Though it's premature to suggest the return of bait to the flats, it's never too early to prepare.
Soon we will have water temperature of 68 to 70 degrees. With Spanish mackerel on deck in the pelagic lineup, now is the time to consider a quality cast net.
When kingfishing, catching one or a few large baits on gold hook rigs works fine. When trying to pack a livewell with 3-inch whitebait for mackerel, choosing the right cast net is essential.
Because a single net won't work on all baits in every situation, here are some considerations.
For small bait on the flats or in less than 10 feet, use 1/4-inch mesh. Tiny mesh almost eliminates gilling. A 3/8-inch mesh is most productive on 3- to 5-inch minnows.
When gathering midsize bait like greenbacks, large whitebait, sardines or cigar minnows, a 1-inch mesh works best. When throwing around the Skyway Bridge, the Bayway, Pass-a-Grille sea buoy or fishing piers, the larger mesh sinks faster in the deeper water.
From a boat in deeper water, I'd recommend at least a 10-footer. Weights will vary. Too light a net will be ineffective, too heavy can close before hitting the intended target. Most weigh 1 to 11/2 pounds and are one half per foot.
Custom nets can be made to order. Better tackle stores have production bait nets that can sometimes be half the price. Rather than have one mended, discard and replace it.
- Jay Mastry charters Jaybird out of St. Petersburg. Call (727) 321-2142.
