Shore Thing Fishing Report, 12/20/2023

December 20, 2023

At this time of year, the two most important factors are weather and bait availability. When both are looking good, so is the fishing.
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- by Sonny Schindler, Shore Thing Fishing Charters

A nice trout for this lucky gentleman. Caught near Waveland.

The weather has made this past week difficult, but it’s looking like we will be able to get out more with this coming week's forecast. We will likely be running mostly nearshore trips. Our focus will be on the bridges, nearshore reefs, Wolf River, Jourdan River, and Pearl River.
 

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Conner Fristoe with a nice redfish caught near Heron Bay.

With the cooler temperatures, we try to leave later in the day to take advantage of the warmer temperatures. If you are lucky enough to time your warmer temperatures with a good tidal movement, your odds greatly increase. 
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Two big sheeps for this happy duo, caught near Bayou Caddy.

​Luckily, the local bait shops still have live shrimp. With the cooler water temps and clear water we’ve been having, the live shrimp makes a big difference. Not saying you won’t be able to catch fish on artificial baits, but the live or fresh dead shrimp make life much easier.
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Since we are relying so much on fishing structure, you’ll definitely want to bring extra hooks, weights, and leaders. On most days, the sheepshead, redfish, and black drum will be hanging pretty much in the structures (rocks, pilings, shells, etc.). Tight lines and lighter weights will help avoid snags, but plan on losing tackle.

Father Stephen Kidd with a keeper Sheepshead caught near Bay St. Louis.

The trout should start moving into some of the deeper holes. Typically, the colder the water, the deeper we start looking. Be advised many of the areas attract crowds. Please be courteous to other anglers and give them plenty of room. If they are in an area first, I’d recommend leaving them alone. Come back later or try and get there earlier next time.
 
If you have friends and family in town for the holidays, please try and get them outdoors. A bike ride downtown, a stroll on our amazing beaches, or a day fishing our beautiful waters are all options that will make wonderful memories with loved ones. Merry Christmas and happy holidays, everyone!
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