I had little success with traditional lures while fishing for spanish mackerel fish in Florida. I found that 1- to 1.5-ounce, metal jigs were a better choice but still didn't catch my target fish. I tried spoons, inlets and worms but none of them worked. Instead, I opted for small jigs with a worm attached.
Spoons
Spoons are an excellent tool to catch Spanish Mackerel. They are extremely efficient at catching these fish. Spoons can be cast far and covered a lot of water. They are perfect for catching kingfish which can weigh up to thirty pounds. These are some tips on how to use spoons Florida.
If you are looking for a spoon to use, make sure it has a large, well-built body that isn't too long. Spoons that are long and thin can attract Spanish bass. Shiny spoons are best for sunny days and matte ones for rainy 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 along the coast has been an excellent way to catch Spanish Mackerel in Florida. They are a tasty and enjoyable meal due to their fast swimming speed. You can find good action around St. Augustine and Matanzas. These fish can also be caught by beach fishermen. Cast spoons are more effective at attracting fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. You can also use a weedless, plastic bait to catch more fish.
You could also trolling for Spanish mackerel. A small spoon should be tied to the planer's front and a 30 pound leader should be attached. To avoid tangling your line, it is important to have a swivel at the end of the diving planer. Another option is a spoon umbrella. Trolling is best done at seven miles an hours. If you exceed this speed, your catch rate will be low.
Hard-Baits
When drifting for Spanish mackerel, anglers have the option to use either live or artificial baits. Bait fish and shrimp are good drift baits. It is advisable to use a large hook to reduce the chance of cutting offs. 1/0 is the best size to use for casting to reefs. Florida waters offer many opportunities for fishing for Spanish mackerel.
A spoon or flies that imitate the prey is the best lure for Spanish mackerel. These baits work well in the Atlantic as well as the Gulf for Spanish mackerel. A spoon or hard bait can also be used. Flat-bottomed baits cover more water which increases your chances of hooking a Spanish mackerel.
Spoons as well as Got-Cha lures make it easy to catch Spanish mackerel. They are durable and catch the fish from all depths of the water column. Florida's most popular lure is the Get-Cha. These lures have built-in rattles that attract Spanish mackerel as they are reeled in quickly. Other baits such as MirrOdines and Rat-L-Traps are also very effective.
While you are fishing for Spanish mackerel, be prepared for a bit of competition. Prepare for a fight. Daniel Flinn is an expert. You can find out where the Spanish mackerel are by checking out local marinas and fishing reports. Remember to make room for other boats. The insider member Daniel Flinn also recommends using a bobber.
Jigs
It is crucial to choose the right jig to catch Spanish. These fish have a slim and slender body, which makes it easy to handle. A long shank hook is best for tying a hook. For the best results, you can use trebles hooks with long leaders. You can also use live shrimp as a bait if you prefer.
Spanish mackerel fishermen worry about their taste buds. 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 best to cook the mackerel within 24 hours after it has been caught.
While using jigs for Spanish mackerel fishing in Florida can be effective, some of the best bait is a live one. Capt Jim loves the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait because it mimics small bait fish. For him, olive and white work best. Pick a color to mimic the local forage.
Inlets
Inlets around Fort Pierce have been producing good action for Spanish mackerel and other species. Fisherman are also reporting Snook, Redfish catches, Sheepshead, Black Drum, while fishing Spanish mackerel. For Spanish mackerel fishing, anglers use spoons and jigs. On the north jetty, live shrimp are being caught. Live shrimp are also an option.
Spanish fish anglers will have better luck if they are able to target schools near reefs and inlets. Long lines should be used to troll along a school's edge. Running through or across schools of fish can cause them to dive. This will result in missed opportunities. Winter Spanish mackerel fishing is best done in small, protected areas.
Spanish mackerel are aggressive feeders in the early morning and later afternoon. Silverside minnows are abundant in the waters offshore, which Spanish mackerel enjoy eating. 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.
Located along the coast, inlets and bridges can be excellent places to catch these aggressive acrobats. These fish are prolific inshore and offshore, and can be caught by casting and trolling a tube lure. One of the most effective lures is the Gotcha tube lure. You can fish it cast or trolled. You might also consider fishing from piers and causeways.
Inlets in South Florida
For fishing south Florida's coast waters, inlets for Spanish Mackerel fishing can be a great option. 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. You should look for active diving birds and churned water. If you spot a school, you've found a Spanish mackerel.
Fort Lauderdale may be the place to go if your goal is to find great fishing spots. Capt. For example, Capt. Visit their website for 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 have other options. The Boynton region to Flagler Bridge is a popular spot for flounder, yellow perch, and jack crevalle. Fishing with yellow feathers, trolling spoons, and trolling hooks is effective.
When is the best time to surf fish for Spanish mackerel?
When is the best season to surf fish 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. On the NOAA website, you can find out the water temperature for the coasts of the U.S. Then, you can use the water temperatures to determine the best times to fish for them.
If you want to surf fish for Spanish Mackerel, make sure there is clear water and calm seas. To maximize your chances of catching these fish, you should fish at least two hours offshore. Fish close to shore if murky water is your preference. Cast artificial lures with heavy fluorocarbon leaders into clear water. For these aggressive fish, keep your speed up.
Most experienced surf fishermen prefer to fish in the inshore waters of the Florida Panhandle in April. The fish are still abundant and eating well there. The rains that had begun in March have stopped, making it easier to find water. During this time, the waters are warm enough to support a few pompano. If you're in search of red or whiting in the surf, try a tube lure or jigs. Spanish mackerel inshore tend to avoid bars.
FAQ
What type of gear are you going to need for fishing?
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.
What happens if I am caught illegally fishing?
You may face fines, jail time, and even loss of your fishing license. It's important to know the rules before you go fishing.
Is fishing safe?
Fishing is extremely safe. Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy nature. You will not have any problems as long as you observe safety rules.
Statistics
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
- You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
- 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)
- It is estimated there are at least 2 million people who go fishing in California each year. (californiayachtsales.com)
External Links
How To
Finding the Best Fishing Location
The best places to fish are those where you know what kind you want. It is important to decide whether you prefer deep sea fishing or shallow-water fishing. Deep sea fishing costs money. Shallow water fishing requires no boat and can be done from shore. Shallow water fishing is the best option if you want to catch trout. However, if your goal is to catch barracuda you will have to venture out into deeper waters.
Depending on what you prefer, there are many options for fishing spots. Some places only offer one type, while others offer multiple options. One example is that some areas are known for their bass fishing and others specialize in fly-fishing. Some locations are also famous for their shark fishing or crabbing.
The best way to figure out where to go depends on your budget, how long you plan to stay, and what you like doing. Do you enjoy camping? A place close to a lake might appeal to you. Are you more drawn to city life? Maybe you prefer to be on the beach. Maybe you enjoy the beach, kayaking, canoeing or sailing.
Even if fishing is not something you are familiar with, it's worth asking someone who does. They might be able to tell you all sorts of information, including where to fish.
You can also search online for "fishing spots nearby me" This will give you many options. It would be fantastic if you could narrow down the choices by reviewing ratings and reviews. Many websites offer this feature.
Once you've decided on a specific location, make sure to visit it before you leave. You should always have the directions handy as sometimes it can take longer to get there than you expected. You should also make sure that you have everything you need. Also, don't forget to pack your tackle box, bait, as well as sunscreen.
It is also a good idea research the weather conditions at the fishing spot. Look at the forecast to determine when is the best time to fish. Changes in the weather can cause you to alter your plans.
You now have the information you need to plan your trip. The next step is deciding what you're going to use to fish.