It’s been a relatively cold winter so far here in Clearwater Beach. Water temperatures have dipped into the high 50’s, which is cold for this area. The deep sea fishing actually gets better with the colder water as many of our target species move closer towards shore. These include Hogfish, Gag Grouper, Red Grouper, Mangrove Snapper, Porgy, Triggerfish and Sea bass just to name a few. Our techniques change some compared to summer fishing, but still mostly working rocks and ledges with medium tackle. A good mix of dead and live bait is they key to success and several of our charters this past week enjoyed calm seas and big grouper. On the full day charters we’ve been putting plenty of gag grouper, hogfish and other snappers in the boat. The 3/4 and half day charters we are focusing on Hogfish and gag grouper.
Mike with a big gulf Gag Grouper!
A couple nice back to back Gag Grouper
