Outdoors

Captain's Corner

By DAVE ZALEWSKI, Times Correspondent
Published December 2, 2007

What's hot, nearshore: The slowdown in Spanish mackerel and kingfish action last week was caused by the lowering of the gulf temperatures, which sent the concentration that had lingered in our area southward. Large concentrations of Spanish sardines, hardtails and threadfins remain, an indicator that another group of fish soon may be on its way. Large schools of bluefish have replaced the Spanish mackerel on several artificial reefs. The bluefish provide great sport on light tackle and can be caught by trolling small spoons or live bait. A short wire leader is necessary when trolling live bait because bluefish have sharp teeth and savagely strike their prey.

What's hot, offshore: Red grouper are still active on hard bottom areas in 80 to 90 feet and can be caught on live bait and frozen sardines and squid. Carry a variety of baits to determine which is working best. Gag grouper activity is increasing daily as they move into waters as shallow as 15 feet. Start with frozen bait and switch to live baits whenactivity slows,often an indicator that larger fish have moved into the area. Triggerfish are in a prespawn condition and are feeding heavily on the ledges inhabited by the gags. Switching to light tackle and small hooks baited with squid will put several in the box.

Note: Triggerfish and bluefish must be at least 12 inches long at the fork.

Dave Zalewski charters the Lucky Too out of Madeira Beach and can be reached at Luckytoo2@aol.com or 727 397-8815.

[Last modified December 1, 2007, 19:52:44]