So my last few trips out, I've been having less and less luck with the artificial lures.
I did have a nice outing where I switched to some white paddle tails to try and get some flounder, and ended up with 3...but I'm not having luck with the reds or trout.
I'm still learning a little as I go...have problems sometimes deciding what colors to use.
I don't have a big selection of colors...basically all I use is paddle tails and jerk shads....Saltwater Assassins Chicken on a chain and DOA Golden Bream are my favorite colors and have provided me the best luck. Those aren't working at all the last few times out. I've tried white and new penny too. Those are basically the only 4 colors I have. I'm starting to think I may need to get some new colors to test, and some different sizes, as most of mine are in the 3 1/2" range. I do sometimes look at bigger jerk baits that are 5-6" and sometimes what stops me from getting those is the size...but a big fish will eat that big lure I'm sure. Other thing I have problems with is water clarity...not sure sometimes on the clarity. But when it looks pretty clear I try to throw a lighter color, and when dark/cloudy I'll throw darker.
Anyways...any suggestions on some good colors to try, and some different lures to try? Just looking to increase my hookups with the reds and trout right now.
I'd ask about topwater, but I haven't had any luck at all with that. ..I am going to a topwater seminar on the 11th so that should help a little.

It's basically the time of year. It's really hot right now, and the redfish are going to be scattered in deeper, cooler water where the o2 level is higher. So if you know a spot that might have a bit of cooler water, fish there...on the bottom. Look for trout around drop offs and where those little creeks dump into the main channel. It's really important to be on your spot right at first light when it's a bit cooler. Try a topwater early around those creek mouths on an outgoing tide. I'm betting that there'll be fish waiting in that hole right in front of it for the tide to suck out some tasy morsels. Toss a soft plastic up that creek and swim it out and let it drop.

You're using the right baits and colors. I don't really know what to tell you to add.....

It's the dog days of summer, man!

I can't contribute much on the saltwater lures but I can say it's definitely been a strange year freshwater fishing. I've caught quite a few fish but it's been feast or famine...well, not literally a feast since 99.9% of my fish get released! So far I've had the best days when it's been the hottest. Go figure.

Thanks Rob...I'm gonna have to come down there and fish with you one of these days. Good talking to you man

I've had sucess with Gulp curly tails in white, black and chartruce lately.
With all the shrimp at this time of year, I haven't had a ton of luck with artificial either.
Trout on live shrimp and Mud Minnows more so than atries in the past few weeks.
I caught a few Flounder on white Fish Bite paddle tails as well.

I agree about fishing with Rob. I'm just not sure I'd be able to make it until after storm season though.
Rob, what would you call the outing in Clearwater?

Not sure, Scott....Maybe Clearwater SkunkFest '11? Hahahaha!

It'll probably be better fishing once the weather cools anyway, but anytime you're in town, gimme a call!

As far as your color selections go here is a great link with some good info on colors and conditions. Hope this helps. Also if you fish the same areas alot throwing the same baits switch it up. They aren't the smartest creatures but do get use to seeing the samething. I like to also make sure I match the bait in the water, size and presentation. www.texastacklefactory.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5&Itemid=111

Yeah...as far as matching the bait...the best thing right now would probably be shrimp or mud minnow.
I haven't thrown the DOA Shrimp very much as I don't feel confident with it yet. I guess I'm going to have to start using them more to gain more confidence. I'm sure once I catch one fish, I'll start to hone it in.

what Rob said