Pine Island Sound Fishing Report on 26th Dec, 2025

Here is the breakdown for the week of December 26, 2025:

The Inshore Report

• Sheepshead: This is the star of the show right now. As the water cools, "convicts" are moving onto dock pilings, bridge footings (especially the Matlacha Bridge), and oyster bars. Use small pieces of fresh shrimp or fiddler crabs on a #1 or 1/0 circle hook.

• Redfish: Look for "tailers" on the shallow flats during the low afternoon tides. With negative tides predicted around midday, focus on the edges of deep-water creeks and mangrove shorelines.

• Trout: Seatrout are scattered across the 3- to 5-foot grassy flats. Drifting with a popping cork and live shrimp or slow-working a soft plastic paddle tail is the most consistent way to find them.

• Snook: Most snook have retreated into the warmer backcountry canals and up the Caloosahatchee River. They are a bit lethargic due to the temp drop, so slow down your presentation.