Nature Coast, Capt William Toney 4/18/2016

The big news is, starting May 1st the recreational bag limit for redfish will be lowered from 2 fish per angler to 1 fish per angler in north west Florida. The slot limit is the same 18” to 27 “ and a 8 fish vessel limit. This puts the redfish regulations the same in all Gulf of Mexico waters. South west Florida has always been 1 redfish per angler. I believe this will enhance a already robust fishery on the Nature Coast and over time all anglers will benefit from this rule change. One nice keeper red is diner and a upper slot fish  is diner for two.

The wind has been the demon that has kept most folks off the water but the trout fishing and red fishing is good. The best trout fishing has been at the end of Rock Island channel and just south of the Homosassa River channel. Glow jerk baits and popping cork rigs with dark colored jigs are the best baits. If the wind lets up offshore at the Bombing Range should provide great action with dark colored 1/8th oz. jigs. The redfish are biting on live shrimp at the last hour of incoming tide. Look for rocky western facing points.

On the top of outgoing tide check the crab lines for triple tail. Live shrimp is the best bait. If you happen to accidentally hook the crab line please remove the hook, so the person pulling the traps does not get it in their hand. Look for a full moon incoming tide this weekend around mid day. Capt. William Toney