Captain’s Corner for 2-27-11 Dave Zalewski 397-8815

Bottom fishing for both species of fish that have an open season as well as those that have to be catch and release because of closure continues to be very strong in the 40 to 60 foot depths. Because of the grouper closure we have been targeting white grunts, triggerfish and mangrove snapper with tackle downsized to the size of the fish. On recent trips we have been starting out with at least half of the party with spinning gear rigged with 2 hook 2/0 snapper rigs attached to a 2 or 3 ounce sinker with strips of squid. The other half are usually given 40 pound conventional tackle rigged with 4/0 hooks baited with sardines to target both grouper and grunts. Just about everyone has asked to switch to the light 10 to 12 pound tackle once they see how much fun and sport it is to target these fish with appropriate tackle. We have always had downsized tackle onboard for children, but now we have regular clients asking for the lighter tackle. Now is a great time to take children and grandchildren fishing to enjoy non-stop rod bending action.

Baitfish are beginning to be seen near the Skyway and all over Tampa Bay and the near shore waters of the gulf. Scattered reports of Spanish mackerel striking these schools of bait and being caught are coming in and increasing every day. Water temperatures near Venice are close to the magic 72 degrees that we all look for and will soon be that in our area. When water temperature hits that mark the kingfish, Spanish mackerel ,bonita and cobia will be all here