http://www.tampabay.com/sports/outdoors/Captain-s-Corner-Beat-the-heat-with-shark-fishing_169603651
When it gets hot and muggy, anglers look to feed their fishing need without draining their energy or budget. Now is the best time to find many species of shark close to shore. Most sharks move toward the beach at night and can be found nearby in the morning. Once the sun comes up, sharks move toward deeper water to avoid the heat. Sharks feed on almost anything they can catch, normally targeting mackerel or ladyfish near area passes. Hammerheads and bulls are notorious for feeding on the prized catch of tarpon anglers. The vicious strike of a hammerhead on a tarpon is an awe-inspiring sight. Several shark species are good table fare. Our favorite: The blacktip spinner, often considered the acrobat of the gulf and one of the most tasty of all sharks. Legally, you’re allowed one shark per person or two per boat. Simply taking a shark because you can isn’t prudent for man or beast. Personally, we release all females and the bigger males to reproduce. You should keep only medium-size males if your desire is a shark for the grill. Quickly and thoroughly ice your catch since the meat spoils fast in the heat. Shark fishing is a summer-long activity and a favorite for nighttime anglers as a way to beat the heat. Traveling a short distance from the beach helps preserve precious fuel but still produces exceptional low-budget sport fishing.
Larry Blue charters the Niki Joe from Madeira Beach Marina. Call (727) 871-1058 or visit captainlarryblue.com.
- Jay Mastry - March 26, 2024
- Captains Corner, Gorta - March 23, 2024
- Dave Zalewski - March 12, 2024
