Captain’s Corner for November 13 Dave Zalewski 460-9893

Along with the great trolling for Spanish mackerel, kingfish, barracuda and bonita another great target has arrived in our waters. On two recent trips we encountered schools of giant bull redfish crashing into tightly compacted bait balls within 3 miles of the gulf shoreline. Frigate birds are the best indicator that these fast moving fish may be in the area. One or two of them do not warrant taking the time to investigate, but if 5 or more can be seen circling or more importantly picking remnants of baitfish from the water’s surface, it is worth the effort to spend the time. Being prepared with a large plug on at least 20 pound tackle is imperative because when these fish are in a feeding frenzy they will strike almost anything. Casting or trolling around the perimeter of the school will produce a savage strike with a memorable battle to follow. Light drag is necessary to prevent a break off on the initial run because of the power of these golden beasts which may reach 40 pounds. This is all catch, photo and release fishing because redfish have a maximum slot limit of 27 inches in state waters and are closed totally in Federal waters (more than 9 miles offshore).
Grouper fishing remains spotty at best in most depths, with 60 feet being the best depth to have success. On a recent trip we encountered red snapper on a ledge in this depth and had to release them because of the closure. Several of the fish were hooked deeply and would have been severely damaged if hook removal was attempted. Cutting the leader as close as possible to the hook gives the fish a better chance of survival. Over the years we have caught many healthy fish that have hooks in them and have lived. Any fish is worth much more than a 25 cent hook.