You've heard about it, and now you've decided you want to get into shallow water fishing. You want to be the guy that reels in shallow water fish like snook, red fish, tarpon and snapper. But you know that without the right boat, that's not going to happen.
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."
A great guide will not only be able to tell clients what to fish for, based on area, season, and weather, he can actually assess their strengths and weaknesses. Based on these variables, he can best advise for the shallow water fishing trip of their dreams.
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.
Florida Bay offers the experience of taking fishing boats through miles of interlocking 'basins,' most of which are barely three feet deep. While the fun of floating along and taking in sights such as hawks, herons and egrets is undeniable, at some point all you want is to sink that shallow water anchor and get down to business!
While the shallow water boat treks smoothly along the back country, this will be the fisherman's chance to take in Florida scenery at its most pristine. He can view all manner of plant life, from orchids and primordial fern to the draping Spanish moss so typical of Florida forests. He can catch a glimpse of turtle or deer, in addition to the shallow water fish just inches away.
At the end of a very satisfying day, the shallow water fishing trip which takes in the Florida back country, will leave an angler with a lifetime of memories.
If you are looking for a power pole for boats to keep your boat still and catch more fish, check out an alternative topower pole anchors
