By: Capt. Eddie | Tight Lines, www.facebook.com/eddie.yerdon
Hello, Folks!
It’s time for Tight Lines with Capt. Eddie. With hunting season wrapping up, it’s time to swap out the rifles for rods and reels and embrace everything SWFL fishing has to offer. There’s no better way to unwind and reconnect with nature than by heading out to your favorite spot, setting up camp, and soaking in the serenity of the great outdoors. Whether you prefer the shoreline or an island getaway, now’s the time to gather your gear, pack up the cooler, and embrace the crisp, cool nights that make this season so special. And don’t worry about the skeeters—they’re not bad this time of year.
While you’re out there, be sure to bring along the essentials: a good skillet, some oil, cornmeal, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Why, you ask? Because there’s no meal finer than a fresh catch fried up cracker-style. There’s something magical about cooking what you catch right there by the water—an experience that fills your belly and feeds your soul.
Now, let’s talk about what’s biting!
Saltwater trout are everywhere, and some of them are absolute trophies! These fish are plentiful this time of year, making them a prime target for anglers of all skill levels. Remember, the daily limit is three per person, and one of those can measure over 19 inches. Hooking into a big one is always a thrill, and when you fry them up fresh, there’s nothing like that flaky, flavorful goodness.
Crappie fishing is heating up, too! These fun and feisty fish are biting especially well about a week before the full moon, so timing is key. Keep an eye on the calendar—January 13th and February 12th mark the next full moon. These are the days when the bite will be at its peak, so plan your trips accordingly. Bring the kids or a few friends, and you’re bound to fill your cooler in no time.
Sheepshead are also putting on a show, and if you’re looking to target these striped, toothy fighters, head over to St. James City. They’re everywhere right now, but this area is hot, producing especially good numbers. The minimum size is 12 inches, and you’re allowed to keep up to eight per person. Sheepshead are excellent table fare and a blast to catch, especially if you’re using shrimp or fiddler crabs as bait.
For those looking to mix things up, there’s action to be had when you fish on the Caloosahatchee around the I-75 Bridge, where anglers report good catches of reds and snapper. These species are always a treat, whether you’re fishing for sport or dinner. A bit of patience and persistence can lead to a full stringer and a boatload of great stories to share.
Fishing this time of year is more than just casting a line—it’s about immersing yourself in the experience. The cool breezes, the quiet rustle of the water, and the joy of reeling in a fish make every outing memorable. Whether you’re an old pro or just getting back into it, now’s the time to embrace the season, explore new spots, and make the most of what Mother Nature has to offer.
So gather your poles, load up the boat or the truck, and get out there. With trout, crappie, sheepshead, reds, and snapper all biting, there’s no shortage of excitement waiting for you on the water.
Stay safe, enjoy the adventure, and don’t forget to share your catches—both the big ones and the ones that got away.
