Back Country Slams

The fishing is pretty consistent right now down in Florida Bay as well as Whitewater Bay, both are located in the south end of Everglades National Park. I decide on where I’m fishing depending on wind and crowds some days. Lately the weekends have been very busy and launching in the back country has paid off for me. I enjoy the back country most days there are good numbers of Snook, Trout and Redfish you just have to cover lots of ground. Typically this time of year I use a couple different lures, Gulp Swimming Mullet, and Rapala Twitch n Rap. I will also use Mullet and Pinfish as well When I target Snook and Tarpon.

I fished with Wayne Mckinney founder of the Gold Coast Junior Golf Tournament and Rick and Zack Toste both important parts of tournament. We became friends a few years back when I was more involved in golf. We fish together a couple time of year and its always fun. Wayne has done many things in his life and has a ton of stories to tell. We started out with lots of small Snook and moved around catching everything that swim almost. We had Snook, big Trout, jumped a couple Tarpon, Ladyfish, Sharks and Jacks. Everyone one was tired at the end of the great day.

The following fish were all caught on Gulps or Twitch n Raps.

I am fishing Flamingo with Danny Varona and his son Daniel and we decided to run into back country and then make our way back around later in the day. We started out quick again with 20 or so small Snook, moved on to some big Trout and some 18-20 inch Redfish. They also hooked several Tarpon while throwing Zara Spooks they had rigged on their rods. The winds weren’t very friendly running down the coast but my Skeeter 230 runs right thru it.

Nice day for Daniel!

I am open to fish! If you would like to have a day like I just explained give me a call at 305 333 8149. I cater to families with children. Father’s Day is coming treat yourself or your Husband to a fun day on the water.

Captain Jim Hobales

caughtlookincharters.com

Nasty weather but fish still bite!

I only fished the bad weather days, not by choice it just the way it works out. I fished with long time client Winold and his friend Martin. We started out with some big Jack Crevalles which they were loving. Then we moved on to Trout, more Jacks and Ladyfish. I had a hard time finding Snook in the morning. There was plenty of action but all by catch stuff. Its all about the tide when fishing Flamingo, sometimes you have to run around to find moving water. I ran to areas where the wind was being blocked and rain squalls were just missing us, it worked. Winold hooked a great fighting small Tarpon and Martin had a nice Redfish at the same time. We were fishing a big Mullet mud and got a couple nice Redfish, Trout and Ladyfish. We also caught Snook, they finally tuned on.

Fishing is good, its been busy the last couple weeks because people want to be outside. Everglades National Park has been free for the last 3 weeks, its not free anymore. I think this will slow down the non regulars. We have had allot of rain on Memorial weekend into Tuesday. South Florida is under water but generally this will turn the Snook on. It will push them out into cleaner water like on the beaches.

Its still Tarpon time and Redfishing is good. If you need to escape and get away give me a call at 305 333 8149. I will be working out of Key largo thru October . Caught lookin charters is a family and kid friendly charter company.

Let go Fishing,

Captain Jim Hobales

Fishing with Friends and Families!

Flamingo has been open for just over 2 weeks, I thought the bite slow down when all the traffic started. I was wrong and the bite has been incredibly strong. The Snook are solid and the big Trout are thick. They are where we fish for Snook so we are getting the best of both worlds.

I fished the Riordan family and just wore out small Snook, Trout and big Lemon Sharks. No quit in that family they kept me out late always waiting for the next bite!

I fished with my good buddy Mitch today at Flamingo, we have been trying fish together for a while now. We got out early and it didn’t take long, Mitch was throwing a Rapala Swimming Mullet and everything wanted to eat it. He caught 20 Snook in the first 30 minutes, he also had a nice Redfish. It stayed like this most of the morning with lots of Snook. We got on some Tarpon but they stayed out of our range, I cut up a Ladyfish and pitch the head out a long way. It didn’t take long, it got hit but let the bait go. They were thick but really inactive. We headed back to marina and called it a day!

