And for Northwest anglers who are pleased to catch lots of good-eating fish, panfish top the list. All of the local rivers are brimming with bream.

Redbreast fishing is outstanding on the Ochlockonee River, especially on the lower stretches when the water is low. Small popping bugs, sinking flies, tail spinners and even small crankbaits are effective. Of course nothing beats live crickets, red wigglers or grass shrimp.

The Sopchoppy, New and Crooked rivers should not be overlooked. All three of these dark, tannin-stained rivers are scenic, remote and productive. The Sopchoppy joins the Ochlockonee River before emptying into the Gulf. The New and Crooked rivers also join the Carrabelle River at the coast. These rivers are ideal for small powerboats and canoes. The current is moderate so a paddle or small trolling motor is perfect for easing along the shoreline.

Other productive small rivers include the Econfina, Aucilla, St. Marks and Wakulla. Of course the Apalachicola and all of its tributaries offer panfishing possibilities. Generally, low water makes for best fishing and a falling tide is tops for fishing near the mouths.

Freshwater lakes such as Talquin, Seminole, Iamonia, Miccosukee and Jackson also have great panfishing. Lakes Talquin and Seminole are famous for their mayfly hatches which can produce incredible bream action for anglers lucky enough to be on the lake when they occur. Lake Iamonia usually produces trophy-sized bluegills around areas choked with lily pads. Popping bugs with long rubber legs drive the jumbo bluegill crazy this month. Lake Miccosukee also has great bream fishing around the vegetation and along the boat trails.

All of these lakes have good topwater bass fishing in the shallows. It’s time for bass fishermen to break out the spinnerbaits, buzz worms and noisy plugs. Some of the larger bass will still need to be finessed with a plastic worm or enticed with a live shiner, but the schoolies should hit topwater lures.

Lake Jackson can be hot for shiner fishermen this month, especially around the reeds at Brill Point. Fishing over the submerged vegetation is almost always a good bet on this lake. Get out early or late in the afternoon to avoid the skiers and jet skiers.

For freshwater anglers who want more pull on their line, flathead catfish are now regulars on the Apalachicola River. You’ll find them in the section below the Jim Woodruff Dam. Recent catches have also been made downriver as well. These big cats seem to prefer two things: deep holes and small bluegills. Drop a 3- or 4-inch bluegill into a deep spot in the river and odds are one will bite. Stout tackle is a good idea since these fish frequently weigh 20 pounds or more.