Capt. Pat Murphy
With a great start to a mild winter, we are experiencing a welcomed view of the mosquito lagoon in it’s full beauty. Lower water levels and water temperatures will fluctuate throughout the month depending on rain fall and random cold fronts that will pass through. The opportunity this time of year varies from schools of black drum numbering into the hundreds foraging the flats in search of a morsel, some well over 40 lbs to scattered pods of 4 to 10 lb fish. Tailing redfish continue to be present on most mornings and throughout the day when not pressured. Light tackle 4 inch soft plastics in your favorite style that have a significant contrast are producing the best results, remember presentation is the key! Shrimp and small bait fish patterns have been the most effective for the fly angler targeting both species.
Along with the drum, groups of spotted seatrout some averaging 4-6 lbs will also invade the flats and common ambush points while soaking in the sun over mud. Camouflaged in the dense grass they can often come out of nowhere! A live mullet will surely get you a trophy if you have patience and a properly worked topwater will cover a lot of water, both are effective. 5inch jerk baits rigged weedless in contrasting colors will produce strikes. Remember distance is the key when targeting trophy trout.
While shrimp and crabs are the main staple of the winter diet, remember there are clams and other shell fish these fish are foraging upon and their diet can often change like the wind. Being prepared with a variety of offerings will ensure that you are able to adjust to the opportunity that presents itself. As always feel free to contact me if I can help you have a more productive day on the water or if you just want to hear a fish story, until next month “tight lines”.
Capt. Pat Murphy
321-278-9852
mosquitolagoonguides@gmail.com
www.mosquitolagoonguide.com