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Captain's corner

By DAVE MISTRETTA

© St. Petersburg Times, published October 25, 2000

The anticipated king mackerel migration barely has begun. The next cold front will bring the main push our way. That's when I expect everything to bust loose, when the water temperature stabilizes at 73 degrees.

A variety of small sharks have invaded all depths of gulf coast waters. Schools of 20-pounders to 30-pounders have been ravaging baits along ledges. Chum slicks intended for kingfish also have been intruded. Northern gulf water temperatures have dropped, forcing these warm-water species our way. The limit on shark is two per boat, per day.

For the past two weeks grouper fishing seems to be most productive at the 50-foot mark. These bottom dwellers are not ready to move into more shallow water depths. Again, 73 degrees is the magic number that will draw them closer to shore. Size limits have been raised to 22 inches (total length) in federal waters, but remain 20 inches in state waters.

One species that is readily available to all anglers is Spanish mackerel. Overwhelming numbers have been attacking baits at all depths. Some are hitting the scales at 5-plus pounds. Ultralight tackle and a small white bait are a sure shot with these feisty game fish.

- Dave Mistretta captains the Jaws Too out of Indian Rocks Beach. Call (727) 595-3276, or e-mail sales@jawstoo.com.

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