Hudson Weather Forecast
Fishing reports straight from our guides in Hudson
Merry Christmas to all!
Sheepshead fishing has been picking up on the nearshore rocks. Live shrimp and fiddler crabs will get them to eat. Black bass, grunts and Spanish mackerel are also on the rocks. Inshore, the water has cooled and the reds and trout are moving to the creeks and rivers. Some black drum and mangrove snapper are in the deeper holes of the creeks. There has been very little water due to extreme low tides and a persistent east wind, thus most of the fishing is in the main river and nearshore rocks recently.
Merry Christmas to all!
Sheepshead fishing has been picking up on the nearshore rocks. Live shrimp and fiddler crabs will get them to eat. Black bass, grunts and Spanish mackerel are also on the rocks. Inshore, the water has cooled and the reds and trout are moving to the creeks and rivers. Some black drum and mangrove snapper are in the deeper holes of the creeks. There has been very little water due to extreme low tides and a persistent east wind, thus most of the fishing is in the main river and nearshore rocks recently.
I always say, “Fish are Fickle.” That’s particularly true this time of year with the advent of a passing cold front every three to four days. One day the fish are active, the next day lethargic.
After a cold front, even when I take the time to catch scaled sardines before picking up my charter clients, the fish barely respond to them. Fortunately, I always stop on my way to the boat ramp and buy some live shrimp for a backup. Having those shrimp aboard usually saves the day.
At times like these, turning shrimp can...
I always say, “Fish are Fickle.” That’s particularly true this time of year with the advent of a passing cold front every three to four days. One day the fish are active, the next day lethargic.
After a cold front, even when I take the time to catch scaled sardines before picking up my charter clients, the fish barely respond to them. Fortunately, I always stop on my way to the boat ramp and buy some live shrimp for a backup. Having those shrimp aboard usually saves the day.
At times like these, turning shrimp can make all the difference in the world. These hardy baits are appealing to game fish even when bait fish become scarce, dramatically increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Shrimp are known as the “Sara Lee” of baits. “Nobody doesn’t like a Sara Lee.” Snook, redfish, seatrout, sheepshead, and more love them. I could go on and on, but you get the picture. Not to sound like “Bubba” from the movie Forrest Gump, but you can catch fish with live shrimp, dead shrimp, frozen shrimp, or pieces of shrimp. “That’s, that’s about it!”
Additionally, crustaceans like shrimp are not only versatile but also resilient in colder water conditions, which makes them a reliable choice when other baits fail. Their natural scent and movement attract a wide variety of species, ensuring that anglers have a dependable option throughout fluctuating water temperatures.
If you like to fish with artificials or flies, shrimp imitations are the perfect cold-weather bait.
Target Species
- Get it while it's HOT!
- This species is in play.
- You might get lucky (as long as things are in-season).
- Couldn't tell ya! (no data)
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Recent Hudson Reviews
Gage was absolutely awesome. He knows the best places, setup my fly rod correctly for me. He gave me great instructions. I did get a hook in the mouth of a tarpon, unfortunately it shook loose. But would definitely do it again.
Michael P. | October 25, 2026
Trip: Fly Fishing Charters
We had an excellent time with Zack. He knew all the best spots to fish and made sure that we were successful. The day flew by and was a great time. Thanks!
Josh M. | September 26, 2026
We had such a great experience with Captain Jacob! He was friendly, knowledgeable, patient, and made the whole trip fun for everyone. He knew where to take us, and we had a great time fishing and being out on the water. He was especially great with the kids and made sure everyone felt comfortable and involved. We really enjoyed our charter and would definitely recommend Captain Jacob to anyone looking for a fun fishing experience in Crystal River. We’ll definitely book with him again!
Sharina T. | September 7, 2026
Trip: Inshore Fishing Charter
Fantastic guide. Very friendly. Highly recommend. Will be back for another trip.
Patrick P. | September 6, 2026
Trip: Scalloping Trip
Did a 8 hour trip with Captain Brad The best trip we ever had Brad told us how to fish for gag grouper We did great Brad is very experienced on how to fish and where to fish
Thomas D. | September 6, 2026
What a great time with Capt. Gavin and Liz. They got us on the scallops right away and we made a day of it. From the moment we walked in he made us feel at ease. Funny knowledgeable and patient. This is a must do next season.
Tim K. | August 29, 2026
Trip: Scalloping Trips
Jarrod was an amazing guide and very accommodating. went scalloping and he got in the water with us to show us around. also very social and had a great time on the boat with music and having fun. Definitely would recommend and book again
Dylan P. | August 24, 2026
Had a great afternoon with Justin. Thrifty minutes in we ran into bad weather with wind, lightning and rain. He drove out of it looking for other options and we came back to original area and had a great last 1.5 hours of scalloping with success. We did not limit out, but that was due to weather. Really fun time with first time scallopers.
Brian S. | August 23, 2026
Trip: Scalloping Trip
Great fishing experience for my family! Almost had a huge shark! Caught a co is also. He was knowledgeable and friendly. Boat was great!
Tanya B. | August 14, 2026
