Wal-Mart FLW Redfish Series pro Dennis Cox forecast tough fishing conditions for the Eastern Division finale Aug. 19-20. Cox, a veteran guide from Titusville, Fla., said the reds have a tendency to scatter during August. In fact, many of them will actually leave the bays and head offshore to spawn.
“This tournament will really put the field to the test to see who is the best at finding fish,” Cox said. “The reds are going to be on the move and the water will be dirty. Overall, the bite is usually pretty slow during August.”
Key patterns: Dark color soft plastics rigged on 1/8-ounce jigheads normally produce the most consistent results. Cox said many anglers will make the run north to the Ponce Inlet near New Smyrna beach. Hot spots will be oyster beds in 3 to 4 feet of water. There also could be some fish caught off docks, bridges and in the deeper inlet itself, if the wind allows.
Cox’s call: 28 pounds to win it.