Snook fishing has really picked up along the beaches in the northern part of the county in recent weeks. The best time to catch these large spawning fish is about an hour before sunset through the night and the first couple hours after sunrise. Snook are nocturnal feeders, and they seem to shed some of their inhibitions at night.
To target large snook, good baits include pigfish, pinfish and squirrelfish. Live shrimp and jigs probably get more strikes, but the average size of fish caught will be smaller.
Since most beach spots have little or no structure, it isn't necessary to use heavy tackle. But if you decide to use large baits, make sure the tackle is stout enough to pull the hook through the bait and into the snook's mouth.
Fish will be spread along the beach, but the majority will be concentrated along dropoffs and passes with the most current. If the tide is really ripping, a small weight may be necessary to keep your bait near the bottom, where snook are most likely to come across it.
Though snook season is closed, catch-and-release action has been excellent. Take time to revive these snook and return them in good form.
- Pete Katsarelis charters out of Tarpon Springs and can be reached at 727 439-3474 or by e-mail at pkatsare@helios.acomp.usf.edu
