by Ariel Cabrera
Winter fishing in south Florida has been a gradual extension of our fall season thus far. While temperatures will lower, so do the fish, the bottom feeders will be found in slightly deeper water in order to keep warm. Inshore fisherman targeting species like bone fish will have better luck working deep edges and just o ff of the flats they ( fish) are normally found. If no luck with the temperature-sensitive bone fish then I would suggest fishi ng your attention to other fish like Spanish mackerel, snook, snapper, and fishing according to the bait available in the area. There will be an abundance of pink shrimp and pilchards this time of year. Biscayne Bay area also has numerous deep finger channels that are home to snapper, grouper, and varied species of jacks. Best bet would be to bring along a chum bag and have it at the ready. I would stick to that plan daytime and at night, go for tarpon!
In the Flamingo area of the Everglades National Park fishing will be best in the deep creeks and backwaters that are sheltered. It is the traditional time of year to throw plugs and flies at laid up tarpon in Whitewater Bay and beyond. Some of the best places are just o the Wilderness Waterway. Approach quietly and be patient. The tarpon here can be subtle, at times. And on the other hand, can present themselves by rolling and making great disturbance oft en by leaping a fter a mullet. Long rods with baits that can be cast at great distance prove best. Near the same spots but closer to the “wood” you can find the snook, and sometimes, red fish. I fish for the sea trout between the islands o ften. Bring plastic lures and popping corks.
Other alternatives to enjoy our south Florida winter inshore fishery is take out the canoe and find a backwater trail. This is the most enjoyable time of year to do that due to the pleasant climate and the fact that water levels are low. Bring plenty of drinking water and check your maps to see if sections are navigable. I like to fish some of the backwater lakes this time of year for snook and baby tarpon.
I want to personally thank all of you for reading my articles and fishing reports/forecasts. Please visit my websites for more information and updates.
Ariel Cabrera, A.M.S.
(305) 431-6936
www.captainariel.com
www.miamiboatsurvey.com
www. fishingthe flatsinmiami.com