The angler is Hayden Meffert from Orno, Maine.
It’s a perfect time to be fishing. Our waters are now full of bait, and fish are actively eating. All summer seasonal species have arrived and, when added to our traditional gamefish, provide an array of options for anglers. If you haven’t started fishing yet, let’s get going.
Consider making the most of live bait when focusing on redfish. Menhaden are a great choice whether fished cut or alive. We’ve been catching some nice redfish by casting chunks of menhaden under docks. You’ll need to use enough weight to hold your bait steady so it doesn’t slide around on the bottom and get snagged. I use pinch-on split shot that can be easily changed – just add or remove these weights as needed.
Topwater trout action is abundant at first light. Heddon’s Super Spook Jr. in their silver mullet color works great, but my go-to is the chartreuse and black. Vary retrieve speeds as you work these lures along grassy banks and over shell rakes. When a fish strikes, reel quickly before raising your rod tip – hard to do sometimes when a violent explosion erupts around your lure. Once the top-water bite starts to fade, suspended twitch bait lures are a good choice to continue the fun.
Sharks have filled our waters with multiple species like bonnetheads, black tips and sharpnose easily accessible. You’ll start to see the fins of sharks as they cruise along river banks and also find them feasting along drop-offs in the harbor and inlets. Blue crab, live shrimp and cut bait all work well on these predators. I favor 7/0 circle hooks. Just put the rods in the holders and wait for them to whip over.
See you on the water.
Since 2009, Capt. Geoff Bennett has operated Charleston Charter Fishing, providing light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of artificial and live bait fishing options. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit his website at charlestoncharterf
