02-05-2001, 05:39 PM
Capt. Kevin Chamberlain<br> <br>Redfish and trout fishing finally picked up last week, no doubt due to rising water temperatures. Jacks are back to their normal feeding frenzies and sheepshead are all over the flats. If we continue to see normal winter weather patterns, the action should only improve. The best opportunities will be from a day or two after a front passes, and the winds calm, until just before the next one comes through.<br> <br>There was no shortage of redfish and larger trout on the flats two weeks ago, they were just too cold to eat. Now that they're getting their appetites back, keep in mind that the water is still cold. A slow, delicate presentation will result in more hook-ups. In gin-clear water, these fish will also be leader shy. You can drop down a size, or better yet, use fluorocarbon leader material. It really does make a difference. <br> <br>The best action has been with redfish in North Sarasota Bay. Reds to 5 1/2 pounds have been taking 1/8th ounce gold spoons worked painfully slow around the edges of potholes. Fly anglers have been scoring with tan and white Clouser Minnows, tied on a size 4 hook, with lightly weighted eyes. Trout to 20 inches have been taking the same.<br> <br>Sheepshead are a good bet in the same areas with the reds, but won't usually take artificial baits. A jig tipped with a piece of shrimp, or a small live shrimp on a 1/0 to 2/0 baitholder hook, will be a good choice. The live shrimp can be free-lined or suspended under a popping cork and tossed into the holes. <br> <br>We've been getting jack cravalle to 4 pounds in many area canals, and they've been more than willing. It's been best to tip jigs early, and after the bite is on, forget the shrimp. If they're eating, they'll take anything thrown their way, flies, spoons, plugs and top water baits included. <br> <br>Trout and ladyfish have been cooperating in Little Sarasota Bay on the deeper grass flats, around oyster bars and the edges of canals on lower tides. There have been reports of decent redfish and snook action under docks, and tailing reds and sheepshead on sand and oyster bars on lower stages of the tide. <br> <br>With this warming trend, I fully expect to see snook making their way out to the flats. Typically, they'll move up on the shallow grass to warm up. Though they may be tough to fool, once they get comfortable, they may eat if the opportunity presents itself. They may even strike out of anger or instinct, and the explosion on top water flies or lures is something to behold. <br> <br>Thanks,<br>Capt. Kevin<br><br>To see photos from recent trips, click on http://www.flatsangler.com.<br><br><br>