Back to back cold fronts brought us the coolest conditions we have seen in 4 years. Although I am far from a fan of these cooler temperatures briefly dropping water temperatures will do wonders to put the fish in there usual winter places. With a warming trend in the following days things should quickly level out.

Shrimp have become the bait of choice for the past few weeks for all our targeted species. Even during the coldest periods of winter a chunk of shrimp will catch fish when nothing else will. In these cold conditions think “low and slow” meaning soaking a chunk or slow moving a live shrimp across the bottom. In cold water most fish simply are not as aggressive and don’t want to chase a fast moving or large bait.

Deeper water channels, holes and pockets will be holding lots of the fish during colder water periods. Sheltered mangrove creeks will offer a wide variety of species and can be much warmer than the open exposed bay. Pinch points and bends in these creeks with faster moving water often mean non stop action. Some of the narrowest creeks in the way back mangrove estuaries are amazing winter hot spots. During the lower tides the fish get more condensed the in these places and have to move out from the mangroves to the channels. Exploring the many mangrove creeks the sound has to offer with a little help from Google earth is a good way to find these special places.

During these colder days don’t worry so much about getting out on the water early, going during the warmest part of the day is a better idea. Often fish will be more active and feed better during the middle of the afternoon as water temperatures peak. High sun also warms the shallow water and can mean redfish, snook and trout can be found in super shallow water sunning. Area’s with dark mud bottom will work like a solar panel and are the set up to find large groups of laid up snook trying to get warm.

Although I complain about the cold we are very lucky to be able to fish basically all year long. Having the right gear to be on the water during these cold periods makes a huge difference. It’s always a smart choice to wear lots of layers as running across a open bay and then stopping to fish in a sheltered sunny mangrove creek can mean a temperature swing of over 20 degrees. Gloves and wind proof gear make all the difference in the world. No matter where your from 60 degree days on the water are cold dress appropriately to enjoy your fishing trip.

Capt Matt Mitchell moved to Sanibel in 1980 and has lived in St James city since 2000 when he started his fishing charter business. He spends over 300 days a year “living the dream” fishing. For questions and info: bookings@captmattmitchell.com