It's the time of year where we'll start concentrating on fishing tidal rivers and creeks for snook. The lower Myakka can be hot from November to February. In addition to snook, we catch bass, gar, mudfish and sometimes a tarpon or two.
When the weather gets cold, we don't put the kayaks away until spring. Just dress in layers as you would on any day on the water. I suggest a t-shirt, fishing shirt, sweatshirt and jacket. Long fishing pants and wading boots are suggested. As you warm up, you can chuck the jacket, then the sweatshirt.
If wading is in the plans, a good pair of waders comes in handy. The water can be wet-waded at present, but it won't be long until it's simply too cold.
When we get northeast winds, we like to head for Placida and fish the sand holes for spotted seatrout, snook and redfish. It's also a good time to find tailing reds in the shallows.
There are days when a catch of 50 or more fish is possible. We've taken up to 150 on some outings during low tide.
We launch at Placida. The paddle to Whidden Creek takes about an hour. In kayaks, we can fish the holes much sooner than those in flats boats.
If you've never fished out of a kayak, you should give it a try. Our fleet consists of Heritage Redfish 14-foot kayaks. They're "sit-on-top" kayaks and very stable, offering a steady platform from which to fish. The kayaks are extremely comfortable and easy to paddle. We do like to find a spot to get out and stretch our legs every 3-4 hours.
All of the kayaks come with three rod holders. The tank well in stern can be used to carry a cooler, tackle, etc.
I supply life vests, whistle, paddles, paddle leashes, food and drink. You can either ride with me to the fishing spot or meet me at a prearranged location.