Florida Keys Report
Posted 11.12.09 | 
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Capt. Brian Cone out of Robbie’s Marina on Lower Matecumbe filled his livewell with Pilchards and took a ride out to the 409 hump. Captain John T. on the Suzanne met him there with live cigar minnows. Both boats had a field day on the Tuna up to the high twenties in weight. The method is to toss “freebies” out on the Hump and wait for the Tuna to start “bustin’” the free swimmers. With a live bait fixed to a 4/0 hook on a 20# spinning outfit a reasonably accurate cast is all that is needed. The Tuna have good eyesight and no cutting teeth, so the heavy leader of Dolphin season is not needed.
Reefs:
Well, it is happening on the reef right now, as the Sailfish seem to have moved in and taken up residence along the upper Keys reef. Few charters are getting booked to fish, but those that do are encountering Sailfish on a regular basis. Capt Jeff on the Genesis released two Sails this week and Captain Kevin on the Motherload released one Sailfish. The King Mackerel are in good supply; although most captains use their depth finder to mark the Mackerel and establish a depth at which to hang the bait. For the Kingfish the bait of choice is a live Pilchard, but Ballyhoo and Cigar Minnows will work well. Capt. Paul Johnson on the Reef Runner says he has great success with de-boned Ballyhoo as well.
Gulf and Bay:
Calm water has made for an easy ride to fish the Gulf areas. The water has begun to cool down some and this means the action will heat up. The variety of species available is great. The Spanish Mackerel will for sure be the most sought after and caught in the greatest numbers. For the Spanish, look for off color water and anchor down with a block of chum overboard. Cast jigs with soft tails or fix a Shrimp to the jig. Along with the Mack’s are Snapper, Trout, Jacks, Ladyfish, Bluefish, Tripletail, Sharks, Cobia and more.
Flats, Backcountry and Flamingo:
Right off the bat we need to announce that the Sea Trout season will close in November and December in the South region. Also look for the Grouper closure come January. Find the booklet at tackle stores published by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for Florida Fishing regulations. It is published in January and July. As for the fishing action in the Flamingo area, it has been terrific on the Snook. Guides are releasing a dozen or more Snook on an outing. Speaking of Regulation, the Snook season will close as usual December –January – February in the everglades and South region. |
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