We are back in Florida for the winter and the weather has gone from hot to almost freezing. Temperatures are running below normal and the water is cooling fast. Our first guide trip was very good, with some nice quality fish caught and released. The young boys both had the hot poles and caught the most fish. Their smiles told the whole story at the end of the day.

Once the water cools and starts to warm again, the bass will start to move shallow for the first spawn. The spawn will last over several cycles and the cold fronts will again have an adverse effect on the activity level of the fish. It makes fishing a challenge at times. A small change in the water temperature can make a huge difference in the bite.

If you are planning a trip to Florida and want to fish, you should consider using live shiners. Under the toughest conditions, it is possible to catch fish that will not look at artificial baits. The fish always tell us what they want, but sometimes, we just don't listen.

If you are not planning a trip south, but fish through the ice, wait for safe ice. Be safe and have a happy holiday season.

Frankhttp://mudlines.com