The Daily Catch | Fishing Report – January 2026
A Windy Start, But Still Making It Happen
January has definitely reminded us who’s boss out here. Between passing cold fronts and lingering winter winds, flexibility has been the name of the game this month. We’ve had to pick our weather windows carefully, shuffle trip plans when needed, and stay dialed in on what the Gulf was willing to give us — but despite the challenges, we’ve still been able to get plenty of quality fishing time in.
This time of year is never about forcing trips. It’s about working with the conditions, not against them. When the wind lays down, even briefly, we’re ready to go — and when it doesn’t, our shorter-range and nearshore options continue to produce steady action and happy crews.
Shorter Trips, Steady Action on the Bottom
On our shorter trips, bottom fishing has been the star of the show. Hogfish have been one of the most consistent targets this month, especially when we’re able to get on good hard bottom and ledges. They’re a wintertime favorite for a reason, and January delivered some solid fish.
Mixed in with the hogfish, we’ve been seeing plenty of Key West grunts and porgies, keeping rods bent and action steady throughout the trip. Mangrove snapper have also been making appearances, particularly around structure when conditions allow us to sit comfortably on a spot.
Puffer fish and seabass have added to the variety, making these trips great for families, newer anglers, and anyone just looking to enjoy a productive day on the water without running far. Even with winter weather in play, there’s no shortage of life down there when you fish smart and stay flexible.
Longer Trips Paying Off with Red Grouper
When weather windows allow us to stretch our legs a bit, the longer trips have been well worth it. Red grouper have been the highlight offshore, with some quality fish coming over the rails this month. These trips take a little more patience in January — waiting for the right conditions — but when everything lines up, the payoff has been solid.
Cold water tends to push grouper into predictable patterns, and once we locate them, it’s game on. These longer runs are ideal for anglers looking to target bigger bottom fish and maximize their time offshore during the winter months.
Catch-and-Release Gag Grouper Showing Strong
Another exciting sign this month has been the continued catch-and-release gag grouper action. While they remain protected right now, it’s always a good sign to see healthy numbers of gags showing up on our spots.
January has given us multiple encounters with quality gag grouper, which bodes very well for the months ahead. These fish are aggressive, powerful, and always a thrill to fight — even when they’re going back home. Seeing them consistently on the bottom is a great indicator of what’s to come as seasons shift.
Looking Ahead: Warming Water and What’s Coming Next
While January keeps us in winter mode, we’re already keeping an eye on what’s ahead. As water temperatures slowly start to climb over the next couple of months, things really begin to change out here. Once we start seeing that 68–72 degree range, the pelagic action starts waking up.
That’s when we begin seeing king mackerel and Spanish mackerel slide back into the picture, adding another exciting layer to our trips. It won’t be long before we’re mixing fast-paced trolling and live bait action back into the lineup alongside our bottom fishing.
Marina Construction Update: Progress in Motion
January has also been a month of movement back at the marina — literally. We’ve officially moved from our first temporary slip by the fuel docks to our second temporary location on the floating docks behind the marina building.
While construction always comes with a few growing pains, the progress has been exciting to watch. The new docks are absolutely beautiful, and once everything is complete, they’re going to be a huge upgrade for both us and our guests. If all continues to move smoothly, we’re hoping to be settled into our permanent slips before we know it.
We truly appreciate everyone’s patience during this transition and can’t wait to fully utilize the new setup once construction wraps up.
Final Thoughts on January
January might test our patience with wind and cold fronts, but it continues to reward anglers who stay flexible and trust the process. Between steady bottom fishing on shorter trips, red grouper on longer runs, and encouraging signs for the upcoming seasons, it’s been a solid start to the year.
As always, we’re watching the weather closely, adapting our game plan, and doing everything we can to put you on fish — no matter the month. Give us a call at 727-496-3474 or click HERE to book your next trip!
