by Carla B. Mroz, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Contributing Writer
The summer weather has arrived, and we’re sure you’ll be “hooked” on great saltwater fishing at the Juno Beach Pier this month!
Snook season ended in June, so for now, you can catch and release them on cut and live bait. Jacks and blue runners will be around too, and you can use bait and lures to catch those. Keep an eye out for bonito and Spanish mackerel. Live bait and lures will work best. Sand perch, croakers and whiting will all be caught on bait.
If you know an aspiring angler, Loggerhead Marinelife Center offers its year-round private Fishing Lessons for adults and children (ages 8 and up.) One-hour lessons are offered daily; scheduled based on availability. Cost: $25/angler (with own gear); $35/angler with rental gear. Bait not included. Email reservations@marinelife.org to register.
Sea turtle nesting season runs through October 31. If you accidentally hook a sea turtle while at the pier, here’s what to do:
• Contact LMC’s 24-hour rescue hotline – (561) 603-0211
• Gently reel the slack line, keeping the turtle at the surface of the water so it can breathe
• Wait for LMC’s arrival to help
For LMC and Juno Beach Pier updates, follow our social media, visit marinelife.org, or call (561) 627-8280. The full-service Pier House features a snack bar as well as a variety of fishing tackle, including rental poles and bait.
Randy Yent, Pier Coordinator
Juno Beach Pier (561) 627-8280 Ext. 140
Facebook.com/junobeachpier • Instagram & Twitter:@junobeachpier