What a weird weather pattern we’ve dealt with these past few weeks; one week it’s really cold like we’re in the North pole, and then it’s back to normal with temps in the mid 60’s to lower 70’s.
A lot of people asked, “what’s this done to the fishing?” Here is the answer. The trout bite has been outstanding the past month, and February should be just as good as the water temps are in the 60’s–right where the trout like it. My go-to baits for trout are soft plastics, such as a Matrix Shad on an 1/8-ounce jig head or 1/4-ounce jig head, depending upon how deep the water I’m fishing. I will also have a 17MR MirrOlure tied on, as well as, a Heddon Spook top-water plug. These three lures are my staples when it comes to speckled trout fishing. I’ve been using them for years, and they have never failed me yet.
Now, let’s talk redfish. Big schools of reds have moved into Tampa Bay. I can’t say where, but I can say that they are chewing on a variety of baits from cut white bait to cut mullet. If you want to toss artificials, tie on a Heddon Spook or a gold spoon and hang on!
Look for pushes in the water and lots of mullet, and you’ll find the reds in depths of 2 to 5 feet of water. Moving on to sheepshead, the bite has been outstanding on many of the bridge pilings, rock piles and docks in Tampa Bay. Live shrimp and fiddler crabs are the baits of choice.
Remember to have a light leader and a small #1 or #2 J Hook tied on. I like Gamakatsu, but you can use what you like or you can use a 1/8 or 1/4-ounce jig head, depending upon what the current / tide is doing. Snook fishing has been slower, and it will be until Spring, especially with the major cold fronts we had in January which put the snook in Winter mode–very lethargic and not feeding much. Once the water warms back up, the snook should be back to their usual feeding patterns. Until then, I suggest letting them adjust to the weather change and go after some other species. As you can see, the fishing has been very good the past four weeks and February should be very good, as we get closer to Spring.
Capt. John Rivers operates Rivers to Bay Fishing Charters out of Tampa Bay and Tarpon Springs. With 18 years guiding experience and over 40 years of fishing knowledge, he can assure you a professional / fun fishing adventure. Single or multi boat trips available. www.tampabayinshoreguides.com
captjohnrivers@gmail.com
727-313-1781