I had limited success fishing with standard lures in Florida for spanish-mackerel fishing. I found that 1- to 1.5-ounce, metal jigs were a better choice but still didn't catch my target fish. 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
If you are interested in catching Spanish Mackerel in Florida, you should consider using spoons. They are extremely effective at catching these fish. Spoons are easy to cast and can wiggle by themselves. They are ideal for catching Kingfish, which can reach 30 pounds. Here are some tips to use spoons in Florida.
If you are looking for a spoon to use, make sure it has a large, well-built body that isn't too long. Spanish bass will love spoons that have a thin and long body. They should be shiny in bright sunlight and matte on cloudy days. A single hook should be used if you are fishing at night. A treble hook can lead to missed strikes.
Casting spoons in coastal waters has been a great way to catch Spanish mackerel in Florida. Their fast swimming action makes them an enjoyable and tasty meal. You can find good action around St. Augustine and Matanzas. These fish are often caught by beach fishermen. Cast spoons tend to attract more fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. You can catch more fish with a weedless bait.
Trolling can also be used to catch Spanish mackerel. To do this tie a small spoon at the front of your planer and follow it with a 30 pound leader. A swivel behind the diving planer is necessary to avoid tangling the line. A spoon umbrella rig is another option. Trolling should be limited to seven miles per annum. This will reduce your catch rate.
Hard-Baits
For Spanish mackerel drifting, anglers can use live and artificial baits. Drift baits that work well are live shrimp and bait fish. They are usually chummed in water. For reducing cutoffs, a large hook is recommended. If you are casting to the reefs, 1/0 is a good all-around size. Florida waters offer many opportunities for fishing for Spanish mackerel.
Spanish mackerel prefer spoons or flies that mimic their prey. These baits can be used in both the Atlantic and Gulf to find Spanish mackerel. Another option is to use a spoon, or a hard bait. Flat-bottomed fish will be more likely to take your bait, and you'll have a better chance of hooking one.
Spoons as well as Got-Cha lures make it easy to catch Spanish mackerel. They are tough and catch the fish at all depths. Florida's most popular lure is the Get-Cha. These lures feature built-in rattles to attract Spanish mackerel. Rat-L -Traps, MirrOdines and other baits can also be effective.
When you are fishing for Spanish Mackerel, expect some competition. Prepare for battle and fight! You can learn from experts like Daniel Flinn. Find out where Spanish mackerel are at sea by visiting local marinas and reading fishing reports. Remember to make room for other boats. Daniel Flinn, an insider member, recommends using abobber.
Jigs
A key step towards catching Spanish is selecting the right bait. The body of these fish is slim and light, making it easy to hold. A long shank hook is best for tying a hook. You can also use treble hooks with a long leader for best results. A live bait is a good choice, such as live shrimp.
One of the main concerns for Spanish mackerel fishermen is the taste. While many anglers don't enjoy eating them, you may want to consider preparing the fish for cooking the same day you catch it. 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 likes the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait. He says it is a great imitation of small bait fish. Olive and white are his favorite colors. Look for a color which is close to the natural colors of your area.
Inlets
Fort Pierce's Inlets have been producing good Spanish mackerel fishing action and other species. While fishing for Spanish mackerel, fishermen have also been reporting catches of Snook, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Black Drum. To catch Spanish mackerel, anglers will use spoons or jigs. Meanwhile, live shrimp are eating on the north shore. Live shrimp are also an option.
Spanish fish anglers will have better luck if they are able to target schools near reefs and inlets. They should use long lines that troll along the edge of a school, as running through or across a school of fish will cause the fish to dive, which will only lead to missed bites. Inlets are ideal for winter Spanish mackerel fishing.
Spanish mackerel are aggressive feeders in the early morning and later afternoon. Spanish mackerel are attracted to silverside minnows in the inshore waters. These minnows can be difficult to catch but they are worth it! These are the best areas to find Spanish mackerel anywhere in Florida. Don't forget 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 be fished cast, or trolled. You may also want to try fishing off piers or causeways.
Inlets in South Florida
Fishing south Florida's beaches is easy with the Spanish Mackerel Inlets. Anglers should be aware that Mackerel feed close to the surface and are a good target. Fish for live bait or lures in shallow water. Look out for active diving birds as well as churned waters. Spanish mackerel is if you see a school.
