.
This brackish water meeting area also hold millions of bait fish called Pogies (proper name Menhaden). They become targets of large sharks, Tarpon, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Triple Tail, Jack Crevalle (not to be confused with Amberjack, which are caught offshore) and other beach roaming fish species. Nearly every fish in the ocean will eat menhaden. It is an oily, smelly bait that requires care to keep alive to be used for fishing. Dead menhaden work well too, but many times it is hard to beat a live bait, especially for King Mackerel and Spanish Mackerel. See Menhaden Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D4mpYdMfm0
St. Simons Island and the surrounding Islands are loaded with many species of Shark. The Sharks are in our area thick from April to November. The main Target species is the black tip shark and Spinner Shark. These fish are both in the Black Tip family and are sought after by Anglers for their acrobatic leaping and jumping. Shark fishing in Georgia is very, very dependable and is always fun! See Shark Fishing Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D4mpYdMfm0
The offshore fishing areas off St. Simons Island offer a fishery that is underfished and overlooked, and we like it that way. Artificial reefs in large numbers have created a habitat here on the Georgia Coast that boasts Sea Bass, Red Snapper, Grouper, Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, Barracuda, Cobia, Amberjack and much, much more. The murky water turns to green at about 10 miles offshore, then as you proceed east, the water begins to turn Blue and more and more clear each mile you travel away from the beaches. Georgia's offshore fishery is highly reputable and known for producing large bottom fish and pelagics (Traveling/Migrating fish) as well. Watch an offshore Georgia Video from one of our charters -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFFAB-f38c0
With all this area offers, fisherman and their families are offered oceans of opportunities. Literally.
Come see us!
Capt. Richie Lott
www.richielottoutdoors.com
912-617-1177
Capt. Richie Lott
April 2, 2009
St. Simons Island GA - Saltwater Fishing Report
A little about St. Simons Island and it's Estuary System - It all forms EXCELLENT FISHING!
By: Capt. Richie Lott
**NOTE: You must copy and paste the entire video links into your browser. The links normally will not work from the report page itself.
St. Simons Island ... It is indeed very unique. We have 3 major freshwater rivers that dump into the ocean in this area near St. Simons Island. One of the larger river bodies dumping just north of Sea Island Georgia is the Altamaha river. The others I would like to mention dump into St. Andrews Sound which is a body of water/Sound are between Jekyll Island and Cumberland Island Georgia. These 2 freshwater rivers are named The Satilla River and The Little Satilla River.
This (dump out of fresh into salt water) creates a tannic/Murky water on our coast, but make no mistake, it is not polluted or dirty, but a nutrient rich compilation that creates a habitat for fish and other water wildlife unlike anywhere in the US. This area ranks similar only to the Louisiana delta area... Very, very unique and laden with all types of fish and other wildlife including Wild Horses, Hogs, Blue Heron and White Heron, Egrets, Pelicans and many more. St. Simons area video - www.youtube.com/watch?v=45Yi5a4O5rE
(A MUST SEE TO LEARN ABOUT THE ARE IN GENERAL)
These Marsh and Inshore areas are home for so much wildlife it is amazing. Alligators included! The Marshes are where everything happens. The shrimp grow up in the grasses of the backwater, and fish lay eggs on the full moon tidal stages so their eggs run into the marsh grasses to cling where they will be safe from many predatorial fish as they hatch. Redfish (Red Run) are well known for this tactic and explains why there are so many huge spawning Redfish in our area during the Fall months. The Bull Redfish head in to the beaches to eat menhaden and mullet, and to lay eggs. The Reds are hungry after the spawn and during October, catching 5-15 Redfish over 30 pounds in a day is very common. (See my video on Bull Redfish -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtADYI58nv8
These areas are within 15 miles of each other by crow fly which makes our area rich with backwater/inshore marshes, oyster beds HUGE estuary systems loaded with Trout, Redfish and Flounder. With this scenario of fresh water meeting salt (also known as brackish water) comes TONS of Georgia shrimp. The best tasting shrimp a person can buy. Shrimp boats target them from May through November heavily.
Also, during the heaviest season of the shrimp movement which is in the Fall season comes thousands of small Redfish (Red Drum). One of the most popular inshore game fish in the US. The reds move into the inshore waters to eat the shrimp, as do the saltwater speckled Trout. Both are year round resident fish, but seem more abundant in the Fall and early Winter seasons. Also, both are excellent targets for light tackle fishing and the table fare of the Speckled Trout is hard to beat.
This brackish water meeting area also hold millions of bait fish called Pogies (proper name Menhaden). They become targets of large sharks, Tarpon, King Mackerel, Spanish Mackerel, Triple Tail, Jack Crevalle (not to be confused with Amberjack, which are caught offshore) and other beach roaming fish species. Nearly every fish in the ocean will eat menhaden. It is an oily, smelly bait that requires care to keep alive to be used for fishing. Dead menhaden work well too, but many times it is hard to beat a live bait, especially for King Mackerel and Spanish Mackerel. See Menhaden Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D4mpYdMfm0
St. Simons Island and the surrounding Islands are loaded with many species of Shark. The Sharks are in our area thick from April to November. The main Target species is the black tip shark and Spinner Shark. These fish are both in the Black Tip family and are sought after by Anglers for their acrobatic leaping and jumping. Shark fishing in Georgia is very, very dependable and is always fun! See Shark Fishing Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D4mpYdMfm0
The offshore fishing areas off St. Simons Island offer a fishery that is underfished and overlooked, and we like it that way. Artificial reefs in large numbers have created a habitat here on the Georgia Coast that boasts Sea Bass, Red Snapper, Grouper, Kingfish, Spanish Mackerel, Barracuda, Cobia, Amberjack and much, much more. The murky water turns to green at about 10 miles offshore, then as you proceed east, the water begins to turn Blue and more and more clear each mile you travel away from the beaches. Georgia's offshore fishery is highly reputable and known for producing large bottom fish and pelagics (Traveling/Migrating fish) as well. Watch an offshore Georgia Video from one of our charters -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFFAB-f38c0
With all this area offers, fisherman and their families are offered oceans of opportunities. Literally.
Come see us!
Capt. Richie Lott
www.richielottoutdoors.com
912-617-1177
Georgia Fishing Charters - GA Fishing, St. Simons Island
Bull Reds - COASTAL GEORGIA
Capt. Richie Lott
September 28, 2009
St. Simons Island - Saltwater Fishing Report
We charter fished HARD all weekend for Bull Redfish... I mean HARD. St. Simons ga and Jekyll island ga are normally covered with these heavy hitters by now... However, everything is a month behind this season, it seems...
My bad thoughts were early on this as I told Bob Rowell while we struck out across the ocean on Saturday morning crossing the St. Simons Island shipping channel.. "The water is green, I said to Bob.. That's a problem. If it's too clear, we aint got a chance"
That is one thing about the Bull Redfish I can tell you from the last 20 years of fishing for them... THEY DO NOT LIKE CLEAR WATER in the breakers off the Georgia Coast. The nastier, the better it seems. Northeast Wind, big tides, crashing waves across the bars and horrible conditions prove best when hunting for large beach side redfish. Quite the opposite of what most people look for and for most other species as well.
We managed a couple of fish on Sunday on an un-planned excursion.. I had to re-deem after Saturday and I noticed late Saturday night a frontal boundry was pushing through causing a stiff W-NW wind on the water. I knew that water would be nastier on Sunday... So, last minute, we rounded it up at about 11 PM to go out Sunday morning.
