Water temps are still heating up, making bait much more plentiful. More snook are moving down the beaches and feeding in the passes. Strong outgoing tides will push crabs and baitfish out off of the grass flats which will attract these larger species. Now is the time to start looking for tarpon!! Smaller groups of fish have been sighted near the passes, keep your eyes out for those bigger schools moving down the beach. Be ready!! Have your bait and tackle rigged so you don’t miss any opportunities at these fish. If you have questions about rigging for tarpon, please feel free to stop in and ask us!! Again, anything from 6,000-10,000 size reel is acceptable. Personally, I prefer an 8,000. This gives me enough line capacity and drag for a LARGE tarpon in the 100-150lb range. We use a range of hooks from a 6/0 Trokar non offset hook…. to a 8/0 or 9/0 MUSTAD demon perfect circle hook. Usually I will run 40, 50 or 65 lb braided line with a LONG ( 6ft) flourocarbon leader and sometimes a float. Again…. having the right baits for tarpon can be imperative!! Also, practicing etiquette by keeping your distance from other anglers and boaters is always appreciated. There are still plenty of kingfish out there!! Reports are everywhere from 2-30 miles out. They are chewing everything from spoons to threadfins. Get them while its still good! Solid redfish bite continues near Siesta Key and the surrounding grass flats. Live baits will always be the most productive while artificials are a great option. Golden bream ‘LIL JONS’ are a favorite artificial of mine. also gold spoons and white paddle tails. I will often rig these bait on a 3/0 or 4/0 OWNER weighted hook. As always, feel free to stop in or give us a call if you have any questions. Good luck and tight lines!!
-Ashley Little–Tackle Manager