Because bait has remained around the outside sets of buoys in the Egmont Ships Channel, so have some kingfish. At markers 5 and 6 on Friday we caught a 20-pounder on a fly-lined cigar minnow. We were cut off several times using baits on gold-hook rigs. Until the water temperature settles below 70 degrees, kingfish won't mind hanging around.

Inshore grouper fishing (even in the bay), sheepshead fishing near rock piles and ledges, and working tandem jigs for silver trout are alternatives when unable to get offshore during December.

Live bait may not play as big a role during these colder months, although it's all I use for kingfish. I've done as well on dead bait for Christmastime grouper. When sheepshead fishing, I'll buy live shrimp but use pieces anyway. Silver trout aren't particularly picky about any number of artificials when they invade the gulf beaches.

If looking to fire up the smoker for the holiday season, now's the time. Youneed only a cast net. Recent cold fronts have alerted mullet to gather and prepare for the winter spawn. Large schools now can be seen on the surface in many areas along the waterfront.

Professional mullet netters prefer a 10- or 12-foot net with 21/2- to 3-inch mesh. Weight is a personal preference, but most are 14 to 18 pounds.

Restrictions vary, so learn the law where you'll be cast-netting.

- Jay Mastry charters Jaybird out of St. Petersburg. Call (727) 321-2142.

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