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 still didn't catch my target fish. I also tried spoons (inlets, worms) and spoons. However, none of these methods worked. Instead, I opted for small jigs with a worm attached.
Spoons
Spoons can be used to catch Spanish Mackerel in Florida. They are extremely effective at catching these fish. Spoons can be cast far and covered a lot of water. They are great for catching kingfish. Kingfish can be over 30 pounds. Here are some tips to use spoons in Florida.
Pick a spoon that is long and stocky. It should also not be too short. Spanish bass may be attracted by spoons with a long, thin body. For bright sunlight, they should shine and be matte for cloudy days. You can fish in the twilight with a single hook that is rigged on split rings. You should not use a triple hook because it can cause missed strikes.
Casting spoons into the Florida coast has been a great method to catch Spanish mackerel. They are a tasty and enjoyable meal due to their fast swimming speed. You will find great action in St. Augustine and Matanzas. These fish can also be caught by beach fishermen. Cast spoons will attract more fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. A weedless plastic lure is a better option if you are looking to catch more fish.
You can also try trolling to catch Spanish mackerel. You can tie a small spoon to your planer, and then trail it with a 30-pound leader. To avoid tangling the line, you will need to swivel behind a diving planer. You can also use a spoon umbrella to rig. Trolling should be limited to seven miles per annum. This will reduce your catch rate.
Hard-Baits
You can use artificial or live baits to catch Spanish mackerel. Drift baits that work well are live shrimp and bait fish. They are usually chummed in water. It is advisable to use a large hook to reduce the chance of cutting offs. If you're fishing for reef fish, a size of 1/0 is an ideal all-round size. Florida waters can provide great opportunities to fish for Spanish mackerel.
Spanish mackerel are attracted to flies and spoons 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 or hard bait. Flat-bottomed baits can cover more water, increasing your chances of hooking Spanish mackerel.
Spoons and Got-Cha lures are effective for catching Spanish mackerel. These lures are long-lasting and can be used to catch fish at any depth in the water column. 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 are also effective.
Be prepared to compete with other fishermen while you fish for Spanish mackerel. Be ready for a fight and a battle! You can learn from experts like Daniel Flinn. You can find out where the Spanish mackerel are by checking out local marinas and fishing reports. Be sure to allow space for other boats. Daniel Flinn, an insider, also suggests using a Bobber.
Jigs
Choosing the right jig for catching Spanish is an important step in your quest for big catches. 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.
The taste is a major concern for Spanish mackerel fishermen. Although many anglers do not enjoy the taste of Spanish mackerel, it is worth considering cooking the fish the day after you catch it. Spanish mackerel have a reputation for being very fishy. Therefore, it is important to have the fish ready as soon you can. 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 loves the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait because it mimics small bait fish. White and olive are the best colors for him. 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. Fisherman report catching redfish, sheepshead, redfish and black drum while fishing for Spanish Mackerel. To catch Spanish mackerel, anglers will use spoons or jigs. Meanwhile, live shrimp are eating on the north shore. Live shrimp are also a great option during the evening.
Anglers targeting Spanish fish will have the best luck if they target schools of these fish near inlets and reefs. 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 is best done in small, protected areas.
Spanish mackerel are aggressive feeders during early morning and late afternoon. Spanish mackerel love silverside minnows. Inshore waters are rich with them. Although they can be difficult to catch, you will be rewarded! These are the best areas to find Spanish mackerel anywhere in Florida. Make sure to bring your fishing gear!
Inlets and bridges along the coast can be great places to capture these aggressive acrobats. These fish are abundant inshore and offshore and can be caught using a tube lure. One of the most effective lures is the Gotcha tube lure. You can cast it or troll it. You may also want to try fishing off piers or causeways.
Inlets of South Florida
For fishing south Florida's coast waters, inlets for Spanish Mackerel fishing can be a great option. Anglers have a prime opportunity to catch Mackerel as they tend to feed close the surface. Fish for live bait or lures in shallow water. Look out for active diving birds as well as churned waters. Spanish mackerels can be found in schools.
Fort Lauderdale could be a great choice for you if fishing is your passion. Capt. For example, Capt. Visit their website for more information about where to fish. You can also listen live online by searching "Spanish Mackerel fishing South Florida" or "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 yellow feathers and trolling spoons have been effective.
Best times to surf fish for Spanish mackerel
When is the best time to surf fish for Spanish mackerel? Mackerel migrate in spring or fall. They will start showing up when the water temperature reaches 70 degrees. They will continue to appear until the water temperature drops below 70°F. The NOAA website gives information about water temperatures for U.S. coastal areas. The water temperatures can be used to determine the best times of the year to fish.
Choose calm water and clear waters when surfing for Spanish mackerel. To maximize your chances of catching these fish, you should fish at least two hours offshore. If you prefer murky water, fish close to shore. Cast artificial lures with heavy fluorocarbon leaders into clear water. These aggressive fish require speed.
The Florida Panhandle's inshore waters are where most experienced surf fishermen prefer fishing in April. The fish are still abundant and eating well there. 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 are known to be a bit more aggressive than the bars.
FAQ
What type of fishing permit do I require?
You will need a fishing permit if your plan is to fish on state waters (i.e. the lakes, rivers and beaches). According to state laws, anglers must have a valid fishing permit before they can fish. If you plan on fishing in federal waters (e.g., oceans or Great Lakes), you must obtain a valid fishing licence. You do not require a fishing licence to fish in federal waters. You will need a fishing license if you plan to take fish home.
How big is my tackle box?
Large tackle boxes are necessary as you'll need enough space to store all your fishing equipment. The size of your tackle box depends on the amount of items you store inside.
Where can you buy your fishing supplies?
You can purchase all of these items at most sporting goods stores. Online shopping is a good option if you are searching for something particular. Many websites sell everything, from rods to reels to tackle boxes to lures.
Do I need special licenses to fish?
If you intend to take fish outside of your state or cross county lines, no. Most states permit anglers to fish with no license. To find out what license is required, check with your local Fish & Wildlife Agency.
Statistics
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to Perfectly Cast a Fishing Rod
The first thing you must know when casting a fishing rod is to use your wrist to move the rod's handle smoothly towards the water. The rod should be held slightly away from the body so that it is parallel to the ground. When you start moving the rod forward, keep the tip of the rod perpendicular to the surface of the water. Fish won't bite if the rod's tip touches the surface of the water before it reaches the bottom. This technique can help increase the distance between your rod tip and the water's surface.
Here are some tips for casting a rod if you're not confident yet.
First, hold the rod as close to your chest as possible. By doing this, the rod will move in the right direction and you won't have to bend.
You may also want to place a tripod along the shoreline or on top of a rock ledge when casting heavy rods. You'll be able rest your rod securely and still have control of the reel.
A third option is to buy a smaller reel than 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 is another option. 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 it becomes second nature. Casting a fishing line takes practice.
Sixth, patience is the key to successful fishing. Wait for the right time to strike, then work hard to catch the fish.