After a very Merry Christmas with family and friends, it’s time to get back on the water and ring in the New Year.

Fishing in the rivers on the Big Bend is still producing black drum, sheepshead, small redfish, some keeper trout, and mangrove snapper. What I always enjoy even after more than 20 years of full-time guiding, accomplished anglers still have fun fishing upriver and catching ladyfish, jacks, and snook. On occasion, I’ve seen a few largemouth bass come boat side, that’s a cool mix with the saltwater species all up in the fresh water.

For trout, they are near the river mouths and deep creeks. Use soft plastics or a suspending plug to get the bite. On the nearshore rocks the sheepshead are moving in and, as we get closer to the next full
moon, it will be the peak time for them. Live shrimp on a 1/ oz. jighead is the best bait. Cast towards the sand on the edge of the structure and wait for a slow and steady pull in the line before setting the
hook.

High incoming tide will be very early morning or late evening this weekend.

Just want to say thanks to all the anglers who read my reports, I appreciate you. Happy New Years

Homosassa Inshore Fishing Report from Captain William Toney

To schedule a fishing charter or shore lunch excursion with Captain Toney, visit his website. A third-generation fishing guide in the Homosassa area, a member of the Homosassa Guides Association, and author of the Homosassa Inshore Fishing Report each week in NatureCoaster.com.

To read about our Shore Lunch excursion with Captain Toney, click here.

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If you enjoy Captain Toney’s weekly Homosassa Inshore Fishing Report, please be sure to tell your friends!