This video is spot on based on my experience as well. Simply great info partner. My only objection is jerkbaits (for stripers/rockfish). Worked slowly, they are as effective as the hardbaits worked slowly. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us. You are making many fishermen better, including me. Your 6 mistakes video is watched a lot to drill it into my head so I can use it while on the water in difficult situations.
Great information. Thanks Capt.! Here in NC finding the holes is the key and I love the MR18 when others are using the Mr17. Love how it gets down and has that wiggle to it unlike the Mr17. Another you may want to consider is the Slick Jr! Great cold weather bait here in NC! Trout love it!
Incredible video CA, spot on. Over here on the East Coast we are having the same fish behaviors - easy to find but hard to entice. I've been trying to better understand the cast or pattern that finally gets them to eat. But now i'm convinced the answer is 1 - later in the morning, and 2 - the cast in just the right place that allows me to move it very slowly while still getting the attention I need. Now if I can just learn how to fish in deep water I'd be set! 😀
I think im going to try some zman curly tail or grub style bait for trout here in NC. Im mostly a paddle tail guy but what you are saying makes a lot of sense
CA I tried taking your advice and used TRD finesse and it was extremely frustrating. Even with the weedless hook, the amount of weeds I kept getting in mosquito lagoon was unbelievable. Is there a better hook set up ?
You've probably found a solution for this already but here's a couple suggestions. The Z-Man Pro Bulletz 3/0 works well with those TRD baits. Also take a look at some Shaky Head style jigheads. Baits like the Trick Shotz pair well with them.
I was wondering if you could go into detail about bite leaders and how they protect from gills and teeth. The main line to the leader to the bite leader, knots, and when to use fluorocarbon and monofilament leaders, and different line diameters.
I've been using/zman diesel for several years now. Would you recommend adding a procure bait scent to the package?? I really enjoy your channel and advice. Along with trying to support your sponsors. Great channel, keep up the great work and HAPPY NEW YEAR to you and your family.
Capt CA I'm in the western panhandle. Great info here. I'd like to suggest a braid. We use white TASLINE 16lb. Casts like a dream. Easy to get wind knots out of. Maybe give it a try. Since my switch to this line my casting distance improved by 30 ft or more. Its hard to move deeper here for me but gonna continue to work at it for myself and my customers.
Ya know what a good video would be is talking about pre course planning in shallow areas and also learning to read the water , I’m slightly more experienced as a young boater than most , but just now getting my first nice boat 2013 Sundance f19 I’m more nervous to go in some of the same places I did in my 14 foot Johnson skiff , I know it drafts a true 6 inches at rest and I’m clueless as to how deep she runs on plane , discussing these things will help many boaters of all ages learn to navigate their boat safer
Loving the videos captain. I was searching for a light baitcasting setup after recently watching a lot of your ned rig/finesse style videos/tips. After lots and lots of research I purchased a Lews Speed Stick Inshore casting rod, 7ft/medium light/1/16-1/4oz lure weight and paired it with a curado BFS (I bought two Curado DC-150s bcs of you so I wanted to stick with another Curado but a BFS setup for small lures). Threw 10lb power pro on it with about 20" of 20lb Fluro, paired it with the 1/6oz Texas Eyed Finesse Jig and a 3" Diesel Minnow Z in Smelt color. That is a light, finesse, and natural colored setup. Would ya know, first fish on it on 2-Jan in Yankeetown area is a 27" redfish. Ended up getting a half dozen redfish and equal amounts of trout, all on that setup. Slow retrieve was the key as well. Thank you so much for your videos.
I’m still learning and was wondering how y’all are keeping from getting hung up on the bottom when reeling very slow? I keep losing so many lures doing this. Assuming it’s rocks where I’m fishing.
The fish are in heavy cover and structure. I have been catching loads of crappie, bluegills, yellow bass and wiper. Much better in the winter time for me lol
Great video Captain C.A. I've really got in to using a lot of the ned style baits from Zman after watching your videos and it has really paid off for me. I have a question about rigging those baits. They make the ned head in both a weedless and non-weedless style. I seem to always gravitate to the weedless type. Is there a time when you would definitely go with the non-weedless ned head over the weedless one? Thanks and love your videos!
Wisconsin guy coming down to Crystal River next and bringing my kayak. Does a drop shot rig make sense? You can wiggle it and work it reeeeeealy sloooooow..
Are you sure were doing it right ? Im kinda like the fish , i like it 75 to 70 degrees also , im thinking i need a liveaboard and continue south with the fish , until it warms up then migrate back .. that makes me wonder if were not as smart as a fish , we dont do that , im in sw florida already , but it aint 75 or 70 , i think i need to keep going south ???
Outstanding information as usual! I’ve sought out Spinning reels that don’t collect a lot of line just for winter fishing since i’m too stubborn to learn a bait caster .
