The usual lures didn't work well for me when I tried spanish mackerel fishing with them 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 also tried spoons with inlets, worms, and spoons. But none of these 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. These spoons are very effective in 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 about 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. They should be shiny in bright sunlight and matte on cloudy days. Use a single hook, rigged on a split-ring if you fish at twilight. You should not use a triple hook because it can cause missed strikes.
Casting spoons in the Florida coast is a great way of catching Spanish mackerel. They are an excellent and tasty fish, thanks to their speed swimming. Good action can be found around St. Augustine or Matanzas. These fish are also a popular catch for beach fishermen. Cast spoons are more likely to attract fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. You can catch more fish with a weedless bait.
You can also try trolling 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. To avoid the line from getting tangled, a swivel should be placed behind the diving planeer. Another option is a spoon umbrella. 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. A large size hook is recommended for reducing the risk of cutoffs. 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.
Spanish mackerel love spoons and flies that imitate their prey. These baits work well in the Atlantic as well as the Gulf for Spanish mackerel. 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 strong and can catch fish from all depths of water. 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, MirrOdines, and other baits are also effective.
Fishing for Spanish mackerel can be challenging so be ready to face some stiff competition. You should be ready for battles and fights! Experts like Daniel Flinn can help you. Look for local marinas, fishing reports, and you'll be able to determine where Spanish mackerel live. Be sure to allow space for other boats. Daniel Flinn is an insider who also recommends using his bobber.
Jigs
Choosing the right jig for catching Spanish is an important step in your quest for big catches. These fish have a slim and slender body, which makes it easy to handle. Use a long shank hook when you tie your hook. For best results, treble hooks can be used with a long leader. You can also use live shrimp as a bait if you prefer.
Spanish mackerel fishermen worry about their taste buds. 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 known for being a bit fishy, so you should try to have it prepared as soon as possible. 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 says that the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait is his favorite bait. It mimics small bait fish well. The colors that work best for him are olive and white. Consider a color that resembles the local forage.
Inlets
Inlets around Fort Pierce have been producing good action for Spanish mackerel and other species. Fisherman have reported catching Snook, Redfish and Sheepshead while fishing for Spanish mackerel. While Spanish mackerel are being targeted by anglers using spoons and/or jigs, the northern jetty is home to live shrimp. Live shrimp can also be a good option in the evening.
Spanish fish anglers are more likely to succeed if they fish for them in schools close to reefs or inlets. 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 can be done from inlets.
Spanish mackerel can be aggressive feeders at both the dawn and dusk. Inshore waters are rich in silverside minnows, which Spanish mackerel love to feed on. Although they can be difficult to catch, you will be rewarded! You can find Spanish mackerel in Florida's best spots, including flats, passes and inlets. And don't forget to bring your fishing poles!
These aggressive acrobats can be found inlets and bridges, which are located along the coast. 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 cast it or troll it. You might also like to try fishing from causeways and piers.
Inlets in South Florida
The best option to fish south Florida's coastline waters is Spanish Mackerel fishing inlets. Anglers are prime targets because Mackerel prefer to feed close to the surface. Fish for live bait or lures in shallow water. Look for churned-up water and active diving birds. Spanish mackerels can be found in schools.
Fort Lauderdale may be the place to go if your goal is to find great fishing spots. Capt. Capt. Their website has more information 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 may also be able to target other species in the Intracoastal Waterway. The Boynton region to Flagler Bridge is a popular spot for flounder, yellow perch, and jack crevalle. It has been successful to fish with trolling spoons and yellow feathers.
Surf fishing for Spanish mackerel: Best times
When is the best season to surf fish Spanish mackerel? Mackerel migrate to spring and fall. They should begin to appear when water temperatures reach 70 degrees. They will remain until water temperatures fall below 70 degrees. The NOAA website allows you to check the water temperatures in the U.S. coasts. Then, you can use the water temperatures to determine the best times to fish for them.
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. If you prefer murky water, fish close to shore. In clear water, cast artificial lures with a heavy fluorocarbon leader. For these aggressive fish, keep your speed up.
Most surf fishermen inexperienced prefer to fish the inshore waters off the Florida Panhandle in April. The fish are abundant and still feeding well. Fish can now find water easier because the rains that started in March have stopped. The waters are warmer enough to support a few sandpipers during this time. A tube lure or jig is a good option if you want to catch red or white whiting in the surf. Spanish mackerel are known to be a bit more aggressive than the bars.
FAQ
What is the best bait for freshwater fishing?
The best bait for freshwater fishing is live shrimp. Shrimp are inexpensive, easy to catch, and taste great!
What kind of fishing license do I need?
You must have a fishing licence if you want to fish in state waters (e.g. lakes, rivers, or bays). State laws require anglers to obtain a valid fishing license before fishing. If you plan to fish within federal waters (e.g. Great Lakes, oceans), a license is required. You do not require a fishing licence to fish in federal waters. However, if you plan to take any fish home with you, then you must first check with local authorities to make sure you aren't breaking any laws.
How big should my tacklebox be?
Because you will need ample space to store your fishing gear, a large tackle box is essential. Tackle boxes range in size depending on the number of items stored inside.
Are there any good spots for fishing?
You can fish in many places around the globe. Many people enjoy fishing in public parks, private pools, lakes, rivers and streams as well as other water bodies.
Statistics
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to Cast a Fishing Rod Easily
When casting a fishing rod, the first thing to do is use your wrist to pull the handle towards the water. Keep the rod slightly off the body, so the line is parallel to it. When you start moving the rod forward, keep the tip of the rod perpendicular to the surface of the water. If the tip hits the water's surface before the line reaches the bottom, the fish won't bite. This technique can be used to increase distance between the tip and water surface.
These tips will help you feel more comfortable casting a fishing rod.
The first thing you should do is to hold the rod at your chest. You will be able to easily control the rod’s direction without having your back bent.
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 may want to consider buying a small reel instead of an expensive one. A spinning reel that is inexpensive will enable you to cast further distances and improve your hand-eye coordination.
A fishing pole holder might be another option. These holders hold the rod securely and keep it upright. These holders are easy to store and protect your rod from damage.
Fifth, practice your casting technique until you feel comfortable with the motion. Casting a fishing line takes practice.
Sixth, remember that the key to successful fishing is patience. Waiting for the right moment is crucial. Once the strike occurs, you must work hard to reel in the fish.