With the mild weather conditions, water temperatures have stayed in a favorable range to keep the trout bite strong on the flats and creek mouths.

As I write this report, a strong front will bring wind and cool weather that will change the fishing pattern up again.

Anglers are blessed on the Big Bend with plenty of small creeks and spring-fed rivers that hold fish like trout, black drum, sheepshead, snook, and mangrove snapper. In some cases, boat ramps are close enough to the action so a trolling motor or staying at idle speed is all it takes.

Tall trees that block north winds and southern sunshine heating the protective coves are good areas to fish. Live shrimp is generally going to be the best bait but snook, trout, jacks and ladyfish like artificial lures like the MirrOlure MirrOdine. This suspending hard plug works best letting it sink then giving it a twitch with the rod tip and another pause.

After the front, possibly by this weekend, look for trout to be around the river mouths and back up inside the creeks. 

Offshore the gag grouper bite remains good as long as weather permits safe boating. Trolling plugs, sardines and live pinfish are the best baits. 

High incoming tide will be in the morning this weekend. 

Homosassa Weekly Fishing Report from Captain William Toney

To schedule a fishing charter or shore lunch excursion with Captain Toney, visit his website.

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