Mastering Florida's Ever-Changing Fishing Seasons

December 2024 is upon us, and the year has flown by! Things in the fishing world have been a little slow, but the action is picking up. The key is understanding the changes that are taking place and overcoming them. I'll get to that in a moment, but first:

Exciting Updates! I'm thrilled to announce a new partnership with Echo Fly Rods. I believe these rods are some of the finest on the market, with a model to fit every casting style. Also, I've ended my ties with Flymen Fishing Company and now support The Real Chocklett Factory, founded by my friend Blane Chocklett.  You can find the original Gamechanger products and more there. If your local fly shop doesn't carry Real Chocklett Factory products, you can visit their website at www.blanechocklett.com and get them there. Finally, a shout-out to Mad River Outfitters for all your holiday shopping needs. They have a fantastic selection and provide top-notch customer service. Visit Mad River Outfitters at www.madriveroutfitters.com and get anything you need; they carry Real Chocklett Factory products.

Here's a little video breaking in the new Echo Bad Ass Glass fly rod! Check out the water conditions on the flats and some of the recent bass action!

Fishing Conditions and Tips

The recent cold front has brought clear water and ideal sight fishing conditions. However, fish can be spooky in low water, so here are some tips:

* Be stealthy: Avoid running the outboard motor near fishing areas.

* Don't rock the boat:  Minimize disturbances that can alert fish.

* Use lighter tippets and leaders:  Make your lines less visible.

* Downsize your offerings: Smaller baits and flies can be more effective.

* Take your time:  Move slowly and scan the water carefully.

These fishing tips can be used year round, but they are very important during the winter season. Check out the video of Captain Jim Manus and i discussing downsizing and its importance.

What's Biting?

Saltwater Fishing:

* Redfish:  Numbers are looking good, with plenty of rat reds from last year's spawn. The permanent catch-and-release status over the past year is increasing numbers nicely.

* Seatrout: Currently in their catch-and-release season, but there are plenty around. Please handle them with care to insure a healthy release.

* Snook:  Fishing has been good, especially in the afternoons, when the waters warm. Remember, starting December 15th, they will be catch-and-release.

* Black Drum:  A fun and often overlooked species. The smaller fish make great table fare for dinner.

.* Flounder: We've been seeing a lot of flounder lately and numbers should only increase as winter progresses.

Redfish on Fly Tackle is Always Special

Jim Manus with a Healthy Mosquito Lagoon Redfish We Caught

Redfish Crushing the Zman CrusteaZ Jig

Rick slammed out on his recent trip with me. This Redfish destroyed a Zman CrusteaZ

Downsizing our jig led to success on this Mosquito Lagoon Redfish.

This Mosquito Lagoon Snook couldn't resist a small Z-Man jig.

Stealth and patience resulted in a nice Mosquito Lagoon Redfish on fly tackle

Freshwater Fishing:

* Bass:  Action has been excellent, with plenty of smaller bass to keep you busy; not to worry, the big ones are still here too.

* Crappie: Starting to show up, offering a tasty treat for anglers. This can be some of the most fun a person can have when the action is fast.

* Shad:  We'll be keeping an eye out for shad in the coming weeks. Known as the freshwater tarpon, these fish are a blast on ultralight tackle or fly fishing tackle.

Striped Bass are hard fighting and even better eating!

It's hard to beat largemouth bass on frogs.

Not all largemouth bass are big in size, but they are in attitude

A healthy Florida largemouth bass

When the largemouth bass are a little picky, a ZMan Chatterbait can get them to eat.

Shad (aka Freshwater Tarpon) always bring smiles to anglers

Bowfin are overlooked by many, but they are great fighting fish.

Flip Pallot with a gorgeous St John's River largemouth bass

Time for a fish dinner. Crappie are wonderful table fare.

Her first shad taken on fly tackle.

A little shad action on ultralight gear is fun.

Looking for some more fishing tips, equipment reviews, or fishing action? Subscribe to my YouTube channel and you'll never miss a video of the action. Just click on the link and then hit that subscribe button: https://www.youtube.com/@johntarr9292

I'd really appreciate it if you followed the Instagram page too, where you can see the latest pictures from all of the fishing trips, but a little extra of my Outdoor Adventure life. https://www.instagram.com/tailhunter_outdoor_adventures/

Book Your Trip! Ready to get in on the action? Book your fishing trip today! I provide everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable day on the water. Contact me with any questions or to book your trip! Call 386-314-5998 or email: captainjohn@tailhunteroutdooradventures.com

Looking for that Christmas item for the angler in your family? Gift certificates are available for all of our guided fishing trips and for fly casting lessons.

Until next time, Tight Lines and Screaming Drags!

Captain John Tarr