Fishing with Captain Jay

By Captain Jay Cranford www.coastalgafishing.com

Winter is here and when ol’ man winter shows up, anglers are usually in for some better-than-average inshore fishing. October and November are good months to fish, but December, January and February are all great months as well!

Here's why:

When the water temperature drops below 50 degrees, trout will mainly be found away from the current, rather than swimming in it. There can be a slack current running along the bottom and a faster current up near the surface. Spotted sea trout, also referred to as speckled trout, are cold-blooded. Like us, when it’s cold their metabolism slows down dramatically so they'll head for that slack current near the bottom. Creeks and rivers with deep channels and holes provide a more stable environment for them and they can be stacked up in these areas.

Here is an important note to remember:

Look for places where two coastal creeks come together – there is usually a deep hole there, gouged out where the currents from each creek meet. However, the main thing to search for are ambush points where specks and reds can easily find and corner bait.

These fish must eat all year long so whether you’re using a live bait, a hard bait or a soft plastic bait, allow the current to sweep it along close to, or on the bottom, in cold weather. The best days are often those early mornings when it’s so cold that it’s miserable to even be on the water, so dress for the occasion.

Some popular places to try for both trout and redfish during the winter months include deep water creeks, shallow creeks, oyster beds, overhanging and downed trees in the water, and rock ledges, all which can hold some nice fish. Finding the depth they like on that particular day is the key.

Shrimp, mud minnows and artificial lures will all work this time of year, but remember, these fish are moving super slow. If you’re using lures you’ll need to slow the retrieve down considerably. I prefer to use soft plastics made by Egret Baits including Mambo Mullet for redfish or Vudu shrimp for trout. If you use live bait your best bet will be small croakers, finger mullet, live shrimp or mud minnows.

Trolling is also very effective for speckled trout during the cold months, especially in rivers and creeks. Different water clarity and locations will require different tactics, color changes and techniques. It's a great way to cover a lot of territory and find the colors and depth they like in that area.

You do need a saltwater fishing license to harvest speckled trout and redfish. Pay attention to the legal creel limits and lengths and practice catch and release when you can.

While others are sitting around their living rooms by the fire, you should be out there fishing!

Don't wish ... let's go fish!

Captain Jay has over 20 years experience fishing the Georgia coast. He's passionate about fishing and enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with you!