The month of May is full of possibilities. Before you head out, you’ll need to ask yourself two questions. First, what do you want to target? Second, what type of weather and conditions will you encounter? The list of targets is quite extensive. Offshore, some of the largest mahi of the year will begin to show up. If you’re fishing the edge, you may come across blackfin tuna and smoker kingfish will be quite possible aside from a possible cobia or two. Also, some pretty hefty sailfish will still be hanging around for added excitement. Inshore, some of the largest tarpon of the year will be taking up residence off the beaches, around inlets, and bridges. Lastly, if bottom fishing is your game, you’ll be able to catch (and keep) grouper, along with most varieties of snapper and jacks.
As you can see, the possibilities are endless. So how exactly should one prepare? One thing I learned early in my charter fishing career was to expect the unexpected. Sure, I may carry several rods and a lot of extra bait and tackle that I may or may not use but having it on the boat increases my odds of putting fish in the box.
On a typical day on the water, I will carry (6) kite fishing rods, (4) 20# spinning rods, (2-4) light spinning rods, (2) heavy bottom rods, and at least one jigging rod. In all, there will be around 16 outfits on the boat and believe it or not, they all get used pretty often. Besides the wide assortment of tackle, I also like to head out with as much live bait as I can hold. Remember that variety is just as important as quantity. Some of my favorite baits include: goggle eyes, blue runners, herring, pilchards, cigar minnows, ballyhoo and pinfish. I break these baits down into three categories: big baits, small baits, and bottom baits.
If the wind is blowing, we are kite fishing with 4-6 surface baits. Depending on the type of bait available, I may choose to also fish a flat line or mid-depth bait. Many trips have been saved by this deep bait. Kingfish, wahoo, bonito, and even sails often fall for it. Another staple is the bottom rod. Just like the mid-depth bait, it too can be a trip saver. Bottom dwellers like mutton snapper, grouper and various types of jacks are suckers for a well presented bottom bait.
On flat calm days with little or no current, I prefer to concentrate my efforts on bottom fishing. The best method here depends on current. If we encounter little or no current, I prefer to fish deeper bottom spots in the 180’ to 300’ range. A light to moderate current is perfect for anchor fishing wrecks in the 80’ to 130’ range. Again, just like drift fishing you can target both pelagics as well as bottom fish when anchored. Imagine soaking flat lines, bottom baits and kite baits all at once. It is not only possible, but a great way to cash in on all of the opportunities that may arise. If I decide to anchor, I like to put out some chum or bonito chunks to help fire things up.
Like with any type of fishing, it is important to network with other area captains and pay close attention to the VHF radio for the latest fishing reports. Knowing what others are catching should give you an idea what you should be targeting. Running and gunning for mahi may not be a great idea if no one has seen or caught any recently. Remember, time on the water is limited, so it is always best to focus on the species that are most likely to cooperate if you’re looking to succeed.
Lastly, I wanted to let everyone know that I will be conducting a FREE seminar (Topic TBA) on Wednesday, June 6th at 7:00 pm. The seminar will take place at the Miami Bass Pro Shops located at Dolphin Mall. If you’d like more information on this or anything else just go on my Facebook page (Nomad Fishing Charters) or contact me directly at the number listed below.
We’ll, I hope that you’ve enjoyed reading this piece. If you’d like to get in on the action make sure you book your trip early. You can do so via email, call or by text. Also, don’t forget that you can keep up with all of the action by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. If you prefer to watch some of the action, be sure to check out my YouTube page for the latest video additions.
Tight Lines,
CAPT. ORLANDO MUNIZ
Nomad Fishing Charters
786-266-0171
www.fishingchartermiami.com
SPONSORS AND FRIENDS: Mercury Marine, Bass Pro Shops, Offshore Angler, Baitmasters, Tracker Marine, ACRARTEX, Orca Coolers, XTRATUF, Costa Del Mar, AFTCO, and Costa Oil.