12-31-2000, 04:40 PM
Capt. Kevin Chamberlain<br> <br>Windy days and cold water could just about sum up the last fishing report of the year. Back-to-back cold fronts, some separated by only a day, have kept many anglers at the dock, or running for cover. The scenario hasn't exactly been all that bleak. We've had some good days, but the tough ones were just that, tough. <br> <br>Canals proved to be both protected and productive. Most were just loaded with jacks, some large and some small. They produced several double hook-ups and made for great action. A few snook, mangrove snapper and sheepshead were pulled out from under docks with deeper water. The jacks took anything we threw at them, mostly jigs, the others were nailing live shrimp and shrimp tipped jigs. <br> <br>On days when we could access the shallow flats, we were able to find redfish. Though they were scattered, reds to five pounds took chartreuse and white Clouser minnows and gold spoons in North Sarasota Bay, around Long Bar. Trout to 18 inches were taking live shrimp and jigs near Bishops Point and Whale key. <br> <br>Little action took place early. It wasn't until later in the morning, when the sun had a chance to warm the water, that we had shots at feeding fish. The only exception was ladyfish. They were cooperating early in the day, in three to five feet of water near the Selby flats. Jigs and live shrimp worked best, with a slower than slow presentation. <br> <br>So, we'll ask, what does the forecast look like for January? Though I'm not too superstitious, I'm not even goin' there. Lets just hope for a mild winter, with many calm days between fronts, several redfish tails in the air and even more tight lines. Until next year...<br><br>Thanks,<br>Capt. Kevin<br> <br>To see photos from recent trips, click on www.flatsangler.com.<br><br><br>