By Joe Sheaffer
The colder months in SWFL can be very challenging for inshore fishermen. The water tends to be shallower, colder and very clear. Our species have settled into their winter routines and we need to adjust to them. With the cooler temps the fish are not as active and their feeding habits can be different from the warmer months. Picking up on the changes and adjusting our thought process can be the difference in a successful day on the water. I really try to focus on areas that warm up quickly and provide easy ambush opportunities for these predators. As the sun rises higher in the sky the fish will venture shallower to warm up. They will set up on or around structures that conceal them. Remember they are not going to be quite as aggressive and will want to hang around or wait to ambush forage that comes to them. Identifying potential ambush areas can prove to be very productive. These are some of the areas I focus on during the winter season. Bridges usually provide deeper water, current and hardcover. Predator fish like Snook like this type of structure. Docks, especially those that have deeper water adjacent or near them. Once again, this type of structure provides current breaks, containing debris that allow predators to ambush their prey. Sunken debris from old boats, concrete around marinas, sea walls and man-made reefs can be very attractive to many species. Potholes along deep sections of grass flats hold many fish during this time of year. Deeper sections or undercuts along the Mangroves are proven areas for ambushing predators. Another key for success, making multiple casts and slowing your presentation can be the difference. You may not get as many bites but you may get the right bite. Keep casting and good luck.