by Matt Fueyo
Where did the water go?? We are getting into our winter season and the water is leaving the bay here in Sarasota. Water and air temperatures continue to drop and for some species this means a whole new dinner menu is being served. Shrimp and crabs will be making up the diet of most inshore species. Look for redfish, snook, sheepshead, and trout around sandy pot holes and on the grass flats. Our captains like to add a small floating “popping cork” to our set up, and cast past the pot hole. The slowly retrieving the bait over the hole and see what happens….fish on!! This technique is easy for beginner level fishermen, and once mastered you’ll see your catch ratio go up. Another trick to keeping your shrimp from jumping out of the water is to add a small split shot to the bottom of your leader next to your hook. This will prevent the shrimp from swimming up to the surface while being chased by the large game fish below. We use this popping cork technique all winter long. It can also be done using live greenbacks on the flat, which will also yield great success.
Another fun nighttime activity with friends is to get your head lamps on and grab some long handled dip nets. Wading or drifting the shallow flats around the bridges and around the bay will produce a good amount of shrimp and crabs. When the tides are flowing strong, you’ll be able to sit under the bridges and scoop them up as they float by. Use your head lamps or a (Q-beam) to lite up these crustaceans eyes. Once you see them, you scoop ‘em! Always follow FWC rules and regulations. To learn more check out www.myfwc.com
