Your Guide to Winter Fishing in Franklin County, Florida

Mild winters and fewer crowds make Franklin County, Florida, an excellent destination for anglers. Whether you’re casting inshore, heading offshore, or exploring freshwater spots, the Forgotten Coast offers incredible winter fishing opportunities for all skill levels!

Inshore Fishing

Inshore and bay fishing heats up as temperatures cool down. Winter is prime time to target sheepshead around local bridges and pilings. Use small pieces of shrimp on a small, sturdy shank hook with a 30 lb leader. To draw fish closer, lightly scrape the pilings to stir up the area before casting your line.

You’ll also find redfish and trout in deeper holes throughout the Apalachicola Bay system. As the water cools, these species move to the lower parts of the river and bay. Focus your efforts during midday when the surface warms slightly.

Offshore & Deep Sea Fishing

Offshore anglers can enjoy action-packed trips in the cooler months. Mangrove snapper, lane snapper, Key West grunts, and black sea bass are all in season and ready to bite. For the best results, use small hooks with squid bait, light tackle, and 30 lb fluorocarbon leaders with 3/0 circle hooks.

Target waters outside large wrecks and ledges to avoid break-offs from bigger, out-of-season species. Light lines and small hooks work best for mangrove snapper. To bring them closer, chum the water with small chunks of bait. Once they swim up and become visible, cast a small baited hook nearby.

Although red snapper and gag grouper are out of season, they move closer to shore in winter. You cannot keep these species, but anglers enjoy catch-and-release fun just 4 to 5 miles offshore. Booking an offshore charter is highly recommended to target these species and make the most of your trip.

Freshwater Fishing

Winter is also a productive time for freshwater fishing along the Forgotten Coast. The Apalachicola River system is known for its healthy populations of bass, bream, and striped bass (stripers). Whether you prefer spinning tackle or fly fishing, the river offers plenty of options for a peaceful day on the water.

Book a Local Fishing Charter

If you’re new to the area or want expert guidance, consider hiring a local fishing guide. Charter captains along Florida’s Forgotten Coast know the best seasonal spots and tactics for landing your target species. Whether you choose inshore, offshore, or freshwater fishing, guided trips are a great way to ensure a successful day.

Ready to reel in your winter catch? Visit Florida’s Forgotten Coast for some of the best fishing in the state, and don’t forget to check out local tackle shops and charters to make your trip a success.

This winter fishing report is brought to you by Fisherman’s Choice, the Sportsman’s Headquarters of Florida’s Forgotten Coast since 1993. Locally owned and operated, Fisherman’s Choice provides a full selection of bait and tackle for inshore, offshore, bay, and freshwater fishing.