December 2024 - Winter Fishing Kicks In

December meant the return of sheepshead, as these fish stacked up around docks, rock piles, and piers. Fiddler crabs and live shrimp were must-have baits.

Black drum and speckled trout were also feeding well in residential canals and deeper flats, while pompano became a top target in the passes and on sandy-bottomed areas.

Offshore, hogfish and snapper fishing was at its best, with shrimp-tipped jigs producing plenty of action. Gag grouper season closed at the end of the month, so anglers focused on snapper, triggerfish, and amberjack.

🔹 Best Bait: Fiddler crabs for sheepshead; shrimp for pompano; live pinfish for offshore species

🔹 Hot Spots: Rod & Reel Pier for sheepshead; Longboat Pass for pompano; offshore wrecks for snapper