When I was spanish mackerel fishing in Florida, I had limited success with the usual lures. 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 and inlets but they didn't work. Instead, I used small jigs which had a attached worm.
Spoons
Spoons are an excellent tool to catch Spanish Mackerel. They are extremely effective at catching these fish. Spoons move on their own so they can be cast quite far and cover a lot. They are perfect for catching kingfish which can weigh up to thirty pounds. These are some ways to use spoons when you're in Florida.
A spoon should have a long, sturdy body, and not be too long. Spanish bass can be attracted to spoons that are too long or thin. They should be shiny for bright sunlight and matte for cloudy days. You can fish in the twilight with a single hook that is rigged on split rings. It can result in missed strikes if you use a double hook.
Casting spoons on the coast waters is a great and easy 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 are also a popular catch for beach fishermen. Cast spoons attract more fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. Use a weedless pvc bait if you want to catch more.
Trolling can also be used to catch Spanish mackerel. To do this, tie a small spoon onto the planer and attach a 30 pound leader to it. To avoid tangling the line, you will need to swivel behind a diving planer. You can also use a spoon umbrella to rig. However, you should not exceed seven miles per hour while trolling, as this will result in a low catch rate.
Hard-Baits
You can use artificial or live baits to catch Spanish mackerel. Bait fish and shrimp are good drift baits. It is advisable to use a large hook to reduce the chance of cutting offs. A good size for all purposes is 1/0 if you're casting to the reefs. Florida waters offer many opportunities for fishing for Spanish mackerel.
Spanish mackerel prefer spoons or flies that mimic their prey. These baits are very effective in locating Spanish mackerel, both in the Atlantic or Gulf. A spoon or hard bait can also be used. Flat-bottomed lures will cover more water and increase your chances of hooking Spanish mackerel.
For Spanish mackerel fishing, Spoons and Gotcha lures work well. They are tough and catch the fish at all depths. Florida is very fond of Get-Cha lures. These lures come with built-in rattles, which attract Spanish mackerel. They can be reeled quickly. Rat-L–Traps and MirrOdines are also highly effective.
While you are fishing for Spanish mackerel, be prepared for a bit of competition. Be prepared for a fight. Learn from experts such as Daniel Flinn. By visiting local marinas or reading fishing reports, you can find out the location of Spanish mackerel. You should also allow for other boats. Daniel Flinn, an insider member, recommends using abobber.
Jigs
It is crucial to choose the right jig to catch Spanish. This fish has a thin and slim body that makes them easy to handle. A long shank hook is best for tying a hook. Treble hooks can be tied with a leader that is long for the best results. You can also use live shrimp as a bait if you prefer.
Spanish mackerel fishermen have a main concern about the taste. 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 can be a bit finicky so it is best to prepare them as soon as you catch them. 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 likes the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait. He says it is a great imitation of small bait fish. The colors that work best for him are olive and white. Consider a color that resembles the local forage.
Inlets
Fort Pierce and its surrounding islands have provided good action for Spanish Mackerel and other species. While fishing for Spanish mackerel, fishermen have also been reporting catches of Snook, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Black Drum. 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.
Anglers targeting Spanish fish will have the best luck if they target schools of these fish near inlets and reefs. Anglers should use long lines to troll along the edges of schools of fish. Fish will dive if they are running across or through them. Ideal for winter Spanish mackerel fish fishing are inlets.
Spanish mackerel love to feed aggressively in the morning and afternoon. Silverside minnows are abundant in the waters offshore, which Spanish mackerel enjoy eating. They can be a difficult catch, but you will be rewarded for your effort! These are the best areas to find Spanish mackerel anywhere in Florida. Remember to bring your fishing rods!
Located along the coast, inlets and bridges can be excellent places to catch these aggressive acrobats. These fish are abundant inshore and offshore and can be caught using 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 are prime targets because Mackerel prefer to feed close to the surface. If the water is very shallow, you can troll your lure and live bait in the inlet. Be on the lookout for active divers and churned up water. Spanish mackerels can be found 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 listen to the show live on the internet by searching for "Spanish Mackerel fishing in South Florida" and "Small Inlets."
Spanish mackerel can also found near the Flagler Bridge. Anglers can also target other species along the Intracoastal Waterway. From the Boynton to Flagler Bridge area, fish such as flounder, Jack Crevalle, and Sand Perch are all common. Fishing with trolling spoons or yellow feathers has proven to be effective.
Best times to surf fish for Spanish mackerel
When is the best season to surf fish Spanish mackerel? Mackerel migrate between spring and autumn. They will start showing up when the water temperature reaches 70 degrees. They will not leave the area until it drops to 70 degrees. You can look up water temperatures for coastal areas of the U.S. on the NOAA website. You can then use the water temperatures for the best times to fish.
Surf fishing for Spanish mackerel requires that you choose a spot with calm waters and clear water. You want to catch these fish as soon as possible, so make sure you are at least two hours off the coast. Fish closer to shore if you prefer murky waters. Cast artificial lures with heavy fluorocarbon leaders into clear water. Make sure to keep the speed up for these aggressive fish.
Most surf fishermen inexperienced prefer to fish the inshore waters off the Florida Panhandle in April. There, the fish are still plentiful and feeding heavily. Fish can now find water easier because the rains that started in March have stopped. The waters are warm enough that a few pompano can be found in the water. 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
Is fishing safe?
Fishing is very safe. Fishing can be an enjoyable way to relax, enjoy nature and have fun. Follow safety rules and you'll have no problems.
Which is the best spot to fish?
You can fish near rivers, lakes, streams and other freshwater bodies. These areas provide plenty of food for the fish.
How much time does it take to catch a fish?
It all depends on the fish size and the skill of the fisherman. It takes anywhere from one minute to an hour to land a fish. You have a better chance of landing a large fish if you wait longer.
Is it safe and legal to eat fish caught from another source?
It doesn't matter where you buy fish. Always ask the seller if their fish has a freshness expiration date. The fish is safe to eat if it doesn't have an expiration. But, don't eat the fish if it smells or looks old.
What length is the perfect fishing rod length?
The size of the fish you want to catch will dictate the length of the fishing rod. A 6'6 inch rod would work well if you're targeting smallmouth bass. A 7'5" rod is better for largemouth bass fishing.
Are there any special licenses required to fish?
No, unless you are going to fish in another state or county. Many states allow anglers to fish without any type of license. You can check with your local Fish & Wildlife office to find out what licensing is required.
What happens if I get caught fishing illegally?
You could face penalties, jail time, or even losing your fishing license. It's important to know the rules before you go fishing.
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)
- You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
- Orvis, Simms, and Fishpond have been making some of the best packs and vests for a long time, and it seems like 90% of the anglers around the area use these brands. (troutandsteelhead.net)
- 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
First, you need to know how to cast a fishing line. Keep the rod slightly off the body, so the line is parallel to it. Keep the rod's tip parallel to the water when you move it forward. If the tip of the rod touches the water's surface, fish won’t bite. This technique allows you to increase the distance from the tip of your rod to the water's surface.
Here are some tips to help you cast a rod confidently.
Begin by holding the rod close to your chest. You can control the rod's direction by this method without having to bend down.
Second, when casting a heavy rod, you may want to set up a tripod on the shoreline or on a rock ledge. You'll be able rest your rod securely and still have control of the reel.
Third, consider getting a small reel over a more expensive 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 it becomes second nature. Casting a fishing pole takes practice.
Sixth, patience is key to successful fishing. Waiting for the right moment is crucial. Once the strike occurs, you must work hard to reel in the fish.