Clear, cool and low is how we can usually describe the water conditions in the Mosquito Lagoon in February. If early January is any indicator of what is to come for the rest of winter’s stay the above description is spot on.
Of course “cool” water temps will often flip-flop with downright “cold” water temps. As cold fronts pass through our area it may become imperative to time our trips during the warming trends between fronts. Paying special attention to the day or hours before the next front arrives can pay off big time!
Sight-fishing conditions are near perfect as the water is quite clear and visibility is quite good once the sun climbs high enough to help. Realize, however the winter sun angle is not nearly as helpful as summer’s. Intense sunlight is usually realized for only a short while around mid-day.
Along with my winter “must haves” (live shrimp & cut mullet) I’ll be throwing Exude Darts, Cajun Crabs and Shrimp frequently for the winter season. Other favorites include the newest soft plastic swim bait from Banks Lures; the Flats Creeper and my favorite spoons from Aqua Dream. These lures have a common feature; they’re all SMALL!
The black drum are here and I love to target them. We’ve caught blacks on every type of lure mentioned above. While my preferred lure of choice is the Cajun Crab fished on ultra-light gear I will be first to admit a live (or dead) shrimp will consistently outperform everything else mentioned here.
Black and red drum often group together and do not be surprised to see a monster trout or two in the mix. Predators often flock to areas where water temps are the most ideal especially when it’s cold. A degree or two rise in temperature can make a big difference to the fish on many levels.
IMGP3672: Ed with a fine sight fished black drum caught using an Exude Cajun Crab.
IMGP3666: Ed finishes out a slam after landing this multi-spotted redfish on a recent trip with Capt. Mark Wright. The redfish ate (as did several trout) an Exude Cigar Minnow!
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