I had very limited success using the standard lures when I was fishing for spanish mackerel in Florida. Although they were more effective, I found 1 to 1.5-ounce metal lures to be a better option. However, they didn't catch the fish I was after. I also tried spoons and inlets but they didn't work. Instead, I opted for small jigs with a worm attached.
Spoons
Spoons are a great tool for catching Spanish Mackerel. They are extremely effective at catching these fish. Spoons are easy to cast and can wiggle by themselves. They are great for catching kingfish. Kingfish can be over 30 pounds. Here are some tips for using spoons in Florida.
Pick a spoon that is long and stocky. It should also not be too short. Spoons that are long and thin can attract Spanish bass. For bright sunlight, they should shine and be matte for cloudy days. If you are fishing in twilight, use a single hook rigged on a split ring. You should not use a triple hook because it can cause missed strikes.
Casting spoons along the coast has been an excellent way to catch Spanish Mackerel in Florida. Their quick swimming makes them a delicious and enjoyable fish. You will find great action in St. Augustine and Matanzas. These fish are also caught by beach fishermen. Cast spoons will attract more fish. For bottom feeders, use dead bait instead. A weedless plastic lure is a better option if you are looking to catch more fish.
Trolling is another option to catch Spanish mackerel. To do this, you should tie a small spoon to the front of the planer and trail it with a 30 pound leader. To avoid the line from getting tangled, a swivel should be placed behind the diving planeer. Other options include a spoon umbrella rig. However, you should not exceed seven miles per hour while trolling, as this will result in a low catch rate.
Hard-Baits
You can use artificial or live baits to catch Spanish mackerel. Drift baits that work well are live shrimp and bait fish. They are usually chummed in water. It is advisable to use a large hook to reduce the chance of cutting offs. For casting to the reefs, a 1/0 hook is a good choice. Florida waters can provide great opportunities to fish for Spanish mackerel.
The most effective lure for Spanish mackerel is a flies or spoon that imitates its prey. These baits work well in the Atlantic as well as the Gulf for Spanish mackerel. A spoon or hard bait can also be used. Flat-bottomed lures will cover more water and increase your chances of hooking Spanish mackerel.
Spoons, Got-Cha and other lures can be effective in catching Spanish mackerel. They are durable and catch the fish from all depths of the water column. Florida is known for its popular Get-Cha baits. These lures come with built-in rattles, which attract Spanish mackerel. They can be reeled quickly. Rat-L-Traps, MirrOdines, and other baits are also effective.
When you are fishing for Spanish Mackerel, expect some competition. Be ready for a fight and a battle! Learn from experts such as Daniel Flinn. By visiting local marinas or reading fishing reports, you can find out the location of Spanish mackerel. You should also allow for other boats. Daniel Flinn recommends using the bobber as well.
Jigs
A key step towards catching Spanish is selecting the right bait. The body of these fish is slim and light, making it easy to hold. Use a long shank hook when you tie your hook. A treble hook with a long lead can also be used. If you prefer a live bait, live shrimp is an excellent choice.
Spanish mackerel fishermen worry about their taste buds. Even though many anglers dislike eating them, they may enjoy cooking the fish right away. Spanish mackerel are notorious for being a bit fishy. You should prepare it as soon as possible. However, it is best to prepare the fish within 24 hours of its capture.
Although jigs can work well for Spanish mackerel fishing, live bait is the best. Capt Jim's favorite bait is the Rapala X-Rap Slashbait, which he says is a great mimic of a small bait fish. The colors that work best for him are olive and white. Consider a color that resembles the local forage.
Inlets
Fort Pierce and its surrounding islands have provided good action for Spanish Mackerel and other species. While fishing for Spanish mackerel, fishermen have also been reporting catches of Snook, Redfish, Sheepshead, and Black Drum. Anglers are using spoons or jigs to target Spanish mackerel, while live shrimp are biting on the north jetty. Live shrimp are also an option.
Spanish fish anglers have the best chance of success if they aim for schools within close proximity to inlets and reefs. Long lines should be used to troll along a school's edge. Running through or across schools of fish can cause them to dive. This will result in missed opportunities. Winter Spanish mackerel fishing can be done from inlets.
