After many windy days, the weather improved for the weekend. Spanish mackerel and redfish are abundant and can complement a nice day.
Mackerel are thick near the Sunshine Skyway bridge and Egmont Key. Live bait or silver spoons are viable choices. Because of razor-sharp teeth on macks, a steel leader or long-shank hook must be used to minimize cutoffs. A single strand, thin wire leader works well if no swivel is used. Attach the wire to the mono. Hungry fish commonly mistake a swivel coming through the water as something to eat, and after a quick whack with their teeth, it's all over. The knot for this application usually is demonstrated on the back of the leader material package.
Many anglers prefer a long shank hook instead of wire. Monofilament is easier to work with than wire and does not kink. Some anglers say they get more strikes with long-shank hooks than with wire. A medium- to light-action spinning outfit with a smooth drag is preferred. A loose drag helps anglers get more fish to the boat. Often, the fish are foul-hooked and a mackerel's skin tears easily, so patience and a loose drag go a long way to helping land catches. And a chum block is a worthy investment.
Redfish are abundant in upper Tampa Bay and the Weedon Island area. They are on the flats, and traditional techniques can score. Live greenbacks or shrimp under a float are deadly.
Reds also can be found along mangrove shorelines or near oyster bars with a lot of mullet. Redfish spook easily, so a stealthy approach is necessary. When using a trolling motor, keep it on the same speed because the slightest change in noise can scare the school.
- Dave Walker charters out of Tampa. Call 813 310-6531 or e-mail www.snookfish.com
