The winter weather for the past couple of weeks has finally taken its toll on the water temperatures, which are now reading in the mid-to-upper 40s. That, in essence, pretty much shuts any type of inshore fishing down, however with the forecast calling for warming temps and sunny skies, this weekend might just be a great time to head out and try your luck, especially if you’ve got a case of cabin fever. While the water temperatures might not rebound overnight, the sunny skies will definitely improve your chances of getting a fish to bite. The other good news is that this weather appears to extend beyond the weekend and while we don’t know what next week has in store for us, there’s only about one week left of the month and then things will start to get interesting once we’re into March.
If fishing this weekend is on your to-do list, it will be limited to inshore or fishing from the shore or pier, as the offshore weather forecast, while improving, doesn’t look all that fishable anytime soon. With that said, even though we’re right smack in the middle of winter, there’s two species that are almost always available no matter what the conditions are: red drum and speckled trout, both of which tolerate the colder water better than most. While they may be a little difficult to catch they will eventually bite. If you’re having a hard time deciding on what areas to target or what baits to use, then visit one of your local tackle shops and ask around. The shops will normally have some fishermen hanging around who haven’t quite mustered up enough energy to head out and fish, not to mention the guys and gals working these shops hear all the info from those that are still fishing. If you don’t ask around you’ll never know if you’re just missing out on some good information or tips that might just make you a better angler.
One key tactic when fishing the cold waters this time of year is to use a bait that is scented. There are plenty of scented baits on the market and some work better than others. Adding some additional scent from the bottled ones available at your local tackle shops will only improve your chances of having a fish take interest in your offering. The type of scent doesn’t really appear to matter but I wouldn’t put a fish scent on a shrimp bait nor would I put a shrimp scent on a minnow bait. Of course if there were only one scent available, I’d use it regardless.
Another very important element to fishing this time of year is bait presentation. Slow and methodical will result in more strikes than a faster retrieve. Fishing during the warmer parts of the day will also increase your chances for success. Mud banks and shallower water will hold more heat during the day so there are some good areas to target as well.
Even if you don’t manage to bring home dinner after a day out on the water, just remember how lucky and blessed we are to have the opportunity to fish and maybe even catch something, even if it is the month of February.