It took all of them to land a 200 Lb Lemon Shark

I also fished with Jeremy his daughter Eliana and friend Marny. It started out slow but then it caught fire, Jeremy asked to catch sharks, I said no problem. We had some Ladyfish which we cut up and waited. it didn’t take long , the first bait was eaten by a Sting Ray. Jeremy fought it and got it to the boat. The next couple baits were Black tips, Lemon and a Small Bull Sharks. We had a bait get eaten and the drag was screaming. The fish ran a couple hundred yards. I tried to break it off but couldn’t. The fish started running back to us, it took Jeremy 30 minutes of so to get it near the boat. I grabbed the leader and pulled the head up, it was a really big Sawfish. The got some pic’s and we cut him loose.

Marny had a big Snook eat a bait but lost it on the jump. They were burnt and beat up and it was only 1130. we got home early today. The also had Trout up to 23 inches.

Its a great time of year, Snook will be roaming the beaches, Tarpon will be further out and Redfish will be in lots of places. It also a good time to bring family and friends. If your interested in catching lots of fish give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

OPEN FOR BUSINESS, "Whacked Em" opening day

Bonus catch- this was great dinner!

We are back in business the ramps in Dade County are open Everglades National Park is open and since I have a 2nd residence in the Keys I can fish there also. Flamingo will be open on Monday May 4 and I already have plans to be there. There are areas that haven’t been touched in 2 months and I want to be the first. It will be tough because it will be crowded. I have been fishing Flamingo for the since this whole scam started, I’ve been fishing out front and its been lots of fun mostly because of lack of traffic.

I will post my report and pass on info after my trip on Monday , I can only hope it wont get beat up to fast.

If you are in the area and would like to go in the near future give me a call at 305 333 8149.

UPDATE

Monday May 5 Everglades National Park re opened at 7 A.M., by the time we got to Flamingo it was 7:45.

I was the first one down Buttonwood Canal and the little Tarpon were everywhere. I didn’t stop because I was racing the tide out on the coast. I was with my buddy Fred Ortiz and we made a couple stops on the way out. It was Snook after Snook and Trout after Trout until the tide slowed down. We made the run to the Gulf of Mexico and found it was already high water. We got onto some Snook which the Sharks interrupted.

We were looking for Tarpon but the conditions a N.W. wind made it difficult. We did find a crab trap loaded with Tripletails, Fred caught a nice one on his fly rod.

The next spot we fished had Tarpon rolling, we threw lures and live bait at them. We hooked 2 good Tarpon and a big Lemon Shark and moved on. We headed back towards Flamingo making a few stops on the way. Fred hooked a big fish which dragged him under a over hang, most probably a Goliath Grouper. We had already caught one but this one got away. The last spot of the day had some baits getting blown up and Fred broke out the fly rod. He caught a 5 lb Barracuda, its not a real common catch back there.

It was a long day with so many fish, I slept good that night. This was a fun trip for me but now I’m ready to go back to work.. My number is 305 333 8149 give me a call and let go catch some fish!

I’m excited,

Capt. Jim Hobales,

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Fishing is good we need "Open Ramps"

The past couple of weeks seem like we are being punished. I have taken advantage of my Key Largo residence and been fishing with family and friends. I have fished from Key Largo to Flamingo and the Gulf of Mexico. Its not very busy and and Its kind of like it might of been 50 or 60 years ago. Fish are not being run over all day long and sit on the edge of flats with out any noise.

There has been an incredible big Trout bite with many fish in the 20 - 25 inch range. The Redfishing has been good but most fish have been 15- 20 inches and the Snook bite have been “red hot”.

The park might be opening soon and it will be crazy the first week but i’ll be there . If you would like to join me give me a call. Whenever the park has some sort of closure is always good when it re-opens.

tons of these guys

If you are going to be interested in fishing the next few weeks stayed tune here ill let you know when park is open, give me a call at 305 333 8149

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Missing These Guys!

I have been out a couple times in the last week and of course fishing is RED HOT! My plan is/was to be guiding out of Key Largo where I have a second residence until November. Fishing and seafood are essential in the Fl. Keys and not seen that way in Miami. The boat ramps and guided fishing trips were closed down in Miami area due to the sand bar crowd pissing off the Dade County Mayor.

Hopefully we get thru this with minimal time away from what we love to do!

Here’s some photos to get you thru it. It is Tarpon Time

These guys will be waiting for you, stay healthy so you can take a trip and catch one.

Capt Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

follow on instagram @ caught lookin charters

Fishing is good virus is bad for Business!

