We have been hit pretty hard this winter with cold temperatures. Hopefully, they are behind us now and will let some of our more tropical species such as snook, jack , and even some grouper, rebound a bit. The prolonged freezing temperatures impacted the snook so much that state officials have closed the season on them until September 1st. Even though there were a few dead tarpon around I think the majority of them had already migrated south before the temps really dropped.
I expect the sheepshead and snapper fishing will take up the rest of winter with a little redfishing mixed in as well. Trout should cooperate on the deep grass flats as the water warms each afternoon.
This is the time of year when everyone looks forward to warmer weather. Changes to come will include bait schools migrating up with mackerel close behind. Behind the mackerel it seems everything else follows. Pretty soon it will be time for permit, cobia, and tarpon. I personally can’t wait!
Capt. Russ Schnering
(941)713-8179
