Georgia Saltwater Fishing Report – January 2009

Saltwater: Inshore: Capt. David Newlin reports a lot of trout being caught. “Live shrimp are still working well, but artificials have been doing great, too. Fish them deep and slow. A New Penny GULP shrimp has worked great. Redfish are still real shallow on warm days. Stripers have been biting in the Ogeechee River. Use live shrimp and Rapalas on the outgoing tide.” Capt. Bob Barnette said trout action has been great this month, with most boats catching a limit every trip. “If you are fishing St. Catherine’s Sound, a supply of live bait — both shrimp and mud minnows — can be found at Kilkenny Marina. With the water temp back up to 55 degrees and water starting to clear with the upcoming lower tides, you should find plenty of trout and redfish at the mouths of creeks and on the oyster reefs,” Bob said. “Fish an adjustable float for best results, changing the depths until you find the best depth. As the water gets colder and bait gets hard to find, you can switch to plastic lures like the GULP Shad or Screw Tail baits. Color should be controlled by water color and conditions. It is also time to start sheepshead fishing. The large 5-lb.-and-up fish will be making their way offshore to the near reefs for the winter. As always, fiddler crabs are the bait of choice, but a half-cooked oyster will also get you bites. Weather permitting, coastal fishing in January should be as good as it gets.”