Bass season is cranking up on Rodman Reservoir and the rest of Florida as well. Of course bass fishing is good year round but, winter comes with your best chance for that fish of a lifetime. My customers catch more fish over 8 lbs this time of year than any other with several double digit fish caught. Most guides will use wild caught shiners for bait as they also increase your odds for big fish. I’m not opposed to clients throwing artificial baits but, I would reluctantly go without live bait as well. Always remember when fishing artificial to do your homework to determine what baits are best for the water you’re fishing and time of year. We (guides) get a chuckle when folks say “we use these back home”. Well your not home. Local tackle shops are the best source to get set up.
Water temps are below 70 degrees now and the females are swelling fat and hungry. For you crappie guys the males are starting to fan beds and they should be schooling up soon. I don’t guide crappie trips anymore due to their fickle nature. I can however point you to some of the bast crappie guides around Central Florida.
On a recent trip I had the pleasure of taking two young boys from Colorado out and scored a number of quality fish between 3 to five pounds. Conditions were cold and rainey the entire half day trip. The fish of the day was a sweet 9 pounder caught by a 13 year old. He’ll fish a long time before he beats that personal best. This was the families first time fishing in Florida and they will be back. Remember to book ahead. Guides schedules fill up fast this time of year and it’s almost impossible to get bait without ordering at least 3 to 4 days before your trip. Good Luck!
Captain Chris Davy 386-986-79814 
southernfriedcharters.com 