Sun Works Like Magic On Lethargic Fish

Fishing Report February 2009:

The cooler waters have not been all doom and gloom for those anglers preferring Inshore waters. We have had continued success in Tampa Bay during our version of winter by switching up tactics. Anglers aboard the Ms. Guided have been more than accommodating to leave the docks a little later in the day to avoid the morning cold. The bite this time of year tends to be better later in the day as the sun has a chance to work its magic.

In areas where we were catching Trout in 2' to 3' of warmer water, we now find them a bit deeper. We have also been targeting the residential canals adjacent to flats were fish are normally caught with consistent results. Whether residential canal or deeper flat, live bait or artificial, a slower presentation is key into trigger lethargic fish into striking.

For Offshore anglers, water temperatures dipped into the 50s the first half of February which put the lockjaw on some of the more popular sportsfish we target along the Sun Coast. In addition, Gag Grouper season closed on the 1st of February in All waters and Red / Black Grouper season closed on the 15th of February in Federal waters putting a damper on anglers interested in filling coolers.

We have been successful in targeting Mangrove Snapper, Black Sea Bass, and Key West Pork Chops (Grunts) in 30' to 50' of water, and Amber Jacks further out for those looking for dinner. If you are clinically insane like I and enjoy diving in the winter months, there are still plenty of Hogfish to be speared.

For more information or to book your next saltwater adventure in the Tampa area, contact Capt Jay at 1-877-463-4520 or email reservations@cjflats.com.


Capt Jay Schroeder
CJ Flats Saltwater Charters
www.cjflats.com
1-877-463-5420