We had over 40 days in a row where the the temp was over 90 degrees.  The water got as high a 87 and in the creeks on the low tide, the water reached 90 degrees.  As a result, the low tide fishing for reds was spotty.  In late August we had a break in the heat.  The water temperature receded to 80 degrees and the trout bite turned on.  Most of the fish aren’t big, but they are very plentiful.  I managed to find some fish in the 16-18″ range.  There are lot’s of rat reds around, and everyone is anticipating some great fall fishing.  Having a big trout bust a Shrimp Gurgler on the surface is a hoot.

Early September marked the beginning of about ten days of flood tides and the best tailing red fishing of the year.  My dear friend Brad came back to try to break his run of frustration on the reds.  We had shot after shot on tailing reds, and he either lined the fish, didn’t get it in front of the fish, or the fish simply disappeared.  There are some places we can sight fish to reds as they are coming out of the grass.  We had one fish we saw suck in Brad’s fly, and when he set the hook, the hook slid out.  After all, this is fishing, and luck plays a part in it.

I had the pleasure of fishing Bill and Dennis from Missouri the last few days on the tailing tides.  Each day we saw at least 25 tailers.  Dennis and Bill had a little trouble adjusting to how quickly you have to present the fly, the necessity of strip striking and the importance of an accurate presentation, but after a few shots, they both started connecting.  Casts in the grass usually are only 25-30′, with shorter casts very common.  However, you have to be accurate.  After they figured out the game, they both landed their first ever redfish.  It was a pleasure to have them in the boat.

I made a presentation to the Atlanta Fly Fishing Club on September 8 talking about the fine fly fishing we have in the Golden Isles.  It was great to see some friends from years ago and to renew some acquaintances.

On a final thought, I believe one of the major factor that makes our fishing so outstanding is the lack of pressure.  Unlike Morehead City, NC, Jacksonville, Savannah, Charleston or other major fishing area, St. Simons is located 1 to 2 hours from a major population area.  The whole time we were fishing the flood tides, we only saw two other anglers fishing for reds.

Fall is coming, and the fishing will only get better.  Give me a call, and come “Hunt Fish in the Marshes of Glynn.”

Tight loops, accurate presentations and strip strike,

Capt. Dave