Captain's Corner

By JIM HUDDLESTON, Times Correspondent
Published January 20, 2008

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What's hot: Dramatic swings in water temperature have made versatility key at the flats. Having artificial tackle options and a bucket of live shrimp will helpcoax trout and redfish that are finding comfort zones. The spoil islands aren't holding schools like years past. The shallow waters along the main shore and inside bayous are producing more quality. Look for deeper, sandy potholes in 2-3 feet. A swifter current attracts larger female trout, which attacksoft plastics. Dark colors blend inand prompt bites when bounced along the bottom. Redfish are using oyster bars and channel drop-offs to feed on the incoming tides. A select-sized shrimp free-lined with a No. 4 split shot keeps the bait in the strike zone longer.

Pro's tips: By drifting edges of grass flats and throwing lures covering all levels of the water column, a pattern of where the fish are forms.

Jim Huddleston charters out of Tampa, Palm Harbor and Clearwater and can be reached at 727 439-9017 or atjim@captainhud.com.