Casting spoons and got-cha baits for Spanish mackerel fishing is easy if you know a few basics. Bucktails, for example, come in a wide variety of sizes, ranging from 1/16 ounce to a half-ounce. To match the size or baitfish size, you can adjust the bucktails.
Casting spoons
When choosing a rig, Spanish bass are a prime candidate. Casting spoons ought to have a long, flat body without any cupping and an overall length of about 6 inches. Spanish bass feed on small baitfish, so a shiny finish is ideal for bright sunlight and a matte finish for cloudy days. A single hook is all you need to set up your Spanish bass fishing rod. Don't use a treble hook, as this will increase the chances of missed strikes and a hiccup.
A metal casting spoon will catch a variety of fish, but the primary species to target are Spanish mackerel and Bluefish. Generally, these species are attracted to lures with a fast retrieve. A jigging bowl will create a fluttering action fish love. A jigging teaspoon is also a good option if you fish on a river or lake.
Spanish mackerel can't eat hard food and prefer light lures. Casting spoons with a light wire will keep the lure from breaking off during a fight. Spanish mackerel are small and can be hooked with a treblehook. Your hand will be protected from the sharp teeth of the light wire. Casting will be more successful if the bait is smaller.
Got-Cha lures
The classic Got-Cha lure makes a great choice if you want to catch Spanish mackerel schools. This treblehook bait can be quickly pulled out of the water and sinks quickly. Jerking the rod tip creates a deadly darting action underwater. Spanish fish simply can't resist the action. Before jigging the lure, let it sink to the bottom. For the best chances of hooking a Spanish Mackerel, make sure to reach the bottom of the water column using the lure.
When using Got-Cha lures for Spanish makerel fishing rigs, you need to choose a leader that fits the situation. If you use a long leader, you may lose a lot of fish. Spanish mackerel may not be attracted to a leader of medium length if it is too long. A shorter leader is better if you fish in streams or rivers.
The secret weapon of many charter boat captains is the diamond jig. These jigs, which are light and portable, are extremely effective for Spanish mackerel when they are eating glass minnows in clear waters. They have enough incentive to strike because of their flashy jigs. Diamond jigs are generally trolled, but larger versions are best used vertical jigging over structure.
Monofilament line
Many anglers prefer monofilament to braided line for Spanish mackerel fishing. Monofilament is a flexible line that doesn't pull the hook when the fish bites. A leader 20 pounds is unlikely to be eaten by these fish, as they live in open seas. Choosing a leader is a balancing act that depends on the type of Spanish mackerel you want to catch.
Although fluorocarbon line can be more expensive than monofilament but has many benefits over monofilament. Fluorocarbon line works better with baits and live trap angling because it can be hidden from the eye. Mono is less likely to snap or fray when the fish bites, and it holds knots well. But mono is much more forgiving than fluoro and is cheaper.
Spanish mackerel can also be caught by live bait. There are two options for baitfish and shrimp, but a live shark is better. Spanish mackerel will appreciate live bait that's flashy, fast-moving and attractive. Trolling spoons can cover large areas and are intended to be trolled at high speed. When Spanish mackerel aren't working on the surface, trolling is ideal.
Braided lines
The key to catching more fish and landing more is choosing the right leader. Any mistake made when targeting Spanish will only make matters worse. Because it is light and doesn't feel bulky, a light graphite wire between 8-10 feet is the best. It can reach Spanish schools and will not feel too heavy. While you can use heavier wire for casting long distances it's not necessary.
Spanish mackerel love a gotcha lure. This lure sinks rapidly at the end of the cast and jerking it causes deadly darting under the water. The action is so deadly that Spanish fish will have no choice but to attack it! Once you have pulled your lure out of the water, bring it down to the bottom to check the entire column for fish.
For fishing in Florida, you'll need a 8 to nine-weight fly rod with an excellent drag system. A floating line works best when fishing on the top, while a sinker can be used in the deeper flats. A wire leader can interfere with fish's vision. Monofilament leader are best for surface fishing. Spanish mackerel, however, will not be able to see a wire leader.
Speck rigs
There are many different ways to use Speck rigs with Spanish makers. A speck rig is a great way to catch the largest Spanish fisherman in the world, whether you are a beginner or an experienced fisherman. Pete recommends trolling your speck lure close to the boat. To ensure that the bait is not disturbed, Pete recommends that you extend the line as far as possible behind the boat. Another option is to use a free-spool small menhaden (known as peanut bunker, or pogy).
