It has to be confusing for the fish. Shorter daylight hours tell them winter is supposed to be in full swing. But when temperatures drop to freezing before heating back into the upper 70s, they probably don’t know how to act or where to go. That predicament makes it difficult for inshore anglers to pattern.
After the chill pre-Thanksgiving, shallow water temperatures had plummeted into the 50s. With more moderate temps, they were back into mid-60s, more normal for the season. The rains have clouded visibility somewhat, but overall the clarity is good. That makes it easier to sight-fish but also makes the fish more wary. Moving water and prime solunar periods when the moon is more directly overhead or below are always the best times to prospect. Yet the adage of the best time to go is whenever you can go still applies.
There are still some pilchards and pinfish on the flats. They will probably be gone with the next hard cold front, however. Mullet are thick everywhere, in all sizes. Mud minnows can also be found most of the time. Live or fresh shrimp are available at the local tackle shops or if sheepshead are the target, fiddler or small crabs can be easily gathered before starting.
As a bait alternative, the Pro-Cure bait gels are made from real baits and add scent to lures. It’s available on-line or at some tackle shops and marine stores. When fish are finicky, adding to small ribbon of the gel to a lure will often trigger a strike and the gel/scent remains for several casts. That was the ideal combo for a 25.5-inch spunky 6-pound red I recently caught after spotting it and making the cast. The depth was about 10 inches and that red didn’t hesitate in running over and inhaling a DOA near clear 1/4-ounce shrimp lure juiced with scent.
With the abundance of mullet around, topwater plugs like the Rapala Skitter Walk or Heddon Super Spook in silver/black will get attention. Soft plastic jerk baits, such as the Trout Support GrassWalkers rigged with a weedless worm hook, are also effective. Trout reports have been positive using suspending plugs in deeper water. Flounder have been scarce lately.
The long-range forecast is calling for more seasonal temperatures and that should prompt the fish into more typical winter patterns. That means it’s better to wait a bit to allow the water to warm slightly. The approaching full moon on 12/8 will usher in good water flow on the highs, but extreme shallows or even negative conditions on the lows. So plan your launch ramp and targeted zones accordingly.
With the holiday season upon us, an evergreen choice for the anglers on your list is a gift membership to Coastal Conservation Association. CCA has a long and successful track record of conservation success stories across America’s shorelines. Adult and junior angler levels are available and include newsletters and a subscription to TIDE magazine. For more information, please visit: www.joincca.org
Copyright 2022, Captain Dave Lear
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