Recent regulations on inshore fish in our area has done wonders for increasing the population of spotted sea trout, in particular. St. Joseph Sound is teaming with trout, from Dunedin all the way to Tarpon Springs. The past couple of years had seen a decrease in numbers, as well as size of the migratory fish. However, this year there are large schools of trout, and an increase in their overall size. Live shrimp and soft plastics have been the most effective. Some recent high winds have caused low visibility in the water, yet the trout are still responding to jigs hopped slowly along the bottom around the islands lining the intercoastal waterway. Often, the bite will occur while the jig is coming to a rest before the next hop. Even though the water can be cloudy, a well presented artificial bait can lure a strike. Redfish are also cooperating, mostly on the higher tide. Pothole fishing during low tides has produced a few fish, but as the tide rises, redfish are swarming local oyster bars and mangrove overhangs. Schools of jack crevalle have offered a lot of action on days when other species are stubborn. Sometimes you can find them pushing across a flat, and other times you can witness them swimming in deeper channels alongside the boat, looking for any opportunity to feed. Their drag screaming action is always welcomed in January.
- Captains Corner - March 23, 2024
- Brian Caudill - March 4, 2024
- Brian Caudill - December 5, 2023
