At last we were able to get out spearfishing due west of John's Pass to ledges in 87 feet of water. The water temperature was a comfortable 67 degrees all the way to the bottom. Our marker jug had bounced off just enough that the ledge was not within our 40-foot window of visibility. Adding a pound to the weight is prudent this time of year.

Gag grouper sometimes will ascend 25 to 30 feet off the bottom and investigate divers. We followed from above as the grouper retreated to the ledge, where the school continued to hover warily above the rocks. Mangrove snapper buzzed over a cave, never far from the protective cracks and holes in the reef. A few dominantly marked male hogfish also cruised, looking for bottom treats.

Among the high altitude grouper was a 20-pound gag smart enough to keep moving and stay about 30 feet away, just out of free-shaft range. After one of his less wary comrades fell to the spear, he bolted in to face down the shooter with the empty gun. He appeared to almost pace back and forth, and he swam back up and away before the reloading was accomplished. Double teaming him failed because his behavior occurred only when one-on-one.

- Chad Carney teaches scuba and spearfishing. Call (727) 423-7775, or e-mail at info@mobilescuba.com.

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