Special Days
Capt. Joel Gant
May 10, 2015
Hernando Beach - Saltwater Fishing Report
Special Days
As a charter captain and being on the water with so many clients, sometimes there are certain trips that stick with you. A few days ago I took out two couples. After talking to them, one gentleman named Scott informed me he has been fighting cancer for over 5 years. One thing he said he really wanted to do was to go offshore fishing. Scott also said his back was bothering him and he wasn't supposed to lift anything heavy. I asked him "then you don't want to catch a big fish then?" His response with a big grin was "oh yes I do". Once we anchored up, I got everyone rigged up to start fishing. They started catching grunts, sea bass, blue runners and some grouper. I then put out a free line with a threadfin hearing on a stinger rig. After about 10 minutes, the drag started screaming. I called Scott to take the rod and he started fighting the fish. After about 15-20 minutes and 4-5 long runs, we finally were able to see it was a nice kingfish. I gaffed the king and pulled him onto the boat. After some big smiles and pictures, Scott and I had to take a few minutes to catch our breath, Scott from the fight, myself from the excitement. On the ride back in, Scott told me a little more about his battle, we also talked about his grandkids. One thing he said and one that I've always believed in, "take each day as it comes and never take that day for granted". I reflect back to trips like this and I know how blessed I am to have a job that allows me to meet people like Scott.
Offshore fishing has been getting better each day. The kingfish run is still going strong. To catch the kings, use trolling plugs or spoons or just putting out a free line bait while bottom dropping will product some line screaming runs. Be prepared for three or more runs once the fish sees the boat. Also make sure you don't have the drag too tight.
Gag and red grouper are still being caught in the 25 to 50 foot areas. Make sure you check the regulations on these fish. If your looking for some easy to catch and some of the best tasting fish, grunts are one of my favorite. With a 3/0 hook, small weight and some squid, you can get all you want in the 20 foot areas.
Don't forget scallop season starts June 27th. Scalloping is fun for the whole family. If you want more information on scalloping, please give me a call and I can give you more information on them or take you out for a great day you won't forget.
Get out there on the water and make some memories with friends and family!
Capt. Joel Gant operates Fishdaddy Charters out of Hernando Beach, he knows the local waters like the back of his hand, and works both inshore and offshore trips. Check him out on face book or you can reach him at (352) 279-1615 or visit his website, www.fishdaddycharter.com
Hernando Beach Fishing Forecast:
King fish,triggerfish, sharks, grunts,cobia, sea bass
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