The fishing remains good but people aren’t traveling right now. Karl and his son Dillon made is down from Canada and what a day of fishing. It was cool with a slight breeze in the morning with a falling tide it’s almost a perfect setting. We waited for the tide to actually switch and when it did the fish turned on. The small Snook were stacked up and after 30 or so and a couple Redfish we moved on to do some sight fishing. It was fun we were blowing fish out so we sat still and started catching them. It was only 9 a.m. and we had Snook Redfish and Trout. We discussed catching a Grand Slam and all we had to do was find Tarpon. It wasn’t to long and we had a few roll next to the boat but refused all our offerings, I said we have to go look for them on the coast. We made a couple stops and only found some really big Trout. We moved on and again Tarpon rolled behind us. I told Karl cast right back there and he hooked up. We got excited for a second to see it was only a 3 lb. Trout.

We caught a dozen big Trout while casting at the Tarpon and moved on. The next spot produced a couple big bites, Slot Redfish and Snook. We moved on looking for Tarpon and found some big ones. They wouldn’t hit lures so I rigged a live Ladyfish and it worked. Dillon had his big Tarpon jumping around and his hook pulled. There was a little disappointment but he realized he did hook one. The next bite was a big Lemon Shark which ran forever and broke off. We made a run back towards the ramp looking for more Tarpon but it was breezy and hard to seem them. it was getting late so we headed in.

Awesome day with Karl and Dillon both catching their first Snook and Redfish. It was a great father-son trip!

I specialize in these kind of trips whether its your buddies, kids  or the whole family give me a call at 305 333 8149. The “corona virus” is not  a threat at Flamingo although catching lots of fish is.

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

follow  on Instagram at “caught lookin charters”

It's windy, still cool and lots of fish!

This was a 26 1/2” Trout caught by Patty to complete her “Backcountry Slam”!

Flamingo

This past week was interesting Cindy, Patty and Tony all caught Backcountry slams We had an incredible day in winds pushing 30 mph, It was hard to find a place out of the wind. We started out with Tony catching a Redfish on his second cast. Then Patty and Cindy went crazy hooking fish on every cast. The 3 of them caught around 40 Snook and I asked if they wanted to try something else. Its hard to leave biting fish in 30 mph winds but we did, it paid of too! We caught a bunch of Trout and Ladyfish before finding the mother load. I saw some muds on the edge of a flat and we cast our baits up into it. Paddy had 3 cast in a row where she caught her second Slam of the day. This was a special one because of the size of the Trout, it was a giant 26 1/2 inches. It the biggest Trout any of my clients have ever caught. She also had a 29 inch Snook and 20 inch Redfish.

Cindy and Tony were also have a good time Catching Snook, Trout and Redfish. It was hard getting a cast into the muds but we did and it paid off. They all caught their first Snook and RedfGreat Day!

I am fishing Flamingo today with Alex, Adrian and Jerry today, the conditions were tough but again today the combined for a “Backcountry Slam”. We got up in some shallow water and cast at pot holes. We caught a bunch of Snook, a handful of Redfish and some Trout..

These were 2 great trips with awesome people who enjoyed Flamingo and what it offers.

The fishing has been phenomenal and its only getting better as the spring moves in. The Tarpon have been showing up every time it warms up a few days. If you want to catch some fish ad have a great time doing it give me a call at 305 333 8149. Caught Lookin Charters is kid friendly. if you want to take your kids fishing for spring break call me 305 333 8149.

“Let’s go Catchem”

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

follow on Instagram at CaughtLookinCharters

Cool and windy then warm and calm fish are biting!

Mike Goldberg only caught 6 fish on Saturday when the winds were strong and there was no water anywhere. 2 of his Snook were over 28 inches which made his day.

On Sunday it was a total different situation, the fish bit good. We started out on 30  smaller Snook and a keeper Redfish. We were battling strong N.E. winds but we did catch plenty of Snook and Redfish. Mike had a couple Slot size Snook again today. All we need a Trout to catch his back country slam and we did that. Great couple days where the weather did  not co-operate.

Today was a day of Jim’s!

Jim and his son James were with me at Flamingo today, we started out quickly with a nice Snook but then we just couldn’t get one in the boat and the tide ran out. I made a run to get out of he strong south winds and found some fish out on the coast where the water was nice and clean. They ended up with some nice Trout for dinner.

