12-15-2000, 04:20 PM
Water temperatures have inched up by four or five degrees since the last cold front moved through, predictably improving action up and down the southwest coast. From the backcountry to the inshore Gulf of Mexico, fishing's been hot.<br> <br>The best on the flats has no doubt been redfish, and they've been aggressive. Redfish to nine pounds have been taking chartreuse and white Clouser Minnows and the new soft plastic bait from Mister Twister, the Exude, in their "Funky Chicken" flavor. These baits carry a strong scent and apparently trail the odor behind them. The reds were all over them. <br> <br>So were big jacks, ladyfish and flounder. Though we haven't been targeting trout (catch and release), they've been in the same areas and in good numbers. There are also reports of monster jacks, pompano and ladyfish in the Little Sarasota Bay area.<br> <br>Off the beaches, the best bet is bonita (little tunny). They're thick just outside the passes, busting baits everywhere. Look for diving birds and fish busting under them. Try to avoid running up on them with the big motor, they'll most likely go down and pop up a few hundred yards away, on another pod of baitfish. An electric trolling motor helps, but they are so fast, sometimes that won't even bring success. <br> <br>Chumming is the best bet to keep them around the boat. A proven method is to toss out small amounts of frozen glass minnows, to keep them interested. Once they're chummed up, put a bait or fly in them, and hold on. They average four to five pounds, with ten pound catches common. As a heads-up, when using light tackle, keep an eye on your spool. They have been know to empty more that a few. <br> <br>Just a reminder, as of today, snook are out of season until February 1st and must be released. Trout season will reopen on January 1st. <br><br>Thanks,<br>Capt. Kevin<br> <br>To see photos from recent trips, click on www.flatsangler.com.<br><br><br>