Why I'm not catching fish this winter? Mainly because I am not out there... either I am working or the weather is very unpleasant. This work thing is seriously interfering with my fishing.
I'm about$36,000 into a trout and a sea robin. I need help. I've bought lure after lure. Watched video after video. Still can't catch fish. Joined clubs the whole trip. Still can't seem to catch fish. I'm in North Florida. It'll pick up I'm sure. The more I explore and try new things the better my chances I guess. I won't quit.
If you’re rigging and working your lures correctly (assuming they’re the right size and profile) and not catching fish they are probably not there where you’re fishing or are not actively feeding. I’ve been going out fishing the flats for two years straight and my goodness it takes time and persistence to learn how to find them. What I do is pick a targeted location and maneuver the boat such that I can drift into my desired spot (a point, a drop off, a man-made spoil island 🏝️, etc) and try to creep up on them. No trolling motor or anything. 20-30 minute drifts tops and if nothing meaningful happens DO NOT hesitate to move (doesn’t have to be far from your first spot) and repeat.
Tie on a 3" paddletail (Zman Minnowz) on a 1/8oz. or 1/4oz. Trout Eye jighead with a loop knot....and throw it until your arm falls off. Fish zones that are 1-5ft deep near oyster bars, mangroves, docks, sand bars, current breaks, sea walls, etc. Slow to medium speed, and steady. A medium to medium-light spinning outfit with 15lb braid and 25-30lb leader is a great all-purpose light tackle setup. A paddle tail with catch literally everything that swims year-round and you can cover a lot of water with it. Tight lines!
@@stratpaulguy86 I agree man that 3” minnowZ or even a damn slim swimZ on a finesse Texas eye 👁️ weedless jig is a deadly combo and will get eaten by literally anything.
Good video. The prawn z man shrimp is great for the cold temp aswell.
Pronunciation a lot of videos in my day I'm 70 years old but there's a lot that you teach this is thanks for being you
This video is spot on based on my experience as well. Simply great info partner. My only objection is jerkbaits (for stripers/rockfish). Worked slowly, they are as effective as the hardbaits worked slowly. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us. You are making many fishermen better, including me. Your 6 mistakes video is watched a lot to drill it into my head so I can use it while on the water in difficult situations.
Great information. Thanks Capt.! Here in NC finding the holes is the key and I love the MR18 when others are using the Mr17. Love how it gets down and has that wiggle to it unlike the Mr17. Another you may want to consider is the Slick Jr! Great cold weather bait here in NC! Trout love it!
I've been slaying it in NW florida on live shrimp/slow working small paddle tails.
Feed a person a fish and they will eat for the day! Teach a person to fish and they will eat for a lifetime! Gratitude
This time of year is my most epic day
Incredible video CA, spot on. Over here on the East Coast we are having the same fish behaviors - easy to find but hard to entice. I've been trying to better understand the cast or pattern that finally gets them to eat. But now i'm convinced the answer is 1 - later in the morning, and 2 - the cast in just the right place that allows me to move it very slowly while still getting the attention I need. Now if I can just learn how to fish in deep water I'd be set! 😀
I think im going to try some zman curly tail or grub style bait for trout here in NC. Im mostly a paddle tail guy but what you are saying makes a lot of sense
Great Vid. Keep them coming.
CA I tried taking your advice and used TRD finesse and it was extremely frustrating. Even with the weedless hook, the amount of weeds I kept getting in mosquito lagoon was unbelievable. Is there a better hook set up ?
You've probably found a solution for this already but here's a couple suggestions. The Z-Man Pro Bulletz 3/0 works well with those TRD baits. Also take a look at some Shaky Head style jigheads. Baits like the Trick Shotz pair well with them.
This video is terrific! Great information. Thanks!!!!
Great info, I’ve definitely caught more fish watching your videos.
I was wondering if you could go into detail about bite leaders and how they protect from gills and teeth. The main line to the leader to the bite leader, knots, and when to use fluorocarbon and monofilament leaders, and different line diameters.
I've been using/zman diesel for several years now. Would you recommend adding a procure bait scent to the package?? I really enjoy your channel and advice. Along with trying to support your sponsors. Great channel, keep up the great work and HAPPY NEW YEAR to you and your family.
Ty for that will start using longer leader line,
Capt CA I'm in the western panhandle. Great info here. I'd like to suggest a braid. We use white TASLINE 16lb. Casts like a dream. Easy to get wind knots out of. Maybe give it a try. Since my switch to this line my casting distance improved by 30 ft or more. Its hard to move deeper here for me but gonna continue to work at it for myself and my customers.
Happy New Year. Great video Capt. Very informative.
Catching the heck out of them just around the bend from you guys. Good info as usual.
