Fishing West Bay

[Trout Chaser]

Well guys im fairly new to the West Bay fishing scene and I could use all the tips I can get. I've got a 22ft NauticStar and im ready to roll, but I don't have much confidence out there because im not sure where to find the fish/when/what to use etc. Lure suggestions, how to rig them, when and where to use them, and tips on how to fish them will all be greatly appreciated. Please unleash all of your saltwater knowledge upon me!

[kenny]

If you haven't already, you could start by reading all the articles on the WEA home page. I would also suggest you hire a West Bay guide like Captain Greg Francis. That will definitely flatten the learning curve. You can also buy the Trout Support DVD's, and of course the best is putting in the time on the water. That's the best teacher!

[reeltime]

Take kenny's tip and get the guide to take your boat out to learn the bay or bay's.Good luck.

[trophytroutman]

Take kenny's tip and get the guide to take your boat out to learn the bay or bay's.Good luck.

Great advise.

[WestEndAngler]

Read this:

http://www.fishwestend.com/west-end-anglers-news/fishing-west-bay

[Hogie70]

Let me make it easy for you... Hire Greg Francis AKA Aqua Pimp it will be a whole lot cheaper on you to hire him a few time than it would to put a new motor on your boat or the hassle of dealing with a insurance adjuster... just saying...

[fishalot]

You need to be very careful out there, especially trying to navigate out by the pass, it's a booger of sorts, I have seen folks spend all day pushing and pulling boats out of sand bars, your boat is a good one but not well know for shallow water running! I would not venture out of the IC if your running Chocolate Bay to much, Fish the shorelines, most lures will work, be courtious to your fellow waders and drifters and good luck. If your not sure, go slow until you learn a little more. Watch for bait & slicks.

[Trout Chaser]

Wow thanks for all the info so far guys! I really appreciate it. As for learning the bay I have a veteran friend that is teaching me the ropes, but im mainly confused with the fishing. Some spots that my friend suggested for me to fish were shell reef, confederate, tire reef, and the sunken shrimp boat. Any specific tips/rig-ups for those areas? Also is there any other hotspots near these areas? Lastly I've heard snake island is also a good fishing spot, and considering its right outside my neighborhood I would love any tips on how to fish it.

[WestEndAngler]

Check out Trout Support DVD's too...

[Robalo]

The sunken shrimp boat and tire reef are good for snotfish (gafftops). The other reefs are good for drifting and some for wading also-just watch out for a 17' Flatscat-if ya see it, stay 400 yards away or you'll be sorry because Kenny will dump fish guts in your car/truck.


Just be courteous, watch for other boats and don't crowd others. Some spots ya just gotta learn on your own or hire a guide to show you some areas-call Capt. Greg Francis-a/k/a Aqua Pimp.