The Madness of Fall

IG @Shadhog

As we welcome the month of October here in Florida, we can be sure of one thing: fall is rolling into our great state, which historically brings the madness along with it. October is very special month for fly anglers and the many game fish that call this place home. “Transitions” is the name of the game during this classic time of year. “What transitions am I referring to?” you might ask. Well, let me explain. The first type of transition we see is that of the seasons. The air and water temperatures are starting to cool down, triggering our large predatory game fish to gorge themselves in preparation for the upcoming colder months.

But the transition out of the hot and heavy summer days into the cooler fall months isn’t the only transition October brings about. There are also food transitions. For example, we are starting to work towards the end of our large bait migration that happens in Florida-the Mullet Run! Snook, redfish, tarpon, jack crevalle, sharks, ladyfish, mangrove snapper and blues are in a state of consistent movement in search of food as the old “regular” dish of mullet starts to become sparse. Having a few sizes of baitfish flies like the Orchestra Mullet and the EP Baitfish are “must haves” in the fly box, as the larger game fish are targeting whatever bait is left behind from the migration. The versatility these patterns offer allows the fly angler potential for any game fish he or she might stumble across during this time of year.

One of the most important transitions October brings about, however, is that of the movement of fish from their summertime spawning grounds to their wintertime homes. If you find yourself fly fishing the many Florida backcountry estuaries in October, try to work the points and areas that jut out from the shoreline because these spots often have predatory fish lying in wait to ambush their next unsuspecting meal. My favorite flies to fish around points are the XL Kwan and the Redfish Candy because both of theses patterns are very versatile. The large profile of the XL Kwan will often get noticed by the many potential predators that can be around. The advantage of the Redfish Candy is the lead eyes that will help the fly fall into those hard to reach, deeper holes that might be just off the point, which fish love to inhabit.

Continuing to sight fish the flats during this time of year can be some of the most exciting fishing Florida has to offer, with the large high tides bringing an influx of water to the backcountry. Redfish can be found in the sallowest of areas feeding on small crabs, shrimp, and baitfish. Flys like the Fleeing Crab and Foxy Gurgler are “go to”s for these reds.

IG @youngblood_rty

Regardless of what you’re fishing in October, keep in mind the transitional nature of this special month. Transition in weather, transition of “what’s on the menu” for our game fish, and the transition of those game fish to their new homes after a season of spawning. Focusing on these transitions can help you locate your targeted fish and know which type of bait to use to lure them in.