Vortex Charters Fishing Report
11-12-2003
Captain Chuck MacIntyre
Vortex Charters of Tampa Bay
www.vortexcharters.com
It happens every year—fronts from up North dictate our weather pattern making getting out fishing a hit or miss proposition! With winds climbing into the 30mph range, you just have to pick your days when that window of opportunity opens!
This past week, Thursday through Saturday were the only days one could get offshore. On Saturday, the wind had laid down to less than 5 knots, so it was time to head out for some super Grouper action!
Anchoring in 58 feet, we tossed out some frozen sardines to get the bite going. With a stronger-than-usual tide, 6-ounce sinkers were needed to keep your bait from drifting away. My clients immediately began pulling up the Red and Gag Grouper, every once in a while putting one in the fish box for the ride home.
On our way in, we watched as a stone crabber was checking the last of his long line of traps. We put out the trolling rods and hooked up with 2 nice Spanish mackerel to add to the dinner menu. The Crab Trap line created a natural chum-line drawing in bait and predators alike.
This week’s mild cold front should push the bigger schools of King Mackerel into our area—maybe they will stick around until Christmas!
Good Fishin’ to ya!
Capt. Chuck MacIntyre
www.vortexcharters.com