http://www.tampabay.com/sports/outdoors/Captain-s-Corner-Seek-clear-water-for-bottom-fishing-as-temperatures-plummet_163503239
The great weather, calm seas and exceptional fishing we experienced at the end of November and beginning of December came to a screeching halt with the cold front that came through. Surface water temperatures plummeted from an unseasonable 71 degrees to 61 almost overnight, shocking both baitfish and their predators. Gulf waters near shore were the color of chocolate milk, and it was not much better 10 miles offshore. When winds and seas subside and we can venture offshore, we will try some trolling, but expectations will not be high. We will concentrate on bottom fishing in whatever depth the water begins to clear up, likely 60 feet. The grouper and assorted snapper we target will be hungry and feeding on anything available. Because of turbid water caused by settling silt, baits that have some smell will be best. Cut frozen sardines and threadfins, squid and cut bait along with heavy chumming with small pieces of the same baits being used will result in success. After cold fronts come through, there is often debris on the surface. The right thing to do is pick it up and dispose of it on land, and this often ends up with the bonus of a tripletail. When sighted under the object, a live shrimp flylined on a 1/0 circle hook will usually end in a strike. The next bait of choice is the head of a squid with its tentacles pitched in front of the fish.
Dave Zalewski charters the Lucky Too out of Madeira Beach. Call (727) 397-8815.
- Jay Mastry - March 26, 2024
- Captains Corner, Gorta - March 23, 2024
- Dave Zalewski - March 12, 2024
