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Winter Saltwater Fishing Florida

By Mike Richardson 22 February, 2023 3 mins read

Although Florida's winter months don't have any spectacular fish schools, there's still plenty of saltwater fishing. Although cold weather can force snook and other gamefish to move upstream into rivers, canals, and creeks due to the cold, the increased numbers of these fish can lead to concentrations. Brackish rivers are often home to freshwater species like catfish and largemouth basses, so this migration may occur.

Red snapper

Red snapper is a great choice if you are looking for unique winter saltwater fishing opportunities. Red snapper only comes into season at certain times during the year. These times are the weekends leading to Memorial Day. They will be over by September 7th 2021. Consider these tactics to maximize your chances for catching a good fish. Research is key to catching a fish.

Cobia

Cobia fishing is an excellent option for winter saltwater fishing trips. Cobia is a predatory and strong fish. Although they prefer to eat crustaceans, cobia will also eat fish. Young cobia are preyed upon by larger pelagic species. They migrate seasonally throughout the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The northeastern Gulf of Mexico cobia migrate south during the winter to spend the winter near Florida Keys. Cobia fishing doesn't require a permit from the federal government. The only thing you need to do is use authorized gear.

Sheepshead

Sheepshead are a very popular fish in coastal Atlantic waters, especially in the Gulf of Mexico. They are also a common sight to fish for along grass flats. It is easily identifiable on the water by its distinctive vertical black-white stripes. Sheepsheads live in various depths, from backwaters up to offshore reefs. Florida winters bring cold fronts that can cause fish to move inshore to eat.

Barracuda

The Florida Keys' primary target is the bones, but you can also catch tasty fish while saltwater fishing in Florida. Although Barracuda used to be a popular winter flats species, they are now almost impossible to catch. That's why the Lower Keys Guides Association has launched the Save the Barracuda Campaign. This group has urged Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWCC) to enforce harvest regulations in order to save these endangered fish. The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission held two public meetings. It is expected that a draft rule will be published this fall.

Pompano fish

The early season coldfront pushed the pompano south. You can now catch them year round. A tasty pompano is a great way to catch trout, redfish or Spanish mackerel. If you are willing and able to work hard, you will get tasty meals. Florida Pompano Fish Winter Saltwater Fishing in Florida

Redfish

There are many ways to catch redfish during the Winter, but one of the best methods is to fish in mangroves. Redfish typically prefer to feed in cooler water because they can get overheated in shallow waters during the summer. To catch redfish, you can send a dead bait up to the mangrove root. Redfish will gravitate to bait that has a salty flavour and will root around it until they reach it.

Blackfin tuna

Blackfin tuna is a small fish that lives on the continental shelf, from the Carolinas southward to Brazil. They are likely to be expanding their range north due to global warming, but current stock numbers look healthy. Florida's Fish and Wildlife Commission has recently set new daily and weekly catch limits for blackfin, ten per person and two per boat. Blackfins can be found all over Florida, unlike skipjacks.

FAQ

How much is basic fishing equipment?

Basic fishing equipment is around $100-$200 for rod/reel combination, bait, tackle box, and so on. You will need to spend $500-$1000 if you plan to rent a larger boat.

Is it safe?

Always check with the seller to see if there is a freshness date. The fish is safe to eat if it doesn't have an expiration. But if the fish looks old or smells bad, then you shouldn't eat it.

What should I wear to fish?

Wear clothes that protect you from the elements. You can protect yourself from the elements with gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat. Consider adding insect repellent.

Are special clothing requirements for fishing?

Yes, you will need some clothing to protect yourself from the elements. While fishing, you will often wear a waders costume. Waders are waterproof pants which cover the legs as well as the feet. Wader suits may have boots attached. Other waders suits are designed to be used without boots.

Statistics

Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
To substantiate this theory, Knight attempted a systematic inquiry by considering the timing of 200 'record' catches, more than 90 percent were made during a new moon (when no moon is visible). (myfwc.com)
It is estimated there are at least 2 million people who go fishing in California each year. (californiayachtsales.com)
For most freshwater species you are most likely to target when first starting out, a reel size of 20 to 30 should be more than enough! (strikeandcatch.com)