Well grouper season is finally here with the arrival of May 1st. Along with the opening of grouper season we enjoy an excellent spring run of dolphin and cobia. The best grouper fishing out of Stuart usually occurs in depths ranging from 60 to 110 feet and drifting or anchoring with live bait is the preferred method. Being that we are so close to the Gulfstream and can experience extreme north current, it is in your best interest to fish with braided line. I recommend a minimum of 80 pound braid and we use 125 pound braid on our grouper rods. Also, because of the current, be prepared to use heavy lead to hold the bottom and fish effectively. Leads running from 12 to 24 ounces are most commonly used when targeting grouper out of the St. Lucie Inlet.
May is also a great month to target big dolphin and copious amounts of cobia on the inshore reefs and wrecks. Dolphin are best targeted trolling ballyhoo or small lures that represent flying fish. For best results, fish your trolling spread at a speed between 6 and 8 knots. Look for current edges, weedlines, birds and floating debris. When you are trolling you should always have a rod rigged with a jig to cast at free swimming cobia or cobia that are trailing turtles or rays. On your way home, hit some of the inshore reefs and wrecks and try blind jigging or sending down live baits for best results.
FORECAST BY: Capt. Patrick Price
Day Maker Charters
Phone: (772) 405-0091
sailfishpat@comcast.net
www.daymakerfishing.com
Where Days are Made!