I worked hard again on Sunday to catch Reds. These were off St. Simons in the dirtiest water I could find, and It still wasn't like I would have liked to see, but we caught Redfish. NOTICE HOW SILVER THESE GIRLS ARE. THEY ARE JUST GETTING HERE. The beachside water will change their color to a much, much darker shade as it stains their scales after the fish are on the beach for a couple of weeks. These fish just came in from offshore... THEY ARE ONLY A MONTH LATE!! But, we're thankful they're showing up.
Good Fishing to All!
Capt. Richie Lott - St. Simons Island Georgia Fishing Charters
www.richielottoutdoors.com
St. Simons Island Fishing Forecast:
Better and Better......
Target Species:
Bull Redfish
Capt. Richie Lott
September 28, 2009
St. Simons Island - Saltwater Fishing Report
We charter fished HARD all weekend for Bull Redfish... I mean HARD. St. Simons ga and Jekyll island ga are normally covered with these heavy hitters by now... However, everything is a month behind this season, it seems...
My bad thoughts were early on this as I told Bob Rowell while we struck out across the ocean on Saturday morning crossing the St. Simons Island shipping channel.. "The water is green, I said to Bob.. That's a problem. If it's too clear, we aint got a chance"
That is one thing about the Bull Redfish I can tell you from the last 20 years of fishing for them... THEY DO NOT LIKE CLEAR WATER in the breakers off the Georgia Coast. The nastier, the better it seems. Northeast Wind, big tides, crashing waves across the bars and horrible conditions prove best when hunting for large beach side redfish. Quite the opposite of what most people look for and for most other species as well.
We managed a couple of fish on Sunday on an un-planned excursion.. I had to re-deem after Saturday and I noticed late Saturday night a frontal boundry was pushing through causing a stiff W-NW wind on the water. I knew that water would be nastier on Sunday... So, last minute, we rounded it up at about 11 PM to go out Sunday morning.
I worked hard again on Sunday to catch Reds. These were off St. Simons in the dirtiest water I could find, and It still wasn't like I would have liked to see, but we caught Redfish. NOTICE HOW SILVER THESE GIRLS ARE. THEY ARE JUST GETTING HERE. The beachside water will change their color to a much, much darker shade as it stains their scales after the fish are on the beach for a couple of weeks. These fish just came in from offshore... THEY ARE ONLY A MONTH LATE!! But, we're thankful they're showing up.
Good Fishing to All!
Capt. Richie Lott - St. Simons Island Georgia Fishing Charters
www.richielottoutdoors.com
St. Simons Island Fishing Forecast:
Better and Better......
Target Species:
Bull Redfish
Fishing St. Simons Island Georgia - Fishing Charters on St. Simons Island Georgia
Georgia's Redfish - Where, how and why in 2009
Capt. Richie Lott
December 24, 2009
St. Simons Island - Saltwater Fishing Report
This winter season on the Georgia Coast has been one to remember for me. Not only did I get in more fishing trips than I ever have in the winter, fishing was pretty good and I found plenty of new fishing holes.
Fighting with freshwater
We fought rain water run-off from the Satilla River and the Altamaha River nearly all winter long. Anytime there are heavy rains north of us or directly upon us, it all runs one place. Downhill and straight to the Coast! These fresh water rivers dump directly into our eco-system and they're still over the banks in some places. Most people seriously don't realize what an impact and value these fresh water rivers have on our fishery. It's a double edge sword, so to speak. Our fishing and shrimping is good because of this type of estuary system, but when the rains come, it sure is hard to find Trout if the water gets too fresh.
We had so much rain, the water 3 miles offshore of Jekyll Island was pure, brown swamp and rain water. It was clear, but it was tannic brown. When you find this water far out into the Atlantic, fishing can be tough, especially for Trout.
The Redfish and where to find them
Reds don't seem to mind too much of anything, especially the fresh water influx. I believe that our inshore red fishing should be ranked second to Louisiana. We can't hang with that, but we definitely run a close second with all the others. One thing is certain. It's hard to find resident redfish in Georgia if you're just guessing. There are certain things they like in their feeding habitat.
All the places that look prime, most times, are not. Great looking spots can have all the scenarios like all the other best redfish holes in the area and not produce. Welcome to Red fishing! What I look for:
1. Is there somewhere the fish could run to get away from the Dolphins? In other words, is it shallow enough? (This mainly applies to resident fish, not the fall season movers as much). Those fish like it shallow in most situations, whether it is shell or mud.
2. Look for a gradual sloping Mudflat. One that is only a foot or two deep at flood tide. A steep, quick drop off is not the type of flat you want.
3. On this illusive mudflat, I like to see some scattered shell, even if it's just tiny clumps scattered here and there.
4. Where this mudflat meets the grass and beyond is important. The type of grass you want to see atop your mudflat is not thick spartina/marsh grass. If it's dense, they can't feed as well or move as freely on a flood tide. Sparse grass is what we look for atop the mudflat. Sprigs of grass the fish can swim between and feed on crabs, shrimp and the like. Many times, there will be scattered thick grass with "passages" into the marsh, so look beyond that first layer. Reds will do anything to get on top of a flat on the flood tide and eat crabs.
5. More often than not, there will be a feeder creek (or many) that dump onto the flat. There are exceptions to this depending on where you're fishing, but it's in the scenario most times.
6. Contrary in a funny way to number one above, Reds like to have access to deeper water if they need it. Believe me, they know how to get there in any situation. A redfish normally knows his home turf very well in case of a dolphin attack on the flat or other threats. In short, finding flats on the Intracoastal is ideal, even down in Jacksonville this rings true. With all this being said, you will find fish outside of the above parameters, but good luck trying to find them. Everyone has a favorite hole here and there, but finding Reds consistently in large schools takes practice, patience and you have to be thinking like a Redfish. Period.
**Note: I know this is arguable, but my 20 years fishing for Reds has revealed to me these key factors about them:
A Redfish has 3 Goals in life. The Red's main, number one goal is to keep away from Dolphins. Number two is food. LOT'S of it. Number three is they want to GET IN THE GRASS. No worries about dolphins and free to eat all they want.
If you have never witnessed a few Dolphins ganging up on a school of Reds, it's a sight you will never forget. The Dolphins plan the mission and carry it out to a "T". We have seen them run Reds up in the mud, chasing them down a flat on their sides and the most famous of all…. Crashing into a school of Redfish from multiple angles using numerous dolphins to carry out the plan. There is no escape when this happens. They get A LOT of Redfish this way.
About the Trout
As I mentioned, it was more like Freshwater fishing for Sea Trout! The only places I was able to find trout the past few weeks is in the back of long rivers and ocean front "beach creeks". Those two types of places were holding fish fairly well. Sometimes in numbers, sometimes not. When the fish would bite, we had a blast throwing plastic at them. Mostly root beer and motor oil colors were the best as usual. Those two colors have been fished before the electric chicken was ever thought of. I remember my Dad fishing those rootbeer screw tails in the 70's…. Great Plastic on a lead head.
Well, the good news for everyone on our coast is this; I just read the Satilla River was 2 ft. below flood stage, so the rivers will be cleaning up, the salt water will be normalizing in the rivers and we should resume normal saltwater fishing shortly!
Happy Fishing!
Capt. Richie Lott
www.richielottoutdoors.com
Target Species:
Redfish
More Fishing Reports:
All Reports by Capt. Richie Lott
St. Simons Island Fishing Reports
Georgia Fishing Reports
Browse All Fishing Reports
Capt. Richie Lott
December 24, 2009
St. Simons Island - Saltwater Fishing Report
This winter season on the Georgia Coast has been one to remember for me. Not only did I get in more fishing trips than I ever have in the winter, fishing was pretty good and I found plenty of new fishing holes.
