Not looking forward to the first real cold front of the season, but looking ahead after the temperatures moderate to some good December fishing.

The nearshore gag grouper bite will be good till the end of the season on the last day of this month. A strong front helps clear out floating grass, so plug casting and trolling are easier.

If the water temperatures get low enough to slow the bite use cut bait, sardines, or live pinfish next to the structure and be patient. It may have to be a warm afternoon for the gags to start biting. On the same structure look for a few sheepshead to start showing up. Live shrimp is the best bait. 

Back on the flats, expect the bite to be slow for trout until the water warms on a windless day. Focus on creek mouths and deep holes with edges that are shallow, facing the southern sun.

A southern sun will warm the northern edges of these deep areas and trout, snook, and redfish will feed in the warming shallow waters. It can even be better if there are high mangroves or wooded islands blocking the north wind. Suspending baits like a MirrOlure MirrOdine work well fishing in our winter situations.

High tide will be in the morning this weekend. 

Homosassa Weekly Fishing Report from Captain William Toney

To schedule a fishing charter or shore lunch excursion with Captain Toney, visit his website.

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