Captain’s Corner: Jay Mastry

The Tampa Bay Times

It’s been said “there’s no place like home for the holidays”.  Having seen weather reports from the rest of the country… I feel fortunate to be right here.  The fishing scene will experience some significant changes.  Much of it will depend on how cold the water temperature gets and how long it stays that way.  Eating habits of many of our local species practically shut down in frigid conditions.  A few thrive in it.  Sheepshead don’t mind the cold.  This is the time of year when mullet gather in big bunches as they work their way to the gulf to spawn.  They will often stage in residential canals, harbors and bayous.  They like to move on weather changes, certain moon phases or in changes of tide.  When they get in the mood to go, they often let their guard down a bit, feeling safer in numbers.  Castnetters can take advantage of their vulnerability and gather a few for the smoker during the holidays.  Live baits are going be tough to gather.  Whitebait and greenbacks will move off the flats and into the warmth of deeper water.  Pinfish will remain available.  They can be hook and lined, castnetted or caught in traps.  Shrimp will become one of our “go to” baits.  They’re generally readily available and there’s practically nothing that swims that won’t em’.  It’s yet to be determined whether conditions will allow getting offshore a time or two before the closure of grouper season at the end of the month.  Either way… Here’s hoping we all have a safe, happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

Captain Jay Mastry