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10 January 2019 Sheepshead is where it's at.
Capt. Jim Conant
January 10, 2019
Matlacha - Saltwater Fishing Report
10 January 2019
Sheepshead is where it's at.
December and January seems to be all about the sheepshead and rat reds with some snapper and small trout to even it out. I've been looking for the nice reds in Matlacha and all I've been on are rat reds 15-22 inches. It is nice to see a lot of small ones after the horrific summer slaughter of red tide. There was a week of some bulls reported but I was unable to get to the area due to weather to verify if it was a rumor or true. The negative tides have kept me from getting into the back country since the timing of my trips are at the beginning of the incoming tides and are already negative. Snook is the same, bunch of small guys around being caught in the afternoon or when the temperature isn't freezing outside.
If you catch some lady fish use them for bait for reds and snook and occasional bull shark.
Sheepshead: find an oyster bar with current and as clear as the water has been lately it should be easy to spot them on it. Dock pilings and submerged debris in the water is something to always check out for sheep and snapper. I use 1/0 owner all-purpose hooks with a small weight 10' above the hook with a piece of shrimp and let it sit. Also I have no extra jewelry on my line like swivels. I connect braid to fluorocarbon using a surgeons knot and then I Snell the hook. Fishing this way opens up to catching snapper and trout as well. You can also use small weighted hooks or jig heads with pieces of shrimp slowly jigging the bottom. A lot of people do this, it's just not my style. My theory is a piece of shrimp floating in the current looks better than a piece stuck on the ground. But again, both methods work.
That's it for this report. Most of my clients lately have been wanting dinner so sheepshead is where the meat is coming from lately. I can't talk everyone into catch and release lately. Can't wait for bigger snapper and trout to move back in.
Check out and like my Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jimbocharters/ and Instagram #jimboscharters page for recent pictures and trips. If you're ready to go fishing give me a call to plan your trip so we can try and catch the tides right. If you're a Disabled/ Retired Veteran or first responder I have discounts for you. I'm also on Facebook at Jimbo's Charters where I post pictures if my clients let me and my website www.Jimboscharters.com
Also, if you see me out there say Hi. I am a friendly guy that likes to help. Just don't ask for a pin point location, but I will tell you what I am catching fish on.
Captain Jim
239-671-4692
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