Fighting with freshwater
We fought rain water run-off from the Satilla River and the Altamaha River nearly all winter long. Anytime there are heavy rains north of us or directly upon us, it all runs one place. Downhill and straight to the Coast! These fresh water rivers dump directly into our eco-system and they're still over the banks in some places. Most people seriously don't realize what an impact and value these fresh water rivers have on our fishery. It's a double edge sword, so to speak. Our fishing and shrimping is good because of this type of estuary system, but when the rains come, it sure is hard to find Trout if the water gets too fresh.
We had so much rain, the water 3 miles offshore of Jekyll Island was pure, brown swamp and rain water. It was clear, but it was tannic brown. When you find this water far out into the Atlantic, fishing can be tough, especially for Trout.
The Redfish and where to find them
Reds don't seem to mind too much of anything, especially the fresh water influx. I believe that our inshore red fishing should be ranked second to Louisiana. We can't hang with that, but we definitely run a close second with all the others. One thing is certain. It's hard to find resident redfish in Georgia if you're just guessing. There are certain things they like in their feeding habitat.
All the places that look prime, most times, are not. Great looking spots can have all the scenarios like all the other best redfish holes in the area and not produce. Welcome to Red fishing! What I look for:
1. Is there somewhere the fish could run to get away from the Dolphins? In other words, is it shallow enough? (This mainly applies to resident fish, not the fall season movers as much). Those fish like it shallow in most situations, whether it is shell or mud.
2. Look for a gradual sloping Mudflat. One that is only a foot or two deep at flood tide. A steep, quick drop off is not the type of flat you want.
3. On this illusive mudflat, I like to see some scattered shell, even if it's just tiny clumps scattered here and there.
4. Where this mudflat meets the grass and beyond is important. The type of grass you want to see atop your mudflat is not thick spartina/marsh grass. If it's dense, they can't feed as well or move as freely on a flood tide. Sparse grass is what we look for atop the mudflat. Sprigs of grass the fish can swim between and feed on crabs, shrimp and the like. Many times, there will be scattered thick grass with "passages" into the marsh, so look beyond that first layer. Reds will do anything to get on top of a flat on the flood tide and eat crabs.
5. More often than not, there will be a feeder creek (or many) that dump onto the flat. There are exceptions to this depending on where you're fishing, but it's in the scenario most times.
6. Contrary in a funny way to number one above, Reds like to have access to deeper water if they need it. Believe me, they know how to get there in any situation. A redfish normally knows his home turf very well in case of a dolphin attack on the flat or other threats. In short, finding flats on the Intracoastal is ideal, even down in Jacksonville this rings true. With all this being said, you will find fish outside of the above parameters, but good luck trying to find them. Everyone has a favorite hole here and there, but finding Reds consistently in large schools takes practice, patience and you have to be thinking like a Redfish. Period.
**Note: I know this is arguable, but my 20 years fishing for Reds has revealed to me these key factors about them:
A Redfish has 3 Goals in life. The Red's main, number one goal is to keep away from Dolphins. Number two is food. LOT'S of it. Number three is they want to GET IN THE GRASS. No worries about dolphins and free to eat all they want.
If you have never witnessed a few Dolphins ganging up on a school of Reds, it's a sight you will never forget. The Dolphins plan the mission and carry it out to a "T". We have seen them run Reds up in the mud, chasing them down a flat on their sides and the most famous of all…. Crashing into a school of Redfish from multiple angles using numerous dolphins to carry out the plan. There is no escape when this happens. They get A LOT of Redfish this way.
About the Trout
As I mentioned, it was more like Freshwater fishing for Sea Trout! The only places I was able to find trout the past few weeks is in the back of long rivers and ocean front "beach creeks". Those two types of places were holding fish fairly well. Sometimes in numbers, sometimes not. When the fish would bite, we had a blast throwing plastic at them. Mostly root beer and motor oil colors were the best as usual. Those two colors have been fished before the electric chicken was ever thought of. I remember my Dad fishing those rootbeer screw tails in the 70's…. Great Plastic on a lead head.
Well, the good news for everyone on our coast is this; I just read the Satilla River was 2 ft. below flood stage, so the rivers will be cleaning up, the salt water will be normalizing in the rivers and we should resume normal saltwater fishing shortly!
Happy Fishing!
Capt. Richie Lott
www.richielottoutdoors.com
Target Species:
Redfish
More Fishing Reports:
All Reports by Capt. Richie Lott
St. Simons Island Fishing Reports
Georgia Fishing Reports
Browse All Fishing Reports
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Georgia Fishing St. Simons Island - Shark fishing St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island Fishing - Georgia Shark Fishing - by: Richie Lott
St. Simons Shark Fishing is as good as it gets!!!
Shark Fishing is NOT a sport of the past when using proper tactics and light tackle.
In the Modern day of fast center console boats and King Fish Tournaments we are caught up in, one of the best sports that have gone past us on the wayside is Shark Fishing.
We have all been there. In the middle of the Greater Jacksonville King Mackerel Tournament, the flat line gets crushed or the DownRigger clip pops and the excitement on board soars in hopes of a Smoker King on the line. Then, the roof caves in. "Man, it’s just a *&@** Shark!" This is disappointment at it’s best during times of competition. Aside from the Tournament agony these fish cause, you may want to consider what a ride that fish gave you while you had him on.
As much as some anglers hate to deal with the toothy critters, catch and release Shark Fishing has become a big time sport among recreational fishermen, and when I say fishermen, I am speaking of men, women and children..
"Where are all the Big Ones?"
Capt. Richie Lott says the days of killing 14 ft. Tiger Sharks, Bulls and Hammerheads are over for several reasons. Some anglers consider this kind of killing to be inhumane just to have a Jaw full of teeth on the wall.
The biggest reason we don’t see a lot of big Sharks being caught today, is many of the larger fish are gone! They are far and few in between and each year their numbers decline due to Shark Netters and Long Liners in certain areas.
Shark Fins are a hot commodity in Asia. These people pay top dollar for these fins, and due to supply and demand, we really need to take extra care of this fishery before Sharks become a fish of the past.
"On the Bright side"
The good news is, the smaller Inshore species (20 – 150 Pounds) are still plentiful in most Coastal areas. Black Tips, Spinners, Lemons, Browns and Black Nose Sharks engulf areas that hole up baitfish or have trawlers working in the area.
As a Charter Boat Guide and IGFA World Record Holder for a Black Tip Shark, I can tell you these fish pull like no other in the Coastal Waters. I would rate the battle right up there with a Tarpon in fight comparison.
Last year, Richie Lott says he saw so many Sharks swimming around my boat on several trips; it honestly made me a bit nervous. With younger anglers on the rod and the drag set at an uncomfortable 13 pounds, I had visions of the angler falling over board into the infestation in our chum slick. It’ll get your blood pumping when you see all those 100-pound toothies prowling around your boat.
"Got Shrimp Boats? St. Simons Island Georgia Fishing is Prime"
There is no easier way to catch these Coastal Sharks than behind a Shrimp Boat here around St. Simons Island Georgia. These fish gather around the bags of the nets in hopes of chomping on anything that falls out while the trawling is underway.
When the nets are raised, the Captain normally slows the boat to an idle speed while the bags are dumped onto the deck for culling. All the small fish and worthless By-Catch is literally "Snow Shoveled" out of the giant scupper holes on the deck.
This is the dinner bell for many species of fish as they have followed for an hour or more waiting for this moment. The myth about Dolphins running off Sharks is proven at this time. Those Sharks get right up there and feed with the Dolphins as they work themselves into a frenzy.
