by Capt Sonny Schindler
For those of you not in the woods hunting, there is still plenty to catch in January. If you get a good weather day, crossing the MS Sound to the LA Marsh is a must. The redfishing thus far has been some of the best we seen in years. Play the tide and get as far back into the shallow ponds as you can(SAFELY). Just make sure you know when low tide is or if the north blows hard. You do not want to be spending the night on a mud flat this time of year.
Look for tailing fish, big wakes or huge explosions on the bank. These tell tale signs will make red fishing deep in the marsh all to easy. We have been using the Strike King Red Fish Magic spinner baits. Shallow diving crank baits or top water baits will work as well.
The deeper pockets of the ditches, drains and canals through out the marsh is where the trout should be holding. Tight lineds soft plastics like the Matrix Vortex Shad on a 3/8 ounce jig head works great. Suspending baits like the mirrorlure Mirrordine will work to.
When the cold days of winter get here and stay here, the sheepshead will start showing up on the reefs and bridges. If you can get your hands on live shrimp, use it! A simple carolina rig with the smallest strongest hook you can find is all it takes. Th e colder it gets, the better the sheepshead fishing. Just watch your weather, pick your days, have fun and be safe.
Capt Sonny Schindler
Shore Thing Charters
228-342-2206
www.shorethingcharters.com