Fishing Report brought to you by Chris Crego
with Skinny Water Lures
January in Palm Coast, Florida offered a unique inshore fishing experience. With cooler
water temperatures and varying weather conditions, this month demands adaptability,
but the rewards are well worth it. We targeted species like redfish, spotted sea trout and
flounder, in Palm Coast during this time and it was extremely productive if you use the
right techniques and gear.
Water Conditions and Fish Behavior
In January, the water temperature in Palm Coast typically ranges from 60°F to 70°F,
which will cause many fish species to become less active during the cooler early
mornings and evenings. During this time, fish tend to move to deeper, warmer pockets
of water, but they will still feed when conditions are right, especially around midday
when temperatures are warmer.
This is also the time when fish like redfish and trout become more concentrated in areas
like sheltered flats, deep channels, and near oyster bars. The shallows around
mangroves, grass flats, and creek mouths are key areas to target for feeding fish. With
lower tide levels, fish are often confined to deeper channels and drop-offs, so anglers
need to focus on these areas.
Top Target Species in January
1. Redfish (Red Drum): Redfish remain a reliable target throughout the winter. They are
often found in deeper holes or around structure like docks, rocks, or deeper flats near
the Intracoastal Waterway. During colder months, they tend to school up and are often
seen in smaller groups. Look for them in the early afternoon when the sun warms up the
water slightly.
2. Spotted Sea Trout: This species is abundant in the winter months, especially around
the seagrass beds. Sea trout are more likely to bite mid-day when water temperatures
are warmer. They can be found near deep flats, drop-offs, and around rocky shorelines.
3. Flounder: Flounder are often a popular catch in winter, especially in areas where
currents slow down. They are more likely to be found near deep channels, under
bridges, and around structure such as docks. Their feeding habits slow in the winter, so
anglers must be patient and present their baits right on the bottom.
We recommend using Skinny Water Lures for Inshore Fishing
When targeting inshore species during January, using Skinny Water Lures can provide
you with a distinct advantage. These lures are designed to mimic the movements of
small baitfish and invertebrates, making them incredibly effective for enticing bites from
a wide range of species, including redfish, sea trout, and flounder.
Here's a breakdown of how to fish with Skinny Water Lures in the winter:
1. Best Lures that worked for us:
Skinny Water Lures (SWL) Paddle Tail: The paddle tail is a versatile choice for winter
fishing. Its subtle vibration and lifelike swimming action can trigger strikes from redfish
and trout. For best results, use colors like pearl, chartreuse, or natural shrimp tones.
Skinny Water Lures curly tail grub is a soft plastic lure that has a unique swimming
action that imitates fleeing baitfish. It’s especially effective when fishing deeper drop-offs
or around structure, where fish are more likely to ambush.
2. Techniques for January Inshore Fishing:
Slow, Steady Retrieve: Since fish metabolism slows down in the cooler water, slow your
retrieve down. Use a steady, moderate-speed retrieval to make sure the lure stays in
the strike zone longer. You can even give the lure occasional twitches to mimic the
natural movements of injured baitfish or shrimp.
Bottom Fishing with Jig Heads: With colder water temperatures, fish like redfish and
trout are likely to be closer to the bottom. Use a jig head paired with a Skinny Water
Lures soft plastic to get your lure down to the fish. Opt for a 3/16oz or 1/4oz jig head
depending on depth, and retrieve slowly along the bottom, letting the lure hop or drag
over structure.
Suspended Fishing: In some cases, fish may suspend just off the bottom or near
structures. Cast your Skinny Water Lures suspending twitch bait and allow them to sink
to the desired depth before beginning your retrieve. Keep your movements slow, and
focus on areas where fish might be holding, like drop-offs or deep holes.
3. Targeting Key Areas, such as Mangrove Shorelines and Creek Mouths:
These areas offer excellent shelter and feeding grounds for redfish and sea trout.
Deep Flats and Drop-offs: With cooler weather driving fish to deeper water, drop-offs,
and ledges are prime areas for targeting species like trout and flounder.
Oyster Bars and Rocky Points: Oyster bars provide shelter and food for fish during the
colder months. When fishing around these areas, cast near the structure, and then
slowly retrieve or jig them off the bottom to mimic small baitfish.
Bridges and Dock Piles: Many inshore species hang around bridge pilings and dock
structures during winter. Cast close to these structures, allowing the lure to sink near the
bottom before slowly retrieving it back.
4. Color Choices for Winter:
During winter, natural and subtle colors often outperform bright, flashy lures. Think
natural shrimp patterns (like white, brown, and olive) or the more subdued mullet colors
such as silver or gray. In overcast conditions, chartreuse or glow-in-the-dark options can
be effective, as these colors stand out in low light.
Additional Tips for January Inshore Fishing:
Pay Attention to Tides: Fishing around the tides is especially important in winter months.
Incoming tides typically bring in warmer water, encouraging fish to become more active.
Look for prime fishing opportunities when the tide is rising and just after it peaks.
Weather Conditions: Cold fronts are common during January, which can affect fish
behavior. After a front passes, fish often become sluggish and may take longer to start
feeding again. Its best to fish the first day after the front clears, when fish are more likely
to start feeding again.
Patience is Key: Winter fishing in Palm Coast can sometimes require a bit more
patience. Fish are often less aggressive during cold weather, so slow down your
presentation, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different lures or techniques until
you find what works.
Conclusion
January inshore fishing in Palm Coast offers a great opportunity to target some of
Florida’s most iconic species. The key to success during this time of year lies in
understanding the behavior of the fish, adapting your tactics to the colder water
conditions, and making precise casts in the most promising areas. With the right
approach and the right lures, anglers can enjoy a productive and memorable day on the
water.
TIGHT LINES!!