It’s “hunting” time on the flats and inshore waters of the Florida Panhandle. Recent changes in weather have the fish in transition, so it will take searching and stalking to learn the new patterns. And when they are located, the feeding windows will tend to be of shorter duration due to slower metabolism and chilly water.
With this week’s cold snap, coastal water temperatures plunged dramatically. Some places were down into the low 50s and only warmed to the upper 50s as the day progressed. More moderate temperatures since will ease the chill somewhat, but several inches of expected rain may offset any warming trend as well as hamper visibility, which was exceptionally clear beforehand, especially in the bay shallows.
Redfish are much more tolerant of extremes, so look for them to be foraging around structure once conditions stabilize. Bull minnows, pinfish and finger mullet are the top live bait choices right now. Shrimp free-lined or pinned on a jig head will also work. For artificials, DOA shrimp, 1/4-ounce Aqua Dream spoons and crustacean patterns for flies are effective. With any lures for the next few months slow down the retrieves.
Trout are moving into warmer havens in the deeper spots within coastal rivers and creeks. Shrimp lures, grubs and suspending hard baits, again worked slowly, will fool the specks. The feeding periods are usually short, but furious when underway.
Striped bass are more active now that the water has cooled. Larger swim baits and plugs will trick the stripers. Focus on docks and bridge pilings for the best chances of success. Black drum are also more prevalent and sheepshead are staging around structure also. Live fiddler crabs or shrimp will entice the convict fish. A garden hoe or shovel can be used to scrape barnacles off the pilings as chum to turn them on.
The next couple of months can be challenging for light-tackle enthusiasts. But persistence and timing can produce excellent results. This is also a prime time to do some scouting on the winter low tides or work on tackle and boat maintenance projects when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Quality tackle is always a great idea for the angler on your holiday shopping list. But gift memberships to these two non-profit conservation groups are equally memorable.
Coastal Conservation Association Florida: ccaflorida.org
International Game Fish Association: igfa.org
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