Now and then you will see the Black Tip Sharks get up in the air and do a barrel roll right off the bow. That’s always special when you’re standing on the bow looking around for a large fish to target and a 130 pounder decides to breathe some fresh air. I promise you, if it’s close enough, you won’t ever forget it!
"St. Simons Island Fishing In the Mud"
When the Shrimp Boats trawl, their nets are directly on the bottom. This leaves a tell tale brown slick behind the boat for a mile or so.
Richie Lott says you’ll notice Dolphins running in and out of the slick and Jack Crevalle will sometimes be feeding on the surface, too. The one thing you can’t miss, is that giant fin roaming through the mud slick in confusion as he hunts down the food source.
This is the time to put out the lines. Normally, there is no need to get too comfortable, especially if you have spotted fish on the surface. In fact, if you are positioned correctly in the slick, you won’t have time to put the reel in gear, so watch your tumbs!
"Baiting Up"
All you need is 20 or so "Thumper Menhaden" to get this job done. They make up a huge part of the Coastal Shark diet along with other small scale fish such as Whiting, Sand Trout, Star Drum and Tounge Fish.
If you happen upon a school of 6-10 inch mullet, net a few just to change things up a bit, and these fish will take a whiting on the live line, too.
If you are a big fan of using lures as I am, try a Yozuri "Hydro Tiger". They can’t stand to look at that thing. I don’t know what they think it is, but they just have to kill it. Just work it hard across the slicks where you have located fish. Don’t use your most expensive lure in the box, either. They will scratch one very much bad, usually beyond reuse.
"Mono Leader? Why not?"
I have caught far more than my share of these fish off St. Simons Island over the last 20 years. I have never used wire leader in my life. These smaller targets are not quite as brutal as their bigger brothers are.
Sure, you’ll lose a few fish with this technique, but the sport is what it’s all about anyway with these brutes. 300 Pound mono will land at least 90% of your fish without a break off.
Clip yourself off about 6 ft. of 200, tie a loop knot at the top and snap it on the main line.
"A Word on Tackle from Capt. Richie Lott"
Go as light as you dare. I generally go with 50 pound braid as the main line for my reel and it'll hold at least 300 yards of it. I am partial to the Penn Torque 200 for this type fishing. A smooth drag is required when light tackle angling for these fish, this reel has a smooth enough drag and holds plenty of line to get the job done.
As far as rods go, you need a meat stick with a bit of backbone. The BEST rod you can possibly use for this brutal, extreme sport is an Ugly Stik (BWB 1120). When you’re pitching to heavy hitters, you need a big bat to hit with and Ugly Stik is the one.
Tie on a 100-pound snap swivel to the main line, and then on the end of your 6-ft. 300-pound leader, add a 7/0 long shank straight hook. The long shank will most times prevent the Shark from biting on the leader. If the fish is biting on the shank of that hook, he can’t bite the leader. You won’t need any weight on your line or leader to do this job.
Fish your reels in gear to ensure a solid hook up, and with any luck at all, this will have helped you sink the hook right into the Jaw, preventing a gut hooked fish.
Pull out your digital scale and hook it onto your leader or hook and tighten that drag you are pulling 10 pounds on the scale, or even a bit tighter if your lower back can stand it. This makes it a little rough when you go to grab the rod out of the holder, but the hook set it provides is well worth it.
"Identifying Characteristics & Weight for Coastal Species"
St. Simons Black Tip Shark – 15 to 125 Pounds
St. Simons Island Spinner Shark – 30 to 150 Pounds
St. Simons Black Nose Shark – 15 to 45 pounds
St. Simons Georgia Lemon Shark – 30 to 140 Pounds
St. Simons Island Sharp Nose Shark – 8 to 20 Pounds
The Difference between a Black Tip and Spinner Shark is the most difficult to identify. The main distinguishing difference is a more streamline "Missle Shaped" body of the spinner and his small, beady eyes. The Black Tip will not be quite so streamline with the dorsal fin slightly rearward of the pectoral fins as you look at the fish from above, where the Spinner has an offset dorsal that lines up more in line the Pectoral fins. Also, the anal fins if the Black Tip Shark DO NOT have black edges. The Spinner Shark will have Black edges on the anal fins.
Spinners and Black Tips are both jumping Sharks. Most times, and angler thinks they have a Spinner on the line because of the jumping and acrobatic maneuvers they are encountering. You won’t know which species that fish is until you have the fish boatside.
The most common misconception of Cosatal Shark Species is the Black Nose Shark, which is confused with a Sand Shark or Brown Shark as they are often referred to. In all actuality, I have seen very few actual Sand Sharks over the past few years. The Black Nose Shark has a very obvious black dot directly on the front of the head, and the skin color is Brownish/Green in color.
Black Nose Sharks are often confused with Lemon Sharks, too. The best way to identify a Lemon is the (2) dorsal fins on his back. It is one of the few species with that characteristic. A nurse shark has a double dorsal, but has a dark brown, hard skin with a mouth similar to a giant catfish. They even have small whiskers around the mouth area.
One other common mix up between species is the Sharp Nose Shark. Once again, many anglers think this is a Sand Shark. Look closely, and you’ll find the Sharp Nose has white spots all over his body. Also, this fish usually will not exceed 48" in length. The Sharp Nose is a small Coastal Shark, and their fight for freedom is not nearly as intense as others mentioned here.
St. Simons Island offers superb fishing to say the least... I enjoy the ocean and all god has placed before all of us. We are lucky to live and fish in suck a beautiful are like St. Simons Island georgia. Fishing is great, weather is good and the winter is short.
Good Fishing and try these techiques... From my especience, I bet they will work for you. Feel free to comment and lets Blog!
Capt. Richie Lott
St. Simons Shark Fishing is as good as it gets!!!
Shark Fishing is NOT a sport of the past when using proper tactics and light tackle.
In the Modern day of fast center console boats and King Fish Tournaments we are caught up in, one of the best sports that have gone past us on the wayside is Shark Fishing.
We have all been there. In the middle of the Greater Jacksonville King Mackerel Tournament, the flat line gets crushed or the DownRigger clip pops and the excitement on board soars in hopes of a Smoker King on the line. Then, the roof caves in. "Man, it’s just a *&@** Shark!" This is disappointment at it’s best during times of competition. Aside from the Tournament agony these fish cause, you may want to consider what a ride that fish gave you while you had him on.
As much as some anglers hate to deal with the toothy critters, catch and release Shark Fishing has become a big time sport among recreational fishermen, and when I say fishermen, I am speaking of men, women and children..
"Where are all the Big Ones?"
Capt. Richie Lott says the days of killing 14 ft. Tiger Sharks, Bulls and Hammerheads are over for several reasons. Some anglers consider this kind of killing to be inhumane just to have a Jaw full of teeth on the wall.
The biggest reason we don’t see a lot of big Sharks being caught today, is many of the larger fish are gone! They are far and few in between and each year their numbers decline due to Shark Netters and Long Liners in certain areas.
Shark Fins are a hot commodity in Asia. These people pay top dollar for these fins, and due to supply and demand, we really need to take extra care of this fishery before Sharks become a fish of the past.
"On the Bright side"
The good news is, the smaller Inshore species (20 – 150 Pounds) are still plentiful in most Coastal areas. Black Tips, Spinners, Lemons, Browns and Black Nose Sharks engulf areas that hole up baitfish or have trawlers working in the area.
