The artificial reefs, especially at the "J" and "L" buoys, seem to be producing nicely, but Gray's Reef seems to be the best bet at the moment. The best rig is a multiple-hook bottom rig with either gold or silver hooks in the 2/0-4/0 range. Good baits for sea bass include squid, large shrimp and cut sardines or mullet. However, black sea bass aren't exactly known to be picky, so just send down a hunk of meat and you should hook up with something.
What is known to be picky, however, is sheepshead. Catch reports for these bait-stealers have been a bit slow, but that is probably due to the warmer-than-usual weather. The reports, have been getting better recently, and should continue to as the typical nasty January/February weather rolls in. Fiddlers will be the best bait, but small peeled shrimp will also work. Use a knocker rig (aka Carolina rig or egg sinker rig) with a long-shank, small-gap Mustad hook.
On the inshore front, seatrout catches are still strong, but starting to slow. Trout and sheepshead are really the only things worth tareting inshore right now.
Bonefish Grill Review
I had a chance to try out the new Bonefish Grill in Twelve Oaks in Savannah, and I am very impressed. The atmosphere and food were all great, and despite the place being packed to the walls, our service was awesome and quick. It is a little expensive, but you definately get what you pay for. Be sure to try the mussels!
