Strap in for some fish tales from the shallow creeks where tournament-grade redfish are playing a game of hide-and-seek. These wily reds are dancing in the flats, but don’t be fooled—there are deeper holes they’ll dart into if danger lurks. The under-sized ones are holed up in the depths, probably because they’re not looking to star in an osprey’s dinner theater. Meanwhile, the slot-worthy reds are flaunting their spots in the skinny waters.
Now, picture this: the surf’s rolling, and in the 10-plus pound range, big bad bluefish are staging a finned rebellion. If you’re after those toothy critters, best have a leader that’s ready for the fight.
But wait, the cool waters are still rocking with black drum and sheepshead action. Targeting these guys? Load up with the right bait, my friend. They’ve got discerning tastes. But a Fiddler Crab or Sand Flea will do the trick.
And here’s a nugget for you: The Flagler Sportfishing Club is reeling in some changes. We’ve got a new spot and a new day to swap stories and secrets. Catch us on the first Thursday of the month at 7 pm, now meeting at Club 51 on Old Kings. Come, join the fellowship, and dive into the myriad fishing opportunities our waters have to offer.
Tight lines and tall tales.
Chris from Skinny Water Lures reports that the warm weather leading up to this past weekend should have the redfish and trout fired up and ready to chomp on some bait. On top of that, the three days after the full moon create another positive factor for fishing. Both redfish and trout would have likely moved onto the shallow mud bank areas to bask in the warmth and take advantage of the abundant bait.
Anglers have been reeling in a good number of upper slot trout in the high bridge areas. The key strategy is to focus on deep drop offs with moving water. Speckled trout, during the colder months, tend to head to deeper waters where temperatures are more favorable and there’s plenty of food. Don’t be surprised to find them in deeper channels, drop-offs, and holes near oyster bars or rocky structures.
Due to being cold-blooded, speckled trout have a slower metabolism in colder water. They prefer water temperatures ranging from 50°F to 65°F. To maximize your chances of catching them, pay close attention to specific times of the day, particularly early mornings, late afternoons, and overcast days during the colder months.
Be mindful of tidal movements as well, as during incoming tides, there tends to be a heightened level of activity as baitfish and crustaceans get swept towards the hungry trout. The redfish bite has been a bit sluggish lately. These fish have a migratory nature during winter as they search for warmer waters and abundant food. You’ll likely find them gathered in large schools in deeper waters, channels, and estuaries.
To increase your odds of finding them, locate areas with the right temperature ranges for the redfish. Redfish are quite sensitive to changes in water temperature and prefer a range between 50°F and 70°F. Shallow flats that receive a good dose of sunlight are known to attract and hold redfish due to the warmer waters found there. Keep in mind the importance of stealth and stillness when targeting these fish during colder months; sudden movements can easily spook them.
Exercise patience, as it may take a few attempts before a redfish commits to striking. There have been recent reports indicating a plentiful number of Sheepshead being caught this week. You’ll commonly find them lurking around structures like jetties, pilings, docks, and mangrove roots. They have a particular affinity for barnacles, oysters, crabs, and small crustaceans that are found in these areas. Increase your chances of landing a Sheepshead by focusing on spots with plenty of structure and cover.
Also, align your fishing efforts with the incoming or outgoing tides, as Sheepshead tend to be more active during these periods. Keep warm out there and may your lines stay tight!
