[Boykinballer]

Hey all,

Heading down to the Rod and Gun Club in Everglades City in January for a little long weekend birthday trip with the wife and a few friends. We will have 2-3 small skiffs going. This will be everyone in the groups first trip to the area and I was hoping for a little advice on tactics and fly selection. My normal experience is winter = small bait but any tips would be appreciated.

Any thoughts on what species will produce the most bent rods for that time of year?

Also any gear a tampa guy might not think to bring down? *bug spray recommendations*

Thanks and stay safe this weekend east coast peeps,

 

[georgiadrifter]

I fished it this past January and had a 50-fish (snook) day. I was using spin gear though. I think your success ( or lack thereof) will be contingent on water temperature. A cold front blowing through will shut it down, but a couple of weeks of mild weather and game on. I like fishing this time of year because you can sleep late...and get on the water early afternoon as it warms. Less bugs too.

Protip - breakfast at the Havana Cafe in Choko.

Disclaimer: I’m no expert but this is what works for me.

 

[Boykinballer]

I fished it this past January and had a 50-fish (snook) day. I was using spin gear though. I think your success ( or lack thereof) will be contingent on water temperature. A cold front blowing through will shut it down, but a couple of weeks of mild weather and game on. I like fishing this time of year because you can sleep late...and get on the water early afternoon as it warms. Less bugs too.

Protip - breakfast at the Havana Cafe in Choko.

Disclaimer: I’m no expert but this is what works for me.

Thanks for the input, we will check out the Cafe!

 

[SFL_Mirage]

Thanks for the input, we will check out the Cafe!

Island Cafe is great for after you pull the boat out as well. Delicious and cheap food.

Good luck with the fishing, spend the first day exploring and moving around to see what works and where.

 

[DBStoots]

Not sure what kind of MFD you run, but you might want to check out Florida Marine Tracks. Navigating the 10K Islands can be a little tricky. Everything in the water will eat a shrimp, so shrimp patterns would probably be a good idea. Bugs are manageable in the winter, especially if there is any breeze. I'd be happy to share some more information if you want to DM me.