From Capt. Charlie @ Fishing Center - Ft Pierce

Well, winter has finally arrived to the Treasure Coast.  You northerners might laugh, but when it dips down into the 50's it is cold here to those of us who live down here.  It has been the usual windy conditions lately, but that is normal for this time of year.  Water temperatures have dropped to as low as 62 degrees some days and that will bring in our winter fish now.  Expect similar weather next week as well.  Look for pompano, bluefish, mackerel and black drum to filter into the river and provide anglers with lots of action.  Let the fun begin!

                                                


Now that the water temps have dropped you can find lots of action around the area.  Look for pompano along the beach and in the river.  Spanish mackerel will show up in the inlet on the incoming tides.  Black drum will join the sheepshead around bridges, docks and channel edges.  Look for trout on the grass flats as the sun warms up the water in the shallows.  Redfish will be hanging around docks and mangroves and move onto the grass flats when the sun rises.  There will be bluefish, ladyfish and jacks all over the river to keep you busy as well.  Remember, when the water is cold to slow down your presentation.  Fish will become more lethargic and slower to make a decision to strike your lure or bait.  It's a great time of year to enjoy the fishing...and the cold temperatures!
Dress warm and in layers now that winter has arrived.  There can be a twenty to thirty swing in temperatures some days and the wind will be a factor in keeping warm on the water.  Watch conditions and plan your fishing adventures accordingly.  It's an awesome time of year to fish and also give you many challenges, too.  Have fun and get out fishing soon!