Conditions over the weekend looked good; however, fishermen who targeted redfish reported seeing fish but had difficulty getting these fish to eat. Surface water temperature was around 54 degrees. Water temperature was likely not the main reason for a slow bite. The water on most mud flats was clear with little current (due to small tides). Little current means noise is factor. Ideally fish into the current. The current helps to dissipate the noise as well as trigger a bite. Most fishermen like to fish when conditions are calm and there is little current. Conditions might look great, you might have fish all around your boat but getting them to eat is another thing. Down size your baits: 3 inch plastics will work fine. When fishing shallow water during calm conditions lures that are smaller and softer are the one you want to fish. Put up the noisy lures (spoons, those with spinner blades, larger bait as well hard lures) until you’re fishing deeper water and water with some current. When fishing cold clear water think in terms of finesse fishing and you’ll likely do better. Conditions literally changes daily. Right now we’re in a winter pattern. The bite will likely pick up as the temperature continues to warm and tides increase.

Several fishermen have reported being check by the DNR in recent days. This is a good thing. It means those who might be tempted to violate fishing regulations might think twice. Winter time is when there’s typically not many boaters on water. Although fishing slows those up to mischief recognize this also as time to illegally harvest lethargic fish. If you’re stopped by the DNR be thankful they’re there!

Lastly a few words about conservation. As more and more people come to the coast the future of our fishery is catch and release. Keep a few if you choose and release the rest!

Hope this report is helpful! Capt. Jack McGowan