The north Indian River Lagoon’s fishing has been both extremely hot and boringly cold through the early part of January. Strange localized weather patterns have seemingly confused the fish in an unpredictable manor on a few recent charters. One day in particular yielded lots-o-trout and several huge black drum on a morning trip; later we experienced only puffer activity. While this is part of fishing’s mystique it always perplexes me and leaves me scratching my head in wonder. It also serves as a reminder that no matter how much One thinks they know none of us understands everything in our fishing world!
I fully expect our fishing to be good in February at least during the nice weather times. Tailing redfish and black drum will be my typical targets until the black drum leave. It is hard to beat a live shrimp right now for the tailing fish. Of course, an Exude Shrimp in Natural Shrimp or Golden Bream colors work very well as does the Exude Cajun Crab. The Cajun Crab is one of those lures that is both completely underused and misunderstood. The Cajun Crab is without a doubt MY favorite lure for tailing redfish, black drum and yes, even gator trout when they lay-up in sand pockets!
Spotted seatrout are spread all over the lagoon system, but will concentrate along drop-off areas and channel edges when the temperatures drop. Pay attention to these areas after a cold front passes and pay CLOSE attention to this pattern if we experience two or three cold fronts in rapid succession. Soft plastic shrimp, shad and grub bodies rigged on a light jighead will be very effective. Crank-baits will work wonders here, but make sure they don’t drag the bottom to the point of fouling the hooks with grass.
Tip for fishing the drop-off areas: Use a popping or rattle float with a jighead. You can place a live shrimp or the plastic body shape of your choice on the jig and keep your offering suspended in the strike zone. Start with a fairly long leader of three feet and shorten it if your jig is catching the grass on the bottom.
Forecast By Capt. Mark Wright, guide along the north Indian River & Mosquito Lagoon area. Reach him at 321-302-3474 or 321-264-3474 or www.captmarkwright.com