February is not only the shortest month, it may also be the most difficult to predict weather-wise. After more than twenty years of writing Florida fishing forecasts, I’ve come to realize that my predictions are usually dependable, depending on the weather following normal patterns.
When fishing Florida’s southern Atlantic Ocean during late winter, water temperatures, which may vary as much as twenty degrees, play a major role in determining the species du jour. At the time of writing (mid-January) this forecast, the ocean temperature in Daytona Beach was 57 degrees and in Jensen Beach it was a whopping 76 degrees! Temperatures vary depending on current, weather and the proximity of the Gulf Stream to the shore.
Seasoned surf anglers tend to prefer cooler water temperatures when targeting pompano, whiting, weakfish, bluefish, sheepshead and black drum along Florida’s east coast. Usually February’s weather fits the bill, but during milder years, spring arrives early, and water temperatures in the seventies prevail.
Surf anglers find this pattern tends to be more productive for snook, red drum, flounder, Spanish mackerel, and a host of other warmer water species. The thing to keep in mind is how fast and far ocean temperatures may vary depending on the location, ocean currents and weather patterns. Just because the ocean’s colder than normal one week doesn’t mean it will stay that way the next week. Always check your NOAA Weather channel for current ocean temperatures.
There are many variables that come into play when looking to improve one’s angling efficiency. Some of the most important factors: recognizing productive waters, understanding tides and seasonal changes, mastering fishing techniques and tactics, and sensible tackle selection. All of these are covered in our upcoming Surf & Shallow Water Fishing workshops scheduled for February at Sebastian Inlet, Satellite Beach, Palm Coast and Fort Pierce.
For more information on Rodney Smith’s books, Catching Made Easy and Enjoying Life on the Indian River Lagoon Coast, his maps, how to book a class or customize a fishing trip please, visit rodneysmithmedia.com.
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