WINTER FISHING REPORT
As we enter the winter months and water temperatures drop, we encounter a whole new variety of fish. I’ve been seeing big schools of Jacks. These guys can get up to 20 pounds and give anglers a run for their money. They attack top water plugs busting white water as they take shots at a fast-moving plug. If you catch them in shallow water busting bait while the birds are dive-bombing them it’s quite the sight. I’ve been doing this for 45 years and it’s just as exciting to me now as the day I started.
Along with the big Jacks I’ve been seeing Blue Fish. These aren’t your Jersey Blues. These fish come out of the Gulf of Mexico and pile into the shallow backcountry channels. They will inhale almost anything you throw at them. They’re a gas on fly rods or light spin. Cuda and Trout also fill out the dance card. If you’re lucky to catch a day with south winds. I’ve been on the Tarpon. These are local fish and spend the winter out in the Gulf. When the winds turn South these fish come back into shallow water providing anglers with some great action. Yesterday we hooked a 60-pound fish. We got 5 or 6 jumps out of him before he handed us back the hook. Just seeing that fish busting water and flying in the air will get your adrenaline pumping.
I’m a one-boat, one-captain operation. Been doing it for 45 years. I’ve got a great boat and top of the line gear. I cover the ground and get away from other boats. I fish in the most beautiful places you can imagine. Best to book ahead and not wait till the last minute. When you book a captain, always look for a guy who does one thing and has one boat. Stay away from booking agents who only care about getting fat commissions.
Hope to see you on the flats.
Captain Rick Mager.
305-296-9794 OR 305-744-8985
[email protected]
Rated 5 stars
