January does bring about change in Everglades National Park. The plentiful bait fish of November and December thin out dramatically. However, most all of the near shore structure still has plenty baitfish … and their predators. I like to sight fish in the shallows these months. Seeing your fish, sneaking up to it and watching the fish eat your bait is a real blast!!. As the water cools, the plankton and algae life dwindle so the water real clears up. Sight fishing becomes more and more attractive to we light tackle advocates. In the cooler times, the fish will "lay up" in the shallow sun washed, water. These shallows warm up first with the rising sun, so the fish are there warming up also. Sight fishing these laid up fish is something every fisherman should experience. It takes a bit more skill and finesse, but the rewards are great. For those that are looking for something different, Each Saturday, in addition to our traditional fishing trips, we will be doing kayak fishing day trips in the Yak Attack. As well, a three day; two night fishing/camping trip in the Park that leaves most every Friday morning. This is one of the best values for fishing that you can find … three days of guided fishing, two nights lodging and three days of fine eats for $750 per person. These trips are what several of our guests have called "glamour camping" … bonfires, stone crabs, homemade conch chowder, fresh fish, individual tents, six-inch thick air mattresses … pretty "cushy". Fish all day and all night, if you choose … or not. The kayak is perhaps the most effective way to get to this shallow laid up fish. It is virtually silent, draws but a few inches of water and is very maneuverable. The tarpon actually seem to like the sound of the yaks in the waters. However, when a big fish rolls right beside you, it can be spooky. Capt. Charles Wright www.ChokoloskeeCharters.com www.EvergladesKayakFishing.com 239-695-9107