You can fish speck rigs from the beach or a pier. To get the most out of the rig, quarter casts of 45 degrees are recommended. If you are fishing from the pier, you can use the "Water Walker" fishing rig, which replaces the in-line sinker with a weighted popping cork. The rig flips and allows fish imitations of baitfish. Love Lures Speck Rig, another popular Speck rig, is also available. It consists of two jigs on dropper loops and a fluorocarbon leader of 20 or 30 pounds.
Trolling around structures is one of most popular ways to catch these fish. Kingfish can be found at the shore and near buoys. You can use live shrimp, alewives or small menhaden as baits. Use fresh shrimp or live shrimp to target them close to structures. While trolls are the most popular method for catching Spanish mackerel, other types of lures can be used.
Drifting
It is important to learn the ropes of Spanish mackerel drifting. You will need a leader of 30 feet to get started. Although you can hand line it to the boat, it is important to be aware of where strikes are coming. You will notice a change in the speed of your lures when you turn 90 degrees. The speed of your lures will change depending on where you are turning. Lines that run inside the turn will be slower, while lines that run outside will go faster. Match the speeds of lines that are catching fish more often.
Drifting baits work well with either artificial or live bait. There are many choices for bait fish, live shrimp and dead bait. Drifting can also be done with split shot. To reduce the chance of cuttingoffs, you will need a long-shanked hooked hook. A 1/0 Hook will work well. A 1/0 hook allows you to cover a larger area. Drifting in offshore and onshore waters is an efficient technique.
To attract Spanish mackerel, artificial reefs are also a good idea. These fish are found in the Bay's bottom near tunnel tubes. Cut bait or baited pops can be used if you are fishing from a pier. Drifting live bait is a great way to fish these species. You can also try fishing off the coast of Virginia during the summertime. If the current runs strong, fish are more likely to attack metal spoons and be aggressive.
Live bait
It is important to have the correct rig for Spanish mackerel fishing if you are using live bait. Spanish mackerel fisherman rigs work in the same way as king mackerel. Instead of using one hook, two smaller bucktails will be used and a single No. 6 treble hook. These bucktails come in a variety of sizes, depending on how big your baitfish are.
Live bait can be either a shrimp or a small silvery fish. If you like, you can throw it into a school to break fish or let it drift across an open ocean. To get a strike, you can also use chumming inshore and offshore. The best way to catch Spanish mackerel is usually with live bait. These fish are easy-to-clean and can be purchased at any local bait shop.
If you are drifting for Spanish marlin, live or artificial bait is also an option. Drifting is possible with bait fish and live shrimp. Split shot, however, can attract more Spanish Mackerel. A long-shanked hook is the best for this type fish. It reduces cutoffs. The 1/0 hook is ideal for all-around usage.
FAQ
What should you wear when fishing?
Wear clothes that protect you from the elements. You can protect yourself from the elements with gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat. Consider adding insect repellent.
Are there any special licenses required to fish?
If you are planning to take fish out-of-state or across county lines, then no. Many states allow anglers to fish without any type of license. Check with your local Fish & Wildlife agency to see what is required.
Where can I find good fishing spots?
All over the world, there are many places to fish. Many people love fishing in public parks and private ponds.
Statistics
- 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)
- You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
- It is estimated there are at least 2 million people who go fishing in California each year. (californiayachtsales.com)
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
External Links
How To
Finding the Best Fishing Location
To find the best fishing spots, you must know what kind of fish you want to catch. Decide whether you want to fish deep or shallow waters. Deep sea fishing costs money. It's possible to fish from the shore for shallow water, which is free. Shallow water fishing is the best option if you want to catch trout. However, if barracuda is what you're after, you should go to deeper waters.
You can choose from many different kinds of fishing spots depending on your preferences. Some locations offer only one type while others offer many options. For instance, some locations are known for their bass fish fishing and others for fly fishing. Some locations are also famous for their shark fishing or crabbing.
It all depends on what you enjoy doing, your budget and how long you plan to stay. Do you enjoy camping? Then you might want to check out a place near a lake. Are you more into city life? Perhaps you prefer the beaches. Perhaps you even like to go canoeing, sailing or scuba diving.
If you don't know much about fishing, you could always ask someone who knows what they're talking about. They might be able to tell you all sorts of information, including where to fish.
You could even try searching online for "fishing spots near me." This will give many options. It would be fantastic if you could narrow down the choices by reviewing ratings and reviews. Many websites allow you to do so.
Once you've decided on a specific location, make sure to visit it before you leave. It is not always easy to find the right way, so make sure you have directions. You should also make sure that you have everything you need. You should also bring bait, sunscreen, and a tackle box.
Researching the weather conditions is a great idea. Seek out the forecast to see the best times of day. You might need to adjust your plans if the weather changes.
Once you've decided where to go, you can begin planning your trip. Next, decide what fish you want to catch.