I am fishing Flamingo today with Todd his dad Ken, Rachel and Shawn. The morning was the best weather all week. Ken was the first hook up with a perfect 10 lb. Tarpon, then a Snook on next cast. Rachel was next with a small Snook. The tide was just starting to go out and bite was good. We had a handful of Snook and Jacks until we had to move. The next spot was on fire with 18 - 22 inch Redfish. Rachel had the hot hand and seemed to be constantly hooked up. Ken was up next with a nice Redfish giving him the potential Grand slam .opportunity. Everyone got in on the Redfish action and even a couple Snook thrown in. I said we need to catch some Trout for the Grand Slam and off we went. The Trout bite was crazy, 4 at a time! Ken got his “Grand Slam”. Everyone else ended up with “backcountry slams” which is a great fishing day.

We are almost to a warming trend, hopefully by the time of “spring break. The fishing remains really good and should get even better once it warms up and Tarpon move in, I Cant Wait! Make your spring break plans early and remember Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter company so bring your kids!

“Lets go fishin”

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

follow on Instagram @ caughtlookincharters

Fish Bite in the Breeze!

This past week it was very windy and there was a giant full moon but it didn’t slow the bite down much. The Snook and Redfish bite remains incredible. I might have to run around to find the numbers but its great sight seeing. The big “Back Country Tarpon “will be here any day, it just takes a week of warm temps.

02-05-20

I am fishing Flamingo with good friend Wayne McKinney and Catfish Bob. Bob earned the name by catching Catfish while Wayne caught all the quality fish. Today Bob had the hot hand catching a “Slam” which consist of Snook, Redfish and Trout. Wayne didn’t do so bad either Catching a bunch of Snook, Trout and Ladyfish.

We only fished half a day and they were wore out fishing is that good!

02-10-20

I am fishing Flamingo with Mike and Brad, we are fishing Whitewater Bay because its blowing 30 in Fl. Bay . We made a couple stops before we got into a solid bite of Snook and Redfish. The low water was extreme and it brings the fish out of the trees and onto the banks. We were throwing Gulp swimming mullet and the fish really like them. The guys were having a great time catching Snook on every cast. Once the tide turned and started coming in the Redfish bite started. Later in day we got into a great top water bite which they really enjoyed. They caught about 75 or 80 Snook and Redfish combined. The greatest compliment from your anglers is when they need to take a break because they are tired . Great day with a couple great guys!

The fishing out of Flamingo in Everglades National Park is incredible. If you are lookin for a day of bending rods with kids or friends give me a call at 305 333 8149. The Tarpon fishing is.

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

follow me on Instagram at “caught lookin charters”

Cold, but fish are plentiful!

1. This past week Fishing was incredible “Again”. Its funny but we are starting to expect these crazy numbers of fish with multiple “Back Country Slams”. The cold fronts this week concentrated the fish in various spots making it easy to catch big numbers. The average days are somewhere around 30 Redfish about the same with Snook and Trout. My anglers have been very happy with the steady action.

Sloppy Govt. Cut

02-24-20

On Friday I fished Government Cut with long time client Sam Rose and his friend Kenny. There was a pretty big swell rolling across the cut. We used the Minn Kota’s spot lock to hold us in place and started getting some big bites, we were dropping down live shrimp from “Bait em up tackle”.  Kenny was excited about the first couple bites that came off, Sam hooked a big fish and it came off. I was wondering what was going on?

Kenny finally brought in a nice little Mutton Snapper and some Blue Runners and Grunts before getting a little sea sick. I took them inside the bay but it was to late and we called it a morning.

Great Sunrise in Fl. Bay

I am at Flamingo this morning with Chris and Mike. We had a great sunrise as you can see in the above picture. The fishing was just as good as sunrise, Chris and Mike We on fire! The caught Redfish after Redfish and Snook after Snook. Mike had never been to Flamingo but Chris has but never like this. Our first hot spot bite lasted about 2 1/2 hours. We moved and the second spot was just as good. The Redfish were piled up and they were doubled up constantly. They wanted to catch Trout to complete the Back Country Slam so we went and Caught 20 or so before they called it a day. It was 1130! Awesome Morning with super great guys.

