Fishing report for March 22: Snook moving out

March 23, 2015

What the Bill Jackson’s staff is hearing and seeing on the water:

Officially, it’s spring and the snook are moving from their backwater haunts to around bridges and into the open water. Snook season is currently open in Gulf of Mexico waters until May 1, with a bag limit of one fish per harvester per day and a size limit of more than 28 inches but less than 33 inches. Learn more about snook regulations at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website.

 

These prized game fish are hitting MirroDine and Rip-N-Slash lures. Remember, when fishing with live baits, such as mullet and pinfish, swap to a fresh, lively bait often to get the best results. The basic snook setup consists for a 7-foot, medium action rod with a 3000 series reel spooled with line no heavier than 20-pound test. Use about a 4-foot length of 25-pound test leader tied to a 1/0 hook. Snook have exceptionally sharp gill plates that can damage fishing line, so check the leader often or that next catch of a lifetime could break off and get away.

Reports are that seatrout action is slowing down, but pompano are being seen along the beaches. Look for flashes below the surface along the shore that indicate a school of pompano, and cast a jig.

The tarpon are showing up and there are reports of catches made using chunks of catfish.