As a Charter Boat Guide and IGFA World Record Holder for a Black Tip Shark, I can tell you these fish pull like no other in the Coastal Waters. I would rate the battle right up there with a Tarpon in fight comparison.
Last year, Richie Lott says he saw so many Sharks swimming around my boat on several trips; it honestly made me a bit nervous. With younger anglers on the rod and the drag set at an uncomfortable 13 pounds, I had visions of the angler falling over board into the infestation in our chum slick. It’ll get your blood pumping when you see all those 100-pound toothies prowling around your boat.
"Got Shrimp Boats? St. Simons Island Georgia Fishing is Prime"
There is no easier way to catch these Coastal Sharks than behind a Shrimp Boat here around St. Simons Island Georgia. These fish gather around the bags of the nets in hopes of chomping on anything that falls out while the trawling is underway.
When the nets are raised, the Captain normally slows the boat to an idle speed while the bags are dumped onto the deck for culling. All the small fish and worthless By-Catch is literally "Snow Shoveled" out of the giant scupper holes on the deck.
This is the dinner bell for many species of fish as they have followed for an hour or more waiting for this moment. The myth about Dolphins running off Sharks is proven at this time. Those Sharks get right up there and feed with the Dolphins as they work themselves into a frenzy.
Now and then you will see the Black Tip Sharks get up in the air and do a barrel roll right off the bow. That’s always special when you’re standing on the bow looking around for a large fish to target and a 130 pounder decides to breathe some fresh air. I promise you, if it’s close enough, you won’t ever forget it!
"St. Simons Island Fishing In the Mud"
When the Shrimp Boats trawl, their nets are directly on the bottom. This leaves a tell tale brown slick behind the boat for a mile or so.
Richie Lott says you’ll notice Dolphins running in and out of the slick and Jack Crevalle will sometimes be feeding on the surface, too. The one thing you can’t miss, is that giant fin roaming through the mud slick in confusion as he hunts down the food source.
This is the time to put out the lines. Normally, there is no need to get too comfortable, especially if you have spotted fish on the surface. In fact, if you are positioned correctly in the slick, you won’t have time to put the reel in gear, so watch your tumbs!
"Baiting Up"
All you need is 20 or so "Thumper Menhaden" to get this job done. They make up a huge part of the Coastal Shark diet along with other small scale fish such as Whiting, Sand Trout, Star Drum and Tounge Fish.
If you happen upon a school of 6-10 inch mullet, net a few just to change things up a bit, and these fish will take a whiting on the live line, too.
If you are a big fan of using lures as I am, try a Yozuri "Hydro Tiger". They can’t stand to look at that thing. I don’t know what they think it is, but they just have to kill it. Just work it hard across the slicks where you have located fish. Don’t use your most expensive lure in the box, either. They will scratch one very much bad, usually beyond reuse.
"Mono Leader? Why not?"
I have caught far more than my share of these fish off St. Simons Island over the last 20 years. I have never used wire leader in my life. These smaller targets are not quite as brutal as their bigger brothers are.
Sure, you’ll lose a few fish with this technique, but the sport is what it’s all about anyway with these brutes. 300 Pound mono will land at least 90% of your fish without a break off.
Clip yourself off about 6 ft. of 200, tie a loop knot at the top and snap it on the main line.
"A Word on Tackle from Capt. Richie Lott"
Go as light as you dare. I generally go with 50 pound braid as the main line for my reel and it'll hold at least 300 yards of it. I am partial to the Penn Torque 200 for this type fishing. A smooth drag is required when light tackle angling for these fish, this reel has a smooth enough drag and holds plenty of line to get the job done.
As far as rods go, you need a meat stick with a bit of backbone. The BEST rod you can possibly use for this brutal, extreme sport is an Ugly Stik (BWB 1120). When you’re pitching to heavy hitters, you need a big bat to hit with and Ugly Stik is the one.
Tie on a 100-pound snap swivel to the main line, and then on the end of your 6-ft. 300-pound leader, add a 7/0 long shank straight hook. The long shank will most times prevent the Shark from biting on the leader. If the fish is biting on the shank of that hook, he can’t bite the leader. You won’t need any weight on your line or leader to do this job.
Fish your reels in gear to ensure a solid hook up, and with any luck at all, this will have helped you sink the hook right into the Jaw, preventing a gut hooked fish.
Pull out your digital scale and hook it onto your leader or hook and tighten that drag you are pulling 10 pounds on the scale, or even a bit tighter if your lower back can stand it. This makes it a little rough when you go to grab the rod out of the holder, but the hook set it provides is well worth it.
"Identifying Characteristics & Weight for Coastal Species"
St. Simons Black Tip Shark – 15 to 125 Pounds
St. Simons Island Spinner Shark – 30 to 150 Pounds
St. Simons Black Nose Shark – 15 to 45 pounds
St. Simons Georgia Lemon Shark – 30 to 140 Pounds
St. Simons Island Sharp Nose Shark – 8 to 20 Pounds
The Difference between a Black Tip and Spinner Shark is the most difficult to identify. The main distinguishing difference is a more streamline "Missle Shaped" body of the spinner and his small, beady eyes. The Black Tip will not be quite so streamline with the dorsal fin slightly rearward of the pectoral fins as you look at the fish from above, where the Spinner has an offset dorsal that lines up more in line the Pectoral fins. Also, the anal fins if the Black Tip Shark DO NOT have black edges. The Spinner Shark will have Black edges on the anal fins.
Spinners and Black Tips are both jumping Sharks. Most times, and angler thinks they have a Spinner on the line because of the jumping and acrobatic maneuvers they are encountering. You won’t know which species that fish is until you have the fish boatside.
The most common misconception of Cosatal Shark Species is the Black Nose Shark, which is confused with a Sand Shark or Brown Shark as they are often referred to. In all actuality, I have seen very few actual Sand Sharks over the past few years. The Black Nose Shark has a very obvious black dot directly on the front of the head, and the skin color is Brownish/Green in color.
Black Nose Sharks are often confused with Lemon Sharks, too. The best way to identify a Lemon is the (2) dorsal fins on his back. It is one of the few species with that characteristic. A nurse shark has a double dorsal, but has a dark brown, hard skin with a mouth similar to a giant catfish. They even have small whiskers around the mouth area.
One other common mix up between species is the Sharp Nose Shark. Once again, many anglers think this is a Sand Shark. Look closely, and you’ll find the Sharp Nose has white spots all over his body. Also, this fish usually will not exceed 48" in length. The Sharp Nose is a small Coastal Shark, and their fight for freedom is not nearly as intense as others mentioned here.
St. Simons Island offers superb fishing to say the least... I enjoy the ocean and all god has placed before all of us. We are lucky to live and fish in suck a beautiful are like St. Simons Island georgia. Fishing is great, weather is good and the winter is short.
Good Fishing and try these techiques... From my especience, I bet they will work for you. Feel free to comment and lets Blog!
Capt. Richie Lott
Georgia Fishing - St. Simons Island - Richie Lott
St. Simons Island Georgia Fishing - Tarpon
by: Richie Lott
Tarpon are a highly migratory game fish. During a cold winter, they travel as far South as South America and make an Atlantic crossing back to Florida, and then North into Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina as the water warms. There are parts of extreme South Florida that house Tarpon year round. We're after the fish on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island Georgia.
A great deal has been learned about these hard mouthed, scavenging brutes over the past few years. We have started learning incredible amounts of information about their feeding habits, migrating habits and most of all, how to locate these fish no matter if they’re rolling and free jumping or not showing themselves in dirty or deep water.
