Florida Wintertime Fishing

By Neil Taylor, Strike Three Kayak Fishing

"Deep Thoughts, Shallow Minds", a monthly column

We live in just about the best place to be to start out a new year, weather-wise and also for stellar fishing action.   The long hot summers can be oppressive for daytime anglers.   What about January for fishing in the Tampa Bay area of Florida?  Potentially the coolest month of the calendar year, the fish are there and they have to eat to survive.   Therefore, it is a time of opportunity but with the potential of colder weather, some things can make the experience much more enjoyable and successful for anyone who doesn’t want to “sit it out” waiting for Sping.

Simplicity in the name of the game: Dress for it and you can enjoy all the opportunities that wintertime fishing has to offer.   “Gear up” with waterproof jacket and pants, wear extra layers underneath as necessary.   For anglers who may want to get out and wade, breathable waders are a great choice.   In the water, it keeps you from getting wet and chilled.   Out of the water, you won’t get overheated if things do warm up during the day.   Safety is always first, and there are perils to the wintertime scene.  Of course, no one wants to fall in the water but….  Wear your personal flotation device!   Those clothing “layers” will make you sink like a rock if you end up in the water but the vest will keep you afloat.  If you are using the breathable waders, a wade-belt helps to seal the top of the waders preventing water from going in, but it will also push your upper torso into the water unless you are wearing the life vest.

Oversize dry bags with towels and a set of spare clothes is a great way to prevent hypothermia should you take an unscheduled Polar Bear swim.   Get out of the wet clothes and change into dry, warm replacements that were “on the ready” and you have no idea how happy you will be you had it there.   Other items to consider to have ready are gloves, a stocking cap and hand-warmers to get you through the toughest of conditions.   Again: Stored in dry bags, perhaps not utilized, they are treasured on the days they are used.

Getting back to the right game plan for success.   Study the winds and weather.   Go to protected areas that are shielded when the weather is tough and enjoy the fact that the fish often retreat to those same areas.  Inshore areas like creeks, rivers or the lee side of shorelines and islands provide a substantial wind “break”.   Life is short.   So, the weather’s not exactly ideal: Go fishing!   But do it smart and stay dry, stay warm, stay safe and catch those fish!