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 they still didn't catch the fish that I was looking for. I tried spoons, inlets and worms but none of them worked. I instead chose to use small jigs attached with a tiny worm.
Spoons
Spoons can be used to catch Spanish Mackerel in Florida. These spoons are very effective in catching these fish. Spoons can move freely on their own and you can cast them far, covering a lot water. They are also great for catching kingfish, which can weigh more than thirty pounds. Here are some tips for using spoons in Florida.
Pick a spoon that is long and stocky. It should also not be too short. Spanish bass will be attracted to spoons with long and thin bodies. Shiny spoons are best for sunny days and matte ones for rainy days. If you are fishing in twilight, use a single hook rigged on a split ring. Do not use a treble hook, as it can cause missed strikes.
Casting spoons in coastal waters has been a great 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. Beach fishermen also have good success catching these fish. Cast spoons are more likely to attract fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. You can also use a weedless, plastic bait to catch more fish.
You can also try trolling to catch Spanish mackerel. A small spoon should be tied to the planer's front and a 30 pound leader should be attached. To avoid the line from getting tangled, a swivel should be placed behind the diving planeer. Other options include a spoon umbrella rig. 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. To reduce cutoffs, it is best to use a large-sized hook. If you're fishing for reef fish, a size of 1/0 is an ideal all-round size. 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 are very effective in locating Spanish mackerel, both in the Atlantic or Gulf. You can also use a spoon or hard bait. Flat-bottomed lures will cover more water and increase your chances of hooking Spanish mackerel.
For Spanish mackerel, you can use Spoons or Got-Cha lures. They are sturdy and catch the fish from every depth 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. Rat-L–Traps and MirrOdines are also highly effective.
Be prepared to compete with other fishermen while you fish for Spanish mackerel. Prepare for battle and fight! Daniel Flinn is an expert. Check out fishing reports and local marinas to find out the exact location of Spanish mackerel. Don't forget to leave room for other boats. Daniel Flinn is an insider who also recommends using his bobber.
Jigs
It is crucial to choose the right jig to catch Spanish. This fish is easy to handle because of its slim, slender bodies. When tying a hook, you should use a hook with a long shank. You can also use treble hooks with a long leader for best results. 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 is known for being quite fishy so make sure to get it cooked as soon possible. It is recommended that you cook the fish within 24hrs after catching it.
While jigs work well in Florida for Spanish mackerel fish fishing, they are not the best. Capt Jim's favorite bait, according to him, is the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait. This bait mimics a small baitfish. For him, olive and white work best. You should choose a color that is similar to the forage found in your area.
Inlets
Fort Pierce's Inlets have been producing good Spanish mackerel fishing action and other species. Fisherman have reported catching Snook, Redfish and Sheepshead 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 available during the evening.
Spanish fish are best targeted by anglers who target them near inlets or 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 feed aggressively during the morning and evening. Spanish mackerel love silverside minnows. Inshore waters are rich with them. These minnows can be difficult to catch but they are worth it! The best places to spot Spanish mackerel are in Florida's passes, flats, and inlets. Don't forget your fishing poles!
These aggressive acrobats are often found along the coast inlets and bridges. These fish can be caught inshore or offshore by trolling a tube lure. The Gotcha tube lure is one of the best lures to use. It can be fished cast, or trolled. Fishing off causeways or piers is another option.
Inlets in South Florida
Inlets for Spanish Mackerel fishing are a good option for fishing south Florida's coastal waters. 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. Spanish mackerel can be spotted in schools.
Fort Lauderdale could be a great choice for you if fishing is your passion. 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. You can find more information at their website about where to fish. You can also watch the show online by searching for "Spanish Mackerel Fishing in South Florida" as well as "Small Inlets."
Another great place to find Spanish mackerel is along the shoreline near the Flagler Bridge. Anglers have other options. From the Boynton to Flagler Bridge area, fish such as flounder, Jack Crevalle, and Sand Perch are all common. Fishing with trolling and yellow spoons as well as yellow feathers has proved to be very effective.
Best time to surf fish Spanish mackerel
What's the best time to surffish for Spanish mackerel at sea? Mackerel migrate in spring or fall. When water temperatures hit 70 degrees, they should start to show up. They will continue to appear until the water temperature drops below 70°F. On the NOAA website, you can find out the water temperature for the coasts of the U.S. To determine the best time to fish, you can use water temperatures.
Surf fishing for Spanish mackerel requires that you choose a spot with calm waters and clear water. Fish at least two hours offshore to maximize your chances of catching these fish. Fish close to shore if murky water is your preference. Cast artificial lures using heavy fluorocarbon leaders in clear waters. 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 of March have stopped making it easier and more convenient for fish to find water. The waters are warmer enough to support a few sandpipers during this time. Try jigs and tube lures if you are looking for red or whiting while surfing. Spanish mackerel often swim offshore of bars.
FAQ
Do I require special fishing licenses?
No, unless you are going to fish in another state or county. Many states allow anglers to fish without any type of license. For more information, contact your local Fish & Wildlife department.
What happens when I lose a fishing fish?
You will lose fish sometimes. Sometimes you will catch a fish only to lose it later. Keep trying until you catch another fish. You will eventually catch another fishing fish.
Is fishing a safe sport?
Fishing can be very safe. Fishing is an excellent way to unwind and enjoy the natural world. Follow safety rules and you'll have no problems.
What should I wear to fish?
Protect your skin from the elements with clothes. It's a good idea to have gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. You should also bring insect repellent.
What is the best time to fish?
Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to fish. These times are when the fish are active and feeding.
Statistics
- 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)
- About 40 percent of all fish are freshwater species. (takemefishing.org)
- 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
How to Cast a Fishing Rod Perfectly
When casting a fishing rod, the first thing to do is use your wrist to pull the handle towards the water. The rod should be held at a slight angle from the body so that the line is parallel to the ground. As you move the rod forward, ensure that the rod tip is perpendicular with the water's surface. If the tip of the rod touches the water's surface, fish won’t bite. This technique can be used to increase distance between the tip and water surface.
These are some tips that will make casting a fly rod easier if you aren't confident enough.
Hold the rod as close as you can to your chest. This way, you can easily control the rod's direction without bending down.
A tripod can be placed on the shoreline, or on a rock ledge, to cast a heavy rod. You can rest the rod securely, while also holding the reel.
Third, you might consider buying a smaller reel as an alternative to a larger one. A cheap spinning reel can be used to cast longer distances, and it will also help you with your hand-eye coordination.
Fourth, you might also consider buying a fishing pole holder. These holders are made to securely hold the rod while maintaining its upright position. These holders are easy to store and protect your rod from damage.
Fifth, practice casting until you get used to the motion. It takes time to master the art of casting a fishing rod.
Sixth, patience and perseverance are the keys to fishing success. You need to wait until the right moment strikes and then work hard for the fish.