The brutal battle and acrobatic maneuvers of Tarpon draws new anglers to this sport each season as the word spreads amongst anglers and Charter Captains. It’s action like no other when the bite is on as the angler attempts to set the hook into pure bone!
As scavengers, Tarpon can be one of the most finicky feeders in the Game Fish family. I’ve seen those fish turn their nose up at a live Menhaden while they explode in the chum slick behind the boat. One would think that if the fish are in the chum slick feeding, they’re willing to eat your offering. Most times they are, but it can be disappointing and frustrating when you have 20 or 30 fish rolling behind the boat and you can’t get a knock down.
"Prime Baits for St. Simons Island Tarpon"
Depending on where you fish, you will want to coordinate your bait to the fishing and bait environment.
For example; in South Florida, the Gulf and the Keys, most anglers in these areas will use a giant shrimp, Pin fish, White Bait or crab while drifting inlets, bays, flats or channels where Tarpon are known to be holed up.
St. Simons Island Fishing for Tarpon has been going on for years. One guide I know has fished several locations on the Gulf and Atlantic Coast. He says "If I’m fishing the West Coast of Florida, Crabs are an exceptional bait especially on and around the Full Moon tidal stages as the crabs funnel out of Charlotte Harbor into Boca Grande Pass. If I’m fishing on the Atlantic Coast, a DOA Bait Buster works magic when sight casting to rolling Tarpon in dirty water Estuaries in St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island Bays and Sounds."
St. Simons Island Georgia is not so fortunate to have the flats and clear water situations as south Florida offers. Most of these anglers target Tarpon with a large Menhaden in Channels, Sand bar cuts and open Sounds. A 6 –8 inch Mullet is a good bait choice in these areas as well.
"Effective Chumming in any Location"
The many myths about chumming for Tarpon are only part true from my personal experience of running over 100 charters each year targeting these fish. I have also found, the oilier your chum bait, the better off you will be in terms of successful Tarpon fishing.
For a long time I lived on the belief of chumming the entire time I was Tarpon Fishing in Georgia. Now, I’m not saying an angler should just forget about a chum slick all together. However, do it in moderation instead of cutting up a hundred Menhaden or mullet every 30 minutes.
Too much chumming around St. Simons Island Georgia will have you fighting off Bluefish, Bar Jacks, Spanish and Sharks. On a Charter, when things are slow, that’s great. When you’re on the water to target Tarpon, that’s not so great at all.
Depending on the bait situation when I arrive on a bait school of Georgia menhaden, I typically fill a five-gallon bucket to the top with chum only baitfish, which will normally be Menhaden.
My mate will cut the fish three ways and cut the head in two so it won’t float and bring in the Sea Gulls to tear up your flat line bait after they realize there are no floating morsels. Keep that in mind no matter what fish you chum for. Most fish heads will float unless it’s a larger bait like a big Mullet.
When you arrive at a spot where you are watching fish roll or you simply know the fish are deep; set the lines out with no chumming to begin with. No need to call in the Gulls and the Sharks if you don’t need to. If the Tarpon don’t bite after 15 minutes or so, start a slow to moderate chum, but don’t over do it. Fishing St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island Georgia will prove you a blue fisherman if you chum too heavy. Just toss out a few of those cut pieces every couple of minutes as you watch the Rod tips. Give it an hour or so and then move on to another hole if they won’t cooperate.
If the fish are rolling by your boat and they won’t bite, this calls for heavy chumming. With a little luck, you’ll have one in the air within a few minutes after a heavy slick is formed. But, as we all know, they are fish, and sometimes they just don’t bite. Like any other fish, we don’t want those fish to have to think too much!
"The tricky part: Locating St. Simons Island Georgia Tarpon"
Aside from catching Tarpon at your favorite Marina under the cleaning table in Florida, Tarpon can be difficult to locate at times, especially if you’re in an area that’s not familiar stomping grounds for you. If you’re anything like me, you don’t ask for much help in unfamiliar waters, or for that matter, even locally in your hometown! First off, the water temperature in your fishing locale needs to be 75 degrees or more, and you are ahead of the game already.
With that much under your belt, head out to the nearest Sound or Bay and get a feel for the area in general. The mission here is to boat ride until you have located a bait school on the surface or your bottom machine. Look for Jack Crevalle to be feeding in the bait schools. The Jack Crevalle are tell tale signs of Tarpon in the area. These fish often run together balling up bait and crushing the surface, or they could be deep in the column marking at 35 ft. or more. When you mark the bait or spot surface activity in a bait school, send out a line and give it a try for a while as you drift with your engine(s) shut down and depth recorder off. Excess noise is a killer when you are attempting to locate and catch Tarpon.
Other prime areas are Inlets or Sounds where baitfish pour in on the flood tide out of deep water into shallows or over a submerged sandbar that forms a rip. Sharp sloping ledges in shallow or deep water may be holding bait and Tarpon, so watch the bottom machine closely as you idle outside the channel or inlet. Just like any fish, there has to be something to eat, or you normally won’t find them.
In shallow Sounds and Bays where clear water is the norm while fishing St. Simons, Jekyll or cumberland island georgia, you may be able to spot tarpon rolling or simply roaming the flats in search of food. In fact, there is no doubt you will spot Tarpon in these areas if you are a patient angler.
Another key factor is tides. Especially while fishing in georgia. If there is one thing that’s predictable about Tarpon, it’s their movement with tidal flow. Tarpon move out with the ebb and in with the flood following bait in and out. Bait schools drift with the current and the fish aren’t far behind. The tides move swiftly arouns St. Simmons Island in Coastal Georgia.
Ebb tides will send you a little further offshore in search of Tarpon in most area’s, especially on the northern sector of the south east coast in places such as Jacksonville, Fl, St. Simons Island, GA, Jekyll Island Georgia and into areas of South Carolina as well. In these locales, 7- ft. tidal stages are normal all year round.
Flood tides will send you looking for Tarpon closer to shore. These fish can be caught in river mouths as the flood tide rises. When the tide is affected by a new or full moon, you may even find Tarpon far up into small rivers and the back ends of sounds and bays, or even around docks and Marina’s, especially in South Florida.
A major tip to keep in mind is to watch for Tarpon rolling. Don’t ever pass up an area where you are watching the fish roll. Kill the engine when you get close and ease the anchor over the side and get busy. Don’t leave that area if you are watching fish roll. If you leave fish to find fish, you may get left out and curse to yourself for leaving the area after other boats come in screaming about all the Tarpon they caught in that area.
"Anchor or Drift?"
Drifting and anchoring have both proven to be effective. The deciding factor for many Tarpon anglers, including myself, is bait availability and fish movement with the bait. When there are mass amounts of baitfish and Tarpon are feeding amongst them, cast your net and get that bait. Then, drop back two flat lines into the bait school and hold on! Chances are you’ll never need to throw the anchor, especially if the bait is on the move. The Tarpon will be right with them until they are gorged with food, and you’ll want to follow right along with them shutting down the engine(s) when you approach.
Anchoring and waiting for Tarpon to bite is honestly quite boring at times, but it too, will pay off whiule fishing St. Simons and Sea Island Georgia. If you are watching a few fish here and there and the bait situation is nothing to brag about, go ahead and ease the anchor over and fish a while in that area and begin to moderate your chumming until the fish bite, or move on.
If the Tarpon roll on past you and there was no hook up, you may need to pull anchor and move in or out depending on which direction the tide is moving. Go find them again. Chances are, they haven’t gone far from where you were anchored.
"Top or Bottom?"
To cover the water column effectively, be prepared to fish several different methods. On the anchor, an effective spread is two baits on the bottom, one cut bait and one live bait. In the other two rod holders, fish a flat line with no weight and live bait. Your final rig should have a 3/8 oz. weight on the leader to get the bait down just a bit.
