I had very limited success using the standard lures when I was fishing for spanish mackerel in Florida. Although I found them to be more effective than the usual lures, I still couldn't catch any of the fish I was after using them. I also tried spoons and inlets but they didn't work. Instead, I opted for small jigs with a worm attached.
Spoons
You should use spoons if you want to catch Spanish Mackerel. They are highly effective in catching these fish. Spoons wiggle on their own, so you can cast them quite far and cover a lot of water. They can also be used to catch kingfish that can exceed thirty pounds. Here are some tips to use spoons in Florida.
When choosing a spoon, choose one that has a long, stocky body and is not too long. Spanish bass may be attracted by spoons with a long, thin body. They should be shiny for bright sunlight and matte for cloudy days. If you are fishing in twilight, use a single hook rigged on a split ring. Avoid using a treble or double hook as they can cause 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'll find plenty of action around St. Augustine as well as Matanzas. These fish are often caught by beach fishermen. Cast spoons are more effective at attracting fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. Use a weedless pvc bait if you want to catch more.
Trolling for Spanish mackerel is also an option. A small spoon should be tied to the planer's front and a 30 pound leader should be attached. 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
When drifting for Spanish mackerel, anglers have the option to use either live or artificial baits. Drift baits are made from live shrimp or bait fish. These baits are often chummed in salt water. It is advisable to use a large hook to reduce the chance of cutting offs. If you are casting to the reefs, 1/0 is a good all-around size. Florida waters can provide great opportunities to fish for Spanish mackerel.
A spoon or flies that imitate the prey is the best lure for Spanish mackerel. These baits can be used in both the Atlantic and Gulf to find Spanish mackerel. A spoon or hard bait can also be used. Flat-bottomed lures will cover more water and increase your chances of hooking Spanish mackerel.
For Spanish mackerel fishing, Spoons and Gotcha lures work well. They are strong and can catch fish from all depths of water. Florida's most popular lure is the Get-Cha. These lures are equipped with rattles which attract Spanish mackerel when they are quickly reeled in. Rat-L–Traps, MirrOdines or other baits work as well.
You should be ready for some competition when you're fishing for Spanish mackerel. Be prepared for a fight. Learn from experts such as Daniel Flinn. By visiting local marinas or reading fishing reports, you can find out the location of Spanish mackerel. Don't forget to leave room for other boats. Daniel Flinn, an insider member, recommends using abobber.
Jigs
Choosing the right jig for catching Spanish is an important step in your quest for big catches. This fish has a thin and slim body that makes them easy to handle. A long shank hook is best for tying a hook. A treble hook with a long lead can also be used. Live shrimp is a great option if live bait is your preference.
The taste is a major concern for Spanish mackerel fishermen. 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 can be a bit finicky so it is best to prepare them as soon as you catch them. It is recommended that you cook the fish within 24hrs after catching it.
Although jigs can work well for Spanish mackerel fishing, live bait is the best. Capt Jim's favorite bait, according to him, is the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait. This bait mimics a small baitfish. The colors that work best for him are olive and white. Choose a color that mimics the forage in your local area.
Inlets
Fort Pierce and its surrounding islands have provided good action for Spanish Mackerel 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 a great option during the evening.
Spanish fish anglers are more likely to succeed if they fish for them in schools close to reefs or inlets. They should use long lines that run along the edge or near the school to get the best results. The fish will dive if the line runs through or across the school. Winter Spanish mackerel fishing can be done from inlets.
Spanish mackerel feed aggressively during the morning and evening. Spanish mackerel love to eat silverside minnows found in coastal waters. It can be hard to catch them, but it is worth the effort. You can find Spanish mackerel in Florida's best spots, including flats, passes and inlets. Remember to bring your fishing rods!
These aggressive acrobats love inlets and bridges that are found along the coast. These fish are both prolific inshore as offshore. You can catch them by casting and trolling a lure tube. The Gotcha tube lure is one of the best lures to use. It can be fished cast or trolled. You may also want to try fishing 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. If the water is very shallow, you can troll your lure and live bait in the inlet. Look out for active diving birds as well as churned waters. Spanish mackerels can be found in schools.
Fort Lauderdale is a great place to fish if you're looking for the best fishing spot. Capt. Norm Bekoff's weekly fishing report on Fox Sports 940 Miami is available online, and it's also broadcast on Nautical Ventures' Facebook page. 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 found near the Flagler Bridge. Anglers may also be able to target other species in the Intracoastal Waterway. From the Boynton area up to the Flagler Bridge, flounder, jack crevalle, or sand perch can all be caught. It has been successful to fish with trolling spoons and yellow feathers.
Surf fishing for Spanish mackerel is best done at night
Which is the best time for Spanish mackerel surf fishing? Mackerel migrate from spring to fall. When water temperatures hit 70 degrees, they should start to show up. They will remain until water temperatures fall below 70 degrees. On the NOAA website, you can find out the water temperature for the coasts of the U.S. You can then use the water temperatures for the best times to fish.
Choose calm water and clear waters when surfing for Spanish mackerel. You want to catch these fish as soon as possible, so make sure you are at least two hours off the coast. You may prefer murky water so fish closer to shore. Cast artificial lures with a heavy fluorocarbon leader in clear water. These fish are aggressive and will not slow down if you keep them moving.
Most experienced surf fishermen prefer to fish in the inshore waters of the Florida Panhandle in April. The fish are abundant and still feeding well. The March rains have ended, which has made it easier for the fish to find water. The waters are warm enough for a few pompano to survive during this period. 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
How deep should I go with my line?
Cast your line as deep as possible. When casting a line, keep your arm straight so that the line doesn't twist.
How much is basic fishing gear?
Basic fishing equipment is around $100-$200 for rod/reel combination, bait, tackle box, and so on. If you want to go out on a bigger boat, then you'll need to spend between $500-$1000 dollars.
What kind of fishing gear do I need?
A rod and reel, line, hooks (bait), tackle box, and snacks. Casting, setting up a hook and using a bobber are essential skills for catching fish. Remember to be patient and wait for the right moment before you strike.
Which is the best time of year to fish?
It's best to fish early in the morning and late at night. The fish will be active feeding during these times.
Statistics
- 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)
- For most freshwater species you are most likely to target when first starting out, a reel size of 20 to 30 should be more than enough! (strikeandcatch.com)
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
- About 40 percent of all fish are freshwater species. (takemefishing.org)
External Links
How To
How to perfectly cast a fishing rod
Casting a fishing pole requires that you use your wrist to guide the rod's handle toward the water. You should hold the rod at a slight angle to ensure the line is parallel with the ground. Move the rod forward by keeping the rod's tip perpendicular the water. The fish will not bite if the tip touches the water's surface prior to the line reaching the bottom. This technique allows you to increase the distance from the tip of your rod to the water's surface.
These tips will help you feel more comfortable casting a fishing rod.
Begin by holding the rod close to your chest. This way, you can easily control the rod's direction without bending down.
Second, when casting a heavy rod, you may want to set up a tripod on the shoreline or on a rock ledge. This will allow you to secure the rod while still holding the reel.
A third option is to buy a smaller reel than an expensive one. A cheap spinning reel can be used to cast longer distances, and it will also help you with your hand-eye coordination.
A fishing pole holder is another option. These holders are made to securely hold the rod while maintaining its upright position. They are easy to store after use and protect the rod against damage.
Fifth, practice your casting technique until you feel comfortable with the motion. Casting a fishing rod takes practice.
Sixth, patience is the key to successful fishing. Wait for the right time to strike, then work hard to catch the fish.