Ft. Pierce Inshore - Offshore Report

[Captain Joe Ward]

May 11, 2006

INSHORE - The inshore fishing has been good with lots of snook being reported around the bridges, in the Turing Basin and up on the flats to the north of the North Bridge. The best time has been just before daylight until about 9am. Look for the trout action to continue to improve with fish to 6 pounds being reported coming from the Bear Point area. The redfish bite has also been good around the docks along Indian River Drive at first light. The snapper are working their way into the Intercoastal along the channel edges. Try a live shrimp since they are becoming easier to find. Also, along the flats look for plenty of action from the ladyfish and the big jacks.

OFFSHORE - Offshore the word this week has been dolphin. They have been everywhere from 60 to 400 feet of water. Try trolling a skirted ballyhoo. I have also gotten reports of some sailfish in that same area but, most are just looking around but not eating. Also from that same area were good reports of wahoo like the 45 pounder that came into the dock last Friday. If it is kingfish you are looking for just try slow trolling a live blue runner along the beaches in about 30 foot of water to the north of the Ft. Pierce Inlet. I have been getting reports of big tarpon showing up along the beaches and chasing the schools of mullet. With the sea conditions improving so is the bottom fishing for snapper and grouper. Try the Offshore Bar in 90 feet of water and while you are there look for a cobia to pop up -- I had several reported this week.

TEEN ANGLERS - Last Sunday was the Teen Angler of the Year Championship. It was held at Jaycee Park in Ft. Pierce. After fishing from 6:45am until noon Tyler Serio of Lincoln Park Academy won the top honor. The teens must keep a 2.0 grade average and are awarded points for the fish they catch during the school year. Way to go Tyler. If you would like more info on Teen Anglers just go to the web at www.teenanglers.org.

If you would like to report a catch, call me at 772-201-5770 or e-mail me at cward11605@aol.com or just go to the web at www.captjoeward.com.

Capt. Joe Ward
Capt. Joe's River Charters

[marapets]

awesome thanks