Fall is in the air… Well, almost. September is here and we are just around the corner from fall. We should start to get some relief from the summer’s heat and see water temperatures fall. Usually, September means gearing up for the one of the most revered species in our waters, Mr. Snook… Not this year. It will be catch-and-release only. No need to worry. There are plenty of options this time of year for catch-and-release.

It’s that time of year for the Redfish. We will see some pre-spawn schools feeding to prepare for the spawn. Spawning season usually run from August through November with this month being the peak of the season. I prefer cut bait over live bait. A cut threadfin, sardine, pinfish or ladyfish will be hard to turn down. If all else fails, go to the old trusty shrimp. I fish a 25lb Trilene fluorocarbon leader with a 1/0 Daiichi circle hook.

The Trout bite in our area has been one of the best I have seen in a long time. Last month was another good month, and I am looking forward to it continuing through the year. With water temperatures hovering around 90, continue to fish any grass flat in the 4ft-7ft range with good tidal movement and a good source of bait. As temperatures fall, move to some of the shallow flats with good potholes and depth changes. Trout aren’t picky eaters. They will take almost anything. Scaled sardines (greenbacks) are my go to bait. I fish a 24" 25lb Trilene fluorocarbon leader with a #1 Daiichi circle hook under a weighted cork. The weighted cork will help get the casting distance with lighter baits. If artificial is your game, top water plugs like the Zara Spook or Mirrolure She Dog are good for an early bite. As temperatures rise, I like Berkley Gulp! Shrimp and D.O.A Cal Shad.

Snook season usually opens in Tampa Bay September 1st. Not this year. Season will remain closed until August 2012. Some areas in Tampa Bay got hit hard. This will help with the recovery. Tampa Bay is still holding decent Snook, but not like it did in the past. If you do target these fish, handle them as carefully and as little as possible. This will ensure that the ones that survived will survive your catch.