SOUTH COUNTY INSHORE & FRESHWATER: Feb. 2020

Captain Quinton Hall with a beautiful Lake Worth tarpon.
Gene Holland with a beast of a jack.

By Capt. Patrick Smith Contributing Writer

Most of my focus is on the inshore saltwater this time of the year due to water temperatures. I like to look for deep moving water and fish jigs for an assortment of species. For smaller stuff like the croakers, sheepshead drum and small snook a Goofy Jig with a quill or a 1/4 ounce Bucktail tipped with shrimp should get you a bite. Spoons are another great option for jacks, mackerel and bluefish. If you’re interested in bigger fish, a chunk of meat on the bottom is a great way to go. A half a mullet could get you a big snook, tarpon or shark after you weed through the catfish. Patience is the key with that method.

Thorn with a giant jack.

As far as freshwater fishing, it changes day today but one thing that will remain consistent through the winter is the sunshine bass fishing. Live shiners or shad will work if you like to bake fish or small shiny jerk baits and crank baits if you’re into the artificial bait. On sunny days there are still plenty of peacocks and large mouths to be caught. And if you like to eat fish, the crappie are chewing every culvert pipe. Docks and deep brush pile should be loaded.

Lake Ida sunshine bass are starting to grow.
Rachel from Colorado with a Lake Worth Lagoon permit.

Capt. Patrick Smith

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