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Daily fishing report

© St. Petersburg Times,
published October 3, 2001

Sustained 15-mph winds gusting to 20 muddied inshore waters last weekend. Some who ventured out found that at least a few species of fish don't mind a bit.

Sunday, while trolling the protected waters of the Intercoastal Waterway, B.J. Young, Lezley West and Justin Mastry worked a half-dozen grouper out of submerged structure and got home in time for the Bucs kickoff. Though other color combinations drew some attention, none outperformed the deep-diving, 6-inch pink plug with a 2-inch lip. Each gag, including a 15-pound whopper, chased down plugs in 15 feet of water or less.

If experimenting with this technique, determine the depth you'll be working. There are plugs available for all depths. Though fairly expensive, heavy monofilament or wire leader may be used to protect your investment. Often scarred from bouncing off rocky bottom or being attacked by ferocious fish, these hard bodied plastic plugs can be used over and over. Though some plugs are designed and advertised for specific depths, their range may vary. Line diameter can make a difference, as can the speed you troll and the distance you drop your plugs back.

Conventional reels with 50-pound test are my choice. Keep your motor in gear when that grouper hits. The momentum will help keep the big boys from getting back to their ledge.

Improved weather will allow pompano to return to Bunces and Pass-A-Grille passes, lure mackerel to the bay mouth and the gulf beaches and expedite the fall kingfish migration.

- Jay Mastry charters Jaybird out of St. Petersburg. Call (727) 321-2142.

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