I am at Flamingo again today wit Ted, Steve and Angelo. It was way colder this morning than any one expected, It was 49 degrees when I arrived there and really windy. I along with 50 other boats must not of heard the weather report. We left and everyone was bundled up for a cold ride. The tide was ripping going low and the fish didn’t really start off as quick as yesterday but then all of a sudden! The rods started doubling over Ted and Steve both had a good fish pulling drag and then Angelo hooked up. Redfish, Snook and a Jack was a good start. It was turning on and they were getting hooked up every cast. The Black Drum showed up and Steve caught a nice one that fought hard. It was just consistent with Snook, Redfish, Jacks, Black Drum, Jacks and Ladyfish.

As we were running around we found hundreds of diving Pelicans. We stopped and pulled a few Trout from the area and moved on. I pulled into a creek and the bite started all over again They caught Redfish more Black Drum, Trout and Snook. Great day with these guys plenty of rod bending!

The fishing is so good even a “Cave Man” could do it! f you have a desire to catch some fish with your friends, family or kids give me a call at 305 333 8149. Flamingo, Government Cut or Biscayne Bay they all produce quality catches. I have a couple open days for Super Bowl week.

Let’s Go Fishing

www.caughtlookincharters.com

follow me on Instagram at “Caught lookin charters”

Flamingo Fishing is that good!

Great day fishing in Flamingo

The last couple days My clients have caught hundreds of Redfish , Snook, Trout and other species. Everglades National Park has had some serious water issues in the last 5 years or so but I’m finding grassy areas which are holding fish. The fish are schooled up which really puts smiles on faces, people love the action.

01-17-2020

I am at Flamingo with long time clients Bob and Charlie. Our goal is always lots of fish but Tarpon are high on the list. Today we fished the back country and the Gulf of Mexico. We started out quickly with a couple Snook and spotted some Tarpon but the wind was killing us. We stayed in areas where we were out of wind and caught big numbers of Snook and Redfish. The fish were small but one every cast for 3 hours. Most anglers don’t ever experience days like this so they enjoy it. We had to catch close to 100 Reds -Snook combined so we went looking for Tarpon. What we found were more Redfish and a few Snook. While catching small Redfish we had a school of giant Redfish swimming around the boat. We made cast and dragged bait in front of them but the swam of. It was an incredible day Bob and Charlie were very had a lot of fun and were worn out!

01-18-2020

I am fishing Flamingo today with Yamil and Arky and the winds are up @ 30 mph. I used the same game plan as yesterday and again today we caught we caught 60 Snook but not as may Redfish. 20 Redfish seems like a low number lately. We also had 3 Goliath Groupers, Mangroves up to 15 “, Trout, Ladyfish and Jacks. They left tired and had a big Snapper for dinner.

01-29-2020

I received a call from Tony Collins a while back, he said we met at the Project for Healing Waters. I guess I left a good impression and he said he and 3 buddies would like to go fishing with me. I met them at Flamingo and we had beautiful weather for the first time in at least a week. He had Robert, Ray and Mikey with him so we headed out to Florida Bay and almost immediately were on fish. It stayed this way all day. Ray caught the first fish a nice 24 inch Redfish, the Robert hooked a fish that was really pulling drag. It took a few minutes but he landed a 5 lb. Black Drum. It was fast and furious for about 2 hours with Snook, Redfish, and Jacks. On any other day people might of had enough! I changed of scenery and it was Redfish and Snook again. The Redfish action was non stop using DOA popping corks and live Shrimp. The action got so good they actually took a break to eat, I kept fishing for them. I caught a few and that brought them back in the game. We went lookin for Trout to get them their back country slams we caught a few and moved on to one last spot. The Tarpon were blowing up baits as we hooked more Redfish. It was getting late and we headed in, they were ecstatic about the day and cant wait to do it again.

The fishing is really good If you and your family or friends every wanted to catch lots Snook and Redfish this a good time to do it. Caught Lookin Charters is a kid and family friendly charter service, don’t hesitate to bring them. I have a couple days open next week before the Super Bowl. If you are from Kansas City or Sanfransisco and would like to experience South Florida’ great fishery give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Lets go Fishing,

Capt. Jim Hobales

Follow me on Instagram at “Caught Lookin Charters”

Hit the Fishing Jackpot!

