WINTER FISHING DOLDRUMS? HEAD TO THE KEYS
by Capt. Tom Rowland

Tom Rowland, owner and operator of Big Blue Fishing guide service and one of the most noted saltwater anglers in the world (over 65 tournament titles and appearance on more than 25 national television shows), says now is the time to leave the cold behind and come to sunny Florida for quality fishing. Here's his report on what you'll find.

December and January fishing in the Florida Keys is a time full of action and excitement. Everyone can find a species or style of fishing that suits their liking as almost every species is available and active.

On the flats, the cold fronts will usher in the needlefish and baitfish and that means predators like barracuda, sharks and jack crevalle will be coming into the shallow, clear water to feed. Following behind the rays, anglers will find both cobia and jacks watching for any available meal. The grand slam species of permit, bonefish and tarpon are all available through the winter months but cold temperatures do have an impact on them so they can be difficult to find at times.

Inshore waters abound with Cero and Spanish Mackerel, barracuda, cobia and permit. These fish will congregate around structure such as wrecks and coral heads. While many fish are visible to the angler right on the surface, dropping live baits to the bottom can result in terrific action for Mutton Snapper, Grouper and Goliath Grouper.

Offshore anglers will find Sailfish, Wahoo and Kingfish as the target species, while fishing for Blackfin Tuna at this time can also be productive.

I know planning a fishing trip like these can be an intimidating process. Many services and guides make claims on their websites and brochures. But thanks to the Internet, finding a good and reputable match for what you want to do is no longer the nightmare it used to be. I simply recommend you spend some time surfing around and comparing testimonials and credentials with the guide services most appealing to your interests.

You can visit my website at saltwaterexperience.com.

Come and soak in the sun and thaw out those old bones with us this winter in the Florida Keys.

Captain Tom Rowland
Quantum Saltwater Pro Staff