With mild winters, it’s the perfect time to enjoy one of Coastal Mississippi’s signature experiences – fishing! We asked several of our local charter captains about winter fishing, and they had plenty of expert insight to share.
What makes winter and early spring fishing in Coastal Mississippi unique?
“This time of year is productive for redfish, black drum and sheepshead. Speckled trout and flounder are not seen as much, but you can still catch some action inshore,” said Biloxi Cruise Company, LLC, Owner Mike Moore.
Nearshore reefs are teeming with life, and since these reefs are closer to shore, you do not have to worry about long and cold boat rides. Being close to the mainland is a nice treat!
Springtime also brings the pelagic fish, including cobia, Spanish mackerel, jack crevalle, Florida pompano and more. You will have to get farther offshore, but our captains are up for the challenge!
What type of trip do you recommend for someone who has never fished during these months?
Captain Bryan K. Cuevas of Team Mega Bite says, “I would recommend a 6-hour trip. On my charter, we are able to fish inshore and offshore around the barrier islands within that 6-hour window.”
What type of trip do you recommend for an avid fisherman who wants to try something different?
“If the conditions are perfect, our sight-fishing trips to the Louisiana Marsh are very cool. If the winds are light, the sun is out, and the water is clean, it is unbelievable. You actually see, stalk and cast to redfish in shallow water ponds, deep inside the marsh,” said Owner of Shore Thing Fishing Charters Sonny Schindler.
What’s your favorite aspect to fishing in Coastal Mississippi during this time of the year?
Overwhelmingly, our captains answer with larger fish! Also, the fish are closer to the docks, which means a shorter ride to get bigger, hard-fighting fish that you can bring to one our certified cook your catch restaurants! This list includes Ole Biloxi Fillin’ Station, Shaggy’s locations in Biloxi and Pass Christian, Morton’s The Steakhouse at Golden Nugget Biloxi, Hook Gulf Coast Cuisine, and The Blind Tiger in Biloxi and Bay St. Louis.
How to get started planning your trip:
- Check out a full list of fishing charters here. Select your amenities, ranging from diving to rig fishing to overnight trips and more.
- Reach out to your captain to check on availability and book your trip.
- Find the perfect place to rest your head by viewing all lodging options here.
- Build out the rest of your trip with visits to gaming resorts, unique events, attractions and museums, tours, incredible dining, shopping in walkable districts, golfing, and plenty of headlining entertainment!
Thanks to these captains for sharing what they love about winter and early spring fishing in Coastal Mississippi, and we can't wait to see you catch the big one on The Secret Coast!
A special thanks to Captain Kyle Johnson of Coastal Waters Outfitters for photos.
