http://www.tampabay.com/sports/outdoors/captains-corner-targeting-blackfin-tuna/2324628
Blackfin tuna are pretty consistent in 80- to 200-foot depths. Concentrating on wrecks and springs is wise, but they aren’t the only places to find them. On a recent trip to 130 feet, we were relocating from one grouper spot to another. Then we saw a few bursts on the surface about 100 yards from the boat. We headed in that direction, trickling live pilchards out the back of the boat. When we got to where we saw fish, we stopped and deployed a spread of live baits and artificial surface plugs. We were rewarded with a double hookup of 25- to 29-pound tuna. A morning cast-net session at a bridge usually nets enough bait for the day. Rigs should consist of medium-size spinning tackle connected to a 20- to 30-pound leader right to a 4/0-5/0 circle hook. Since the main body of grouper are done spawning, look for them to start showing up in the shallower depths.
Steve Papen charters out of Indian Shores and can be reached at (727) 642-3411 and fintasticinc.com.
- Jay Mastry - March 26, 2024
- Captains Corner, Gorta - March 23, 2024
- Dave Zalewski - March 12, 2024
