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Lunar Theories: Fact Or Fiction?

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 16, 2007

GO FISHING is a daily look at the area fishing scene through the eyes of local charter boat captains and fishing guides. Today: Ray Markham.

To think that fish bite around moon phases is pure lunacy. Maybe, but more anglers than not believe in the effects that solunar periods and lunar phases have on fish. Tides are the strongest around new and full moon periods. This week's new moon will be no different. We're nearly two weeks into snook season and with the dark moon and good tide movement, look for fish to be in the ambush mode and ready to feed on the strongest tide. I target snook on the late afternoon outgoing tide. The periods of tidal surges about two-thirds down the drop usually produce great results.

A couple of weeks ago, snook were still spawning in passes, but backcountry areas had good numbers of linesiders staging up on points, structure and bends in channels. Any type of structure with current could become an ambush point. Docks at the mouth of the Manatee River will be one such area that holds fish. On the north side of the river at Emerson Point, good depth with rocks will hold some real monsters. Spawning should be winding down with this moon phase, which means that some of the largest fish of the season will be heading back inside the bays and on the flats.

Ray Markham co-hosts 'Florida Sportsman Magazine Radio Live,' Saturdays from 8-9 a.m. on WWBA, 1040 AM, and may be reached for charter at (941) 723-2655.

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