01-11-2020

Every once in a while you hit the jack pot and that’s what happened Saturday. I was with John Riordan his son Jack and nephew Austin. We fished Flamingo out of Everglades National Park in some really strong winds in the 25 mph range. I ran around a bit until we found an area just loaded with Snook and Redfish. It just happens John called me out on a report I wrote a while back. He said we want a 100 fish day like you wrote about, I told him I’ll need some help from them to do it. We were on a spot 10 minutes and caught 25 Snook and Reds, he next thing I know is they are counting fish! I moved around to several spots and all were holding a mix of Snook and Reds.

The wind was helping making the outgoing tide much stronger and the fish were hiding behind trees hitting anything we threw at them. The GULP Swimming Mullet is hard to beat and we went thru 5 bags this day, I was using the new 2 tone Chartreuse and White bait. We also used Live Shrimp and a Rapala “Twitch n Rap” they love it.

The fish really bit all day and the final count was 183 total caught Snook and Redfish.

Every trip is not like this but I always try to make it this way, the next few months we will have plenty of these days. Its just the time of year! The other thing that will possibly turn on this week soon as the wind slow down is the Tarpon are ready to move in. The water temps are right at 75 degrees and this will get them going. Its a great time to be on the water give me a call at 305 333 8149 and we can do it.

I have a couple days open Super Bowl week so, if anyone would like to get out give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Lets go fishing,

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Instagram at “caughtlookincharters”

2020 already here!

.

01-02-2020

New Year started out cool and windy but beautiful days

I am with long time client Sam Rose and his son Mike, We tried Government Cut but it was rolling in there. We ran around Key Biscayne down to Stiltsville stopping and catching some Spanish Mackerel that were in a giant bait school. The next stop got us a couple very colorful Mutton Snappers, while we were there a 10 foot Hammerhead Shark came up eating something on the flat. We moved on because the bite quit after that.

Next spot produced a bunch of decent size Mangrove Snappers all in the 1 1/2 lb range. A couple more Cuda’s and on to the next spot. The next spot produces some nice Grouper and Mike was hooked up to one he couldn’t stop. This was the one that got away. It was a half day and it was time to go! The had a nice bag of fish for Lunch.

01-03-2020

I am at Flamingo today fishing with Jim and his son John. It was a pretty good morning with a lot of nice Redfish and scattered Snook. John caught 3 of 4 for a Slam Snook, Redfish and Trout.

They had a blast catching them one after another, they had never been to Everglades National Park before much less fished at Flamingo.

We only fished half a day which was good, when I got back to my truck I had lost a bearing. Driving home on 3 tires is always interesting.

Salt water is the Silent Killer!

They really had a fun morning and cant wait to get back!

Fishing has been consistently good for the last year, some days big fish some day lots of fish. Then there are the days it really happens when lots of big fish. That’s my goal everyday and smiles on Clients faces. Right now down at Flamingo Tarpon, Snook, and Redfish are eating, if you would like to give it a try give me a call at 305 333 8149

Capt Jim Hobales,

Www.caughtlookincharters.com

End of 2019, Happy New Year!

The Last week of the year was not typical with several days of more than 3 inches of rain. If the rain wasn’t enough we had winds of 25 mph for almost 2 weeks. This being said I did 3 trips an all of them successful, but stressful.

I did a couple 2 boat trips with my buddy Capt. Alan with people we have fished forever out of Miami. These trips produce plenty of fish just not the monsters we hope for. The species and numerous 4 types of Snappers, 2 types of Grouper, Trout, Cuda’s, Ladyfish, Jacks , Trigger Fish, Mackerels, Kingfish.

On Sunday the 30th I talked the Teel Family into fishing Flamingo instead of Biscayne bay. The day started of with a handful of Snook and Redfish and a feeding frenzy of 150 Tarpon which wiped out a school of mullet.

Tides started getting week and I a made a run to the coast to catch incoming tide, it paid off pretty quick. Adam 14Yrs old and a good angler hooked a good fish that was pulling hard trying to get back into mangroves. He got the fish to come to him and finally land a nice Goliath Grouper at the same time the rod in the rod holder is doubled over, he fought this fish for 30 minutes. It was a giant Sawfish which broke him off. The rest of the day was Redfish and Snook one after another we ended up with 40 Snook and 20 Redfish, throw in Trout and a Jumped Tarpon. There were a few big Bull Sharks busting the mullet schools Adam wanted to catch one. He threw a top water plug and had a few blow it out of the water but never get hooked. It was action packed and non stop that’s why we fish Flamingo!

