Good morning from St. Augustine, Florida, on this chilly December 20th. If you're planning to hit the waters today, here's what you need to know.

First off, let's talk about the weather and daylight. Today, the sun rises at 7:16 AM and sets at 5:29 PM, giving us about 10 hours and 18 minutes of daylight[2][5].

The weather is quite cool for this time of year, with temperatures in the mid-60s to low 70s, and a gentle breeze out of the northeast at about 15 to 20 knots. This makes it a great day for both inshore and offshore fishing.

Now, let's look at the tides. Today's high tides are at 5:53 AM and 6:18 PM, with the only low tide at 12:17 PM. The tidal coefficient is high, indicating strong tidal movements and currents, which can be beneficial for fishing[5].

As for fish activity, the waters around St. Augustine are still active despite the cooler weather. Yesterday's catches included a mix of snapper, trigger fish, amberjack, and even some cobia. These fish are often found around the artificial reefs about 15-20 miles offshore[1].

For inshore fishing, the Matanzas River and Salt Run are hot spots. Here, you can target redfish, trout, and flounder. Live shrimp and mud minnows are highly effective baits in these areas. For those looking to catch sheepshead and black drum, live fiddler crabs work well[4].

If you're heading offshore, consider using live baits like ballyhoos and sardines. These have been successful in attracting sailfish, barracuda, and other larger species[1].

In terms of lures, jigs and spoons can be effective for species like king mackerel and amberjack, especially in the stronger currents indicated by the high tidal coefficient.

So, grab your gear and head out to the Matanzas River for some inshore action or venture offshore to the artificial reefs. With the right bait and a bit of luck, you should have a productive day on the water. Remember to check the weather forecast and tidal movements before you go, as these can significantly impact your fishing experience. Tight lines