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Daily fishing report

This winter has been a challenge. Long periods of unusually warm weather followed by short cold spells have made it tough to find large trout.

I fish from Clearwater to Tarpon Springs. There are several shallow spots that often hold lots of large trout for prolonged periods. This year, they are moving more often. You must stay on the move until you find some. Use a light line so you can make long casts.

Plugs that run shallow and suspend 10 to 12 inches under the surface have been working. Choose a plug with big eyes, rattles and natural coloration such as green back and silver sides. Work the lure slowly but with an erratic action.

When you locate some, switch to 6-inch plastic jerk baits so you don't do much damage with the treble hooks.

Lately, the spoil islands inside Honeymoon Island have had yellowmouths of up to 5 pounds. If you don't have any luck, try the flats just east of Anclote or move to the deeper water. Drift with the wind and use one-eighth-ounce jigs with plastic tails. Fish as deep as you can without hanging up in the grass.

Trout season is open south of Howard Park but closed to the north in February.

-- Capt. Wendell Akins charters the Drifter out of Crystal Beach (Palm Harbor). Call (727) 785-3018, or e-mail at drifterfishing@aol.com.

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