If you would like to experience a day like this give me a call at 305 333 8149 and Ill make it happen!

Happy New Year,

Capt. Jim Hobales

Day on the Bay!

On Friday Dec. 6 I pre-fished Flamingo to see what tides were going to be like the next day for the Day on the Bay Tournament. I am fishing with Paul and his son PJ Paul. It didn’t take long and we were on some Tarpon that wouldn’t play, but the Snook, Trout, and Redfish did. It was only 8 o’clock and we had a slam. We ran around looking for clean water and something holding numbers of fish. We bent the rods all day and ended up casting at some Tarpon again but the were feeding on some tiny baits which we couldn’t match. It was only 1100 a.m. and we headed in but made one last stop where we landed a really nice Snook.

This morning I’m with Paul, PJ and our buddy Mitch, again today we got on them early. PJ landed our first Tarpon at 650 am and then Paul and Mitch both caught one. We were on our way to catch Snook and Reds. We made a long run and got into a couple small fish, then it all broke loos! The bite was on and we were landing fish on every cast using a Gulp Swimming Mullet. We had several areas and they all held numbers. We caught well over 100 Snook ad 30 Redfish. The downside was we lost a giant Snook and spent allot of time trying to get a big fish. We needed a couple Trout to complete our Grand Slams which was fairly easy to do. We also caught Goliath Grouper, Snappers, Ladyfish and Jacks.

We headed in to Redlands Golf course where the weigh ins were held. It was held at the outdoor Tiki bar and was a nice good atmosphere. The awards were given and Paul won big Tarpon and PJ the won Top Junior Angler. Mitch caught his share of fish but no awards. Great day among friends.

Fishing is just really good inside Everglades National Park, and it should remain that way. If you have the need to catch fish and have a fun day on the water give me a call at 305 333 8149.

The fishing will be good in Miami as well, Tarpon move in to the Miami Beach areas and Government Cut right about now. If you are going to be in town for the Orange Bowl give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Caught Lookin Charters if a family and kid friendly Charter, kids watch allot of fishing videos now a days so if you have a one that wants to learn and catch fish give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Capt.Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Mutton bite still good!

I took my brother Jeff and his sons Mark and Andrew out for his birthday on 120119. We got out in the dark had a beautiful morning, finding Pilchards is a very important part of the Mutton Snapper fishery. We have been lucky lately and they seem to be in several areas. Once loaded up we went to work but it was slow early on. We bounced around to a couple spots and eventually found them. We found numbers today not big ones but they still fight pretty hard. The Yellow Jacks are so tough they really fill the need for a good hard fight.

Throw in Mangrove Snappers, 4 types of Groupers, Barracudas, Yellow Jacks, and the 20 Muttons, and even a Sea Gull, everyone was worn out by 12 o’clock.

I always fish Thanksgiving Day with one of my friends , this year I fish with my buddy Mitch. We grew up across the street from each other although I’m a little older. Mitch has fish plenty of tournaments with me and he’s great company. We fished Flamingo with very few people around. The morning started out pretty quick casting at rolling Tarpon but hooking Snook, not a bad thing. We did this for an hour but the Tarpon wouldn’t play, thankfully the Snook ,Trout, Jacks did.

We sight fished on some spots that I had a hard time getting out of, there were some good fish up there but just out of reach. We caught some big Trout on the edge of spots that haven’t been fishable for a few years because of dirty water. We did some fishing in the gulf of Mexico catching some nice Snook on the boundary markers while watchin Mackerel free jump after bait. We did a little bit of Triple Tail fishing and then finished up the day on Tarpon that were feeding on minnows, the would not eat our tiniest of baits but always fun to watch. We agreed it was time to go home and have our Thanksgiving meal.

Holidays are coming and everyone likes to fish, call and mention you read it here and receive a $50.00 discount.

Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter so bring the wife and kids for a fun day of catching fish. If this fits your plans give me a call at 305 333 8149. We can fish Miami Beach, Biscayne Bay or Flamingo all depends where you are staying or live while in South Fla.

