January's sailfish bite was all one could ask for. Tournament boats and recreational anglers alike had a phenominal opportunity to set personal bests this winter in waters off the Treasure Coast. Decembers dolphin bite was great and when it tapered off with colder water moving in the blackfin tuna took up where the mahi left off!
There was, however, a catch/drawback in the scenario, particularly in January when strong wind, extreme cold & high seas combined to make 85% of the month a challenge for even the larger sportfishing boats.
This being said, the bite was totally off the wall, particularly on the roughest days and there were plenty of boats & anglers willing to brave marginal sea conditions in order to take advantage of the sailfish frenzy.
We were fortunate enough to have a tough crowd of both seasond anglers and ambitious rookies charter the Last Mango in December and January, making for some exciting action throughout these months. "Thanks for toughing it out guys & gals" !
With the sail bite showing evidence of slowing down toward the end of Jan & sea conditions continuing to be a bit horrendous, we have not had as many opportunities to monitor the sail bite of late but did locate them recently both southeast of Ft Pierce Inlet in 140 feet and then again up to the north about due east of the inlet in 135'. Both days the seas were 6' or better and our anglers did well to maintain there footing while fighting sails, tuna & some amberjacks. (The Mango is a steady fishing platform surpassing many larger boats with her stability in rough seas).
There will still be some sail action throughout the spring and summer and this has been a unique blend of wind and cold. Water temperature could keep 'more' fish here 'longer'. All we have to do is get out there and see!
A good cobia bite north of Sebastian Inlet and signs of cobes on the beach in Ft Pierce and Jensen all point to the beginning of our local cobia bite this year. Lets hope that it resembles last years bonanza.
We have a lot to look forward to in the coming months. With a good king bite adding to the seasonal cobia run and voracious amberjacks on our local wrecks waiting for your favorite vertical jig or live bait to come ther way, the fishing should be grand.
Come on out and join the fray.
Cheers Mateys,
Capt T
