By Tim Legutki
Posted Monday, December 26, 2005
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With the winter winds come cool breezy mornings. Down in the 10,000 Islands, the northerly winds create clear waters and ultra low tides for sight fishing.
Being the fly fishing finatic that I am, I live for these conditions. A mid falling tide makes for a great start. I always pick my spots by looking for the lee side of the islands that are on the sunny side if possible. Oyster and shell bottoms do not silt up as bad as the muddy bottoms, and if the oysters are out of the water they will retain the warmth from the sun. Creating a comfort zone for feeding redfish.
With the water on the clear side, you can stay off the shoreline a good distance and still be able to see the fish. Alot of times the fish will lay off the bank in the troughs. This time of year the fish are on the lathargic side so you need to keep your presentation slow.
Fly selection this time of year depends on the depth of water and the clarity. If I am fishing water with a muddy bottom, I prefer a bottom bouncing fly with some sort of weighted eyes. Jigging the fly so it bounces off the bottom creates a thump and a puff of mud, causing attention. I believe this catches the attention to the fish that are laying motionless on the bottom. Working your presentation slow this makes for an easy meal for a cold lazy fish.
If I am in real skinny water, I prefer a seaducer type pattern. For one, you will have less problems getting snagged on the bottom, and two the palmered collar creates vibration that will also create attention.
As far as colors go, I have always prefered the natural colors in most cases. If the water is a little stirred up, you can't go wrong with red and yellow, or chratuece.
This time of year you'll notice most fish are with in the slot (18"-27"). No need for big tackle, my goto rod is a 7wt. Thomas and Thomas with a floating line. You will be able to throw any size fly and get more punch out of the fish. This size rod will not cause fatigue either, espeacially if your blind casting alot.
As your poling along keep your eyes peeled looking for movement or anything irregular from the bottom. These fish are the masters of camaflauge, making them tough to see at times if they're laying motionless. Lots of times you will see fish blowing out at your feet that you didn't see. In most cases if you freeze and watch the fish, he will settle down and stop creating another shot. Red fish are bold loike this and in most cases will eat as soon as he sets down.
So on your next outing take your time and keep your eyes open, and fish on the slower side. this type of fishing is a lot hunting and is very rewarding when you complete your task. Enjoy yourself and good luck.
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