A lack of cold fronts has water temperatures holding in the mid-70s, slowing the gag grouper's march into shallower water. We have been finding a decent number of keeper-size fish in 55-80 feet of water holding on small 1-3 foot ledges.

The key to catching them has been live bait. Pinfish, small grunts and squirrelfish have been hot. Another key has been using lighter tackle, 3- and 4-ounce sinkers, 40-50 pound leader and 4/0 to 5/0 hooks; they have been getting us more bites.

While anchored, put out a couple of flat lines behind the boat with a live threadfin or bluerunner. Tie a partly inflated balloon onto one of the lines 4-5 feet above the bait to hold it near the surface. You will want to put out a bag of chum on the surface to help draw kings closer to the boat.

We have been landing some nice kings while grouper-fishing using this method. Recently, we also had a school of chicken dolphin come to the boat in 80 feet of water.

Remember, take only what you need to eat and leave the rest for the next trip.

- Randy Rochelle runs Islander Charters in St. Petersburg. Call (727) 528-1213.

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