Basics Tactics & Techniques of Winter Gulf Fishing

Basics Tactics & Techniques of Winter Gulf Fishing
By Captain Dave Pinkham

The fishing action out on the Gulf this past week was actually pretty good on the days we able to get out. Bottom fishing continues to be one of the best plans to consistently produce fish, with groupers and snappers being the main targets. There has also been a decent showing of black-tip sharks offshore in the 50' to 65' deep range. Most of the sharks have been

averaging in size anywhere from 30 to 70 pounds. These black-tip sharks put up a heck of a fight, and are an exciting addition to a day of fishing out on the Gulf of Mexico. The sharks seem to be drawn to the smell of cut bait such as the sardines we've been using for bottom fishing.

When planning a day of fishing out on the Gulf here are a few tips to help you plan a smooth and safe trip. Before heading out on the Gulf always check out the weather forecast. The weather can change for the worst in a hurry. Also before venturing out on the Gulf make sure your boat is ship-shape and that you have all required Coast Guard equipment on board. Make sure you have a working compass, a good anchor set-up, a VHF marine radio, 1st aid kit, navigation equipment such as loran or GPS, fish finder, and a good working live bait well. It's also advisable to have an up to date list of fish regulations and a ruler to measure your catch.

Before leaving the dock have a trip plan and let someone you know, (preferably someone that loves you) know what your plan is. Of course wind and sea conditions, water clarity, and what fish you're going after will play into this plan.

Always consider the variables in the elements such as tides, barometric pressures, and the solunar tables when heading out to catch fish. As fronts approach fish will often feed. Be sure to monitor the marine radio throughout the day for changing weather and sea conditions. Don't waste too much time in muddy water conditions.

Being proficient at anchoring down over hot spots plays a major role in wintertime fishing on the Gulf. Obviously the more you anchor down your boat over your fishing holes, the better you will get at it. Your anchor set-up should consist of a good setting anchor backed up with a 6' to 8' piece of chain. Don't be skimpy on your anchor rope. I carry a full spool, which by the way is 600'. Be sure to carry a couple of marker jugs to mark the honey hole when you see it on your fish finder. I also carry a float ball with a clip ring to float my anchor as I may pull the anchor half a dozen times on one fishing trip. Try to anchor the boat out in front of the where you think the structure and the fish are located. You can always let out rope to drop back.

Be sure to bring several different weight rod and reel combos. This will allow you to target different species and sizes of fish. Often when the fish are slow to bite, gearing down to lighter tackle will turn things around in your favor. Keep terminal rigs as light as possible. When bottom fishing in the winter months natural baits usually are the most productive.

To locate new areas pick a calm day and go searching for new bottom with your fish finder. This is a great time for trolling. When you see an area that looks promising, note it and return later for a closer look. Carry several marker jugs to mark new spots. When you do find good bottom check out the surrounding area as rock bottom will often spread around the general area. Seeing a turtle at the surface will often indicate hard bottom below.

Courtesy while fishing is very important. It is a no-no to pull close to a boat that is at anchor fishing. You may ask what's too close? If you're within shouting distance you're way too close! Buzzing someone to get his or her fishing hole coordinates is not cool! The exception to this rule would be fishing around the artificial reefs, or known wrecks. When fishing or diving around these locations idle speeds are encouraged for the safety of all. Please handle all fish to be released carefully. The idea is to get the fish back in the water as quickly as possible. This will greatly increase their chance of survival.

If you're not out fishin, you're wishin you were. Get out and go fishin cuz" it's good fer ya!

Capt. Dave Pinkham has been a fishing guide on the Southwest Coast of Florida for more than 20 years. His Deep-Sea Charter-Boat "LEGACY" is based at Dona Bay Marina in Nokomis, one mile from Venice Inlet. For Gulf of Mexico fishing charter information call (941) 473-4603, or visit Capt. Dave's web page at, www.charter-boatfishing.com