Captain’s Corner: Rob Gorta

The Tampa Bay Times

Offshore wrecks and artificial reefs are holding large schools of permit.  With the cost of fuel these days, reliable coordinates are the main concern when heading offshore to locate permit.  I have a network of friends that I can count on and trust to put me on fish.  Permit will eat barnacles, shrimp, and crabs that live off the bottom structure.  Before I head offshore, I will fill the well full of crabs the day before, and keep them alive overnight with a portable aerator.  The strongest outgoing tides towards the end of the day are the most productive way to locate crabs.  The grass lines formed by the current will usually these critters. Once I get to my wreck of choice, I will anchor up using my High Definition GPS trolling motor.  All I have to do is put the trolling motor in the water and hit the “Anchor” button on the remote control.   If I am off my mark a little, I can “Jog” the boat left or right with the touch of the arrow buttons.  I do not have to worry about dropping a clunky anchor again. Do to the size of Permit; I like to use a little heavier tackle.  Ten-pound gear will not work in deep water; it is just to light to pull large fish from deep water.  Thirty-pound braid with a long thirty-pound fluorocarbon leader is needed to land these strong creatures.  Permit have large eyes and will become leader shy if you use anything heavier than thirty-pound fluorocarbon.  A large 6000 series reel capable of holding three hundred yards or better of line is needed.  Permit will peel off line in seconds when first hooked. Captain Rob Gorta727-647-7606www.captainrobgorta.com

Captain Rob Gorta
3401 Drive
Largo, FL.  33771
727-647-7606