With the above set up, you have covered the column and your chances for a hook up are far better than fishing only one way. If fish are rolling and they won’t take a shot at your flat line, add a float so the bait can’t take it down at all and he’ll be left fluttering in panic on the surface.
As you drift a bait school, the best technique is a flat line and a light weighted flat line as mentioned above. If you’re marking bait in deep water, send those weighted rigs down to the marking and see what comes up.
"Tips on Tackle for St. Simons Island Tarpon Fishing"
Catching small Tarpon in shallow water or on the flats (30-90 pounds) doesn’t require much in the way of tackle. If the fish are consistently small, use Spinning Tackle with 20-pound line and a 60-pound leader.
Small Tarpon Combo:
Ugly Stik Tiger Spinning Rod (#BWS 2201) 20-50
PENN 40 SSM Spinning Reel
Fill the spool with 50 pound braid (Fire Line)
6 ft. of 60 lb. Vanish Fluorocarbon Leader
Mustad 7766 6/0 Tarpon Hook
Boating larger Tarpon (100-200 Pounds) requires a bit more backbone in your rod, and a reel with the capability of holding 300 Yards of 40-pound line, especially when fishing deep water for these fish.
All Around Tarpon Combo:
Ugly Stik Rod (#BWB 1120) 40-80
Casting Reel capable of holding 300 yards of 80 pound Braided line
6 ft. of 130 pound mono leader
Mustad 7766 6/0 Tarpon Hook
Handling St. Simons Island Georgia Tarpon for a Healthy Release
We have all seen the pictures of anglers holding Tarpon in their boats for that perfect photo. Research proves that after a grueling fight on rod and reel, these fish are on the borderline of death when they are landed with light tackle in warm waters.
Extreme care must be taken to prevent these fish from having an early death. First of all, don’t drag a Tarpon in the boat for a picture. Put on your gloves and grab the inside of the bottom part of the mouth and hold him up for a very brief time out side the boat for a photo. Revive the fish for as long as it takes, as the oxygen levels are much lower when the water temperature reaches 80+ degrees in the summer.
"Quiet is Key on St. Simons Island Fishing"
When you locate Tarpon working an area around St. Simons sound or Jekyll island sound or some of your buddies call you in on a good bite, be cautious in your approach and be prepared to shut down that powerhouse and the depth recorder. I’ve seen these fish spook when a boat idled in too close. They will leave the area and find their food elsewhere if they spook.
If you toss the anchor, do it as quietly as possible. If the fish are extremely skittish, the anchor chain sliding on the rub rail will send them running.
"Fish em’ down and tight!"
Fishing for Tarpon with your reels in gear boasts more solid hook ups than free spooling. Tighten your drag until you’re pulling 14 pounds on the scale. It’ll pay off come hook up time! If you’re using a lighter rod and reel combo, pull your drag to 8 pounds to avoid a break off on the initial run.
Use an extremely powerful "sideswiping" hook set after the fish makes the first jump. This too, will help you sink the hook into that bony mouth. Don’t plan on setting the hook while that fish is in the air, or you will be lying on the deck to avoid a 6/0 Tarpon hook as it comes flying across the t-top. Be sure the fish is down after that first jump and then put the steel in em’.
Fishing St. Simons Island Georgia and Fishing Jekyll Island Georgia for Tarpon can be very productive. Give it a try!
Good Fishing to all.
Capt. Richie Lott
by: Richie Lott
Tarpon are a highly migratory game fish. During a cold winter, they travel as far South as South America and make an Atlantic crossing back to Florida, and then North into Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina as the water warms. There are parts of extreme South Florida that house Tarpon year round. We're after the fish on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island Georgia.
A great deal has been learned about these hard mouthed, scavenging brutes over the past few years. We have started learning incredible amounts of information about their feeding habits, migrating habits and most of all, how to locate these fish no matter if they’re rolling and free jumping or not showing themselves in dirty or deep water.
The brutal battle and acrobatic maneuvers of Tarpon draws new anglers to this sport each season as the word spreads amongst anglers and Charter Captains. It’s action like no other when the bite is on as the angler attempts to set the hook into pure bone!
As scavengers, Tarpon can be one of the most finicky feeders in the Game Fish family. I’ve seen those fish turn their nose up at a live Menhaden while they explode in the chum slick behind the boat. One would think that if the fish are in the chum slick feeding, they’re willing to eat your offering. Most times they are, but it can be disappointing and frustrating when you have 20 or 30 fish rolling behind the boat and you can’t get a knock down.
"Prime Baits for St. Simons Island Tarpon"
Depending on where you fish, you will want to coordinate your bait to the fishing and bait environment.
For example; in South Florida, the Gulf and the Keys, most anglers in these areas will use a giant shrimp, Pin fish, White Bait or crab while drifting inlets, bays, flats or channels where Tarpon are known to be holed up.
St. Simons Island Fishing for Tarpon has been going on for years. One guide I know has fished several locations on the Gulf and Atlantic Coast. He says "If I’m fishing the West Coast of Florida, Crabs are an exceptional bait especially on and around the Full Moon tidal stages as the crabs funnel out of Charlotte Harbor into Boca Grande Pass. If I’m fishing on the Atlantic Coast, a DOA Bait Buster works magic when sight casting to rolling Tarpon in dirty water Estuaries in St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island Bays and Sounds."
St. Simons Island Georgia is not so fortunate to have the flats and clear water situations as south Florida offers. Most of these anglers target Tarpon with a large Menhaden in Channels, Sand bar cuts and open Sounds. A 6 –8 inch Mullet is a good bait choice in these areas as well.
"Effective Chumming in any Location"
The many myths about chumming for Tarpon are only part true from my personal experience of running over 100 charters each year targeting these fish. I have also found, the oilier your chum bait, the better off you will be in terms of successful Tarpon fishing.
For a long time I lived on the belief of chumming the entire time I was Tarpon Fishing in Georgia. Now, I’m not saying an angler should just forget about a chum slick all together. However, do it in moderation instead of cutting up a hundred Menhaden or mullet every 30 minutes.
Too much chumming around St. Simons Island Georgia will have you fighting off Bluefish, Bar Jacks, Spanish and Sharks. On a Charter, when things are slow, that’s great. When you’re on the water to target Tarpon, that’s not so great at all.
Depending on the bait situation when I arrive on a bait school of Georgia menhaden, I typically fill a five-gallon bucket to the top with chum only baitfish, which will normally be Menhaden.
My mate will cut the fish three ways and cut the head in two so it won’t float and bring in the Sea Gulls to tear up your flat line bait after they realize there are no floating morsels. Keep that in mind no matter what fish you chum for. Most fish heads will float unless it’s a larger bait like a big Mullet.
When you arrive at a spot where you are watching fish roll or you simply know the fish are deep; set the lines out with no chumming to begin with. No need to call in the Gulls and the Sharks if you don’t need to. If the Tarpon don’t bite after 15 minutes or so, start a slow to moderate chum, but don’t over do it. Fishing St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island Georgia will prove you a blue fisherman if you chum too heavy. Just toss out a few of those cut pieces every couple of minutes as you watch the Rod tips. Give it an hour or so and then move on to another hole if they won’t cooperate.
If the fish are rolling by your boat and they won’t bite, this calls for heavy chumming. With a little luck, you’ll have one in the air within a few minutes after a heavy slick is formed. But, as we all know, they are fish, and sometimes they just don’t bite. Like any other fish, we don’t want those fish to have to think too much!
