Well the weather over the last week was about as unpredictable as it gets. We had north, northeast, east winds all week long along with storms every other day. But when the wind dropped down low and it didn't rain, the fishing was excellent on bay reefs in East Bay in about 6-7 feet of water. The top foot or more of the water is fresh from runoffs. We had great numbers of big trout on live croaker. Most were in the 3-4 lb range. We also had 7 big girls in the 5-7 1/2 lb range that were all released to fight another day. Just take some good pictures and let her go back home. We fished Friday afternoon and the fish were going really good that last 2 hours before dark on outgoing tide and no crowds. Saturday morning, we also had good numbers of trout free-lining croakers. I just take #4 wide gap hooks and 2 glass beads (orange) and tie straight to FINS Windtamer braided line with no weights. Just feed it line and let the tide take it across shell. I saw other boats using live shrimp about 3 feet under a popping cork catching good numbers too. Sunday morning started out with calm winds until about 9:30 am. We had good numbers of trout fished the same way as previous day but we just had to use the trolling motor to move the boat since there was no wind. Our big fish was 7 1/2 lbs and she was released also. The big thing about croaker fishing on bay reefs is to make small moves - 50 yds or less - and look for popping slicks. Just a reminder that the CCA Star Tournament starts this weekend and runs through Labor Day - make sure you and your kids are signed up. It only take one cast! Until next week, see you on the water.
Capt Ronnie Scheck
