Outdoors

Captain's Corner

By Steve Papen, Times Correspondent
Published February 17, 2008

What's hot: With red and gag grouper season in federal waters closed, the focus is on snapper and amberjack. Red snapper is another species that is closed, so target mangrove, lane and yellowtails.

Location: Depths of 70-100 feet are the most consistent for snapper year-round. Concentrate on high profile ledges and rock piles and tackle down as these fish are weary and usually won't eat when presented with large leads and heavy leaders.

Tackle: Use small, lightweight spinning rods. Braided lines in the 15- to 30-pound class provide enough power to stop these fish and help detect the sometimes delicate bite. Rigging usually consists of a 6- to 8-foot length of 20- to 30-pound fluorocarbon leader. If the tide is running, a one-half to three-quarter ounce lead should be placed right above the hook, or a small jig head can be used.

Tactics: Chum blocks and a steady stream of 1-inch-square pieces of sardines get the snapper to rise higher in the water column. Many feed while the bait is falling so be prepared to start reeling.

Steve Papen charters out of Indian Shores and can be reached at fintasticinc.com or (727) 642-3411.

[Last modified February 16, 2008, 19:09:38]