"The tricky part: Locating St. Simons Island Georgia Tarpon"
Aside from catching Tarpon at your favorite Marina under the cleaning table in Florida, Tarpon can be difficult to locate at times, especially if you’re in an area that’s not familiar stomping grounds for you. If you’re anything like me, you don’t ask for much help in unfamiliar waters, or for that matter, even locally in your hometown! First off, the water temperature in your fishing locale needs to be 75 degrees or more, and you are ahead of the game already.
With that much under your belt, head out to the nearest Sound or Bay and get a feel for the area in general. The mission here is to boat ride until you have located a bait school on the surface or your bottom machine. Look for Jack Crevalle to be feeding in the bait schools. The Jack Crevalle are tell tale signs of Tarpon in the area. These fish often run together balling up bait and crushing the surface, or they could be deep in the column marking at 35 ft. or more. When you mark the bait or spot surface activity in a bait school, send out a line and give it a try for a while as you drift with your engine(s) shut down and depth recorder off. Excess noise is a killer when you are attempting to locate and catch Tarpon.
Other prime areas are Inlets or Sounds where baitfish pour in on the flood tide out of deep water into shallows or over a submerged sandbar that forms a rip. Sharp sloping ledges in shallow or deep water may be holding bait and Tarpon, so watch the bottom machine closely as you idle outside the channel or inlet. Just like any fish, there has to be something to eat, or you normally won’t find them.
In shallow Sounds and Bays where clear water is the norm while fishing St. Simons, Jekyll or cumberland island georgia, you may be able to spot tarpon rolling or simply roaming the flats in search of food. In fact, there is no doubt you will spot Tarpon in these areas if you are a patient angler.
Another key factor is tides. Especially while fishing in georgia. If there is one thing that’s predictable about Tarpon, it’s their movement with tidal flow. Tarpon move out with the ebb and in with the flood following bait in and out. Bait schools drift with the current and the fish aren’t far behind. The tides move swiftly arouns St. Simmons Island in Coastal Georgia.
Ebb tides will send you a little further offshore in search of Tarpon in most area’s, especially on the northern sector of the south east coast in places such as Jacksonville, Fl, St. Simons Island, GA, Jekyll Island Georgia and into areas of South Carolina as well. In these locales, 7- ft. tidal stages are normal all year round.
Flood tides will send you looking for Tarpon closer to shore. These fish can be caught in river mouths as the flood tide rises. When the tide is affected by a new or full moon, you may even find Tarpon far up into small rivers and the back ends of sounds and bays, or even around docks and Marina’s, especially in South Florida.
A major tip to keep in mind is to watch for Tarpon rolling. Don’t ever pass up an area where you are watching the fish roll. Kill the engine when you get close and ease the anchor over the side and get busy. Don’t leave that area if you are watching fish roll. If you leave fish to find fish, you may get left out and curse to yourself for leaving the area after other boats come in screaming about all the Tarpon they caught in that area.
"Anchor or Drift?"
Drifting and anchoring have both proven to be effective. The deciding factor for many Tarpon anglers, including myself, is bait availability and fish movement with the bait. When there are mass amounts of baitfish and Tarpon are feeding amongst them, cast your net and get that bait. Then, drop back two flat lines into the bait school and hold on! Chances are you’ll never need to throw the anchor, especially if the bait is on the move. The Tarpon will be right with them until they are gorged with food, and you’ll want to follow right along with them shutting down the engine(s) when you approach.
Anchoring and waiting for Tarpon to bite is honestly quite boring at times, but it too, will pay off whiule fishing St. Simons and Sea Island Georgia. If you are watching a few fish here and there and the bait situation is nothing to brag about, go ahead and ease the anchor over and fish a while in that area and begin to moderate your chumming until the fish bite, or move on.
If the Tarpon roll on past you and there was no hook up, you may need to pull anchor and move in or out depending on which direction the tide is moving. Go find them again. Chances are, they haven’t gone far from where you were anchored.
"Top or Bottom?"
To cover the water column effectively, be prepared to fish several different methods. On the anchor, an effective spread is two baits on the bottom, one cut bait and one live bait. In the other two rod holders, fish a flat line with no weight and live bait. Your final rig should have a 3/8 oz. weight on the leader to get the bait down just a bit.
With the above set up, you have covered the column and your chances for a hook up are far better than fishing only one way. If fish are rolling and they won’t take a shot at your flat line, add a float so the bait can’t take it down at all and he’ll be left fluttering in panic on the surface.
As you drift a bait school, the best technique is a flat line and a light weighted flat line as mentioned above. If you’re marking bait in deep water, send those weighted rigs down to the marking and see what comes up.
"Tips on Tackle for St. Simons Island Tarpon Fishing"
Catching small Tarpon in shallow water or on the flats (30-90 pounds) doesn’t require much in the way of tackle. If the fish are consistently small, use Spinning Tackle with 20-pound line and a 60-pound leader.
Small Tarpon Combo:
Ugly Stik Tiger Spinning Rod (#BWS 2201) 20-50
PENN 40 SSM Spinning Reel
Fill the spool with 50 pound braid (Fire Line)
6 ft. of 60 lb. Vanish Fluorocarbon Leader
Mustad 7766 6/0 Tarpon Hook
Boating larger Tarpon (100-200 Pounds) requires a bit more backbone in your rod, and a reel with the capability of holding 300 Yards of 40-pound line, especially when fishing deep water for these fish.
All Around Tarpon Combo:
Ugly Stik Rod (#BWB 1120) 40-80
Casting Reel capable of holding 300 yards of 80 pound Braided line
6 ft. of 130 pound mono leader
Mustad 7766 6/0 Tarpon Hook
Handling St. Simons Island Georgia Tarpon for a Healthy Release
We have all seen the pictures of anglers holding Tarpon in their boats for that perfect photo. Research proves that after a grueling fight on rod and reel, these fish are on the borderline of death when they are landed with light tackle in warm waters.
Extreme care must be taken to prevent these fish from having an early death. First of all, don’t drag a Tarpon in the boat for a picture. Put on your gloves and grab the inside of the bottom part of the mouth and hold him up for a very brief time out side the boat for a photo. Revive the fish for as long as it takes, as the oxygen levels are much lower when the water temperature reaches 80+ degrees in the summer.
"Quiet is Key on St. Simons Island Fishing"
When you locate Tarpon working an area around St. Simons sound or Jekyll island sound or some of your buddies call you in on a good bite, be cautious in your approach and be prepared to shut down that powerhouse and the depth recorder. I’ve seen these fish spook when a boat idled in too close. They will leave the area and find their food elsewhere if they spook.
If you toss the anchor, do it as quietly as possible. If the fish are extremely skittish, the anchor chain sliding on the rub rail will send them running.
"Fish em’ down and tight!"
Fishing for Tarpon with your reels in gear boasts more solid hook ups than free spooling. Tighten your drag until you’re pulling 14 pounds on the scale. It’ll pay off come hook up time! If you’re using a lighter rod and reel combo, pull your drag to 8 pounds to avoid a break off on the initial run.
Use an extremely powerful "sideswiping" hook set after the fish makes the first jump. This too, will help you sink the hook into that bony mouth. Don’t plan on setting the hook while that fish is in the air, or you will be lying on the deck to avoid a 6/0 Tarpon hook as it comes flying across the t-top. Be sure the fish is down after that first jump and then put the steel in em’.
Fishing St. Simons Island Georgia and Fishing Jekyll Island Georgia for Tarpon can be very productive. Give it a try!
Good Fishing to all.
Capt. Richie Lott
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