Now that another year has come and gone, it is time to set goals for 2019. January can be a great time to get out on the water and start making good on your resolutions. Winter fishing usually revolves around fronts, so timing is everything. Although kite fishing for sailfish will get a lot of the attention, there are many other possibilities out on the water. Mahi, kingfish, cobia and even some wahoo are strong possibilities offshore. Most of these fish will fall prey to live or trolled baits. Closer to shore, spanish mackerel action will remain strong along the beach, channel markers and inlets. Finally, expect tarpon fishing to be good to excellent. Let’s take a closer look at some of these opportunities.
Packs of hungry sailfish will be swimming south with each passing cold front. The best action will usually occur after the passing of a front creating brisk winds from the north or northeast. As previously stated, sails are suckers for a frisky live bait dangled from a kite. The best baits include goggle eyes, threadfin herring, blue runners, spanish sardines and big pilchards, just to name a few. Using a kite allows the angler to keep most of the terminal tackle out of the water with only a couple feet of line under the surface. It is this presentation that makes hooking multiple fish at one time possible. Remember, you only want to fish as many lines as you can effectively manage.
Just like sailfish, other species like mahi and kings will find this presentation irresistible. If kite fishing isn’t for you, flatlines will often get the job done. Another productive technique is to use a small party balloon to keep your bait near the surface. Flat line baits can also be weighted a bit when targeting kings or wahoo. Both species tend to feed a little deeper in the water column. The most important thing to remember is that nothing is written in stone and the only way to locate fish is to fish various depths from top to bottom. Also, it is important to use a trace of wire between the mono leader and your hook. Doing so will prevent cutoffs from toothy critters.
Closer to shore, look for spanish mackerel to hang around inlets, channel markers, and beaches. Mackerel can provide great light tackle action for both novice and seasoned anglers. Live chumming can also fire them up to the point where they’ll pounce on artificials as well as flies. Known for their aggressive feeding style and long runs, these fish will test any anglers technique and are also a great way to introduce saltwater fishing to newbies.
Finally, we can’t forget the silver king. Tarpon are one of the most sought after gamefish anywhere in the world. Anglers are often humbled by these powerful and acrobatic giants of the ocean. Few fish can compare to the sheer stamina exhibited by these prehistoric giants. During the winter months, tarpon can be found around bridges, inlets and beaches. Tarpon will congregate in moving water to feed on shrimp and crabs. If you are lucky enough to be out on a night when the shrimp are running, you may be in for the night of your life. During these periods, these fish will literally gorge themselves on shrimp creating non stop hookups.
As you can see, January is full of possibilities. It is up to you to pick your quarry depending on personal preference and schedule. Not only will the fishing be excellent, but you won’t be sweating bullets. Just remember to bundle up on those cold mornings and evenings. If you’re interested in getting in on the action just give us a call and we can make it happen.
I’d like to take a moment to wish everyone, especially our military and first responders, a great New Year. Also, don’t forget to keep up with the latest reports, pictures and news by following me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YOUTUBE.
Tight Lines and Happy New Year,
CAPT. ORLANDO MUNIZ
Nomad Fishing Charters
786-266-0171
www.fishingchartermiami.com
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