Shallow Water Fishing - Best in Florida Bay

So-called back country fishing is a unique experience for all those who love shallow water fishing. It provides the sense of immediacy with nature that comes with all shallow water fishing but adds an additional sense of adventure.

First of all, to do it right, a guide is a must. A Florida flats fishing guide is invaluable to find shallow water fish. This guide, or Sultan of Snapper, will take clients out to hard to access areas, usually in a specially designed skiff, which can be anywhere from 15 to 20 feet long. Shallow water boats such as these may seem outsize, but due to their shallow draft, they navigate elegantly in "skinny waters."

After all, a boat with 'no sides' is a two-edged proposition. Shallow water fishing is fun, immediate and exciting, but without enough width and stability, it's not the safest way to navigate. You want to look at shallow water boats that are light-weight but stable, with a secure fishing platform.

Even the shallow water anchors are unique; you will see hydraulic 'power' poles which can hold the boat steady in up to 8 feet of water, or simple manual poles which can also be used as a push pole, to maneuver skillfully around the banks, and in the shallower waters.

Shallow water anchors are definitely something else you have to consider. Why? Because you have to decide between manual or power anchorage. You go manual, then you're looking at a three-quarter inch rod of solid fiberglass, which functions as an anchor AND as a push pole. Brackets built right into shallow water boats hold the push pole in place.

The skiff will have a platform that enables the guide to scan the horizon, thus ensuring the visibility needed to navigate for optimum shallow water fishing. The boat's motor may not even be used, as loud sounds can frighten away shallow water fish. All the better, then, that the guide is able to use the pole to steer among the banks, and move silently.

But what about the whole point of shallow water fishing? The fish! The beauty of shallow water fishing is that you can float in literally inches of water, and position yourself above creatures that would be inaccessible from deeper-draft style craft. Not to mention the stability that a good, 15 foot boat can give you. No worrying about keeping your balance, you can focus on the sport itself.

The best shallow water boats also provide below deck storage areas for stowing gear, thus increasing and maximizing clear space on deck for optimum freedom of movement. When you're ready to cast, the last thing you want is to trip. If you can find the right boat, shallow water fishing should be a dream.