Ya know what a good video would be is talking about pre course planning in shallow areas and also learning to read the water , I’m slightly more experienced as a young boater than most , but just now getting my first nice boat 2013 Sundance f19 I’m more nervous to go in some of the same places I did in my 14 foot Johnson skiff , I know it drafts a true 6 inches at rest and I’m clueless as to how deep she runs on plane , discussing these things will help many boaters of all ages learn to navigate their boat safer
Great Info, Thanks for all you do!
Loving the videos captain. I was searching for a light baitcasting setup after recently watching a lot of your ned rig/finesse style videos/tips. After lots and lots of research I purchased a Lews Speed Stick Inshore casting rod, 7ft/medium light/1/16-1/4oz lure weight and paired it with a curado BFS (I bought two Curado DC-150s bcs of you so I wanted to stick with another Curado but a BFS setup for small lures). Threw 10lb power pro on it with about 20" of 20lb Fluro, paired it with the 1/6oz Texas Eyed Finesse Jig and a 3" Diesel Minnow Z in Smelt color. That is a light, finesse, and natural colored setup. Would ya know, first fish on it on 2-Jan in Yankeetown area is a 27" redfish. Ended up getting a half dozen redfish and equal amounts of trout, all on that setup. Slow retrieve was the key as well. Thank you so much for your videos.
BFS is addictive! These days I'm using BFS or a heavy outfit with big swimsuits.
I’m still learning and was wondering how y’all are keeping from getting hung up on the bottom when reeling very slow? I keep losing so many lures doing this. Assuming it’s rocks where I’m fishing.
The fish are in heavy cover and structure. I have been catching loads of crappie, bluegills, yellow bass and wiper. Much better in the winter time for me lol
Well done
Great video Captain C.A. I've really got in to using a lot of the ned style baits from Zman after watching your videos and it has really paid off for me. I have a question about rigging those baits. They make the ned head in both a weedless and non-weedless style. I seem to always gravitate to the weedless type. Is there a time when you would definitely go with the non-weedless ned head over the weedless one? Thanks and love your videos!
Wisconsin guy coming down to Crystal River next and bringing my kayak. Does a drop shot rig make sense? You can wiggle it and work it reeeeeealy sloooooow..
All my poles are 8 lb mono
Great video C.A.! Do you think a spy bait the bass guys use, would work for trout in the winter? Thank you sir!
Are you sure were doing it right ? Im kinda like the fish , i like it 75 to 70 degrees also , im thinking i need a liveaboard and continue south with the fish , until it warms up then migrate back .. that makes me wonder if were not as smart as a fish , we dont do that , im in sw florida already , but it aint 75 or 70 , i think i need to keep going south ???
Outstanding information as usual! I’ve sought out Spinning reels that don’t collect a lot of line just for winter fishing since i’m too stubborn to learn a bait caster .
A magnetic braked baitcaster is child's play.
Gonna be trying steinhatchee for the first time this month. Never fished for reds before any suggestions
How do you feel about red braid?
Good stuff.
Why I'm not catching fish this winter? Mainly because I am not out there... either I am working or the weather is very unpleasant. This work thing is seriously interfering with my fishing.
No braids 8 lb mono 20 lb mono leader this time of year
How to tie a red Phillip knot
I'm about$36,000 into a trout and a sea robin. I need help. I've bought lure after lure. Watched video after video. Still can't catch fish. Joined clubs the whole trip. Still can't seem to catch fish. I'm in North Florida. It'll pick up I'm sure. The more I explore and try new things the better my chances I guess. I won't quit.
If you’re rigging and working your lures correctly (assuming they’re the right size and profile) and not catching fish they are probably not there where you’re fishing or are not actively feeding. I’ve been going out fishing the flats for two years straight and my goodness it takes time and persistence to learn how to find them. What I do is pick a targeted location and maneuver the boat such that I can drift into my desired spot (a point, a drop off, a man-made spoil island 🏝️, etc) and try to creep up on them. No trolling motor or anything. 20-30 minute drifts tops and if nothing meaningful happens DO NOT hesitate to move (doesn’t have to be far from your first spot) and repeat.
Tie on a 3" paddletail (Zman Minnowz) on a 1/8oz. or 1/4oz. Trout Eye jighead with a loop knot....and throw it until your arm falls off. Fish zones that are 1-5ft deep near oyster bars, mangroves, docks, sand bars, current breaks, sea walls, etc. Slow to medium speed, and steady. A medium to medium-light spinning outfit with 15lb braid and 25-30lb leader is a great all-purpose light tackle setup. A paddle tail with catch literally everything that swims year-round and you can cover a lot of water with it. Tight lines!
@@stratpaulguy86 I agree man that 3” minnowZ or even a damn slim swimZ on a finesse Texas eye 👁️ weedless jig is a deadly combo and will get eaten by literally anything.
Have you gone on any charters?
I’ve been crushing it with the Zman swimming trout trick in that fried chicken color. Reds haven’t turned it down yet.
Bc I can't go fishing anymore bc this world is going to hell
😂😂 understandable
I’m a Nole and also Yak