When I was spanish mackerel fishing in Florida, I had limited success with the usual lures. I found that 1 to 1.5-ounce metal jigs were a better choice, but they still didn't catch the fish that I was looking for. I also tried spoons (inlets, worms) and spoons. However, none of these methods worked. I instead chose to use small jigs attached with a tiny worm.
Spoons
Spoons can be used to catch Spanish Mackerel in Florida. They are extremely effective in catching these fish. Spoons move on their own so they can be cast quite far and cover a lot. They can also be used to catch kingfish that can exceed thirty pounds. These are some ways to use spoons when you're in Florida.
Pick a spoon that is long and stocky. It should also not be too short. Spanish bass may be attracted by spoons with a long, thin body. For bright sunlight, they should shine and be matte for cloudy days. For fishing in the dark, you should use a single-hook rigged with a split ring. A treble hook can lead to missed strikes.
Casting spoons on the coast waters is a great and easy way to catch Spanish Mackerel in Florida. Their quick swimming makes them a delicious and enjoyable fish. There is plenty of action in St. Augustine, Matanzas and elsewhere. These fish are also caught by beach fishermen. Cast spoons will attract more fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. You can catch more fish with a weedless bait.
You could also trolling for Spanish mackerel. You can tie a small spoon to your planer, and then trail it with a 30-pound leader. To avoid tangling the line, you will need to swivel behind a diving planer. An umbrella spoon rig is also an option. However, you should not exceed seven miles per hour while trolling, as this will result in a low catch rate.
Hard-Baits
You can use artificial or live baits to catch Spanish mackerel. Bait fish, live shrimp, and live shrimp make good drift baits. A large size hook is recommended for reducing the risk of cutoffs. If you are casting to the reefs, 1/0 is a good all-around size. Fishing for Spanish mackerel in Florida waters can be a great adventure, so make sure you take advantage of the many possibilities!
Spanish mackerel are attracted to flies and spoons that imitate their prey. These baits are very effective in locating Spanish mackerel, both in the Atlantic or Gulf. You can also use a spoon to bait the fish. Flat-bottomed lures will cover more water and increase your chances of hooking Spanish mackerel.
Spoons, Got-Cha and other lures can be effective in catching Spanish mackerel. They are sturdy and catch the fish from every depth of the water column. Florida is very fond of Get-Cha lures. These lures include rattles built in that attract Spanish mackerel and can be quickly reeled into. Rat-L–Traps and MirrOdines are also highly effective.
Fishing for Spanish mackerel can be challenging so be ready to face some stiff competition. Be ready for a fight and a battle! Experts like Daniel Flinn can help you. By visiting local marinas or reading fishing reports, you can find out the location of Spanish mackerel. You should also allow for other boats. Daniel Flinn, an insider member, recommends using abobber.
Jigs
A key step towards catching Spanish is selecting the right bait. This fish is easy to handle because of its slim, slender bodies. Use a long shank hook when you tie your hook. You can also use treble hooks with a long leader for best results. Live shrimp makes a great choice if you prefer to use a live bait.
The taste is a major concern for Spanish mackerel fishermen. You may not like the taste, so it's a good idea to prepare the fish for cooking right after you catch them. Spanish mackerel are notorious for being a bit fishy. You should prepare it as soon as possible. It is best to cook the fish within 24hrs of it being caught.
While jigs in Florida are useful for Spanish mackerel fishing there, a live bait is better. Capt Jim loves the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait because it mimics small bait fish. For him, olive and white work best. Consider a color that resembles the local forage.
Inlets
Fort Pierce's Inlets have been producing good Spanish mackerel fishing action and other species. Fisherman are reporting catch reports of Redfish, Sheepshead and Black Drum while fishing for Spanish Mackerel. Anglers are using spoons or jigs to target Spanish mackerel, while live shrimp are biting on the north jetty. Live shrimp are also an option.
Anglers targeting Spanish fish will have the best luck if they target schools of these fish near inlets and reefs. The best way to catch fish is to use long lines and troll around the edge of the school. If the fish are moving through the school or across it, they will dive. Winter Spanish mackerel fishing is best done in small, protected areas.
Spanish mackerel are aggressive feeders in the early morning and later afternoon. Spanish mackerel are attracted to silverside minnows in the inshore waters. While they can be difficult to catch, the reward is well worth it. These are the best areas to find Spanish mackerel anywhere in Florida. Bring your fishing poles.
Inlets and bridges along the coast can be great places to capture these aggressive acrobats. These fish can be caught inshore or offshore by trolling a tube lure. The Gotcha tube lure can be one of the most effective lures. It can either be fished cast or trombled. It is also possible to fish off piers or causeways.
