Capt. Jim Klopfer
Mangrove snapper have been pleasing anglers here on the west coast of Florida for several months now. That is not surprising, they are a very popular inshore species that put up a great tussle on light tackle and are fantastic eating. However, what is a bit different is how and where anglers are catching them. For the last handful of years, mangrove snapper, some very nice ones as well, have shown up in big numbers on the deep grass flats in Sarasota Bay and Tampa Bay. These seem to be fish that are migrating from the inshore bays out into the Gulf of Mexico. The run usually starts in June and goes until late September. The best areas to fish are expansive grass flats in water between six feet deep and ten feet deep. Flats close to passes have cleaner water and usually more bait, making them better spots to try. The stage of the tide really does not matter, as long as the water is moving.
While anglers can catch snapper while drifting and casting lures such as a jig and grub, live bait is the way to go to catch a bunch of tasty mangrove snapper. One particularly effective technique is to chum with live bait. Anglers use a cast net to put hundreds of small bait fish in the well. Scaled sardines (pilchards) and threadfin herring are most often used. These are caught on the beach or on shallow flats near the passes. Once bait is procured, the boat is anchored up-wind and up-tide of a likely spot. It is very important to choose a spot where the wind and tide are moving in the same direction. A handful of bait is tossed out behind the boat every few minutes. Snapper, and just about every other inshore species, will respond to the chum. The rig is very basic; a 24” to 30” piece of 20lb. fluorocarbon leader is used, followed by a #1 short shank live bait hook or a #1/0 circle hook. A split shot can be added if the current is strong or if sea gulls become a nuisance. Live shrimp are also effective, though they are difficult to use on the grass flats. Pinfish and other small fish will usually destroy the shrimp before the snapper can find it. Anglers using shrimp will do well fishing on the bottom around structure in deeper water. Again, the passes are top spots.
With spotted sea trout and redfish catch and release only, mangrove snapper provide anglers with the opportunity to have fun and also enjoy a fresh fish dinner. This is great family fishing as well. So, get out there and enjoy some September snappers!
Capt Jim Klopfer
(941) 371-1390
Sarasota Fishing Charters
https://www.fishinglidokey.com/