Spanish mackerel are aggressive feeders in the early morning and later afternoon. Spanish mackerel love to eat silverside minnows found in coastal waters. It can be hard to catch them, but it is worth the effort. These are the best areas to find Spanish mackerel anywhere in Florida. And don't forget to bring your fishing poles!
These aggressive acrobats are often found along the coast inlets and bridges. These fish are prolific inshore and offshore, and can be caught by casting and trolling a tube lure. One of the most effective lures is the Gotcha tube lure. You can cast it or troll it. You might also consider fishing from piers and causeways.
Inlets in South Florida
The best option to fish south Florida's coastline waters is Spanish Mackerel fishing inlets. Anglers are prime targets because Mackerel prefer to feed close to the surface. You can fish your lure or live bait into the inlet if the water level is low. Look out for active diving birds as well as churned waters. Spanish mackerel are easy to spot.
Fort Lauderdale could be a great choice for you if fishing is your passion. Capt. Norm Bekoff's weekly fishing report on Fox Sports 940 Miami is available online, and it's also broadcast on Nautical Ventures' Facebook page. Visit their website to find out more about where you can fish. You can also watch the show online by searching for "Spanish Mackerel Fishing in South Florida" as well as "Small Inlets."
Spanish mackerel can also be found along the coast near Flagler Bridge. Anglers may also be able to target other species in the Intracoastal Waterway. The Boynton region to Flagler Bridge is a popular spot for flounder, yellow perch, and jack crevalle. Fishing with yellow feathers, trolling spoons, and trolling hooks is effective.
Best time to surf fish Spanish mackerel
What's the best time to surffish for Spanish mackerel at sea? Mackerel migrate between spring and autumn. When water temperatures hit 70 degrees, they should start to show up. They will remain until water temperatures fall below 70 degrees. The NOAA website allows you to check the water temperatures in the U.S. coasts. To determine the best time to fish, you can use water temperatures.
When to surf fish for Spanish mackerel, choose a spot with clear water and a calm sea. For the best chances of catching these fish you need to fish at least 2 hours offshore. Fish closer to shore if you prefer murky waters. Cast artificial lures using heavy fluorocarbon leaders in clear waters. These aggressive fish require speed.
Most experienced surf fishermen prefer to fish in the inshore waters of the Florida Panhandle in April. There, the fish are still plentiful and feeding heavily. The rains that had begun in March have stopped, making it easier to find water. The waters are warm enough that a few pompano can be found in the water. You can use jigs or tube lures to find red and whiting in surf. Spanish mackerel often swim offshore of bars.
FAQ
What kind of fishing license do I need?
If you plan to fish in state waters (i.e., lakes, rivers, and bays), you must purchase a fishing license. The state laws require that anglers obtain a valid fishing licence before they can fish. If you plan on fishing in federal waters (e.g., oceans or Great Lakes), you must obtain a valid fishing licence. Fishing licenses are not required if you plan to fish in federal waters. You must check with your local authorities if you plan on taking any fish home.
How often should I replace my lures?
Every few days, lures should be changed. If left in the sun for too much time, lures can lose their effectiveness.
How deep should I cast my line?
Cast your line as deep as possible. When casting a line, keep your arm straight so that the line doesn't twist.
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How To
How to Cast a Fishing Rod Easily
Casting a fishing pole requires that you use your wrist to guide the rod's handle toward the water. The rod should be held slightly away from the body so that it is parallel to the ground. The rod should be moved forward with the tip perpendicular towards the water surface. The fish won't eat if the tip touches water's surface sooner than the line reaches bottom. This technique will increase the distance between the rod's tip and the water surface.
These tips will help you feel more comfortable casting a fishing rod.
To begin, keep the rod as close to you chest as possible. This will allow you to control the rod's movement without having to bend.
The tripod may be set up on the shoreline and/or on a rock edge to aid in casting a heavy-duty rod. You'll be able rest your rod securely and still have control of the reel.
You might also consider purchasing a small reel rather than an expensive one. A cheap spinning reel will allow you to cast longer distances and will help you develop good hand-eye coordination.
A fishing pole holder might be another option. These holders are designed to hold the rod firmly while keeping it upright. These holders are easy-to-store and prevent rod damage.
Fifth, practice casting until your muscles get used to it. Casting a fishing rod takes practice.
Sixth, patience is the key to successful fishing. Waiting for the right moment is crucial. Once the strike occurs, you must work hard to reel in the fish.