Hot Spots Charters - December 2013
Capt. Chris Phillips
December 1, 2013
Pensacola - Saltwater Fishing Report
December can be a fabulous month to fish for both inshore and offshore species in Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The weather can be up and down with the cold fronts coming and going, so it's always a good idea to keep a close eye on the weather forecasts and pick your days carefully.
Redfish top the list for anglers looking for action in Pensacola Bay and of course I'm talking about the big bull redfish. After spending ten years traveling to cities all over the southeast I would argue with anyone that Pensacola Bay has the best bull redfish fishery without a shadow of a doubt. These big schools of bulls roam the bay feeding on baitfish on the surface. Just take a ride and look the birds diving and splashes on the surface.
Speckled trout fishing is another option for those fishing inshore during the cold winter months. This time of year the specks move to the bayou's, rivers, and canals. I don't want to let anyone secret out, but the big trout caught in Pensacola during the winter typically come from Bayou Texar. If you're looking for quantity over quality I would suggest the canals in Gulf Breeze or Simpson River near the Escambia River.
For those looking to catch enough fish for a fish fry your best bet is to head for the Pensacola Bay Bridge and have some fun with the white trout. It's simple, when it's cold the white trout bite at the bridge, and when I say bite I mean one after another until you don't want to catch anymore.
There's some good action to be had offshore as well if you're willing to brave the weather. Bottom fishing is excellent in December, but don't forget that both gag grouper and red snapper are now closed and won't be opening until June and July of 2014. Amberjack fishing is superb and they can be found on the Edge or around large wrecks like the Avocet, Antares, and Oriskany. Also on the Edge you will vermillion snapper, scamp, and blackfin tuna.
If you're willing to travel a little further there is no better time than now to fish around the deep-water floating oil rigs like the Beer Can, Petronius, Nautilus, and Ram Powell. As you probably know when we are talking about fishing around oil rigs we are talking about fishing for yellowfin tuna.
We offer both inshore and offshore charters leaving from Pensacola Beach Marina, so give us a call (850) 449-5555 today to get you setup. There is no group too large or too small!
Tight Lines!
Captain Chris Phillips
More Fishing Reports:
