Fishing as we head into winter should see varying opportunities. As water temperatures continue to plummet so will the fish. Most bottom dwellers will head to deeper water for warm water refuge however; pelagics like cobia and tripletail will be cruising near the surface and subsurface. This also includes the mackerel group, which are an awesome for fast action and good table fare. Bay and backcountry fishermen should target drum, grouper, sheepshead, and trout. I would bring shrimp and a chumblock if mackerel fishing.

The strategy would involve cruising around looking for birds, debris, and good water before you set drift or anchor. Cast some mylar or bucktail jigs and see what's out there. If you get a good feeling continue drifting and set anchor once you hit a certain spot. Whether you are in Biscayne Bay, Atlantic, or Gulf this technique should work. Other options include fishing over known submerged wrecks, deep holes, passes, cuts, and river bends.

Don't forget to bring the cast net or at least, a set of some sabiki rigs for catching live bait. There has been plenty around and it only takes a few minutes. You can even fish while chumming and gathering live bait. Bear Cut in the bay is a good spot to start looking. In Florida Bay Conchie Channel is tough to beat. And navigational markers, grass beds are also worth stopping for bait.

Winter fishing does not rule out the bonefishing but rather sends them to slightly deeper water, at approximately 3-6 feet. Look on Oceanside flats and for mudding fish. If bonefishing is unsuccessful I'm sure the are plenty of big barracuda and good snapper and grouper fishing to resort to in the finger channels.

Fish Species: snook, redfish
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About The Author: Captain Ariel Cabrera

Company: Captain Ariel Fishing Guide

Area Reporting: Flamingo, Everglades National Park, South Florida

Bio: Veteran fishing guide and boating author offering light tackle charters and instruction. If you're looking for an Everglades charter boat fishing specialist or an experienced and qualified Everglades wildlife guide, you've come to the right place. Captain Ariel Cabrera has dedicated over two decades to constantly exploring the vast expanses and innermost reaches of the Everglades via skiff and canoe. He gained his initial experience as a mate on sport fishing yachts. He later earned a P.A.D.I. Divers certificate, which led to years of underwater exploration in the South Florida area and the Florida Keys.

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