Post-winter storm success: Brody sniffs out redfish on very cold day
Two weeks ago, after the bomb cyclone, snow, and inoperable boat landing gate, Elliott, Brody, and I managed to return back to fishing.
We launched the skiff into the falling tide. It was sunny but cold. The water temperature was 47 degrees. Unusually cold. Redfish can tolerate water temperatures in this range. However, trout struggle to survive.
Our first order of business was to check on trout. It was our hope that they moved into deeper water where the temperature was a bit warmer. We used our electronics to search for the trout stacked up in deep holes and channels.
There were no big schools to be found. This was very worrisome. We did locate a couple of small schools and managed to catch and release a few. Over the next week or so, the impact of usually cold water on our trout population will become more clear.
With the trout seemingly struggling to survive, Brody suggested that we target redfish. Elliott and I recalled the large school of redfish we found before the storm. So, we bundled up for the cold ride up the Wando River.
Upon arrival, the water was extremely clear, and Brody (the amazing fish-finding and stock-trading dog) immediately located the school. I commented to Elliott that it was a good thing Brody could find fish because his MSTR and IBIT holdings were dropping like the water temperature.
When we stopped laughing, I cast a gold flake Z-Man MinnowZ on a quarter-ounce jig in front of the school.
In the clear water, we were able to see a redfish move forward and inhale the lure. For the next hour, we enjoyed a hot bite on a very cold day. The redfish were hungry and abundant. It seems they survived the bomb cyclone just fine.
FISHING CLASS UPDATE
The community fishing class will be held on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to noon. The location is yet to be determined, but it will be on or near Daniel Island. There are a few seats still available. Send me an email at captgregp@gmail.com, if you would like to attend.