By Capt. Austin Ferguson, Ferg’s Guide Service
As water temperatures drop, December offers some of the best opportunities of the year to catch a trophy fish in the inland waters of Volusia County. The early winter months bring beautiful stretches of weather between passing cold fronts, and those calm, crisp mornings often set the stage for some incredible fishing. Large schools of snook, redfish, and black drum gather along the flats, channels, and deeper holes this time of year, following baitfish as they seek out warmer water. Once located, these fish can provide fast-paced action and unforgettable days on the water, with multiple hookups and steady excitement that makes winter fishing so rewarding.
With the cooling trend, gamefish tend to slow their feeding just a bit, conserving energy between fronts. This is when natural baits really shine. Cut ladyfish or blue crab can be irresistible to those oversized reds that are cruising slowly but still looking for an easy meal. A well-placed cast along an oyster bar or channel edge can produce that signature thump that every angler looks forward to.
For anglers looking to bring home a few fresh fillets, sheepshead and pompano are both plentiful this month and an absolute blast on light tackle. Sheepshead can be found holding tight to bridge and dock pilings, crunching away at barnacles, while pompano roam sandy troughs and drop-offs near the inlets. I like to target them with live sand fleas on a 1/16- to 1/2-ounce jig head, adjusting for current speed and depth to keep the presentation natural.
Whether your goal is to reel a trophy fish in or fill the cooler for a holiday fish fry, we can tailor the trip to your preferences. December truly showcases some of the best inshore action of the year, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy cool mornings, clear water, and memorable days on the water with family and friends.
