As we head into our winter fishery our plans and tackle should be slightly modified to ensure success on the water. This means we should first take a quick look at tackle to ensure we are able to reach the fish. Fishing shallow water in winter means getting just a little deeper below surface to where the water temperature is right. If you fish shallow water in bays and backcountry this is very simple to correct by adding weight to lures by use of split shot weights, sticky weight, and large or heavier lures. For example, If you like using ¼ ounce skimmer jigs on the flats and are out of reach because they are lying on deep undercuts and are not getting bites here's what to do: add a piece of shrimp (remove head) for increased weight and added scent. If you don't have live shrimp dead baits work well as do Gulp or Fishbites pieces.
Look for moving water in the Biscayne Bay area and backwaters to locate fish. Other key things to look for is bait, birds, and other signs of sealife. Bay bonefish will work with the tides to fish as the water temperature. If noting by your depthfinder that water is below seventies a good idea is to change the fish plan and try for something else like grouper, snapper, snook, and jacks. Tarpon and snook will be more reliable on deep cuts and bridges as they anticipate the shrimp run. Work accordingly and you will find fish. Bring chum and a chum bag.
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