As we head into the new year we have been dealing with a very active El Nino weather pattern . This weather pattern brings unusually wet and cold temperatures to west central Florida, The fishing has still been good, although we have had to change our approach and techniques to cater to certain species of fish that deal with temperature fluctuations differently.
The Deep sea fishing has been focused mainly on Hogfish, Mangrove Snapper, Red Grouper and Lane Snapper. These fish are currently in season and can be kept should our anglers like to keep for dinner. For catch and release fun, we have been catching big Amberjack and Gag Grouper. The majority of our offshore charters have been bottom fishing and experiencing great action which is to be expected before cold fronts as the fish tend to feed better prior to any approaching storm system. We always monitor the weather forecast closely and relay any pertinent information to our charter guests for the planned fishing days and what to expect. By doing so, we have a higher success rate catching fish and a much more enjoyable day on the water.
Moving to out inshore charters, we have been catching jumbo speckled trout the past month. These big trout love the colder water temperatures and we know right where to find them. The redfish have been on the smaller side but in good numbers and still great rod bending action. The Snook have been far up into local creeks and estuaries and are more concerned with finding warmer water temperatures than eating, although a few have been responding to a live shrimp placed close in front of them . As we head into February and March we expect this bite to get much better as the fish start to transition out of the shallow creeks and onto the grass flats looking to feed. Our kids fishing charters have been fun targeting sheepshead, black drum and ladyfish. Action is the key on these trips to keep the young anglers engaged.
As always we welcome any questions regarding the fishing in Clearwater or any general questions for that matter. Hope to see you soon!
Capt. Brandon Fraley
