It’s All About Bait

by Captain Orlando Muñiz

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South Florida is definitely one of the most popular angling destinations in the world. Not only do we offer world class fishing for some of the most widely coveted species like sailfish, tarpon, and bonefish. We also have some of the best beaches, resorts, and night life in the world. It is no surprise that starting some time in November countless visitors will descend upon us to take part in everything we have to offer. Go out on any given day and the skies over “The Edge” will be covered with colorful kites dangling baits in hopes of hooking up with an Atlantic sailfish or smoker kingfish. Others will opt to troll up and down the line hopping to cash in on the ocean’s bounty.

Most hardcore fisherman will choose live bait fishing over trolling simply because it produces fish much more consistently than other methods. Simply put, when fish are swimming through the gauntlet, they learn to be choosy about what they eat. Sometimes it isn’t enough just to fish live bait. The type, quality, and presentation of the bait are all key factors that can make the difference between just doing ok or racking up a great catch. Two of the most popular baitfish that you can use during this time of the year are threadfin herring and goggle eyes (big eye scad). Herring can be caught in the morning in and around channel markers, inlets, and beaches. Goggle eyes however, are usually caught during the night which prompts many to purchase them from live bait boats working the area.

Other baits that can be used when goggle eyes and herring aren’t readily available are pilchards, blue runners, cigar minnows, and spanish sardines. Spanish sardines are fantastic bait but can be very difficult to locate. Tournament boats will often travel across county lines in search of these frisky silver baits. Once located, all of these baits can be caught using light spinning rods and bait quills (sabikis). A good livewell with adequate flow is also paramount to keeping baits healthy.

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Another aspect of live bait fishing that is often overlooked but extremely important is presentation. The best bait in the world is totally worthless unless it is presented in a manner that allows it to attract predators. Seasoned pros have learned that by scaling down line class, leaders, and hook size more bites will come. Leaders can range anywhere from 30 lb to 80lb and depend on preference and water conditions. Many will also add a short trace of wire leader in case of a bite from toothy critters like kingfish and wahoo. Another important factor to consider when live baiting is hook size and style, today’s light wire circle hooks account for a lot trophy fish. Hook size should be carefully considered and dependent on the size and type of baits being fished.

Look for more pointers next month and get out there so that you too can take advantage of the great fishing we have at are doorstep. Weather you fish on your boat or mine, November is a great time to wet a line. Not only will the fishing continue to improve as we move from fall to winter but the temperatures will be a lot cooler. The cooler weather will in turn push more fish our way. Well there you have it, use the best live bait you can get along with light hooks and leaders for better catches.

As usual, I hope you have found this information educational as well as entertaining. If you’d like more information or if you’re interested in booking your next charter call, text, or email me so that we can make it happen. You can also check out my website (listed below) for more information about the trips offered.

Capt. Orlando Muniz
Nomad Fishing Charters
786-266-0171

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