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 Winter
Fishing Tips
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When the water temperature around the northern gulf coast gets
below 62 degrees speckled become residents in the brackish
waters of the tidal rivers that are adjacent to the Mississippi
Sound and Mobile Bay. The deep river channels provide the solace
that they require to endure the cold ambient temperatures of the
winter months. Being cold-blooded, their body temperatures are
near that of the water thus, their metabolism slows
dramatically. This requires them to eat less so the minimal
amount of forage in the river systems is plentiful enough to
sustain them through the period. Typically this period is from
early December through mid-March. The most effective techniques
are to drift the river channels while casting lead headed soft
plastic baits until a school is located. Position yourself to
present the bait properly and you should catch plenty as the
fish tend to school during the winter period. On occasions where
winter offers a few days of warmer weather, try fishing the
flats very near the deep river channel with plugs like top water
baits and slow sinking lures. The fish will often move up to
feed when the water warm for a few days. The best bets for
redfish during the winter months are on the bar systems at the
mouth of Mobile Bay. Drifting with the tide while casting jigs
will almost always produce some big bronze bruisers. In the
river systems, try any creek mouth that drains the marsh-
especially if there are oyster shells on the bottom.
For even more information on local fishing and to ask
questions, visit one of our seminars. |
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Conservation Tip:
Although the Alabama regulation is more liberal, on my charters,
I only allow 5 speckled trout per person (14”-19”) and no
redfish. This is done in an effort to protect our resource by
allowing the larger breeding fish to live. Redfish are also very
slow to reach sexual maturity, so it is even more important to
release them. If you cherish our fishery as much as I, try this
lowered boat limit. Also, remember to handle the fish properly
if you are going to release them. Be sure that the net as well
as your hands are wet. This will protect the fish’s delicate
“slime” layer and prevent infection. I always say, “A filet
lasts one meal, but a picture lasts forever- you may even make
this website!” |
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