This week’s Clearwater skinny water redfish sightfishing charter report followed the recent stretch of abnormally cold temperatures that led to localized fish kills around parts the Gulf Coast. While the cold definitely affected some areas, the system remains healthy and we were still able to locate active fish by focusing on protected backwater flats that warmed quickly once the sun came up. These trips were run on our Gheenoe, which allowed us to reach extremely shallow water that most boats simply cannot access. Late morning incoming sun warmed the dark bottom and pulled fish onto the flats, and we were able to sightfish some big redfish cruising in as little as 6 inches of water. Instead of blind casting, my clients were spotting individual fish, planning the cast, and watching the eat — that's sightfishing at its best!. These one-on-one trips really shine in these conditions. With only a single angler on board I can pole quietly, control boat position, and take time setting up each shot. These trips are especially rewarding for experienced anglers who want to make accurate presentations and target larger fish rather than just catch numbers. Several quality redfish were landed, and many more were seen tailing and pushing wakes across the shallow flats. Even with the focus on redfish, the rest of the winter fishery continues to produce. Trout fishing remains strong with gator trout over 20 inches still being caught along deeper grass edges, and the clear water continues to make spotting sheepshead around structure surprisingly easy on inshore trips. Cold weather always changes fish behavior, but it also concentrates them into predictable patterns. By adjusting locations and timing, we were able to stay on feeding fish and experience some of the most technical and exciting fishing of the season.

It has been crazy hot but just like us, the fish are going to eat a few times a day. The early morning bite is great but only if its paird up with the right conditions. We are breaking in the new boat right now so we can take groups of up to 6 people now. Come see how hot the bite is for yourself. Till then TIGHTLINES

Book your trip today and lets get you an inshore slam!

Incredible bite going on right now! No wind, great viability and big fish!

Nothing better than sight fishing these big redfish on the flats in clear water! Come find out for yourself. The fishing has been hot!

2025 Winter fishing in Clearwater, Dunedin, and Tampa Bay is in full swing, and January is prime time for anglers looking to load the cooler with tasty sheepshead while also tangling with hard-fighting redfish. Cooler water temperatures have pushed baitfish into deeper holes and around structure, creating ideal conditions for targeting these species on a Clearwater fishing charter. Where to Find the Fish Sheepshead love structure this time of year. Docks, bridge pilings, and rock jetties are loaded with these stripe-sided bait thieves. Redfish, meanwhile, often school up on sunny afternoons in shallow potholes and around mangrove edges. On our charters, we keep a close eye on the tides, as lower water levels make redfish more predictable and easier to spot. Best Bait and Tackle Live shrimp is king for sheepshead in January. We thread them onto small, strong hooks with just enough weight to get them to the strike zone. For redfish, cut mullet and live pinfish are reliable choices. We exclusively use Shimano spinning rods and reels for their smooth drag systems and durability, which is essential when pulling fish from heavy structure. Tactics for Success Target sheepshead during slower moving tides for better hook-ups. For redfish, approach quietly in shallow water — they can be skittish in the clear winter water. Use fluorocarbon leaders to avoid spooking fish. Why Book a January Charter? Cooler weather means fewer boats on the water, clearer water conditions, and cooperative fish. Whether you’re after a tasty dinner or a photo-worthy catch-and-release redfish, January delivers. From our Blog at TightlinesCharter. you know the rest.