Fort Lauderdale could be a great choice for you if fishing is your passion. Capt. Capt. Their website has more information about where to fish. You can also listen to the show live on the internet by searching for "Spanish Mackerel fishing in South Florida" and "Small Inlets."
Spanish mackerel can also be found along the coast near Flagler Bridge. Anglers can also target other species along the Intracoastal Waterway. The Boynton region to Flagler Bridge is a popular spot for flounder, yellow perch, and jack crevalle. Fishing with yellow feathers and trolling spoons have been effective.
Best time to surf fish Spanish mackerel
When is the best time to surf fish for Spanish mackerel? Mackerel migrate in spring and fall. When water temperatures hit 70 degrees, they should start to show up. They will remain until water temperatures fall below 70 degrees. You can look up water temperatures for coastal areas of the U.S. on the NOAA website. You can then use the water temperatures for the best times to fish.
Choose calm water and clear waters when surfing for Spanish mackerel. Fish at least two hours offshore to maximize your chances of catching these fish. Fish closer to shore if you prefer murky waters. In clear water, cast artificial lures with a heavy fluorocarbon leader. These aggressive fish require speed.
Inshore fishing is the best option for surf fishermen who are experienced. The fish are plentiful there and they are still eating heavily. The rains that had begun in March have stopped, making it easier to find water. The waters are warmer enough to support a few sandpipers during this time. If you're in search of red or whiting in the surf, try a tube lure or jigs. Spanish mackerel prefer to swim inshore, and they are not attracted to bars.
FAQ
Are there different types or lures?
Yes, there are several different types of lures available. Some lures are made specifically for specific species of fish. Others mimic insects and frogs. Lures come in many sizes and shapes. Some lures can even be shaped like real insects.
How far away from shore should I stand when fishing?
The closer you are to the shore, the greater your chances of catching fish. However, it also increases the chance of getting soaked.
How much can I budget to spend on fish-catching gear?
You don't have to spend a lot of money on fishing gear. You can find many affordable options. You can buy a cheap line, hook, and reel. Or you could invest in a quality rod and reel set.
How much is basic fishing gear?
Basic fishing equipment can be purchased for between $100-$200. This includes rod/reel combos and bait as well as a tackle box. If you want to go out on a bigger boat, then you'll need to spend between $500-$1000 dollars.
How can I get started with fishing?
Before you get out on the water, you will need to be familiar with the basics of fishing. It is important to know the differences between different fish species in your local area. Also, it is important to identify their preferred places of residence so you can find them. After you've identified the best areas to search for fish, practice casting. This involves learning to throw a lure in the air and let it sink back onto the water. Practice makes perfect!
Is fishing safe?
Fishing is extremely safe. Fishing can be an enjoyable way to relax, enjoy nature and have fun. If you adhere to safety rules, there will be no problems.
Statistics
- It is estimated there are at least 2 million people who go fishing in California each year. (californiayachtsales.com)
- You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
How To
Finding The Best Fishing Spot
To find the best fishing spots, you must know what kind of fish you want to catch. You should decide whether you want to go deep sea fishing or shallow water fishing. Deep sea fishing will require a boat which is costly. Shallow water fishing requires no boat and can be done from shore. Deep water fishing would be the best option for trout fishermen. However, if your goal is to catch barracuda you will have to venture out into deeper waters.
You can choose from many different kinds of fishing spots depending on your preferences. Some places offer just one type of fishing; others offer several. One example is that some areas are known for their bass fishing and others specialize in fly-fishing. Others are known for their shark fishing, crabbing, and other activities.
The best way for you to decide where to go is to consider your budget, what you want to do, and how long it will take. Do you enjoy camping? You might consider a location near a lake. Are you more into city life? Maybe you prefer to be on the beach. Perhaps you even like to go canoeing, sailing or scuba diving.
Even if fishing is not something you are familiar with, it's worth asking someone who does. You could ask them about everything, including where to go.
You might also consider searching online for "fishing places near me". This will give a lot of options. It would be fantastic if you could narrow down the choices by reviewing ratings and reviews. Many websites allow you to do so.
Once you've chosen a place, go to it before you leave. It is not always easy to find the right way, so make sure you have directions. Also, make sure you bring everything you think you'll need. You should also bring bait, sunscreen, and a tackle box.
It's also a good idea to research the weather conditions at the fishing spot. The forecast can help you determine the best time to go. If the weather changes, you might want to change your plans.
Once you have a good idea of where you want to go, it's time to start planning your trip. Next is to decide what to fish.