Post-Hurricane Fishing Challenges in Florida - Tips for Success

As we head into the new fishing season, many anglers are eager to get out onto the waters of Florida. However, after two recent hurricanes, the state's waters are still recovering from the effects of these storms. Post-hurricane fishing can be a challenging experience, but with the right tips and techniques, you can still have success.

The Challenges of Post-Hurricane Fishing

When a hurricane hits, it can bring massive amounts of freshwater into the estuaries and rivers, causing the water to become cloudy or even murky. This dirty water can make it difficult for fish to see, and therefore harder for anglers to catch them. Additionally, the influx of freshwater can push fish out of their usual habitats and into new areas.

Tips for Overcoming the Challenges

So, how do you overcome these challenges and still have a successful fishing experience? Here are some tips from Captain John Tarr:

Pole Your Skiff : In high water conditions, it's essential to be able to pole your skiff through the waters that leave other boats high and dry. My Gordon Waterman was built lighter than most other boats, allowing me to navigate these areas with ease.

Slow Down and Use Your Senses : Dirty water can make it difficult to see fish, so slow down and use all of your senses to help locate them. Listen for fish busting bait, and learn to recognize the sounds made by different species.

Go Small with Your Offering : If you're having trouble getting fish to bite, try going small with your offering. This can be especially effective when fishing in areas with an over-abundance of bait.

Conclusion

Post-hurricane fishing can be a challenging experience, but with the right tips and techniques, you can still have success. Remember to pole your skiff, slow down and use your senses, and go small with your offering. And don't forget to practice patience and persistence - it's not uncommon for fish to take time to adjust to new conditions.