The similarities between fishing Florida's salt flats and Texas flats fishing outweigh the few differences. Moving quietly and slowly through expanses of shallow water to get close to spooky shallow water fish is one common factor. One of the differences is the species of fish targeted. Florida flats guides regularly take anglers in search of tarpon, bonefish or permit. These are normally loner fish that are seen in the shallow water and cast to as individuals. The most sought Texas flats fish are the redfish and spotted sea trout. These two species are more often found in small schools than as loners. Shallow water anchors can improve the success rate.
Tarpon and snook can be caught during certain times of the year in some specific locations. When the wind and current allows it, drifting across the flats is a common tactic. When wind becomes an issue or when redfish or trout are bunched up close to some structure, holding in one position is more productive. The extremely shallow water on the flats poses some unique anchoring problems.
Traditional anchors require a long line between the boat and the anchor to achieve any real holding power. In any wind or current situation the boat will swing in an arc - not hold a solid position. An erratically moving boat makes precise bait presentation very difficult. What anglers need is a stationary platform so they can deliver their baits or lures accurately and with maximum control.
Florida flats fishing guides use poles to move their boats. The same poles are used to hold the boat in position when a fish is located within casting distance and the client casts to the fish. The guide is an integral part of the process. The concept led to the development of several versions of shallow water anchors based on a pole extended down into the sand/mud bottom.
All these anchor systems are designed around a pole attached to the boat to hold position. There are electro-hydraulically operated anchor systems with remote controls. Some companies offer relatively inexpensive kits with just a simple bracket and a pole. The choice is dependent on available budget or personal taste.
All of these systems are equally effective at the intended purpose - keeping a boat positioned securely. They have definite advantages over the electric trolling motor. There is no noise and no prop-wash that can scare away the fish. As more fishermen embrace these anchor systems we can expect to see them used in new ways.
Even freshwater fishermen are discovering the benefits of shallow water anchors. When bass are inactive and tucked close in a weed bed practice casting and slow presentation are required. This is best accomplished by anchoring both ends of the boat and concentrating on specific areas. While Texas flats fishing, finding a school of reds tailing in a small depression is exciting. The last thing the fisherman wants is to drift through the school or drift away before getting a cast. A pole anchor will allow the angler to spend more time where the fish are.
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