Marsh & Bayou Magazine Volume 17 • Issue 196 | Page 19

Marsh & Bayou’s Fishing Forecast Mississippi Coast by Alex Smith www.alexsmithfishing.com When you think of fall, what comes to mind? Some think of cooler weather, shorter days, and the ever changing colors of the scenery. Ask any avid angler, and they will tell you that fall brings with it one of the best fishing times of the year. White shrimp have completed their migration into the bays and river systems along the coast. Throwing a cast net at your favorite pier or boat ramp can yield a hefty catch of these tasty crustaceans. Since the shrimp have made their presence known, it won’t be long until the predators do the same. With speckled trout and redfish pushing hard into the backwaters, there are a couple things to know that can give you the upper hand. While the outer Biloxi Marsh and barrier islands are holding larger trout, most of the MS speckled trout are staying close to the front beaches and reefs as they continue their journey into the bays. Insane numbers of white trout and sheepshead are being reported all along the coast. Speckled trout and redfish are being caught in the bay systems south of I-10 already this year. Choosing the right bait and presentation is key this time of year. Fishing the early morning hours with a topwater such as a Heddon Spook Jr. or a MirrOlure She Pup creates adrenaline-rushing blowups on the surface. As the day progresses, switching to a lighter jig like a 1/8 oz paired with your favorite soft plastic is a way to stay on the bite. For those finicky fish, slowing the presentation even more by using a popping cork with an artificial such as the Vudu Shrimp will keep the fish wanting more. This fall is shaping up to be one of the best in quite a while. Hopefully, this will help you on your next outing. Tight lines and God bless. For more fishing tips on targeting inshore trophy fish, visit my Facebook page - Alex Smith Fishing. My blogs are also available on my website http://www.alexsmithfishing.com. For all questions, contact me at (228)-6692317 or email [email protected].