Inlets in South Florida
The best option to fish south Florida's coastline waters is Spanish Mackerel fishing inlets. Anglers should be aware that Mackerel feed close to the surface and are a good target. You can fish your lure or live bait into the inlet if the water level is low. Active diving birds and churned-up waters are good indicators. Spanish mackerel can be spotted in schools.
If you are looking for a great fishing location, you might want to try Fort Lauderdale. Capt. For example, Capt. Visit their website to find out more about where you can fish. You can also listen live online by searching "Spanish Mackerel fishing South Florida" or "Small Inlets."
The Flagler Bridge is a great spot to find Spanish mackerel. Anglers can also fish for other species along the Intracoastal Waterway. From the Boynton area up to the Flagler Bridge, flounder, jack crevalle, or sand perch can all be caught. Fishing with yellow feathers and trolling spoons have been effective.
Best times to surf fish for Spanish mackerel
Which is the best time for Spanish mackerel surf fishing? Mackerel migrate to spring and fall. They should show up once the water temperatures have reached 70 degrees. They will stick around until water temperatures drop below 70 degrees. The NOAA website gives information about water temperatures for U.S. coastal areas. Then, you can use the water temperatures to determine the best times to fish for them.
For Spanish mackerel fishing, you should choose a spot that has clear water and calm waters. To maximize your chances of catching these fish, you should fish at least two hours offshore. You may prefer murky water so fish closer to shore. Cast artificial lures with heavy fluorocarbon leaders into clear water. These fish are aggressive and will not slow down if you keep them moving.
The Florida Panhandle's inshore waters are where most experienced surf fishermen prefer fishing in April. The fish are abundant and still feeding well. The rains that had begun in March have stopped, making it easier to find water. The waters are warm enough that a few pompano can be found in the water. If you're in search of red or whiting in the surf, try a tube lure or jigs. Spanish mackerel are known to be a bit more aggressive than the bars.
FAQ
Are there any special licenses required to fish?
You cannot unless you plan on taking fish out of the state or beyond county boundaries. Many states allow anglers to fish without any type of license. Find out the requirements by contacting your local Fish & Wildlife authority.
Where can I purchase my fishing supplies?
All of these items can be purchased at most sporting goods shops. However, if something is not listed, you can search online. There are many websites that sell everything, including rods and reels as well as tackle boxes and lures.
What type of fishing gear do you require?
A rod, reel with line, hooks and bait, as well as some snacks. To catch fish you need to be able to cast, set up hooks, and use the bobber. Remember to be patient and wait for the right moment before you strike.
How can I get my kids to take up fishing?
Absolutely! Fishermen are a passion for children. Fishing is something that most children love to do. You can encourage your child to fish by doing many things. One way to encourage your child to learn how fishing is done is to teach them how you tie knots, how build a pole, and the basics of fishing etiquette. You could also show them pictures of what fish look like and tell them stories about fishing.
Statistics
- You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
- Orvis, Simms, and Fishpond have been making some of the best packs and vests for a long time, and it seems like 90% of the anglers around the area use these brands. (troutandsteelhead.net)
- To substantiate this theory, Knight attempted a systematic inquiry by considering the timing of 200 'record' catches, more than 90 percent were made during a new moon (when no moon is visible). (myfwc.com)
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
External Links
How To
Finding the Best Fishing Spot
Knowing what kind of fish is best for you to find the best fishing spots is essential. You need to decide if you want deep sea fishing, or shallow water fishing. Deep sea fishing will require a boat which is costly. The cost of shallow water fishing is minimal as it's done from shore. Shallow water fishing is the best option if you want to catch trout. If you want to catch barracuda however, you will need to go deeper.
Depending on what you prefer, there are many options for fishing spots. Some places offer only one type of fishing while others have several options. For example, certain places are famous for their bass fishing, while others have a specialization in fly fishing. Some places are well-known for their shark fishing and crabbing.
It all depends on what you enjoy doing, your budget and how long you plan to stay. Do you enjoy camping? A place close to a lake might appeal to you. Do you prefer city life? You might prefer the beach. You might even enjoy taking part in a sport such as kayaking, canoeing, sailing, scuba diving, or surfing.
Ask someone who is familiar with fishing. They could tell you about all kinds of things, including where to go.
You could even try searching online for "fishing spots near me." This will give a lot of options. You might be able to narrow down your choices by looking at reviews and ratings. Many websites offer this feature.
After you have chosen a location, you should make it a point to visit it before you go. You should always have the directions handy as sometimes it can take longer to get there than you expected. Also, make sure you bring everything you think you'll need. Also, don't forget to pack your tackle box, bait, as well as sunscreen.
Researching the weather conditions is a great idea. You can check the weather forecast to find the best times to go. You may need to modify your plans if the weather conditions change.
Now that you know where to go, you can start planning your trip. The next step is deciding what you're going to use to fish.