With water temperatures on the fall this month look for sight-fishing opportunities to rise… For me the next few months are the most exciting time of year to target reds on the flats. As the water drops into the low 60′s our water, especially the south part of our region, will really start to clear up. Fish will be hanging in the cleaner waters of our flats and creeks looking to warm up on sunny winter days. Look for darker mud and oyster-laden bottom to be holding redfish, trout, and flounder. These areas will warm up faster than others on sunny days…. a few degrees can really make a difference. Take the time to scout out these “hot spots” on a good low tide.
Another benefit of dropping water temps is the redfish will start schooling on the flats. Locate these fish from a distance by looking for “muds” (discolored muddy water) and/or pushing wakes made by moving fish. After getting close enough to see them in the water always try to cast to lead fish, he’s usually the biggest. Redfish singles and doubles can also be found sunning themselves in the shallows this time of year. These fish will be lazy so make sure to present you bait in a slow methodical manner. When I spot a stationary fish I like to cast long of him and at least a few feet to either the left or right of the fish depending on which way he’s facing. Then work the bait slowly back to where the fish is (this will help to not spook the fish). Once you think the fish might be in striking range of your bait you’ll have to choose to either leave the bait sit (this will work well while using live bait or a scented soft plastic like a Fishbite’s Xtreme shrimp) or to give it a very slight twitch. Some days they like it moving and some days they like it sitting still.
Smaller reds as well as trout and flounder will be schooled up in area creek holes. A live shrimp or mud minnow tossed into the depths can’t be beat. If throwing artificials is your thing try to downsize your baits in these colder months. A Fishbite’s shrimp or paddle tail paired with a Slayer Inc. jighead will be deadly! White and chartreuse are always favorite winter colors. Sheepshead fishing should start to pick up considerably this month. Target area bridges, docks, and pilings with fiddler crabs to catch the tasty porgies. Merry Christmas to all and to all a good bite!
I haven’t given them an honest try, just here and there but I have realized that they are for sure a more durable bait than the gulps, I’m hooked, and plus it’s supporting a local company, great all around!
Yeah, they work just as well if not better than the gulps for me. And it’s always good to support the local guy!