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Flamingo - Everglades National Park
Capt. Ariel Cabrera
December 4, 2001
Flamingo - Saltwater Fishing Report
Cool weather made way for some enjoyable sightseeing and even better fishing. We caught and released over a dozen seatrout, two redfish, and released a snook during an early morning half-day charter. These fish were caught in Florida Bay in less than two feet of water. Other species released were hefty ladyfish and jack crevalle. Root beer-colored shrimp tails on 8 pound spinning gear was what was thrown the majority of the time.
This is a great time of the year to take a youngster or anyone new to fishing to the Flamingo area since the climate is excellent and the wildlife is abundant. Get them started early before the winds pick up. Many migratory birds are already here and their pleasant music and vibrant colors just adds excitement to the fishing.
Along with great winter fishing action comes dangerous tides and cold fronts, which mean shifting wind direction. Savvy boaters will use extreme caution when navigating near any coastline or flats and will watch the tide carefully. This is the time when extreme low tides occur and strong winds blow out bays leaving them dry. There isn’t much one can do when glued to a mud flat except wait.
I almost didn’t make it home for Thanksgiving years ago when chasing “backing” redfish in Lake Ingraham. A quick outgoing tide and unseen mud bank caught me by surprise. Determination was my salvation. Fortunately, my friends were able to free their skiff first and were waiting for me in a deep spot less than fifty yards away. It was these experiences during my teenage years that have now taught me how to approach and handle shallow water. Taking risks opened doors to new fishing spots and broadened my perspective. In the end, it was embarrassing looking like a tired mud wrestler but I was grateful for Thanksgiving dinner.
Snook, tarpon and redfish like to use strong falling tides to feed at creek mouths and channels. This is exactly how we caught the snook 25” that was immediately released. I favor slow sinking, clear fly lines such as a monocore in clear water. If water depth is more than five feet then switch to a faster sinking line. Otherwise, use a floating line when fishing flats, stumps, etc. Snook lie on the bottom and use their lateral lines to feel prey. Use winter tides and winds to your advantage and you’ll catch fish!
Tight lines,
Capt. Ariel
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