Captain's Report - January/Feburary, 2008

by Capt. Dave Mistretta

Changing weather: Weather patterns have now shifted to winter like conditions, forcing us to change our game plans. Shorts and a t- shirt are no longer our desired fishing attire used to for the past month. Cold water temps will make a day on the water quite cool, especially when running the boat fast across the brisk gulf waters. Even when the air temperatures rise, we will feel the effects from the recent cold blast of air for weeks to come.

Amberjack fishing has been outstanding. Giant schools of these back-breakers have been found over numerous structures. Some of the fish have been tipping the scales at 50 plus pounds.Multiple hookups are common with anglers normally crying uncle after repeated battles. Expect this action to last thru the winter, on into spring

Bottom fishing: Grouper fishing should start to slow down closer to shore for a bit (20 to 30 feet of water). We will be running a few miles further to make the trips a success. About 20 miles from shore you will find the water temps will start to warm up. That’s where most the action will take place this week. Both red and gag groupers have already settled on many of the rocks at this depth before the big cold front hit. They should still be located at this 80 foot depth, and be ready to eat.

Tactics: Sometimes live bait is not as appealing to the bottom fish soon after their metabolism slows. The employment of chunked squid and frozen sardines would be a smartest start. These easy offerings allow many smaller reef fish to feed. When conditions chill like this, my favorite of the 2 baits is the chunked squid. Everything seems to be attracted to its strong scent. Big groupers will often swim over, grabbing the squid from smaller reef fish as they feed. After a few minutes its best diversify, mixing up a wider variety bottom baits.

Captain's Report - January/Feburary, 2008

by Capt. Dave Mistretta

Past Captain's Reports