Speckled trout and Spanish mackerel continue to be the go-to fish for most anglers. One reason is they are the most consistent. Both species will be around all summer and into the winter without much changing of locations.

Grass flats are where you find trout. Depth range for consistent catches is in the 3 to 6 foot range. If bait is on the flat then trout will usually be near by.

Live white bait, free lined or under a cork, is the top choice for bait. A live shrimp will also work, but will attract pinfish and other bait stealers.

Soft plastic jig tails connected to a ¼ or 3/8 ounce jig head is also a very good choice for trout. Color of tails may vary, but when bait is around try white or silver toned colors to imitate the food available for the trout.

Hard plastic baits like the Mirrodine and others that have the shape and color of bait fish can be very productive. Now is also a good time to throw top waters. Trout are aggressive in the spring and will readily take a well presented top water lure.

Spanish mackerel can be found along the edges of the grass flats closer to the deep water. They will come to the grass flats in search of bait.

Due to the sharp teeth of the Spanish a long shank hook is best used to prevent cut offs when using a mono filament leader. Light wire may also be used, and will prevent cut offs, but is sometimes hard for anglers to work with.

In open bay and gulf waters, look for mackerel striking in bait schools. Diving birds will usually be your first locating sign.

Casting live bait, white buck tail jigs or silver spoons into the feeding frenzy will usually result in instant action. Trolling silver spoons behind a planer or trolling lead will also work.

The hot kingfish action of last week has subsided some. Areas like the ship channel and close in artificial reefs that were holding good fish have really cooled off.

Kings are migrating fish and it appears the schools that were here have moved on. The good news is that there will probably some more schools moving back into our area to take their place.