In April, the Speckle Trout move to shallower waters for reproduction and feeding.    They will be in large schools at this point in the year.  Speckle Trout generally hang out near drop-offs, near the safe haven of deeper waters.  They also use any kind of cover, such as bridges, rock piles and even docked boats.   A quiet approach is needed so as to not spook the fish, but it is rare that you spot them before they spot you.  The best way to hook a Speckle Trout is to wadefish, as a boat makes too much noise.  A long cast will keep the distance between you and the fish, making you harder for the fish to detect.  Employ slow retrieve tactics to bring your fish in. As a general rule, big trout are a lazy bunch.  Use big bait with medium shrimp being the best option as they stay active on the hook a while longer than the larger varieties.  Loud surface lures are a good option as well, as the more noise your bait makes, the more trout will be attracted. Once hooked, a great deal of care is needed when handling the Speckle Trout.  They are much less tolerant on the catch and release then their redfish counterparts.  Wet your hands before handling your catch, and use a de-hooking device if at all possible.  Touch them as little as possible to make your release successful. Good luck and good fishing!

This lure, of which a fair number were made in the 1950’s, used a small amount of mercury suspended in a glass vial of neon gas. All contained in the center of the lure. The reason: the lure would actually light up when moved. This effect can still be seen over 50 years later.

manufacturer: Neon Mickey Bait Company

Name: Clink Lure

Produced: Pat. App. 1946 – Granted 1950

Scarcity: Rare

Comments: This good looking salmon plug was produced by dentist Ray Clink in the late ’40s to early ’50s. One of the problems in its design was probably the lengths of yarn attached to the bottom, a snag waiting to happen.