The Tampa Bay Times
Dave Zalewski 460-9893
Now that red snapper and gag grouper are now open, many offshore anglers are choosing to make the long (35 to 60 mile) run into the gulf in search of these species. For the anglers not wanting to spend the fuel and time to make this run there are plenty of bottom species to target. Red grouper have become much more active in the 60 to 90 foot depths and provide a lot of red bending action from both undersize and legal fish. Lane snapper are found on the same Swiss cheese bottom and provide great light tackle action by downsizing to a two hook 2/0 size hook with the sinker on the bottom. White grunts provide a welcome addition to these species. Ledges, with their higher profile structure harbor more gag grouper and mangrove snapper. The Swiss cheese inhabitants readily take chunks of frozen squid and sardines, while the structure oriented fish are more prone to chase after a live bait. Targeting mangrove snapper requires a change in normal bottom fishing terminal tackle, A long fluorocarbon leader is needed along with the smallest weight that will reach the bottom. A 2/0 circle hook with a small pinfish or white bait hooked above the anal fin will help to fool these sharp eyed fish. If using cut pieces of bait burying the hook so it is not visible is mandated,
Spanish mackerel should be here in force at this time and we often spend some time trolling on the way offshore at any of the artificial reefs. Since TS Cristobal passed through, we have not been able to get a strike, They will be back and it will be worthwhile to make a quick stop to see if they have returned.
- Jay Mastry - March 26, 2024
- Captains Corner, Gorta - March 23, 2024
- Dave Zalewski - March 12, 2024
