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 (inlets, worms) and spoons. However, none of these methods worked. Instead, I chose small jigs that had a worm attached.
Spoons
You should use spoons if you want to catch Spanish Mackerel. They are extremely effective at catching these fish. Spoons can move freely on their own and you can cast them far, covering a lot 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 will love spoons that have a thin and long body. For sunny days, the spoons should be shiny and matte. For fishing in the dark, you should use a single-hook rigged with a split ring. Do not use a treble hook, as it can cause missed strikes.
Casting spoons into the Florida coast has been a great method to catch Spanish mackerel. They are an excellent and tasty fish, thanks to their speed swimming. You can find good action around St. Augustine and Matanzas. These fish can also be caught by beach fishermen. Cast spoons are more effective at attracting fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. If you want to catch more fish, you can use a weedless plastic 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. A swivel behind the diving planer is necessary to avoid tangling the line. A spoon umbrella rig is another option. Trolling at speeds of seven miles an hour is a good idea, since this can lead to a lower catch rate.
Hard-Baits
You can use artificial or live baits to catch Spanish mackerel. Bait fish, live shrimp, and live shrimp make good drift baits. To reduce cutoffs, it is best to use a large-sized hook. If you are casting to the reefs, 1/0 is a good all-around size. Fishing for Spanish mackerel in Florida waters can be a great adventure, so make sure you take advantage of the many possibilities!
Spanish mackerel prefer spoons or flies that mimic their prey. These baits are effective for locating Spanish mackerel in both the Gulf and Atlantic. Another option is to use a spoon, or a hard bait. Flat-bottomed baits cover more water which increases your chances of hooking a Spanish mackerel.
For Spanish mackerel, you can use Spoons or Got-Cha lures. They are durable and catch the fish from all depths of the water column. Florida is a favorite place to use Get-Cha lures. These lures include rattles built in that attract Spanish mackerel and can be quickly reeled into. Rat-L–Traps, MirrOdines or other baits work as well.
When you are fishing for Spanish Mackerel, expect some competition. Prepare for a fight. You can learn from experts like Daniel Flinn. Find out where Spanish mackerel are at sea by visiting local marinas and reading fishing reports. You should also allow for other boats. The insider member Daniel Flinn also recommends using a bobber.
Jigs
It is crucial to choose the right jig to catch Spanish. The body of these fish is slim and light, making it easy to hold. A long shank hook is best for tying a hook. For best results, treble hooks can be used with a long leader. If you prefer a live bait, live shrimp is an excellent choice.
Spanish mackerel fishermen are concerned about their taste. 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 have a reputation for being very fishy. Therefore, it is important to have the fish ready as soon you can. However, it is best to prepare the fish within 24 hours of its capture.
While using jigs for Spanish mackerel fishing in Florida can be effective, some of the best bait is a live one. Capt Jim likes the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait. He says it is a great imitation of small bait fish. Olive and white are his favorites. Look for a color which is close to the natural colors of your area.
Inlets
Fort Pierce's inlets have seen good fishing for Spanish mackerel, and other species. Fisherman have reported catching Snook, Redfish and Sheepshead while fishing for Spanish mackerel. For Spanish mackerel fishing, anglers use spoons and jigs. On the north jetty, live shrimp are being caught. Live shrimp are also a great option during the evening.
Spanish fish anglers will have better luck if they are able to target schools near reefs and 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. Inlets are ideal for winter Spanish mackerel fishing.
Spanish mackerel feed aggressively during the morning and evening. Spanish mackerel love to eat silverside minnows found in coastal waters. They can be a difficult catch, but you will be rewarded for your effort! You can find Spanish mackerel in Florida's best spots, including flats, passes and inlets. Don't forget your fishing poles!
These aggressive acrobats can be found inlets and bridges, which are located along the coast. 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
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. If the water is very shallow, you can troll your lure and live bait in the inlet. You should look for active diving birds and churned water. 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. Visit their website for 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."
The Flagler Bridge is a great spot to find Spanish mackerel. Anglers can also target other species along the Intracoastal Waterway. From the Boynton area to Flagler Bridge, you can catch flounder, jack crevalle and sandperch. It has been successful to fish with trolling spoons and yellow feathers.
Best time to surf fish Spanish mackerel
When is the best time to surf fish for Spanish mackerel? Mackerel migrate to spring and fall. They should show up once the water temperatures have reached 70 degrees. They will continue to appear until the water temperature drops below 70°F. 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. To increase your chances of catching these species, fish at least two to three hours offshore. Fish close to shore if murky water is your preference. 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 are plenty of fish and they are eating well. The rains that began in March have ceased, making it easier for fish to find the water. The waters are warm enough that a few pompano can be found in the water. Tube lures and jigs are great options for whiting or redfishing in the surf. Spanish mackerel often swim offshore of bars.
FAQ
How can I get my kids to take up fishing?
Absolutely! Fishing is a favorite pastime of children. Fishing is something that most children love to do. There are many things that you can do to encourage your child into fishing. To encourage them to fish, you can teach them how knots are made, how to build a fishing line, and what fishing etiquette is. You can also show them photos of fish and tell them stories about fishing.
What type of fishing gear do you require?
A rod, reel line, hooks, line, bait, tackle box and some snacks. You will need to know how to cast, hook up a hook and use a trolling motor to catch fish. You must wait for the right moment and be patient.
When fishing, how far from shore should you stand?
The closer you are to the shore, the greater your chances of catching fish. But, you also have a higher chance of getting wet.
How do I bait my hooks?
You can bait your hooks by attaching a piece de meat to the end of your hook. Tie the meat around the hook's eye.
How long does it take for a fisherman to be an expert?
Expert fishermanship takes practice over many years. Being a successful fisherman will require you to master new techniques and enhance your skills.
How can I tell whether my lure is working properly?
If your lure is moving when you place it in the water, pay attention. If you observe movement, your lure may be working properly.
Can I fish in the morning?
Yes, you can fish any hour of the night. Only times that fishing is banned are when you can fish.
Statistics
- You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
- Coarse fishing is 100% catch and release these days. (linesonthewater.anglingtrust.net)
- 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)
- 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)
External Links
How To
The Best Fishing Spot
Knowing what kind of fish is best for you to find the best fishing spots is essential. It is important to decide whether you prefer deep sea fishing or shallow-water fishing. Deep sea fishing requires a boat. This is expensive. Shallow water fishing is done from shore, so there's no cost involved. If you are looking to catch trout, shallow water fishing is your best choice. However, if you're looking for barracuda, you'll have to head out to deeper waters.
Depending on your preference, there are many types of fishing spots. Some places offer just one type of fishing; others offer several. Some places are famous for their fly fishing, while others are better at bass fishing. Other places are known for their shark-fishing and crabbing.
How long you intend to stay and your interests will all play a role in deciding where you want to go. Do you enjoy camping? A place close to a lake might appeal to you. Are you more interested in city life? You might prefer the beach. You might also enjoy scuba diving or kayaking.
Even if fishing is not something you are familiar with, it's worth asking someone who does. They could tell you about all kinds of things, including where to go.
You can also search online for "fishing spots nearby me" This will give a lot of options. You might be able to narrow down your choices by looking at reviews and ratings. This is possible on a variety of websites.
Once you've decided on a specific location, make sure to visit it before you leave. Sometimes it takes longer to get there than anticipated. Also, make sure you bring everything you think you'll need. Don't forget your tackle box, bait, and sunscreen!
It's a good idea also to check the weather conditions at the spot. Seek out the forecast to see the best times of day. You may need to modify your plans if the weather conditions change.
Now that you know where to go, you can start planning your trip. Next is to decide what to fish.