Plenty of fishing despite falling temperatures
With yet another blast of cold air up them, Anna Maria fishers brace themselves for more wind and falling water temperatures.
But, don’t be discouraged, there is still plenty of fishing action to partake in as long as you are able to target the right species.
You may have to give the snook fishing a break for a few days until water temperatures get back to normal. Sheepshead, black drum and redfish are a great alternative. Using live shrimp or crabs for any of these species is a great way to get started. Net, you’ll have to find the bite. For the sheepies, any docks, piers or bridges will suffice. If you’re in the boat, fishing wrecks and artificial reefs is another option. For the redfish and black drum, try fishing docks around the passes or residential docks in canals and in the Intracoastal Waterway.
On calmer, less windy days, venturing into the Gulf of Mexico is worthwhile. Fishing ledges is yielding a variety of species including mangrove snapper, porgies, Key West grunts and hogfish. You may also encounter kingfish and Spanish mackerel while using live shiners as bait.
On my Just Reel fishing charters, I am still cashing in on the sheepshead bite. Not only do these fish put up a fight to the bitter end, but they are great table fare, too. Most of the sheepies I’m catching are over wrecks, reefs and rock piles although docks are producing, too. While targeting sheepies, I’m also seeing redfish, black drum and flounder on the hook.
