February is usually the month when we begin to see the first signs of Springs. The days are getting longer and milder. This isn’t to say winter is over. In February we can see many mild Spring like days. This year has been no exception with several days in the upper 60’s. The trick from the fisherman’s perspective is to fish the mild days. When surface water readings have been in the mid 40’s warming to the mid 50’s fishing can be good. When the surface water has remained in the 40’s fishing is difficult. Many fishermen are saying this been a very good year for stripers! Dr. Bowers said he’s catching five of six in an outing that are ranging from 25 to 50 pounds. These are massive fish! While fish like aren’t common several fishermen have gotten in on action. Capt. Brain from Miss Judy’s Charters reports large fish spitting up shrimp. This means white shrimp have to date survive the winter and stripers are foraging on them. Other baits can work and will work but shrimp be the preferred bait! Local bait shops might or might not have bait so call ahead. A new bait shop has opened on highway 17 in Pooler (Larry’s) (where the old welding shop was located). Dr. Bowers says they’re selling fiddler crabs, shiners and Florida shrimp. Too bad they’re not closer to the water but atleast we have another alternative for finding bait in the winter.

Redfish can be along the mudflat as the tide seeps out of the grass. Seatrout action has slowed but stripers have heated up!

Small tides all week mean gentle currents. Those targeting stripers could fish throughout a tide. Cut bait can work as well. A favorite striper lure is the redfin that Chuck sells at Cranman’s.

Good Fishing! Capt. Jack McGowan