FISHING REPORT
Winter Redfish & Snook Report
Pine Island Sound • Matlacha • Sanibel
Month of January, 2026
Brought to you by Port Sanibel Marina
LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Pine Island Sound & Captiva Area
January, 2026
Weather & Marine Forecast
January marks the heart of winter fishing in Southwest Florida. Cooler water temperatures and shorter daylight hours push both redfish and snook into predictable patterns. Redfish continue to feed across warming flats and muddy bottom areas, while snook are firmly positioned in the backcountry, relying on deeper water, structure, and stable temperatures.
Typical Weather:
Daytime highs in the upper 60s to low 70s °F; overnight lows often in the 50s.
Winds:
Frequent north and northeast winds following cold fronts, averaging 10–18 knots.
Water Temps:
Coldest of the year; mid-day warming is critical.
Best Feeding Window:
Fish activity is concentrated during the warmest part of the day with moving water.
Tides, Moon & Astronomical Data
Captiva • Pine Island Sound • Galt Island
- Moon Phase: Early January typically begins with a waning moon transitioning to new moon, increasing tidal movement and current flow.
- Best Solunar Periods: Late morning through early afternoon.
- Astronomical Notes: With limited sunlight, dark-bottom flats and protected backwaters warm fastest.
Water Temperatures (January, 2026)
Captiva • Pine Island Sound • Galt Island
Redfish & Snook Behavior
Redfish
- Where: Mud flats, oyster bars, shallow grass flats near deeper water.
- When: Late morning to early afternoon on incoming tides.
- Why: Reds seek the warmest available water during winter.
Snook
- Where: Canals, creeks, docks, deep mangrove cuts, residential backwaters.
- When: Mid-day during peak warmth.
- Why: Snook prioritize temperature stability and ambush points.
Redfish & Snook: Tactics for Fly & Spin Anglers
Redfish
– Fly Fishing
Flies:
Small shrimp, Kwan-style patterns, crabs in tan, olive, and brown.
Technique:
Target dark-bottom flats with sun exposure.
Retrieve:
Slow strips with long pauses or fast, consistent 1-inch bumps.
Snook
– Fly Fishing
Flies:
Black/purple, olive/white, yellow/black baitfish patterns.
Technique:
Deep edges, docks, and current breaks.
Retrieve:
Slow, steady strip close to structure.
Redfish
Redfish
– Spin Fishing
Artificial:
Gold spoons, soft plastics on light jig heads.
Live Bait:
Live shrimp or cut bait near structure.
Retrieve:
Slow and methodical.
Snook
– Spin Fishing
Artificial:
Suspending plugs, soft jerkbaits, slow-swim paddletails.
Live Bait:
Shrimp freelined or lightly weighted.
Retrieve:
Slower presentations outperform fast retrieves.
Snook
Guide’s Insights
Captain: Jake Flood
Notes / Patterns Observed This Week:
In the first half of January, we have been seeing great water clarity. Sight fishing is great, and fish are settling into their mid-winter patterns. Zman 2.5-inch shrimp on light spin rods for snook have been great for me. Placing it far out in front and giving it methodical bumps has been driving redfish and snook crazy.
We have 2.5″ PrawnStarz in the shop at Port Sanibel. Come get ’em before they are gone!
Summary Forecast & Fishing Outlook
Plan Your Trip
January fishing is all about timing, patience, and precision. If you’re looking to dial in technical winter redfish and snook fishing, the guides at Port Sanibel Marina know how to adjust to cold fronts, tides, and temperature swings.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-time visitor, Port Sanibel Marina offers everything you need for an unforgettable day on the water—fully equipped fishing charters, premium boat rentals, and experienced local guides who know every tide and shoreline.
Book your fishing charter or boat rental today and experience Southwest Florida’s legendary inshore fishery firsthand. Visit us at Port Sanibel Marina or call us (239)-437-1660 to plan your next adventure.
Our February report will focus on post-front recovery days, warming trends, and how fish reposition after cold snaps.
Tight lines and fair tides from all of us at Port Sanibel Marina!