Hello, again from the Mississippi gulf coast. This has been a very interesting “winter” it never really dropped down in temperature so we were lucky enough to be on fish most of the “offseason”. The amberjack are still being caught at the deep rigs, they are great in number and the sizes are in the 40-70 class at almost every drop. The monster snapper are everywhere which makes for some really great photo ops, just make sure that you vent these amazing creatures so you will have the opportunity to catch them during the proper season.
The blue water has been seen at the 50 mile mark and has seemed to be producing some fine wahoo catches with the occasional yellow fin in the mix. Our most success for these fish have been pulling MANN’S stretch 30’s on OKUMA 50 wides with 30lb PROLINE braid with 200 ft 0f 50lb mono backed, yes it is a little light that’s why we put it on 50s for the extra line capacity. It makes a better battle to get the fish to the boat.
At the barrier islands the goliath drum are back and cruising the flats along with the bull reds and the Sheepshead. Some of these are able to be sight casted at where others can be found at the reefs around the islands. We rig our gear in the Carolina fashion for live baiting, and direct tie with artificial (soft plastics). We try to fish these up current with a slow roll to keep in front of the schools; if you can drag a chum bag with you it will increase your odds tremendously.
Remember one thing that if you venture out there this time of year rain gear is your friend, because nothing cuts the cold wind and the salt mist like heavy rain gear. Make sure you leave your destination plans with someone at home just in case, because this time of year the winds swing very bad and well, everyone needs to come home.
Thanks for all the support, and remember keep your lines wet and your eyes on the horizon.