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Time for a "cool change"

Tony with his first Snook

This past week we had to work hard in south Biscayne Bay for Muttons. The North winds seem to effect the way they bite. The nice part is the Yellow Jacks, Cudas, Mangroves and Snook bit ok. I have spent most of the last month on the cool and fun Mutton Snapper fishing but made my way back to Flamingo this past weekend.

There was a tournament going on and the Fl. Bay side seemed crowded so I launched in the back country. I had 2 young kids Nicholas 17 and Augustine 13 and they had never been to Flamingo. Their dad won the trip I donated to a friends charity but just had knee surgery and couldn’t make it.

They were avid anglers and I felt I could take them to some difficult areas where casting can get tough. They like to fish artificial lures which works for me. I rigged up some Gulp Swimming Mullet and it didn’t take long. We caught about 10 or so Redfish either had ever caught one. The Reds slowed and then some small Snook turned on, 15 or 20 later they quit. we moved around catching a few but I decided to run to Gulf of Mexico to catch falling time. It worked out they caught a few more decent fish. These were two hard core, quite kids that just want to fish, it was lots of fun.

Fishing remains incredible down in the Flamingo area, it has been on fire for over a year. If your up for a great day of fishing bring your family or just your kids. The Tarpon usually make there way into Government Cut and on the beaches by Christmas. We have many options this time of year. Give me a call if interested at 305 333 8149.

Holidays are near call for Gift Certificate and discounted rate!

Capt Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Biscayne Bay fun fishing!

This time of year South Biscayne Bay is alive with bait schools and it gives me a chance to do some different than Flamingo. I do enough days up in the North end of bay but we don’t get the fun size Mutton Snappers like down south. There also plenty of Yellow Jacks which are a very edible specie especially with the Sushi crowd. While fishing for the Muttons we have had schools of Yellowtail Snappers, Groupers, Mangrove Snappers, Barracudas, Sharks, Houndfish, Jack Crevalles and Snook. Its a fun day of fishing with non stop action.

Mark and his son Jason enjoyed a good Tarpon bite down at Flamingo,

The fishing is good down at Flamingo as well, with the warm weather Tarpon will are still plentiful. The Snook fishing has been incredible for the last year. The holidays are coming give me a call if You, your friends or your family wants to get out and have some fun. Caught Lookin Charters is a kid/family friendly charter company so give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Capt. Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com

Fall is here, so are fish in Miami!

This past week there has been some great fishing as the results of the Take Stock in Children tournament showed.

On Friday with the Thacker Boone group we had an incredible afternoon with big Reds, Trout, Snook and a 150 lb. Tarpon for a minute. They also had a Sawfish some Sharks,Jacks and Ladyfish.

Friday night was the Take Stock captains meeting and fishing starts fright after. I was fishing with my buddy Paul and his son PJ, we waited until the morning and got off to a good Start early with a 33 inch Snook. There was no shortage of smaller Snook. We had Reds to 22 inches until late in the day when we got into a big school of Redfish. We landed 9 Reds to 28" and another 32" Snook. We felt pretty good about the day but I felt we need a bigger Snook.

Sunday morning we set out for Trout we caught a bunch but it took a while to get a 17 inch fish. We spent the rest of the day trying to upgrade but couldn't get em. Paul had 78" and PJ had 76"

I was on some decent fish and felt good on the way to turn in score card. There were some good fish caught by allot of my friends and congratulations to them. We were disappointed but we had and incredible weekend of catching fish!

John and his buddies Jason and Pat fished the Herman Lucerne Tournament with me, they got treated to the worst weather possible. It rained and the wind was steady in the 30 mph range with gust up to 50 mph.

That being said we caught some fish and did the best we could in the conditions. They didn’t let it bother them as the beers flowed pretty smoothly. The highlight of the day was when Pat hooked a decent sized Redfish and a 6 ft.Crocodile ate it, he had been trying to get one of our Snook earlier.

Day 2

We drove into Flamingo to avoid the beating again. We started out with John catching a couple Small Tarpon and a handful of Snook. They trio caught Snook, Trout, Snappers, Ladyfish and Tarpon. We tried hiding from the weather but it was nasty.

This was some serious rain!

Fishing is incredible right now and really has been since about last Christmas if you have a need to catch something special or want to just get your kids out give me a call. Caught Lookin Charters is a family friendly charter service. Lets go fishing, give me a call at 305 333 8149.

Captain Jim Hobales

www.caughtlookincharters.com