Report for Naples, Marco Island and the Ten Thousand Islands
Capt. Matt Hoover
January 4, 2003
Marco Island - Saltwater Fishing Report
In Between
Back to back cold fronts have been pinning our ears back. Wind and rain have really been the only major concern. Fishing in between fronts have produced some good action on winter species.
Trout, sheepshead and ladyfish have been coming over the side of the boat in double digit numbers. We have been catching sheepshead by the dozens using shrimp. Split shot above the hook with just enough weight to keep it bouncing on the bottom is the method to use. We have been catching a few redfish, snapper, jacks, small grouper, black drum, and an occasional snook with the same method.
Trout fishing has been excellent. Quarter ounce jigs with screw tail bodies have been an excellent choice. Trout are over the grass flats of Cape Romano. The grass patches in front of the islands have been producing as well. We have been catching larger trout in the deeper runs along the islands. Ladyfish and jacks have been filling in the gaps.
Mackerel have been grabbing our lures as well. When it hasn’t been windy, mackerel have been a no brainer near shore. The birds will show you where to look. Any kind of jig will get results.
Winter is in full swing. As most winter seasons go, warm spells will come and go. Most of our efforts will be spent on trout until the water warms up again. There are days that snook can come out of the woodwork so always be prepared. Redfish are always worth the pursuit. They tolerate cooler water temperatures. In the meantime, stay warm I’ll see you on the water.
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