The First Really Cold Blast!
Capt. TJ Stewart
December 31, 2009
Tampa Bay - Saltwater Fishing Report
Winter has arrived! The weather and water temperature have both cooled down considerably causing some changes in how we are fishing. The water temperature has dropped below 60 degrees, so no more fishing with live bait. Instead, we are fishing with jigs and shrimp. Chasing a shiner can be great work for a cold fish. I do understand that a cold fish doesn't want to chase a shiner, but what I don't understand is why a fish will chase a lure. Maybe some of the jigs make the fish mad so they bite them.
A couple of things that will increase your bites this time of the year are using lighter leader and smaller hooks. The water gets really clear this time of year so the fish's visibility is increased greatly. Another good tip to remember this time of year is to match the hatch. There are many more small shrimp than large shrimp in the bay. Keep that in mind when you pick out your bait. You can catch just as many fish with the little shrimp as you can with the big ones. The fish actually seem to have an easier time eating the smaller bait.
We have been catching a mixed bag of fish…redfish, sheepshead, drum, grouper, jacks, snapper, and flounder to name a few. We've been fishing around structure so you never know what you're going to catch. Fishing will remain the same until it warms back up again, and in Florida, that might be tomorrow. Please visit www.castawaychartersinc.com and book your trip today!
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