Southport Offshore Fishing Report: July 2014

[dropcap]J[/dropcap]uly is here and this means hot weather and hotter fishing! The fish will be in full attack mode this time of year. Near shore, the Spanish mackerel have been really hot and the big sharks are doing their thing as well. The Spanish mackerel are biting good on Clark Spoons on #1 and #2 planers. For the sharks, heavy tackle with wire leaders and fresh bait is what you need.

King mackerel these days seem to be where you find them. They are here at this spot today and somewhere else tomorrow. The mahi mahi have now made a transition to the waters inshore of the Gulf Stream. You can find them now at areas off Southport like 18 Mile Rock, 15 Mile Rock, Shark Hole, Horse Shoe, Frying Pan Tower, Navy Wreck, etc. The same baits that get the kings will also get the mahi. Frozen cigar minnows pulled on a “Pirate Plug” will do the job here.

Amberjacks…who doesn’t like to go battle with a big “reef donkey?” They are called that because they pull, well, like a mule! But, “reef donkey” sounds better than “reef mule!” Right now they are just about everywhere offshore. Live bait and jigs are the ticket here to get hooked up. And, when you do hook up, hold on tight! The offshore bite on grouper and various bottom fish is really good now. Live bait and loca- tionisthekeytoa good grouper bite. Squid and various cut baits will entice the other bottom fish to the fish box.

It’s July, school’s out and it’s time to take the family and kids fishing. What could be better than a trip offshore after some of the many fish that roam the waters off Southport. We are fortunate to have a great area to fish with our many rocks, ledges, wrecks, shoals, and even a tower off our shores here.

Have fun out there, be safe, and God bless you all! Fish on!