When fishing the flats or back country around Sanibel and Captiva Islands in Florida, no matter what time of year, or how much you fish, you should always have a number of artificial baits (lures) that you have confidence in.
Bait fishing is a no brainer, but what happens when bait is hard to find. What about daybreak fishing. During the summer months in Florida you need to catch the early bite or you may be out of luck. If you’re spending hours catching bait, I will spool you on fish caught for the day, but if you fish using artificial baits you can start fishing as soon as you get your boat wet.
DOA Lures are my go to when it comes to artificial fishing. Between the Shrimp and the TerrorEyz I have caught every fish that can be caught in the Southwest waters of Florida. Shrimp can be fished on the grass flats or skipped under the mangroves. The TerrorEyz can be jigged in deep water in inlets or around bridges. You can use the smaller heads and fish shallower waters with less current.
Go out and give artificial baits a chance and you’ll gain confidence like I have.
Get out on the water, fish a little and always remember that, “it’s great being us”!
Tight lines
Capt. Blake
About Blake Matherly
Captain Blake Matherly is a full time Spin and Fly Fishing guide. Captain Blake holds a United States Coast Guard 50 Ton Master License. Your Captain is fully insured and supplies a Florida Fishing License for all clients. He is a member of numerous Pro Guide programs including, G Loomis, Temple Fork, DOA Fishing Lures, Bauer Fly Reels, Power Pole, Calusa Cast Nets, Patagonia, and Columbia.
