Outdoors

Daily fishing report

By DAVE WALKER
Published May 17, 2006

Now that snook season has closed, many anglers are choosing to chase other species and give linesiders a break. Targeting different fish, such as cobia, will help anglers be more skilled and will provide new challenges and opportunities.

Cobia is a wonderful species to target when things heat up. The hot days of late spring and early summer are ideal for spotting the brown bruisers. Often initially confused for a shark, they are fierce fighters not known for intelligence. If one is spotted, a quick reaction is necessary. They are famous for appearing at unusual times, and disappearing just as quickly. "Eel" type baits are effective, and a live pinfish or greenback will coax even a finicky fish.

Range markers and can buoys from Apollo Beach to Port Manatee have been holding some nice "lings" as they are called in the Panhandle. Running the markers is a nice, cool way of checking many spots in a short time. If there is a cobia, it will often swim in circles around the structure. Sinking a live bait or a big jig down to the base will catch fish not visible from the surface.

In tight quarters, with very strong fish, there are only a few contingency plans. If a hooked fish runs around the structure, open the bail and let out the line without any tension until you can position the boat to literally unwrap it. Once at a safe angle from snags, tighten the line and battle once again.

Dave Walker charters out of Tampa. Call 813 310-6531, e-mail dwalker12@tampabay.rr.com or visit www.snookfish.com

[Last modified May 17, 2006, 01:29:12]