This past week, the weather was a little bit of a shocker for the fish here in the New Smyrna Beach area. We received an arctic blast of a cold front sending water temperatures plummeting almost fifteen degrees in the Mosquito Lagoon over a short period of just a couple of days. The cool air isn’t all bad, though; one major positive consequence it brings is the improved water clarity in the lagoons and ICW, which is great for sight fishing this time of year. As soon as the windy conditions settle this week, expect the bite to really pick up steam.
Snook, redfish, black drum, and spotted seatrout are all now starting to get into their winter-time patterns. Look for the redfish and trout to be holding on top of the mud bars and oyster beds throughout the Volusia County’s backwaters. They will also be seeking warmth, so look for them to be holding over potholes up until the water temperatures rise to their peak. Fish tend to get lethargic in the cold weather, som the bites will be a little slower this time of year. Be sure to slow down your presentations on both artificial and live baits.