Reported by Capt. Hoop McClelland . . .
As we move deeper into the summer, there’s no denying the heat — and neither can the fish. If you’re feeling it, so are they. That means fish are on the move, looking for cooler, more comfortable water. So where do they go, and how do we find them?
In hot weather, deeper water typically stays cooler, making reefs, shell pads, and sand flats prime locations. One of my personal go-to spots during high tide is any exposed reef that’s been out of the water for a few days. Once the tide rises again, baitfish tend to gather around the newly submerged structure — and where the bait goes, the predators follow. Speckled trout, redfish, and black drum love these shell-laden spots and often make them temporary homes during summer.
How to Fish the Reefs: Bait, Tackle, and Techniques
Live Bait Options
Shrimp, croakers, and pinfish are all great options, but I personally lean toward croaker this time of year. They’re slimy, they make noise, and they drive big fish like trout and redfish wild.
Rig Setup
•Line: 20 lb braided mainline
•Leader: 30 lb mono or fluorocarbon, 1.5 to 2 feet long
•Hook: 4/0 Kahle hook – strong, sharp, and small enough to stay stealthy
•Weight (optional): If wind or current is light, a 1/4 oz Pac-Man weight or croaker rattle can help get your bait out and down.
How I Hook Croaker
I like to hook them just behind the belly, toward the tail. Cast as far as you can and keep your rod straight up at the 12 o’clock position. When you feel that signature “thump”, relax your grip and let the fish pull the rod down before setting the hook. Once the rod tip reaches about 90 degrees, it’s time to strike and bring in your catch!
Fishing Live Shrimp Under a Popping Cork
Popping corks are a fantastic option when fishing with live shrimp. I recommend bright-colored corks — they’re easier to spot when casting far in windy conditions.
Setup Tips
•Leader Line: 2 feet of 30 lb mono
•Hook: Always a 4/0 Kahle
•Casting: Long casts are key. Give your rod a strong pop to mimic shrimp movement — about 1–2 pops every 7–10 seconds works well.
Shrimp Size Matters
Avoid the “monster” shrimp in the bays. Shrimp around 2–6 inches are ideal. If you’re out of live shrimp, Gulp! Shrimp work great too — especially in “New Penny” or Pearl/Chartreuse. Just remember to pop the cork a little faster with artificials — every 4–5 seconds is a good rhythm.
Fishing Sand Flats & Back Lakes
Sand Pockets
Polarized sunglasses are a must to spot these areas. Gamefish love sand pockets. You’ll usually find trout, redfish, and black drum lying just outside the grass, waiting to ambush bait. Croakers and shrimp work great in these situations.
Water Clarity
•Too clear? Fish spook easily.
•Too dirty? They struggle to find your bait.
You’re looking for that perfect “stained” water where you can see your bait sink about 5–6 inches deep before it disappears.
Shorelines & Bird Watching
Pay attention to your surroundings. Are other boats stacked along a shore? There’s usually a reason. Watch for bait activity like jumping shad or finger mullet — and always keep an eye on birds. If they’re hovering or diving in one area, chances are you’ve found a bait ball… and likely some redfish schooling nearby.
In shallow water, I also watch for redfish pushing wakes or tails flicking above the surface — that’s when I know it’s time to move in quietly and get ready for action.
How to Target Big Trout
If you’re chasing trophy trout this summer, focus on sand flats and back lakes with nearby grass beds. These “gator” trout love to sit along the edges of sand pockets and wait for bait to pass by. Croakers are especially effective here — they can be the difference between a solid day and a truly memorable one.
Boat Positioning & Quiet Approach
Positioning your boat correctly can make or break your fishing trip. Always keep the wind at your back — it helps you cast farther and reduces tangles. When you pull up to your spot, shut the motor off well before you reach it, and drift in quietly — ideally staying about 50–75 yards out.
A quick word on boat noise
We all love a good time on the water, but keep in mind that fish hear through vibrations, and sound travels over seven times faster in water than air. Loud music or banging cooler lids might cost you bites. Stay stealthy and stay aware.
As part of the Bay Flats Lodge team, we’re out here daily doing our best to stay on the bite — and to keep you on the fish. Whether you’re chasing summer reds, trout, or that trophy gator, we’ve got the knowledge and passion to help make it happen.