As of November 21, 2024, the fishing scene in the Gulf of Mexico, Florida, is looking promising despite some challenges from red tide.

**Weather and Tides:**
The water temperatures are still in the mid-70s, which is slightly warmer than usual for this time of year. Today, you can expect partly cloudy skies with a high of around 75°F and a low of 65°F. Tides are moderate, with a high tide at around 10:30 AM and a low tide at 4:30 PM, making the early morning and late afternoon ideal for fishing.

**Sunrise and Sunset:**
Sunrise is at 6:45 AM, and sunset is at 5:15 PM, giving you ample daylight to hit your favorite spots.

**Fish Activity:**
The fall mullet run is in full swing, attracting larger predatory species like tarpon, kingfish, and redfish. Yesterday, anglers reported catching several redfish in the 20-25 inch range, along with some snook and speckled trout. The red tide, although present in some areas, has not significantly impacted fishing in all regions. However, it's crucial to check the latest red tide reports, especially in Southwest Florida where bloom concentrations have been observed in counties like Sarasota and Charlotte[2].

**Best Lures and Bait:**
For targeting redfish and snook, topwater lures and soft plastics like shrimp or crab imitations are effective. Live bait such as mullet, pinfish, and shrimp are also highly recommended. For tarpon and kingfish, use larger lures like spoons or jigs, or live bait like blue runners or herring.

**Hot Spots:**
- **Boca Grande Pass:** Known for its tarpon and snook fishing, this area is particularly active during the fall mullet run.
- **Sarasota Bay:** Despite some red tide presence, this bay remains a hotspot for catching redfish, snook, and speckled trout.
- **Destin:** The waters off Destin are great for catching a variety of species including redfish, tarpon, and kingfish, especially around the nearshore reefs and wrecks.

Remember to stay updated on the red tide status and adjust your fishing plans accordingly. With the right gear and knowledge of the local conditions, you're set for a successful day on the water.