Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, Pompano and Snapper Continue to Produce
Originally published August 21, 2018
Despite the reports about red tide around Southwest Florida, we were still putting together some excellent fishing trips during August 2018.
Tarpon, redfish, snook, jack crevalle, pompano and mangrove snapper were all coming aboard on recent charters. Conditions varied from one area to another, but anglers willing to adjust locations and techniques continued to enjoy plenty of action around Boca Grande, Punta Gorda, Charlotte Harbor and the surrounding waters.
Historical report: This article reflects fishing conditions from August 2018. For the latest information, visit our current Southwest Florida fishing reports.
August Tarpon Fishing
Late-season tarpon continued to provide heart-pounding action throughout August.
Every day was a little different, but when the bite turned on, the fishing could be epic. Most of the tarpon we encountered were averaging between 80 and 100 pounds, with a few impressive fish weighing more than 150 pounds.
A combination of live bait and artificial lures produced consistent opportunities. Being flexible and adapting to the fish each day was the key to success.
Anglers interested in targeting the Silver King can learn more about our Boca Grande tarpon fishing charters.
August Redfish Fishing
The redfish bite improved significantly during the final weeks of August.
I located several good schools, along with plenty of scattered fish on both high and low tides. Most of the redfish were measuring between 24 and 34 inches, with some weighing as much as 15 pounds.
This was the beginning of the traditional fall redfish pattern, and the action was expected to continue improving as more fish gathered throughout Charlotte Harbor and the surrounding backcountry.
Learn more about targeting these powerful inshore fish on our redfish fishing charters.
August Snook Fishing
Snook fishing was also picking up throughout Charlotte Harbor.
Many trips produced between 30 and 50 snook, with larger fish reaching approximately 38 inches and weighing more than 15 pounds.
Snook are outstanding fighters and have always been one of my favorite species to target. Their explosive strikes, strong runs and willingness to attack both live bait and artificial lures make them a favorite among Southwest Florida anglers.
Visit our snook fishing charter page to learn more.
Pompano Fishing
The pompano action during August 2018 was some of the best I had seen in years.
We experienced several trips with more than 30 pompano, and the fishing appeared to be getting even stronger as the month continued.
Pompano may not receive as much attention as tarpon or snook, but they are tremendous fighters for their size. They are also excellent table fare, making them a welcome addition to any inshore fishing trip.
Mangrove Snapper Fishing
Mangrove snapper fishing was excellent as well.
Most of the fish were around 12 inches, with a few larger snapper mixed in. They provided steady action and were among the best fish available for anglers hoping to bring home fresh fish for dinner.
When bait gathered around structure, snapper were usually nearby.
Fishing Through Changing Conditions
This report was a good reminder that broad regional reports do not always tell the complete story.
Even with red tide affecting parts of Southwest Florida during August 2018, there were still productive areas holding healthy bait and active fish. Paying attention to current conditions, remaining mobile and changing locations when necessary allowed us to continue putting together quality trips.
That ability to adjust is one of the advantages of fishing with a captain who spends significant time on the water and understands how local conditions affect different parts of Charlotte Harbor, Boca Grande and Pine Island Sound.
Book a Southwest Florida Fishing Charter
Whether you want to target tarpon around Boca Grande, catch snook and redfish throughout Charlotte Harbor, or enjoy an action-packed family fishing trip, ReelFishing Charters offers customized trips based on the season and current conditions.
Explore our charter options:
- Boca Grande Fishing Charters
- Punta Gorda Fishing Charters
- Boca Grande Tarpon Fishing Charters
- Snook Fishing Charters
- Redfish Fishing Charters
- Latest Fishing Reports
Catch fish. No excuses.
Captain Danny Latham
ReelFishing Charters
Punta Gorda & Boca Grande, Florida
