Captain's corner

By GARY FOLDEN

© St. Petersburg Times, published June 8, 2000

Barracuda are stacking up in large schools on artificial reefs off Pinellas County.

They are a great fight and usually will launch toward the heavens at some point during the fight. During certain times of the day, they swim near the surface in schools.

Using polarized sunglasses makes it easy to spot them. When they are "on," they will devour almost anything. The tube lure is the best artificial bait. It is a section of brightly colored surgical tubing and for some reason absolutely drives them crazy. As for live bait, they seem to prefer threadfin hearing and blue runners. The runners worked best this week. Wire leaders are almost a necessity because of the toothy mouth.

Snook fishing is near its peak. Some giants are in the passes getting ready for the summer spawn. The strong tides seem to turn these big fellows on. The possession of snook is illegal in June, July and August. If you enjoy hook-and-release fishing for these majestic monsters, the time is now. Yellowtail jacks up to 12 pounds also are stalking the area passes. Pound for pound, these guys are one of the toughest. Unlike the snook, a jack is more likely to head to open water to fight.

-- Gary Folden charters the Strike Zone out of Clearwater Municipal Marina. Call (727) 585-8544

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