[dropcap]F[/dropcap]ort Bayou Charters is definitely ready for some âMarch Madness.â The weather for 2014 has not been nice to the fish gods so far. I am optimistic for the month of March that it will reveal the schools of fish that went south for the freeze! March is without a doubt the best month for catching âBay Snapperâ, aka sheepshead. Not only will the numbers be there but the weight can test the strength of any equipment on the market. Bay snapper can be found along the MS Gulf Coast on any structure bearing barnacles. A simple Carolina rig consisting of 3/4 ounce weight above the barrel swivel attached to two feet of 20 pound fluorocarbon line terminated with a laser sharp 2/0 Kahle hook will work in most areas. I use 2 different bait choices for sheepshead. A small live shrimp or oyster wrapped in cheesecloth. Both will put these tasty fish on ice!
If youâre looking for redfish, March can be a good month in the Marsh. Lower Pascagoula to the Pearl River with every bay and bayou in-between will see slot reds along the main channels on the cooler days, moving to shallow ponds and bays as the sun heats the water temps up. When the tide isnât moving as well try a subtle matrix shad. During good tide movement I like covering water, throwing some jughead and matrix shad on a Hildebrandt Spinner. As always I have an Oddball Tackle cork ready to go with fresh market shrimp to temp the pickiest redfish into biting.
Always share the outdoors with children and teach them about conversation of our natural resources.
Ft Bayou Charters is now offering fishing / hotel packages starting at $450. Call for details.