Cold Weather and Low Tides - The Perfect Time to Head For the Flats

There are often very low tides on the Texas Gulf Coast each winter due to strong "northers" that blow the water out of the bays. The low tides and cold water, however, deliver some of the better fishing conditions for the flats than any other time of year.

When temperatures drop near or below freezing, gamefish and bait will concentrate in deep water sanctuaries wherever it can be found. During the first two days of a norther, tidal currents will be minimal to nonexistent depending on the force of the wind. Starting the third day, however, a rapid improvement in conditions begins to occur and this is often the day that many anglers will head offshore almost guaranteed a high speed ride on slick water.

Back in the bay, the moderating weather and high pressure that sets in also presents great opportunities to flats fishermen. After sitting near bottom for two days with limited activity and food, reds and trout begin to emerge from the depths and venture upon flats and shallow reefs seeking the sun's warmth and a bite to eat. On cold mornings it's not necessary to be on the water at the crack of dawn. Instead, wait until the sun has risen enough to offer some solace to the cold fish. Generally, that will be around 9:00 or 10:00.

During this period of low water, it's often very easy to spot fish sitting on the flats in crystal clear water and conversely it's easier for them to spot you as well. Fish hanging in very shallow water can be very tricky to approach without spooking. A kayak would be the most stealthy of choices followed by wading and then drifting or poling a skiff. Trolling motors will sometimes scatter fish or heard them ahead of the boat and just out of sight and casting range. But at times they can be operated very effectively in shallow water, if done gently.

One thing to keep in mind when running the bays or flats in the winter is that the bay's bottom will be a lot closer to the hull than in the summer. Oyster reefs, lost crab traps, old tires, sunken logs, and who knows what else, are all waiting to take a bite if you're careless. Another thing to remember is to always wear a life jacket when running a boat. While there are fewer boating accidents in the winter, they are more likely to produce fatal results due to hypothermia.

Fishing on the Texas flats in winter can be better than any other time year. This is especially true in upper bay regions of the middle coast that aren't usually crystal clear. It can be a challenge to fish during winter, but it can be the best time of year, too!