Gulf and near-shore fishing has been great lately especially if you can catch a day with a North wind. Big schools of Redfish are stacked off the bars East from the Destin pass. You can have all the fun you want using fluke style swim baits on jig heads. Live bait will also work but its a lot more fun on artificial!
Amberjack have been my go to lately. They are just too easy to target this time of year. We have still been using the butterfly jig method and it seems to be working the best. You can also weed out the smaller fish by upping the jig to a 6,7 or even 9 oz jig. Remember to beef up your tackle especially if fishing over steel structure. You will want something with stopping power – at least 20-25 lbs of drag for the bigger fish.
Of course, ALL the reef species are there if you want to have some fun catching and releasing. Snapper are thick as well as trigger fish. Frozen cigar minnows (AKA “Cig-Cicles”) will work but live shrimp is better.
Thanks for the report. I’m spending more time at our place in Bon Secour, AL, and am interested in trying to figure out the AJ and triggers this time of year.
You’re welcome. With amberjack, all you need is some relief and frisky baits or jigs. Preferably fish over steel like a shipwreck. Triggerfish are super easy. Small hooks on 30 lb test line using a “chicken rig.” Squid is the bait of choice for these guys. Give us a call if you have any questions. 850-428-0118
Preston <
Jan. fishing was very good this yr. Question, never tried the beach, wanted to ask if it be productive in the colder weather, using any kind of bait, or a waist time.