Winter Patterns-Texas Gulf Coast

Fish Slow and Deep for Winter Bay Action When winter cloud cover prevails, fish the deep holes located on your Hook & Line maps. Should the sun come out, simply move to the flats adjacent to these holes. A bit later, we will discuss how to fish the flats, but first, we will work on those deep holes. Even though you are anxious to bring home that big catch, take the time to use your fish finder to locate the pockets of fish suspended at different depths. Each day the fish will move to different parts of the deep structure. Always take the time to check out the entire hole and don’t just fish blind in deep water. Your catch will no doubt reflect the efforts of your search. Once you have located schools of fish, mark the location with bouys.While drifting over the area, bounce the bait off the bottom as if you were jigging in freshwater. Always cover the entire area around your boat, and if the prevailing winds move you along too fast, simply use your drift anchor. Of course, you must not forget to check out those favorite spots you have developed from previous experiences in deep water. Each time you cast, allow the bait to reach the bottom. Point your rod tip toward the water and jig up or twitch it side-to-side. Usually a trout or red will strike as the bait begins to fall. Always keep the bait moving in the area in which you are fishing since the fish are not considered aggressive and may need enticement to assume they have located a wounded fish. Fishing during January and February does require significant patience and dedication, bur generally, fish caught this time of year will put up a better fight and can weigh 3-to-5 pounds each. Fish feed differently and less frequently during the winter and tend to nip or peck similar to some perch. Simply wait for a two-count, and then set your hook. Live bait is often difficult to find during the winter months, so you might want to try soft plastic shrimp tails, shad imitations and jerk worms. The best colors being slamming chicken, pearl with chartreuse tail, smoke, grape, or pumpkin seed. For additional movement, you may add the Flex-Jig. The use of ¾-to-1 ounce spoons are excellent, Try gold or silver with teaser. The fish can feel the vibration with their lateral lines. Generally, you can cover more water with soft plastic and spoons, both vertically and horizontally. Now its time to discuss fishin’ those flats after the sun has come out and begun to heat everything up. You might try a top water lures (Mirrolure She Dog, or Baby Spooks. Bomber Saltwater is great hard bait…………….. Any large bait is good to imitate the specific fish both the trout and redfish are looking for. Smaller bait is absent in the winter. You should look for slicks or pockets of live bait. Always remember to relax and have fun outdoors and the best time to go fishin’ is anytime you can. See ya’ll on Galveston Bay. Capt Paul Marcaccio TPW & USCG License