Outdoors

Captain's Corner

By Dave Walker, Times Correspondent
Published February 11, 2008

What's hot: Speckled trout have made a tremendous comeback in the past few years. They are actively feeding and are a viable target for all ages. Deep holes adjacent to grass flats or dropoffs are a great place to target specks.

Tackle: Ultralight gear can be used for winter trout. Smaller gauged equipment adds an extra element of fun. Subtle strikes can be more easily detected with light lines and tackle. Trout are not strong fighters, but a limber rod is much more useful with a fish that has the propensity to shake its head like crazy. Trout have soft skin and mouths, so fight slowly and release carefully. Using a release tool or wet hand or not touching the fish will help it survive after capture. Their slime layer controls disease.

Tip: Time is running out for servicing equipment and tackle for the spring. The large seasonal influx of greenbacks has begun, and the feeding floodgates are about to open. Mechanics and repair shops are still slow. This is also a good time to go over the rules and regulations for various species. The rules change periodically, and it is anglers' responsibility to adhere to the management rules.

Dave Walker charters out of Tampa and can be reached via snookfish.com, captdavewalker@verizon.net or 813 310-6531.

[Last modified February 10, 2008, 22:07:12]