What’s next, what now?

Predator257

So, if you’ve read any of my previous posts, you’ll know I’m new to fishing the gulf (2yrs) and boating (1yr). I haven’t just slayed the fish to the point of picking up sponsors or anything, but had done pretty good for someone new and figuring things out on their own. After Gouper season, I’m left wondering what now? I know Redfish in the backwater and trout, but anything else? Sharks are gone, Cobia not here yet. I don’t have the confidence yet for the skinny water unless just putting around with the trolling motor. I need to do my homework on Grouper spots to mark for next year. I find myself more out doing the near shore fishing, so just wondering if there was anything else besides inshore reds and trout this time of year. When will things change up?

Saltygatorvet

Inshore. Sight fishing reds in super skinny water, much more challenging and rewarding than soaking bait in holes or blind casting the flats. Sheephead if you like a great meal and like to let the reds swim. The bigger ones pull like crazy especially in current. Offshore, hogfish on a hook and line is challenging and extremely rewarding. Mangrove snapper are a good bet and delicious. Ajs are always fun even out of season. If that isn’t challenging enough, you can do it all with only artificials then when you dominate that, go to fly. Enjoy and Good luck

Predator257

My daughter loves the Sheepshead for a meal and a catch, but I’ve never gotten into any on my own. How far out are AJ’s? Only ever found scattered small mangrove snapper. I venture 9 miles out the Withlacootchie frequently and have gone at most maybe 14 miles or so. I’m working my way out to see what’s out there.

bunkerboy222

Hey Predator,
I too am a greenhorn and new to this type of fishing,don't give up,seek and you will find!
Ask questions.There are a lot of helpful and knowledgable members of this forum who will
give plenty of good intel.......but don't ask for numbers Use days that are not fishable get out 
at low tides and find the oyster bars and holes that may hold fish.And just remember 90% of the fish
are caught by 10% of the fisherman and 90% of the fish are caught in 10% of the water.
I'm still looking for that 10% mark                    Mike
 

Predator257

Yeah, Asking for numbers seems tacky to me. I just don’t know enough about what fish are coming in and what fish leave on a month to month basis. If I get pointed in the right direction by someone, we’ll find fish. I’m good with doing my homework, Watching the Florida Real Time Sportsman has helped me know what to do. Knowing what to do out of Yankeetown is just a bit more specific.

Saltygatorvet

Finding it in your own is most of the fun. You wanted to know about other target fish and I gave you a handful.  There are plenty of fish to master, lots to keep your from getting bored. Enjoy and Good luck

Jim311

Sheepshead are on nearshore rocks right now and a common offshore nearshore target this time of year.

Predator257

Thanks for the input so far guys. Got to do some homework and looking forward to getting home from my work deployment, some warmer weather, and getting back out on the boat.

bunkerboy222

Pitchers and Catchers will soon be on the fields........Daytona 500 right around the corner.......38 days till Daylight Saving Time.......Just need a little warm weather to shake the cobwebs!