Hello Everyone. This January was the coldest I can ever remember. We had ten straight days where the high's never reached 55 degrees. I had ice in my backyard three day's in a row. Not bad weather for North Dakota, but not Clearwater Florida. Water temperatures in the low 50's killed and stressed many species including Mullet, Snook, Catfish, Jack Cravelle and Ladyfish. Luckily, the unusual cold water did not affect my two favorite winter species (Redfish and Spotted Sea Trout). On a recent fishing trip with Dr. Mark Wilkes and son - the trout fishing was great. The largest fish caught that day was 26 inches with several fish over 20 inches. The best catch was north of Clearwater near a small oyster bar, in two feet of water, using live shrimp for bait. In slightly deeper water, drifting the grass flats, we used 1/8 oz. jig heads with Mister Twister Darts with great success. Sheephead are also biting well near the oyster bars and residential docks. Chumming the area with diced shrimp, then hiding your small hook in a piece of fresh shrimp will catch the bait stealers. Come fish with me this spring for great Redfish action in Clearwater and Tampa Bay.
Capt. Paul Hajash (727) 251-2623
www.tampa-florida-fishing.com
www.flyfishingflorida.com
