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Fall Transition Is On The Way

By RAY MARKHAM

The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 10, 2008

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.

We haven't hit fall weather yet, but the fish are beginning to make some moves that indicate a change of seasons is on the way.

Tropical storms and hurricanes have had an effect on the fish and where they are holding, but daylight hours are beginning to shorten now. Daylight time will be about 45 minutes shorter by the end of the month as fall approaches and brings with it some cooler weather.

Fewer daylight hours and falling temperature will affect how and when fish feed. A drop in the water temperature this time of year triggers a feeding response in fish. Snook, being one of the most temperature-sensitive, are especially susceptible to cold weather.

By building a layer of insulating fat, these fish have the ability to stave off a freeze. They add body fat by eating a high-protein diet. Practically any baitfish, crustacean, or mollusk is forage for snook, and the easier that bait is to eat, the better for this opportunistic predator.

Finger mullet are a prime source of food for snook during fall months. Artificial baits like the topwater MirrOlure MirrOmullet or Top Dog imitate finger mullet and trigger violent strikes.

Terra Ceia Bay and the surrounding back-country waters load up with snook as they come off the beaches from the summer spawn. These fish have voracious appetites. Some of the best topwater fishing of the year is available during the next three months.

Approaching Monday's full moon, the afternoon outgoing tide is the strongest, which could produce a good bite.

After the full moon, the early morning outgoing tide offers the best opportunity for strong tidal flow, making it the prime snook fishing time.

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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