When it comes to catching gator trout on both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, few fishermen have more experience than Mark Davis, host of the Outdoor Channel’s Big Water Adventures. He’s caught trout from the Chesapeake Bay south to Miami and west to Texas and has a few proven tips for trout fishermen.
“For big trout, I have two tactics that work everywhere,” Davis said. “I start with a topwater lure such as a (Bomber) Badonk-A-Donk. These baits range from 3 ½ to five inches. I cast these over the top of submerged structure and around visible cover. Change colors and retrieves until you zoom in on the pattern.”
Davis has found that the time of day doesn’t make much difference to big trout. He has caught as many in the middle of the day as in the morning and evening. He said that water clarity will matter as far as the size and color of baits, as trout tend to be color-specific from day to day.
“What I mean is, don’t be scared to use any colors — bright or dark — regardless of the water color,” said Davis. “There are no rules with trout. Often, if I’m having a tough day, I’ll try the color I have least confidence in. It has worked more than once.”
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