Outdoors

Captain's Corner

Black and red grouper closed through March 15 in Gulf

By CHAD CARNEY
Published February 17, 2007

What's new: The recreational season on gag, black and red grouper is closed through March 15 in the Gulf of Mexico and coincides with the commercial closure. For details, visit sero.nmfs.noaa.gov. The closure does not apply to Florida waters inside 9 nautical miles. Visibility in these shallow waters was good for spearfishing before the cold front Friday, but spearfishermen must wait a few days after seas calm for clear water to return.

Best alternative: Hogfish have been abundant in all depths. And they face little fishing pressure because cold water and wind have reduced diving activity.

Gear choices: Divers new to spearfishing commonly ask what size speargun to use and are often surprised that most spearfishermen prefer 48- to 57-inch models. Water density substantially reduces the range of all spearguns, but shorter guns have little distance to spare. Average guns with standard line rigging usually shoot three times their spear length, so 12 to 15 feet is their maximum range. High-powered guns and free-shaft rigged guns can reach 25 feet or more.

Chad Carney teaches diving and spearfishing. Call (727) 423-7775 or visit his Web site at mobilescuba.com.

[Last modified February 16, 2007, 22:36:35]