|
|
|
|
|
Jesse's Hunting > Fishing Articles > Fishing Articles Archives > Inshore Fishing for Speckled Trout
Inshore Fishing for Speckled Trout
Mike Gilmore - JHO Pro Staff
February 06, 2004
One fish you can count on to be plentiful all year long in coastal waters is the Spotted Seatrout. These fish, normally called "Specks" to most saltwater fisherman, create an awesome challenge,whether you like to fish live bait or artificials. Spotted Seatrout migrate up in the freshwater rivers in the colder months ,and as it warms near spring they head back to the warmer waters of the grass flats. "Specks" are vivacious predators, and will eat nearly anything that resembles a small baitfish or shrimp.
The biggest debate when it comes to "Speck " fisherman is, the type of bait to use. Veteran anglers tend to use only artificial baits such as Sting Ray Grubs, D.O.A. Shrimp , or Mirrolure style plugs. Their philosophy tends to support the old saying "The bigger the bait,the bigger the fish". This method is less messy and does away with the trouble of having to aerate live baits . It also tends to attract larger fish and you dont have to worry about small trashfish raiding your hook every cast.
If quick action is sought , try live bait. "Specks" can't resist a big live shrimp or alewive. These baits normally provide more action but don't always produce the biggest trout. Normally trashfish will be more aggressive towards your live bait and this could turn out more costly at the days end. Subsequently ,most of the time your about to run out of live bait is when the "bite turns on".
If you decide you want to target "Specks", I would recommend a good incoming tide,that is moving. In the warmer months head out to the grass flats where the water is shallower and warmer. These flats will be covered with small prey,such as shrimp,small pinfish and rain minnows. The larger predatory fish cruise these flats looking for a meal,and basking in the sun. Tackle should consist of a small spinning type reel and rod,rated for at least 6-12 lb. line, a box of small #4 single hooks and a few split shot in case the current is rapid. Two methods are usually employed on the flats. They would be drifting up an down the flats in a small boat or wade fishing about waist deep while standing in the grass.
In addition to be a lot of fun to catch and great to eat, Specks are nice to look at.
Soft artificial baits normally consist of some type of lead weight incorporated into the lure. Sting Ray Grubs have a small 1/4 or 1/2 ounce lead head,and D.O.A. Shrimp have a weight built in the belly. These lures are normally cast out and then slow-retrieved, while bouncing it off the bottom through the grass. Another method is with floater-style hard plugs. Once cast and floating, twitch them a few times while retreiving to simulate an injured baitfish.
"Live bait fishing ,with shrimp or minnows changes your method just slightly. Usually nothing more than a single hook through your bait will work. This allows your bait to swim and creates the most natural look ,which tends to attract "Specks" quicker. Just add a small split shot as needed to slow the movement ,if the current or tide is moving.
Winter months are when the "Specks" start to migrate toward the rivers to find warmer water holes. The baitfish and shrimp disappear off the flats and they also tend to find deeper holes for warmer water. You can fish the same techniques in these holes,and normally you will find a bounty of fish balled up together. Once you find these spots its not uncommon to catch several nice trout back to back. The winter migration to the river is also a great chance to entertain children with catching thier share of these fine fish. During the migration these trout can be targeted with reliablity and several hours of non-stop fishing will take place. These trout tend to be the smaller ones but , larger specimens are caught if patience is in order.
Specks" normally range in size from 1lb. to the average of 3 1/2 lbs. Larger fish are not uncommon in the 5 to 6 lb. range, and in states like Louisisana, trophys over 10 lbs. are possible. "Specks" make great table fare when broiled and are sure to make your mouth water when battered and fried.
So if you're looking for a species that you can target all year long and still get a change of scenery, give the Spotted Seatrout a cast or two. The pure enjoyment and hard hitting action of these fish is guaranteed to put a grin on anyone's face, and a great meal on the table.
Tight Lines!
~ Mike Gilmore
JHO field writer & pro staff
|
|
|
|
|
